Novena is an area with no shortage of dining options, from casual eateries to well-loved neighbourhood favourites. Beyond the usual comfort food and café staples, it also offers plenty of choices for health-conscious diners who prefer lighter, plant-based meals without sacrificing flavour. No matter if you’re committed to vegetarian eating or simply looking to balance indulgent meals with something more wholesome, Novena makes it easy to do so. If you’re searching for a dependable vegetarian restaurant at Novena, the curated list below highlights four spots that consistently deliver satisfying, nourishing vegetarian fare worth returning to.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. D’life Signature 蔬品軒
A long-standing favourite among vegetarian diners, D’life Signature impresses with its extensive menu spanning Chinese and Western-inspired vegetarian dishes. Expect everything from vegetable-centric stir-fries and hearty soups to noodles, fried rice, and creative mock meats crafted to resemble fish and prawns. Despite the variety, flavours remain well-balanced and portions are generous without feeling excessive. This makes it an easy choice for both casual meals and family gatherings. Combined with friendly, efficient service, dining here feels relaxed and reliable. It’s a popular option for vegetarian food in Novena, especially for those craving familiar comforts done thoughtfully.
Prices:
- Mala Fragrant Pot: $18.10
- Kung Po Hericium Fragrant Yam Ring: $20.10
- Abaloney Spinach: $17.10
- Signature Bak Good Teh: $13.10
- Creamy Abalone Mushroom: $13.10
Highlights:
- Wide-ranging menu covering Chinese and Western vegetarian dishes
- Well-balanced flavours with generous portion sizes
- Prompt, friendly service suitable for dine-in or takeaway
Business Reviews:
1. The food here is delicious and service is relatively fast. I recommend the yam basket. The yam is smooth and crispy. Any variations of the lion head mushroom is delicious.
2. I love the vegetarian Char kway teow (fried noodles) which was delicious and tasted just like the original. The mala pot was really super duper spicy (not for the faint-hearted) but it was very shiok and we finished everything. The mapo tofu was passable. Will return again to try other dishes as D’life has one of the most diversified vegetarian menu I have seen in Singapore.
3. The food here is surprisingly good. Especially the yam ring. One of the best i tried so far. Definitely highly recommend it. The other 2 dishes are good too. Only wish that the food can be hot instead of lukewarm. Will definitely be back again.
| Website: | https://dlifesignature.zzv.sg/ |
| Operating Hours: | Open Daily 11 AM – 9 PM |
| Number: | 6909 9525 |
| Address: | 10 Sinaran Drive #B1-105/106/129 Square 2, Singapore 307506 |
2. Mother Earth Classic Vegetarian 大地之素
Mother Earth Classic is a popular vegetarian restaurant at Novena thanks to its allium-free, multi-cuisine approach that transforms familiar comfort dishes into wholesome creations. Drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese flavours, the menu showcases clever use of mock meats and plant-based alternatives that surprise even first-time diners. Crowd favourites like Yam Ring Pork Ribs Lychee offer contrasting textures and sweet-savory notes, while dishes such as Vegan Triple Satay bring depth and richness without feeling heavy. Every plate reflects careful attention to taste and presentation, making it ideal for both health-conscious eaters and curious food explorers seeking variety in a welcoming setting.
Prices:
- Signature Crispy Yam Ring: $19.10
- Sautéed French Beans with King Mushrooms & Preserved Radish: $16.10
- Huat Heavenly King w Petai: $16.10
- Crispy Eggplant & Cashews: $16.10
- Teochew Crispy Fish with Ginger & Black Bean Sauce (Mock Fish): $21.10
- Signature Claypot Curry Mutton (Mock Meat): $14.10
Highlights:
- Allium-free menu with creative mock meat dishes
- Strong lineup of well-loved crowd favourites
- Chinese-inspired flavours with a modern vegetarian twist
Business Reviews:
1. Popped by on a late afternoon and was warmly welcomed by the staff. Spoilt for choice with the menu and asked for recommendations. The sizzling hot plate tofu was so delicious! The mutton curry was also tasty with a good variety of veggies. Will definitely return to try more dishes👍👍 Park at zhongshan mall and walked over!
2. Nice neighborhood vegetarian restaurant. Monkey head mushroom curry was very good and a must order. Egg and tomato was one of the betters one I’ve tried. Tofu with salted egg and almond was okay but the texture of tofu is really good. I’d be back again for sure to also try other dishes… a lot of vegetarian dishes! Also western style if you prefer.
