Review: Vegan Ramen by Playpen Friends

Vegan Ramen by Playpen Friends in Osaka is a great spot for those seeking plant-based ramen options. The restaurant offers a variety of ramen broths including shoyo and tonkotsu, which was probably one of the best things I have ever eaten in my life.

The tonkotsu ramen offers a creamy and hearty alternative that mimics the traditional pork-based broth. This vegan version is crafted to provide a similar depth of flavour, making it a popular choice among patrons. The richness of the broth combined with the generous toppings creates a fulfilling meal that is sure to please both vegans and non-vegans.

The Shoyu ramen was incredible. It features a rich and savoury soy-sauce based broth that is both comforting and satisfying. The flavours are well-balanced, making it a great choice for those who appreciate the classic taste of ramen without the animal products. 

Vegan Ramen by Playpen Friends is not just about the food. The atmosphere is welcoming and the staff is friendly, enhancing the overall dining experience. We absolutely loved it and I wish I could click my fingers and go back to eat more.

Review Coil

Kanazawa is a charming city located in the Ishikawa Prefecture of Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. It boasts a vibrant food scene, is home to the Kenroku-en Garden, and features historic districts like Higashi Chaya, where visitors can experience traditional tea houses. This is definitely a hidden gem, and though we were not optimistic of finding vegan food, we did not have enough time to try it all!

Coil Restaurant offers a unique and interactive dining experience that stands out for its modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine. The highlight of this restaurant is its vegan option, which caters to plant-based diners without compromising on flavour or presentation.

The restaurant's concept revolves around hosomaki sushi, where guests can roll their own sushi using a variety of fillings. This makes dining at Coil fun and engaging. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the process of creating your own sushi rolls. 

Some of the items on the vegan set includes green shiso leaf, avocado, soy-based tan-tan, chili con carne and corn & soy mayo. Everything was fresh and delicious. We also got some tempura vegetables as a side dish which was a nice touch.

Coil is a fantastic choice for vegans visiting Kanazawa, offering a dedicated vegan option that is both flavourful and beautifully presented. The combination of a modern dining experience with traditional Japanese elements makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the culinary scene in Kanazawa.

 

Review: Vegan Veggie Joga, Tokyo

Vegan Veggie Joga, located in the trendy Aoyama district of Tokyo, is a delightful haven for those seeing plant-based cuisine infused with medicinal herbs. 

The restaurant specialises in vegan Chinese cuisine, emphasising the use of medicinal herbs and avoiding MSG. We tried the vegan fried rice and the portion was big and the food tasty. We also had the spring rolls which tasted great. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for casual dining. 

The overall dining experience was very good. Each dish was well-prepared, the service was attentive, and the staff was knowledgeable about the menu, making good recommendations. 

For anyone in Tokyo looking for a Chinese vegan experience, Vegan Veggie Joga is a top choice. The combination of innovative dishes, health-focused ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere, makes it worth the visit. 

 

Review: Tosso Roppongi Tokyo

Tosso, located in the Roppongi Hills North Tower, is a bistro that offers a unique dining experience centred around plant-based food.

Tosso boats a modern and stylish interior. The ambiance is casual, making it an ideal spot for a quick meal or a leisurely one, depending on your mood. The restaurant has 12 seats inside, and 16 seats on the outside terrace. 

The menu at Tosso is diverse, focusing on dishes that are designed to be enjoyed as snacks or light meals. The concept behind Tosso is that food should be chosen for its taste rather than solely for health or environmental reasons.

Tosso offers a carefully curated selection of drinks, allowing guests to pair their meals with the perfect drink. This focus on beverage selection complements the food menu beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. I tried the banana rice milk and it was delicious. 

The menu also has some great instagram worthy desserts that are delicious! Tosso in Roppongi is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy good service, innovative cuisine and a great setting. And a bonus is the many different choices you have that are all plant-based! Well worth the visit.