Finding vegan and vegetarian options that are still full of flavor can be difficult. Happily, Houston boasts one of the best vegetarian restaurants that just so happens to also be vegan-friendly and Vietnamese. If you’re tired of eating tasteless veggies and are looking for a way to spice up your options, Quan Yin Vegetarian located right off of Bellaire Boulevard in Houston is a must-go.

A Community Place

If a place is lauded by its community as being one of the best around, you can probably count on the fact that it’s worth going to. Quan Yin Vegetarian doesn’t only receive acclaim from those who choose to stay away from animals and animal products, but from the Vietnamese community as well. Quan Yin is truly an awesome place for an ethnic experience that’s warm, welcoming, and that provides you with a sample of true Vietnamese cuisine.

Meatless Meat Dishes

Rather than just serving veggies and noodles, as so many vegetarian and vegan restaurants do, Quan Yin has taken a new approach on the idea of a meat-free dining establishment. At this restaurant, you’ll find all the traditional Vietnamese dishes that are titled with animal names (Chicken Satay, Mi Xao Don with Beef, Chicken Firied Steak, etc) that are actually made with tofu or other vegetable products. The “meat,” here is so delicious, in fact, that many claim it’s good enough to turn a meat-eater into a vegetarian. Try the plate of fish (which isn’t made with fish, of course), the pepper steak, or the dumplings—all of which are animal-approved and completely vegan.

Amazingly Priced

In addition to a lack of flavor when it comes to vegetarian and vegan dishes in many restaurants throughout Houston, finding restaurants that cater to special diets can also be very expensive. Happily, the dishes at Quan Yin Vegetarian aren’t only reasonably priced; they’re also almost under priced. The majority of dishes are under $10, and the restaurant also offers a lunch buffet that offers plenty of food at a great deal.

Plan Your Night

Due to this restaurant’s great food, entirely vegan menu, and great prices, it’s often pack. Loved by vegetarians and vegans around Houston, getting a table here can be tough. Unfortunately, the restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so if you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to wait to be seated or wait for your food (the wait staff is often slammed with tables), you probably want to pick a different restaurant. However, if you’re not in a rush and go early, there’s not a thing you won’t love about this restaurant.

Great for lunch and dinner, set in a casual atmosphere, located in an area with plenty of parking available, and great for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, this is the perfect place to go for a date, a night out with friends, or even by yourself if you’re having a craving for tofu.