Traveling meat-free in Indonesia might sound tricky at first — a country famous for its chicken satay, beef rendang, and seafood nasi goreng. But hidden between all those dishes lies a vibrant world of plant-based options that are delicious, affordable, and easy to find once you know what to ask for.
Indonesia’s love for tempeh, tofu, and fresh vegetables makes it surprisingly friendly to vegetarians and vegans — you just need to know how to navigate the menus and communicate your preferences. From Bali’s trendy vegan cafés to humble warungs in Java serving meat-free classics, the options are broader than most expect.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to enjoy vegetarian and vegan food in Indonesia — what to order, where to eat, and most importantly, how to ask for “no meat” in Bahasa Indonesia without confusion. You’ll also discover naturally vegan local dishes, top plant-based restaurants, and insider tips for shopping and cooking your own meals across the islands.
Vegetarian in a Meat-Loving Nation
Indonesia is often seen as a paradise for food lovers — but not always for vegetarians. From spicy beef rendang to grilled chicken satay, many traditional dishes are centered around meat or fish. However, that doesn’t mean eating vegetarian or vegan here is impossible. In fact, it’s easier than most people realize once you know what to look for.
The Truth About Indonesian Cuisine
Indonesia’s diet is naturally rich in plant-based foods. Tempeh (fermented soybean cake) and tofu are everyday staples, often eaten by locals regardless of whether they eat meat. You’ll also find plenty of rice, vegetables, peanuts, coconuts, and tropical fruits — all of which form the base of countless meat-free dishes.
While meat is common in big cities and restaurants that cater to tourists, local warungs (small eateries) often serve simple vegetarian-friendly meals. You might not see “vegetarian” written on the menu, but dishes like gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce) or sayur lodeh (vegetable stew in coconut milk) are naturally meat-free or can be easily customized.
Cultural Perceptions
Traditionally, many Indonesians believe a meal isn’t complete without some form of protein — often chicken or fish. But that’s slowly changing. In cities like Bali, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta, vegetarianism and veganism are becoming more popular, especially among younger Indonesians and expats. You’ll even find fully vegan cafés and communities growing in urban areas.
Vegetarian-Friendly Basics
Here are a few common staples that are widely available and vegetarian-friendly across the country:
- Nasi putih – plain white rice
- Tempe goreng / Tahu goreng – fried tempeh or tofu
- Sayur asem – tangy vegetable soup
- Urap-urap – steamed vegetables mixed with grated coconut and chili
- Sambal kecap – sweet soy sauce chili mix (ask if it’s without shrimp paste)
Once you learn to identify these, you can always mix and match to create a satisfying meal, even at the simplest roadside stalls.
How to Ask for Vegan/Vegetarian Food
The secret to eating vegetarian or vegan in Indonesia is knowing how to communicate clearly. Many local food sellers are happy to prepare meals without meat or animal products — but you’ll need to use a few simple Bahasa Indonesia phrases to make sure your request is understood.
Key Phrases to Know
Here are the most useful sentences you can memorize or show on your phone when ordering food:
| English Phrase | Bahasa Indonesia | Pronunciation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| No meat | Tanpa daging | “TAN-pah DAH-ging” |
| No fish | Tanpa ikan | “TAN-pah EE-kahn” |
| No chicken | Tanpa ayam | “TAN-pah AH-yam” |
| No egg | Tanpa telur | “TAN-pah tuh-LOOR” |
| No milk | Tanpa susu | “TAN-pah SOO-soo” |
| No shrimp paste | Tanpa terasi | “TAN-pah tuh-RAH-see” |
| I don’t eat meat | Saya tidak makan daging | “SAH-yah TEE-dah mah-kahn DAH-ging” |
| Is there any meat or fish inside? | Apakah ada daging atau ikan di dalamnya? | “AH-pah-kah AH-dah DAH-ging ah-tau EE-kahn dee dah-LAHM-nya” |
If you’re vegan, it also helps to say “tanpa telur dan tanpa susu” (no egg and no milk) and ask “pakai santan?” (does it use coconut milk?). Some dishes use coconut milk (santan) instead of dairy, which is great for vegans.
