Top Vegetarian Restaurants for Indian Travelers in Halong

A Delicious Guide for Your Halong Day Trip

If you’re an Indian traveler dreaming of a breathtaking Halong Bay cruise but wondering where to find good vegetarian food, this guide is your answer. From cozy local “com chay” eateries to elegant vegan restaurants, Halong offers delightful meat-free dining options that will make your day trip even more satisfying. Whether you follow a vegetarian, vegan or Jain diet, Halong Bay has quietly become one of Vietnam’s most vegetarian-friendly coastal destinations. Let’s explore the best vegetarian restaurants and practical tips to enjoy a worry-free, flavor-filled Halong day trip.

How Many Daily Cruises Operate in Halong Bay and Which Day Cruises Are Best for You?

Why Vegetarian Travelers Love Halong Bay

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and limestone cliffs, is not just about scenery. It’s also a destination where travelers can indulge in authentic Vietnamese flavors while staying true to their vegetarian lifestyle. In recent years, Halong has seen a rise in Indian and international visitors, inspiring local restaurants and cruise lines to offer more vegetarian and vegan menus. Today, you’ll find everything from fresh tofu stir-fries and noodle soups without fish sauce to creative plant-based versions of Vietnamese favorites like “bun chay” (vegetarian noodles) and “Pho Chay” (vegetarian pho). For Indian travelers, this means you can enjoy your Halong Bay day trip without worrying about food limitations whether you’re cruising, sightseeing or relaxing at the beach.

10 Mistakes Travelers Make When Booking a Halong Day Trip

What Indian Travelers Can Expect

Vegetarian Food Culture in Vietnam

Vegetarianism in Vietnam has deep roots in Buddhist tradition. The term “com chay” literally means “vegetarian rice meal,” and it usually features a mix of tofu, mushrooms, vegetables and mock meats, all cooked with fragrant herbs and spices. However, Indian travelers should note a few key differences:

Some Vietnamese vegetarian dishes may include fish sauce or oyster sauce, so it’s best to specify your dietary preferences clearly.
To say “I’m vegetarian” in Vietnamese, you can use: “Toi an chay” (pronounced toy un chai) — “I eat vegetarian.” To ensure no fish sauce: “Khong nuoc mam” (no fish sauce).

Once you learn these phrases, you’ll find Halong’s restaurant staff incredibly accommodating.

Halong’s Growing Food Scene

Halong has evolved rapidly from a sleepy fishing town to a modern tourist hub. With luxury hotels, rooftop bars and international visitors arriving daily, the local food scene now reflects global tastes including vegetarian and vegan travelers. From local cafés offering fresh smoothies to upscale restaurants serving organic vegan buffets, there’s something for every palate and budget. Many cruise lines also cater to Indian guests by preparing vegetarian and Jain-friendly meals upon request.

You pay Superior double room price but you get Suite executive room.

Top Vegetarian Restaurants in Halong

Hoi Chay – Tranquil Vietnamese Vegetarian Dining

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Hoi Chay – Tranquil Vietnamese Vegetarian space

Located in the heart of Bai Chay, Hoi Chay is among the most famous vegetarian restaurants in Halong. The warm, minimalist décor creates a calm ambiance that perfectly matches its wholesome menu.

Hoi Chay – Tranquil Vietnamese Vegetarian food

Must-try dishes: Fried spring rolls, grilled mushroom skewers, tofu with lemongrass and “Pho Chay.”
Best for: Lunch after your cruise or a peaceful dinner.
Price range: Moderate.
Atmosphere: Quiet, relaxing, perfect for families or couples.

Lola’s Kitchen- Veggie, Vegan & Non-Vegan by Fancy Hostel

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Lola’s Kitchen- Veggie, Vegan & Non-Vegan customer

Lola’s Kitchen is a top pick among foreign travelers because of its flexible menu, vegetarian, vegan and non-vegetarian options are all available.

Lola’s Kitchen- Veggie, Vegan & Non-Vegan food

Try: Vegetarian curry rice, coconut soup and fresh smoothies.
Tip: Perfect stop before heading back to Hanoi after your Halong Bay day trip.
Vibe: Friendly, cozy and international.

Loving Hut Hoang Kim

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A member of the globally recognized Loving Hut chain, this restaurant is 100% vegan. Every dish is cooked with love and there’s a clear philosophy of compassion behind their food.

Menu highlights: Vegan noodles, mock chicken clay pot and rice rolls.
Bonus: Very budget-friendly and suitable for group travelers.

