Kumamoto, known for its exceptional produce, offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dining experiences. Here are three spots where you can enjoy delicious meals made entirely with local ingredients.

Tsune is a kaiseki-style (multiple course) restaurant that is one of the few places in Kumamoto to offer shojin ryori (vegan/vegetarian Buddhist cuisine). Utilizing Kumamoto's fresh produce, Tsune creates visually stunning and satisfying dishes.

The mini-kaiseki lunch we tried showcased the season's flavors beautifully. For a full vegan/vegetarian experience, opt for the Zenmi (禅味) course, requiring reservations a day in advance. The dishes included in the Zenmi course can be customized based on dietary preferences. 

Tsune

Address: 6-4 Minami-tsuboimachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto

Hours: Lunch (reservations req’d at least one day in advance) 11:30AM-2PM (last seating 1PM), Dinner 6PM-10:30PM (last seating 8:30PM, last order 9PM)

Website: https://tsu-ne.net/?lang=en

Phone: 096-353-0817

Nestled in western Kumamoto near Reigando Cave , Kokopelli focuses on local, healthy ingredients, catering to various dietary needs. Two of the three lunch meals can be made vegetarian when ordering, with vegan/allergen-free meals available with reservation 2 to 3 days in advance.

I had the Seafood Ajillo with Naan, with veggies subbed for seafood. The fresh-baked bread and deliciously seasoned vegetables made for a truly satisfying lunch. The cozy atmosphere and delicious desserts like fruit and nut tart make it a perfect afternoon retreat.

Kokopelli

Address: 592 Hirayama, Matsuo-machi, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto

Hours: 12PM-4PM

Website: https://www.cafe-kokopelli.com/

Phone: 096-245-8187

Situated between Suizenji Jojuen Garden and downtown Kumamoto, Indo Shokudo has served vegetarian Indian cuisine for nearly 20 years. As one of Kumamoto's first vegan-friendly spots, it offers a vegan meal, a non-vegetarian meal, and a combo option. 

In contrast to most Indian restaurants, Indo Shokudo offers homestyle Indian food, and you can really taste the care that goes into the food, all of which is immensely satisfying. The vegetarian (vegan) meal with fresh chapati I tried was heartwarming and flavorful. It's a haven for spice enthusiasts and vegans, with take-out available for those on the go.

Indo Shokudo

Address: 5-12-11 Oe, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto

Hours: Lunch 11:30AM-2:30PM, Dinner 5:30PM-7:30PM, closed Weds & 2nd, 4th Tues

Website: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nRSxhe9PPZDzof938

Phone: 096-371-6528