How Locals Will React
Most locals are accommodating and kind when they see you’re trying to speak their language. In tourist-friendly areas like Bali, Yogyakarta, and Lombok, restaurant staff usually understand the words “vegetarian” or “vegan.” However, in smaller towns or markets, it’s best to use the phrases above rather than English terms.
Extra Tips for Clear Communication
- Show pictures of vegetables, tofu, or tempeh when ordering — visuals help.
- Politely remind the cook “tanpa daging ya” (“no meat please”) if they seem unsure.
- Avoid pre-mixed sambals or sauces unless you confirm they don’t include shrimp paste or fish sauce.
- If eating with locals, they’ll often help you explain your preferences to the cook — Indonesians are incredibly helpful when you ask with a smile.
Dishes Naturally Meat-Free
One of the best parts about traveling vegetarian or vegan in Indonesia is that many traditional dishes are already plant-based — you just have to know their names. These dishes are flavorful, filling, and easy to find in local warungs, night markets, and even high-end restaurants.
1. Gado-Gado
Perhaps Indonesia’s most famous vegetarian dish, gado-gado is a warm vegetable salad served with rich peanut sauce. It usually includes boiled potatoes, spinach, bean sprouts, tofu, tempeh, and cucumber. Ask for it “tanpa telur” (no egg) to make it vegan. The peanut sauce is thick, creamy, and slightly sweet — a must-try for anyone traveling meat-free.
2. Ketoprak
A popular Jakarta street food, ketoprak features rice noodles, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanut sauce — similar to gado-gado but lighter. It’s fully vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by confirming it has no egg and no shrimp paste in the sauce.
3. Sayur Lodeh
This comforting Javanese vegetable curry is made with coconut milk, tofu, and mixed vegetables like long beans, eggplant, and carrots. It’s creamy, flavorful, and naturally free of meat. Just check that the broth doesn’t include fish or chicken stock.
4. Tempeh & Tofu Dishes
Tempeh and tofu are the backbone of Indonesian vegetarian cuisine. You’ll find endless variations — fried, grilled, stewed in spicy sauces, or coated with sweet soy glaze (tempe manis). Many warungs offer tempe goreng (fried tempeh) or tahu bacem (sweet marinated tofu) as side dishes.
5. Nasi Campur Vegetarian
“Nasi campur” means “mixed rice.” Many local spots allow you to build your own plate by choosing rice and various sides. Look for sayur (vegetables), tempe, tahu, and sambal kecap (sweet soy chili sauce). It’s a great option for vegans who like to mix flavors.
6. Urap-Urap
This simple but delicious salad combines steamed vegetables like cabbage, long beans, and spinach with grated coconut and chili. It’s 100% plant-based and full of flavor, especially when eaten fresh from a local market stall.
7. Bubur Kacang Hijau
For dessert, try bubur kacang hijau, a warm mung bean porridge cooked with coconut milk and palm sugar. It’s vegan-friendly, naturally sweet, and sold almost everywhere — from small food carts to cafés.
These dishes prove you can explore Indonesia’s rich food culture without missing out on taste or tradition. Once you know these local favorites, eating plant-based becomes simple and satisfying.
Best Vegan Spots by Island
Indonesia’s plant-based dining scene has grown rapidly in recent years, especially in major travel hubs like Bali, Yogyakarta, and Jakarta. Whether you want a smoothie bowl with ocean views or a traditional Javanese vegan meal, these spots combine authentic flavors with modern plant-based creativity.
Bali – The Vegan Paradise of Indonesia
Bali is the heart of Indonesia’s vegan movement. From Ubud’s organic cafés to Canggu’s beachside restaurants, you’ll find endless options for plant-based dining.
1. Alchemy Ubud
Indonesia’s first fully raw vegan café, Alchemy is famous for its salad bar, smoothie bowls, and raw desserts. Everything is organic, gluten-free, and made with local produce.
2. Give Café (Canggu)
Run by the team behind Kynd Community, Give Café donates 100% of profits to local charities. The menu includes vegan nasi goreng, tempeh satay, and colorful smoothie bowls — all in a cozy, bohemian setting.
3. The Shady Shack (Canggu)
Set in a garden overlooking rice fields, The Shady Shack serves comfort food for plant lovers — think veggie burgers, pumpkin curries, and vegan cheesecakes. It’s one of the island’s top-rated cafés.