Local tatalắc – vegan restaurant

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Local tatalắc - vegan restaurant — Local tatalắc – vegan restaurant

Local tatalắc - vegan restaurant customer — Local tatalắc – vegan restaurant customer

Want to experience Halong like a local? Visit small “com chay” buffet stalls. These offer various tofu, seitan and vegetable dishes for under $3.

Local tatalắc - vegan restaurant food — Local tatalắc – vegan restaurant food

Pro tip: Bring cash and point to the dishes you want.
Where: Scattered around Halong Market and Hai Thanh Street.

Vegetarian Meals on Cruise

Reina Cruise – Small Group Halong Bay Experience

Many Halong Bay day cruises like Reina, Phoenix and Alisa can prepare vegetarian or Jain meals with advance notice.

Meals include: Rice, sautéed vegetables, tofu with soy sauce, fruit and vegetable soup.
Pro tip: Mention your dietary preferences when booking your cruise to ensure a smooth experience.

Wyndham Restaurants

For a luxurious dining experience, head to Wyndham Halong. This hotels feature restaurant that can customize vegetarian menus for international guests.

Try: Vegetable pasta, grilled eggplant and vegan desserts.
Perfect for: Honeymooners and luxury travelers.

Perfect Deal: Halong Bay Day Cruise Tour with a Preferred Room at Marina Hanoi Hotel

Vegetarian Dining Tips for Indian Travelers

How to Communicate Dietary Needs

Not every server speaks fluent English, so it helps to learn these useful Vietnamese phrases:

“Toi an chay.” → I’m vegetarian.
“Khong thit, khong ca.” → No meat, no fish.
“Khong nuoc mam.” → No fish sauce.
“Khong trung, khong sua.” → No eggs, no milk (for vegans).

Consider carrying a translation card or showing photos of vegetarian meals to make communication easier.

Onboard Dining During Halong Day Cruises

If you book a Halong Bay day cruise, you’ll typically enjoy lunch onboard. Many cruises, especially those catering to Indian travelers, can customize vegetarian or Jain meals. Tips:

Notify the cruise operator at least 24 hours in advance about your dietary needs.
Vegetarian meals often include fresh fruits, rice, sautéed vegetables, tofu and vegetable soups.
You can request Indian-style vegetarian meals with mild spices if available.

Avoiding Non-Veg Ingredients

Even vegetarian dishes in Vietnam can occasionally contain fish sauce, oyster sauce or shrimp paste. Always confirm before ordering.
If you’re strict vegetarian or Jain, politely mention “no fish sauce” and “no oyster sauce”, restaurant staff are happy to adjust.

Reina Cruise – Small Group Halong Bay Experience

Suggested Halong Day Trip Itinerary with Vegetarian Dining

Here’s how you can enjoy a seamless, food-friendly day trip:

Morning (7:00–10:00 AM):
Depart from Hanoi early and arrive in Halong Bay by mid-morning. Board your cruise and start sightseeing around the limestone islets.

Midday (12:00–1:00 PM):
Enjoy a vegetarian set meal onboard. Alternatively, dine at Hoi Chay or Loving Hut Hoang Kim for authentic vegetarian Vietnamese dishes.

Afternoon (1:30–4:00 PM):
Continue exploring — kayaking, visiting caves or relaxing on Ti Top Island.

Evening (4:30–6:30 PM):
Return to the harbor, then stop by Lola’s Kitchen or Fancy Vegetarian for a light meal before heading back to Hanoi.

This itinerary ensures you experience both Halong’s natural wonders and its evolving vegetarian cuisine.

Why Indian Travelers Keep Returning to Halong

For Indian travelers, Halong Bay offers a rare combination, natural beauty, comfort and culinary familiarity.

The peaceful atmosphere of the bay is ideal for relaxation.
Local hospitality ensures vegetarian travelers feel welcome.
And most importantly, you can find delicious, healthy vegetarian food wherever you go.

Many Indian families, couples and solo travelers who once worried about food options now consider Halong one of Vietnam’s most enjoyable destinations.

Halong Plaza Hotel – A 4-Star Halong Bay Hotel in the Heart of the City

Halong Bay isn’t just a feast for the eyes

It’s also becoming a paradise for vegetarian travelers. Whether you’re sailing through emerald waters, savoring tofu stir-fries or enjoying vegan desserts under the sunset, you’ll find plenty to love here. For Indian travelers, Halong Bay’s growing vegetarian dining scene ensures you can explore freely, eat joyfully and return home with both your heart and stomach full.

Experience Halong Bay with comfort and confidence. Choose from our vegetarian and Jain-friendly cruise options, book your spot today!