Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming as a desi flavour hotspot when it comes to enjoying real Indian vegetarian food. Though historically recognised for its meat-heavy cuisine the nation is seeing an increase in vegetarian eateries to meet the growing demand for plant-based healthful options particularly in areas like Riyadh. These restaurants feature an assortment of vegan and vegetarian cuisine that showcase the lively and diverse Indian culinary heritage ranging from spice-rich curries to savoury street food-inspired snacks. There’s nothing like diving into Indian vegetarian restaurants in Saudi Arabia food scene whether you’re in the mood for a hearty paneer meal or a simple dal.
For those looking for plant-based meals these places provide specialised vegan options in addition to excellent vegetarian Indian restaurants. There is a growing trend for vegan Indian food, and restaurants are trying to keep up with the demand by introducing inventive new recipes. There’s something for everyone including spiced vegetable based biryanis and tasty vegan Indian curries. These restaurants ensure that Saudi Arabians and foreigners alike have access to a variety of wholesome and fulfilling plant-forward meals by introducing the vibrant and robust flavours of India.
We’ll take you through the top 7 vegetarian Indian restaurants in Saudi Arabia in this guide which is revolutionising vegan and vegetarian cuisine. These places guarantee a delicious experience regardless of whether you’re a fan of vegan Indian restaurants or just want to enjoy some desi flavours. So get ready to enjoy the best plant-based Indian food and discover what Saudi Arabia has to offer in terms of a thriving vegan Indian food industry.
Here are the Top 7 Indian vegetarian restaurants in Saudi Arabia for desi flavours
1. Cleanse and Glow
For those looking for vegan and gluten-free options in Riyadh Cleanse and Glow is a sanctuary. For breakfast or lunch, this restaurant has a variety of nutritious plant-based dishes that are sure to please. A nutritious boost can be obtained by starting your day with a banana and peanut butter oat jar. This combination of oats, chia seeds, and almond milk is topped with bananas and peanut butter. Layered in glass jars to maintain freshness their raw food salads are particularly striking when purchased for takeaway because of their colourful hues and crisp textures.
2. Gymkhana
Gymkhana, an Indian restaurant from the UK, offers a refined and elegant dining experience in Saudi Arabia. While not technically vegetarian the restaurant offers a whole tasting menu of vegetarian meals, so plant-based guests can expect a wide variety of flavours and textures. Start your dinner with the cool gol guppas which come with a zesty jaljeera and sprouting moong on top. Then indulge in the mouth-watering samosa chaat and chana masala which are flavoured with saunth chutney for a burst of flavour.
3. Kumar
Because of its chef’s foreign expertise Kumar delivers a distinctive combination of traditional Indian flavours with modern cooking techniques. Though not exclusively vegetarian, Kumar’s menu features a number of creative vegetable appetisers, such crispy spinach tempura avocado chutney, and truffle oil-drizzled mushroom cheese bomb. These recipes give Indian food a contemporary twist that makes it both interesting and comforting. Enjoy the rich spicy vegetable masala or the flavourful mushroom corn curry for your main meal. Both have a pleasant texture and taste. Their veggie biryani completes the dish and guarantees that you leave satisfied and full especially when combined with sides like garlic fatayer naan or vegetable bhajiya.
4. Maharaja East by Vineet
Maharaja East by Vineet, a vegetarian-friendly jewel in Riyadh that won Best Indian Restaurant at the Time Out Riyadh Restaurant Awards is praised for its upscale interpretation of Indian cuisine. Under the direction of famous chef Vineet Bhatia the restaurant offers a sophisticated menu that includes several vegetarian selections, like manchurian cauliflower and malai samosa chaat. Indian street food traditions mixed with modern flavours make for an incredibly unforgettable dining experience. The vegetarian main courses at Maharaja which include firdozi kofta and kadai paneer are as delicious. In the latter, paneer, dry fruit and veggies are cooked in a malai tomato gravy.
5. Mohalla
With its diverse range of flavours and textures, Mohalla introduces Riyadh to the colourful street-food culture of India. Mohalla isn’t just vegetarian, but it does have a great range of vegetarian cuisine that will take you right back to India’s busy streets. Start your dinner with the traditional vada pav, a spicy and flavourful deep-fried potato burger, or try the avocado papdi chaat, a combination of crispy wheat crackers topped with zesty chutneys and desi guacamole. Rich vegetarian alternatives like paneer butter masala and corn cheese kofta in spinach sauce are available at Mohalla for the main course, which strikes a balance between robust flavours and creamy textures.
6. Taste of Dilli
Even while Taste of Dilli isn’t entirely vegetarian, it’s North Indian vegetarian options are excellent. A variety of vegetarian appetisers are available on the menu such as papdi chaat a savoury and crispy snack topped with curried potatoes, tamarind chutney and yoghurt that’s ideal for a cool start to your dinner. Another fan favourite is samosa chaat which combines crispy samosa, yoghurt, and chutneys to create a delicious combination of textures and flavours. Select from one of the eight vegetarian curries offered by the restaurant for your main meal. The rich and creamy dal makhni the flavourful palak paneer and the cauliflower-starring achari Gobi are the standout dishes.
7. Yogi
Yogi is a comfortable casual restaurant that emphasises healthy eating which makes it a fantastic choice for vegetarians. There are several healthy options on the menu, like the quinoa falafel salad which combines romaine lettuce, rocket, mint leaves and quinoa with tahini dressing on top. This recipe is great for any meal of the day because it is light but filling. Other inventive vegetarian options at Yogi include an open sandwich with avocado and beetroot hummus, Japanese noodle salad and broccoli tahini pasta. For those wishing to enjoy plant-based meals in Riyadh Yogi offers a guilt-free, fulfilling dining experience with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and healthful cuisine.
Conclusion
The growth of Indian vegetarian eateries in Saudi Arabia is evidence of the rising popularity of palatable plant-based food. These restaurants, which range from exquisite dining experiences at Maharaja East by Vineet to fusion cafes like Kumar provide a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan Indian food to suit every palate. There are plenty of options to fulfil your appetite, whether you’re in the mood for innovative takes on classic street cuisine or traditional Indian curries.
Cleanse and Glow are two vegan Indian restaurants that serve plant-based healthful options with an emphasis on locally grown fresh ingredients. Eating vegan food while maintaining a healthy diet is now simpler than ever thanks to eateries like Yogi, which serve tasty nutritional meals. These restaurants support wellness and sustainability which is indicative of the Kingdom’s general move towards thoughtful dining.
Vegan Indian restaurants are becoming more and more popular as the country’s culinary scene develops. These top seven eateries, which range from laid-back hangouts to elegant settings, are ideal for people who want to enjoy Indian cuisine without compromising their commitment to a vegetarian or vegan diet. Discovering these Indian vegetarian restaurants will provide you with delicious traditional meals that you won’t soon forget whether you’re a local or a visitor.