Yogyakarta – Culture Meets Conscious Eating
Yogyakarta, known for its art and culture, also has a growing vegan scene with cafés that attract both locals and travelers.
1. Loving Hut (Malioboro Area)
Part of an international vegan chain, Loving Hut offers Indonesian and Western vegan dishes like rendang made with mushrooms and crispy tofu steaks. Affordable and satisfying.
2. Fortunate Coffee
This peaceful café serves plant-based meals alongside artisan coffee. Their tempeh sandwiches and vegan pancakes are favorites among digital nomads.
Jakarta – Big City, Big Vegan Options
In the busy capital, vegan and vegetarian dining is booming, thanks to health-conscious locals and growing awareness.
1. Burgreens
A pioneer of Indonesia’s plant-based movement, Burgreens is known for its creative vegan burgers, tempeh rendang, and jackfruit tacos. It has several branches across Jakarta and even delivers nationwide.
2. Dharma Kitchen
A long-standing vegetarian restaurant offering Asian-inspired vegan meals with Buddhist roots. Their tofu stir-fries and mock meat dishes are favorites for those craving variety.
Lombok & Beyond
While not as developed as Bali for vegan dining, Lombok has hidden gems like Ashtari Restaurant in Kuta (which offers plant-based bowls with ocean views) and Loka Café, where you can find smoothie bowls and vegan wraps.
From bustling city cafés to quiet seaside spots, Indonesia’s vegan community continues to grow — proving that traveling meat-free here is easier than ever before.
Street Food & Markets
Indonesia’s street food is a big part of its culture — and thankfully, many traditional snacks are naturally vegetarian or vegan. You just need to know which ones to look for and how to ask the right questions. Street vendors and markets across Bali, Java, and Lombok offer delicious, affordable bites that are often made fresh right in front of you.
Must-Try Vegan-Friendly Street Snacks
1. Pisang Goreng (Fried Bananas)
A local favorite, pisang goreng is made from ripe bananas coated in light batter and fried until golden. It’s crispy, sweet, and perfect with a cup of hot tea or coffee. Most versions are vegan — just confirm there’s no egg or butter in the batter.
2. Jagung Bakar (Grilled Corn)
You’ll find vendors grilling corn on almost every beach and street corner. It’s usually brushed with margarine and sweet soy sauce. Ask for “tanpa mentega” (without butter) to keep it vegan.
3. Tempe Mendoan
This dish features thin slices of tempeh dipped in batter and lightly fried. Originating from Central Java, it’s soft inside and crispy outside — a perfect snack with chili sauce.
4. Klepon
A traditional green rice cake ball filled with melted palm sugar and coated in grated coconut. It’s naturally vegan and often sold in morning markets.
5. Ketan (Sticky Rice Cakes)
You’ll see ketan sold in various forms — topped with shredded coconut, banana, or palm sugar syrup. It’s a simple, satisfying, and vegan-friendly dessert or breakfast item.
Local Markets to Explore
– Ubud Market (Bali): Fresh tropical fruits, banana fritters, and handmade vegan snacks.
– Beringharjo Market (Yogyakarta): Authentic Javanese treats like klepon, tempe mendoan, and urap-urap.
– Ampenan Market (Lombok): Great for trying local vegan-friendly dishes like sayur asem and spicy sambal without meat.
Tips for Eating Street Food Safely
- Always look for vendors cooking food fresh and hot in front of you.
- Bring your own reusable cutlery or containers to reduce plastic use.
- Avoid sauces unless you confirm they’re free of shrimp paste (terasi) or fish sauce.
- If unsure, stick to clearly plant-based snacks like fried bananas, tofu, or grilled corn.
Exploring local markets and street food stalls is one of the best ways to taste Indonesia’s true flavor — and it’s completely possible to do it on a vegan or vegetarian diet.
Avoiding Hidden Animal Products
Even though many Indonesian dishes look vegetarian, some secretly contain small amounts of animal-based ingredients. These are usually added for flavor — not as main components — but they can catch travelers off guard. Knowing what to watch out for will help you keep your meals 100% vegetarian or vegan.
Common Hidden Ingredients to Avoid
1. Shrimp Paste (Terasi)
This is one of the most common non-vegan ingredients in Indonesian cooking. Terasi is a fermented shrimp paste used in sambal (chili sauce), stir-fries, and even vegetable dishes. Always ask:
“Tanpa terasi, ya?” — “Without shrimp paste, please?”