3. underrated restaurant with a star dish that can’t be found anywhere – chilli crab mantou i swear i tried this at least 3 times and i can’t get enough of it every single time! it’s a must try when u visit mother earth! they also have a lot more to try such as their western options (pizzas, baked pasta, lots of different spaghetti) it’s nice for a fam dinner, and accessible! and it’s right beside shaw plaza so if u’re in the mood for good veg food, take a trip down! 😋😋
| Website: | https://motherearthveg.sg/ |
| Operating Hours: | Open Daily 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Number: | 8801 4374 |
| Address: | 530 Balestier Rd, #01-06, Singapore 329857 |
3. Original Greens
Tucked away in Shaw Plaza, Original Greens feels like a cosy discovery for anyone craving vegetarian versions of local and Western classics. The menu is extensive, featuring largely allium-free options alongside vegan-friendly dishes. Local favourites like nasi lemak and satay are thoughtfully reimagined, delivering familiar aromas and textures without meat. Their nasi lemak, in particular, earns praise for its fragrant blue rice and crisp plant-based accompaniments. Beyond mains, desserts shine too, with the lava cake offering a rich, indulgent finish. With reasonable pricing and satisfying portions, it’s a dependable spot for relaxed, comfort-driven meals.
Prices:
- Deep-fried Home-made Seaweed Tofu Steak with Assam Sauce: $16.60
- Monkey Head Mushroom Satay: $12.60
- Vietnam Spring Roll: $11.90
- Linguine Aglio Olio with Wild Mushrooms and Truffle Oil: $16.80
- Laksa: $12
Highlights:
- Vegetarian takes on local and Western comfort dishes
- Popular nasi lemak praised for flavour and presentation
- Worthwhile dessert options, especially the lava cake
Business Reviews:
1. Had an enjoyable vegetarian dining experience at Original Greens in 2024. The dishes were displayed beautifully and the taste was on point as well. They have many options to choose from and will definitely satisfy taste buds of people – non-vegetarian and vegetarian alike!
2. Delicious and affordable vegan food – I’ve been back three times! The food is served quickly, which is a big plus. We also tried the tacos, olive fried rice with satay, mushroom and truffle pizza, and seaweed tofu with assam sauce. My top picks were the truffle pizza, wild mushroom risotto, and satay!
3. My go to vegetarian restaurant. Excellent variety of dishes, tasty and well presented. Comfortable chairs and relaxing environment. Friendly and professional service. Interesting new dishes continually added to the menu. Good value lunch sets on weekdays.
| Website: | https://social.quandoo.com/en/groups/Original%20Greens |
| Operating Hours: | Open Daily: Lunch: 11:30 AM – 3 PM, Dinner: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Number: | 6517 9553 |
| Address: | 360 Balestier Rd, #04-07/K2 Shaw Plaza, Singapore 329783 |
4. Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant
Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant focuses on clean, wholesome dining with a strict no onion, no garlic policy across its fully vegetarian menu. What sets it apart from the rest on this list is its weekend and public holiday buffet, offering an impressive spread across Chinese, Western, and Japanese-inspired dishes. Smaller portions allow diners to sample widely, from “chicken rice” and laksa to yong tau foo and traditional kueh. Reservations are essential for buffet days, but the a la carte menu ensures cravings are satisfied anytime. It’s an inviting place for vegetarian food at Novena that often surprises even sceptical diners with its variety and quality.
Prices:
- Vegetarian Buffet: $38.80++
- A la Carte Menu:
- Braised Veggie Fish Treasured Pot: $18
- Spicy Grilled Veg Cod Fish in Hotplate: $16.80
- Deep-Fried Veggie Fish with Sweet & Sour Sauce: $16.80
- Kung Pao Lion’s Mane Mushroom in Yam Ring: $26.80
- Golden Faux Fin Tofu: $14.80
Highlights:
- One of the few vegetarian buffets in the area
- Wide multi-cuisine spread with smaller tasting portions
- Strict no onion, no garlic policy using fresh ingredients
Business Reviews:
1. Thinking of going vegetarian for the day? The Lotus Restaurant buffet spread is a great place to start. This was my first visit, and I was there to celebrate a birthday dinner. I was pleasantly surprised by the wide variety of dishes, ranging from local cuisine to Japanese fare, along with a delightful selection of desserts. The service was warm and attentive. I had to request takeaway boxes a few times to pack cakes for the guests, and each time the waitress was accommodating and friendly. I truly appreciated the helpful attitude of the staff. Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and I’m definitely planning to return with friends for another meal.
2. Food was really well prepared and doesnt look like a vegetarian dish. They serve both buffet and ala carte options. Service staff were friendly and good!
