Bland. Boring. Fibrous. Are those what that spring to mind when it comes to vegan and vegetarian foods? It might be the case years ago, but not today — plant-based eating is getting exciting as well as varied in flavor and texture, from the economical and everyday Malaysian to “exotic” ethnic cuisines! Plus, it’s an unquestionably healthier and compassionate way to eat. Here are our five favorite veg eateries, whose foods will tickle your taste buds and change your perception of plant-based cuisine. After all, it’s the herbs, spices, veggies, and fruits — not the meat — that flavor our favorite dishes. (The restaurants are listed in no particular order. Some of the establishments below are not halal.)

1. Economic rice @ Po Ling Temple, K.L. (vegan)

Though not overly fancy, this place has its legion of fans, which includes the workers nearby, tourists, pious Buddhists, as well as vegans and vegetarians who want cruelty-free delicacies. The spread is impressive, you’ll be spoiled for choice! Plus, it’s economical and tasty, definitely value for money. They also offer vegan versions of Chinese street fare, like wonton noodles and pounded tea with rice (lei-cha); beverages, like passion fruit juice and job’s tear (“barley”) drink; as well as Chinese pastries, like fried sesame-coated glutinous ball (jin dui), mantou, and bao. Its seating area always brims with hungry folk during lunch hours (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), so get there earlier!

2. Water Lily Restaurant (formerly Fatt Yan) @ Jalan H. S. Lee, K.L. (vegetarian)

Just a stone’s throw from Petaling Street, workers nearby would flock here for tasty and affordable lunch. Its menu won’t leave even meat-eaters deprived with its creative culinary creations, such as soy “duck” with rice, Marmite “spare ribs,” and steamed glutinous rice with “chicken” (loh mai gai). They have options light on faux meat, too. There’s just something for everyone!

3. Kechara Oasis @ Viva Home Shopping Mall, K.L. (vegetarian)

Seeking novelty? Try this! Fine vegetarian foods inspired by Tibet, Nepal, and Vietnam are served here with a touch of Western flair. Don’t miss its unique offerings like the winter melon hot pot, with which you’ll have up to 50 items to choose from, including momos, a Tibetan dumpling filled with herbs, cheese, and potato, for dipping in the nourishing herbal broth. Still not enough? Fill yourself up with its signature kung pao mushrooms and dim sum. Experience all this in the restaurant’s majestic ballroom-like hall designed with contemporary Tibetan concept, which is huge enough to house up to 600 people!

4. Sushi Kitchen @ Jalan Sungai Ara, Bayan Lepas, Penang (vegan)

Think sushi is a bane to vegetarians and vegans? The food here is about to change your mind. Aquatic animals need not be sacrificed for good sushi! In fact, all the foods here are plant-based, organic, MSG-free, and delicious. You’ll love its mango sushi, strawberry sushi, “meat floss” sushi, and Gunkan hand rolls. Also make sure to try its 18-piece Happiness Sushi set, which is delicious and value for money! Additionally, they offer other Japanese-style delicacies, such as udon noodle soups, congees, and fried rice (experience its seaweed fried rice if you can, it’s moreish). Find out the Vegetarian Restaurants in Klang Valley Hunt for the Hottest Sushi in Klang Valley