If you’re unsure, opt for sambal kecap (sweet soy chili sauce), which is usually shrimp-free.
2. Fish Sauce (Kecap Ikan)
Used mainly in Chinese-Indonesian or seafood restaurants, kecap ikan adds a salty flavor to sauces and noodles. Politely say:
“Tanpa kecap ikan.” — “No fish sauce.”
3. Chicken or Beef Stock (Kaldu Ayam / Kaldu Sapi)
Even vegetable soups may use animal-based broth for depth. To stay safe, request:
“Tanpa kaldu ayam atau sapi.” — “Without chicken or beef stock.”
4. Dried Anchovies (Ikan Teri)
These tiny fish are sometimes sprinkled on top of rice dishes like nasi uduk or nasi campur. If you see something small and crispy on your plate, double-check before eating.
5. Eggs (Telur)
Eggs are a standard topping for many dishes such as gado-gado, fried rice, and noodles. Simply say “tanpa telur” (no egg) when ordering.
6. Dairy Products
While Indonesia doesn’t use much dairy in local food, Western-style cafés might include milk, butter, or cheese in desserts and drinks. You can say “tanpa susu atau keju” (no milk or cheese).
How to Be Sure
- Check sauces: These often contain shrimp paste or fish stock.
- Ask directly: Vendors appreciate honesty and will often tell you if something isn’t vegetarian.
- Look for vegan-labeled spots: In tourist areas like Bali, “vegan” or “plant-based” signs are common and trustworthy.
- Download a translation app: It helps when visiting rural or non-touristy areas.
Once you know these hidden ingredients, staying vegan or vegetarian in Indonesia becomes much easier — and your meals stay both delicious and authentic.
Grocery Shopping & Cooking
If you’re staying in Indonesia for more than a few days, cooking your own food can be one of the easiest — and most rewarding — ways to stay vegetarian or vegan. Local markets and supermarkets are full of plant-based ingredients, from tropical fruits to locally made tofu and tempeh. Here’s where and how to find everything you need.
Where to Shop
1. Traditional Markets (Pasar Tradisional)
Almost every town has a traditional market where you can buy fresh vegetables, fruits, tofu, tempeh, coconut milk, and rice at very low prices. You’ll also find herbs and spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chili — perfect for cooking authentic Indonesian dishes.
- Best for: Fresh produce, herbs, local tofu/tempeh.
- Tip: Go early in the morning when produce is freshest.
2. Supermarkets (Indomaret, Alfamart, Superindo, Carrefour)
These modern stores are found everywhere, especially in cities. You can find soy milk, oats, peanut butter, nuts, and imported vegan items. In tourist areas like Bali, supermarkets even carry plant-based cheese, vegan snacks, and non-dairy milks.
3. Health Food Stores & Zero-Waste Shops
In Ubud, Canggu, and Jakarta, there are growing numbers of health-focused shops such as Bali Buda, Alive Wholefoods, and Pepito Market, offering organic and eco-friendly products like chia seeds, plant protein, and cruelty-free toiletries.
Local Staples Every Vegan Should Try
- Tempeh: Indonesia’s original superfood, rich in protein and easy to cook in stir-fries or sandwiches.
- Tofu (Tahu): Available fresh in every market — fry or steam for a light meal.
- Coconut Milk (Santan): A key ingredient in many vegan dishes, providing creamy texture and flavor.
- Spices & Herbs: Essential for creating authentic Indonesian flavors.
- Rice & Noodles: Choose plain versions (no egg noodles) to keep it vegan.
Cooking at Home
Most guesthouses and villas in tourist areas have small kitchens. Even with minimal equipment, you can easily prepare meals using local ingredients. For example:
- Breakfast: Fresh fruit with coconut yogurt or banana pancakes made with rice flour.
- Lunch: Stir-fried tempeh with vegetables and steamed rice.
- Dinner: Sayur lodeh (vegetable coconut curry) with tofu.
Cooking your own meals lets you control what goes into your food and ensures everything stays vegan-friendly — plus, it’s a fun way to connect with local markets and culture.