3. Was here for my wife’s birthday. The food was wonderful. We started with the Fa Cai Faux Fin Soup. Soup was thick and earthy. Very good for a cool day. Sambal Sweet potato leaves was the most amazing. Loved it! The roasted delighted was on point. Really wonderful. Wrapped in the lettuce and super crunchy cucumber and with drizzle of the sauce, it made for a delightful bite.
| Website: | https://lotusvegetarian.oddle.me/en_SG |
| Operating Hours: | Open Daily: Lunch: 11:30 AM – 3 PM, Dinner: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Number: | 8668 0090 |
| Address: | 201 Balestier Rd, Level 2 Holiday Inn Express and Suites Singapore, Singapore 329926 |
NearMe’s Pick
All four restaurants are solid choices, but if you’re short on time or choosing for a specific occasion, here are our top recommendations based on different dining preferences.
1. If you want variety and familiar flavours in one place:
Our pick: D’life Signature 蔬品軒
D’life Signature is ideal for diners who want options without overthinking their order. With a broad menu covering Chinese staples, Western plates, and mock meat dishes, it caters well to mixed groups and repeat visits. Portions are generous, prices remain reasonable, and the flavours are consistently comforting. It’s especially suited for family meals or workday lunches where everyone wants something different yet dependable.
2. If you enjoy creative vegetarian dishes with a modern edge:
Our pick: Mother Earth Classic Vegetarian 大地之素
Mother Earth Classic shines when it comes to inventive plating and flavour combinations. Its strength lies in transforming traditional favourites into plant-based versions that still feel indulgent. Signature dishes like the yam ring and vegan satay make it a great pick for introducing sceptical friends to vegetarian dining. The allium-free approach also appeals to diners with dietary preferences seeking flavour without compromise.
3. If you want to sample many dishes in one sitting:
Our pick: Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant
Lotus Vegetarian is the best choice for diners who love variety. The buffet allows you to explore multiple cuisines in a single meal, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Smaller portions encourage tasting widely, and the consistent quality across dishes keeps the experience satisfying. Even outside buffet days, the a la carte menu offers plenty to return for.
Final Thoughts
Novena’s vegetarian dining scene proves that healthy, meat-free meals can be just as comforting, flavourful, and exciting as any traditional fare. From extensive menus and inventive mock meats to buffet-style feasts and cosy hidden gems, these restaurants cater to a wide range of tastes and dining styles. Whether you prioritise variety, creativity, or simple comfort food, there’s something here that fits seamlessly into everyday dining.
If you’re planning to explore more of what the neighbourhood has to offer, don’t stop here. Check out our guide to the best Japanese restaurants in Novena for another delicious way to experience this vibrant dining hub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is it easy to find vegetarian food near Novena MRT?
Yes, it is very convenient. Most of the vegetarian options are concentrated within the malls directly connected to or across from the MRT station. You can find dedicated meat-free cafes and restaurants in Square 2, Velocity, and United Square.
There are also several upscale vegetarian dining options located within the medical suites and hotel buildings in the immediate vicinity, making it a very accessible area for commuters and office workers.
2. What is the average price range for a vegetarian meal in Novena?
Because Novena is a central district and a medical hub, prices are slightly higher than in residential heartlands.
- Malls/Cafes: Expect to pay between $12 and $22 per person for a main dish and a drink.
- Hawker Centers/Food Courts: A basic plate of vegetarian bee hoon or “mixed vegetable rice” typically costs between $4 and $7.
- Casual Dining: Mid-range sit-down restaurants in the area usually average $25 to $40 per person.
3. Can I find “allium-free” (no onion or garlic) options in Novena?
Yes. Many vegetarian establishments in Novena cater to Buddhist vegetarian requirements, which strictly exclude the five pungent spices (onions, garlic, leeks, chives, and asafoetida).
When dining in mall-based vegetarian chains or traditional stalls, you can usually look for the word “Zhai” (齋) or ask the staff; most are well-versed in these dietary needs due to local religious practices.
4. Are there vegetarian stalls in the nearby hawker centers?
While the malls are the main focus, the nearby Whampoa Drive Food Centre and Pek Kio Market (both a short bus ride or 15-minute walk from Novena MRT) have reputable vegetarian stalls. These are popular for traditional breakfast items like:
- Vegetarian Bee Hoon: Served with crispy beancurd skin (tau kee) and mock char siew.
- Vegetarian Kway Chap: A braised herbal dish using soy-based ingredients instead of offal.
5. What types of vegetarian cuisines are available in Novena malls?
Novena offers a surprisingly diverse range of cuisines for vegetarians, including:
- Fusion & Western: Cafes offering plant-based burgers, pastas, and handmade dumplings.
- Traditional Chinese: High-end restaurants serving “mock” seafood and claypot dishes.
- Japanese: Some outlets offer meat-free ramen or bento sets using mushroom-based broths.
- Thai/Peranakan: Specialized dishes like vegetarian laksa or meatless “Otah.”