Sample One-Day Vegan Meal Plan
To help you plan your meals while traveling around Indonesia, here’s a simple one-day vegan meal plan made entirely from ingredients you can find easily in local markets or cafés. It’s healthy, affordable, and packed with flavor — just like the local diet itself.
Breakfast – Fresh & Energizing
Banana Pancakes with Coconut Syrup
A traveler’s favorite across Indonesia, these are made with mashed bananas, rice flour, and coconut milk. Top with sliced tropical fruits like papaya or pineapple and drizzle with palm sugar syrup.
Drink: Hot ginger tea or a smoothie with banana, spinach, and soy milk.
Approximate calories: 350–400 kcal
Lunch – Local Comfort
Tempeh Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Rice
Slice tempeh thinly and fry it with garlic, chili, and sweet soy sauce (kecap manis). Add green beans, carrots, and tofu for a protein-rich and filling meal. Serve with steamed rice or nasi merah (red rice).
Drink: Fresh coconut water or iced tea.
Approximate calories: 500–550 kcal
Dinner – Creamy & Satisfying
Sayur Lodeh (Vegetable Curry in Coconut Milk)
A traditional Javanese dish made with mixed vegetables like long beans, eggplant, cabbage, and tofu simmered in coconut milk and spices. Serve it hot with a side of sambal kecap (sweet soy chili sauce) for extra flavor.
Drink: Lemongrass-infused water or herbal tea.
Approximate calories: 600 kcal
Snack Options
- Pisang goreng (fried bananas)
- Klepon (sweet coconut rice balls)
- Peanut satay skewers with tempeh or tofu
Total Daily Calories: 1,500–1,700 kcal
Perfect for light travelers who want energy without feeling heavy. You can easily adjust portion sizes or add a fruit smoothie for more calories if needed.
This plan shows how easy — and delicious — eating vegan in Indonesia can be. With ingredients that are fresh, local, and naturally plant-based, you’ll enjoy a balanced mix of taste and nutrition without missing out on local flavors.
Also Read: How to Order Food in Indonesia Like a Pro: Local Secrets Revealed
FAQs About Being Vegetarian or Vegan in Indonesia
1. Is Indonesia vegetarian-friendly?
Yes. Many traditional Indonesian dishes are naturally vegetarian or vegan, especially those made with tofu, tempeh, rice, and vegetables. However, it’s important to confirm dishes are made without fish sauce or shrimp paste.
2. How do I say “no meat” in Bahasa Indonesia?
Say “tanpa daging” (pronounced TAN-pah DAH-ging). You can also say “saya tidak makan daging”, which means “I don’t eat meat.”
3. Is it easy to find vegan restaurants in Bali?
Absolutely. Bali is Indonesia’s vegan capital. Areas like Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak are filled with vegan cafés serving smoothie bowls, plant-based curries, and raw desserts.
4. What should I watch out for when ordering vegetarian food?
Be cautious of hidden animal ingredients such as shrimp paste (terasi), fish sauce (kecap ikan), and chicken stock (kaldu ayam). Politely ask for your meal without these.
5. Can I find plant-based protein easily in Indonesia?
Yes. Tempeh and tofu are available almost everywhere. They’re inexpensive, high in protein, and commonly used in local dishes.
6. Are there vegan options in traditional markets?
Definitely. You’ll find plenty of vegan snacks like fried bananas (pisang goreng), sticky rice (ketan), and klepon. Just check how they’re fried or flavored before buying.
Conclusion
Traveling vegetarian or vegan in Indonesia doesn’t mean missing out — it means discovering a whole new side of the country’s cuisine. From flavorful gado-gado and crunchy tempeh goreng to creative plant-based cafés in Bali and Yogyakarta, Indonesia offers a paradise of options for conscious eaters.
Once you learn a few local phrases and understand which dishes are naturally meat-free, eating plant-based here becomes effortless. You’ll find friendly locals willing to adapt your meal, vibrant markets full of fresh ingredients, and a growing vegan movement that’s transforming how Indonesia cooks and eats.
So whether you’re exploring Bali’s lush hills, walking the streets of Yogyakarta, or enjoying sunset dinners in Lombok, you can travel confidently knowing delicious, meat-free meals are always within reach. With the right words and a curious appetite, Indonesia can be one of the most rewarding — and flavorful — destinations for vegetarians and vegans alike.
