Louise O’Loan is the founder of the Facebook group Vegan and Vegan Curious in Bahrain, which has more than 700 members. Vegetarian since the age of 17, she progressed to a vegan diet many years ago. She shares her tips for a great vegan dining experience and recommends some of her favourite spots.
Going out to eat? You may like to consider this – give notice. If you know you’re going to a restaurant give them a call – this lets the chef know ahead of time that you are coming, so if they want to prepare something special, they have the time to do so.
Didn’t call ahead? When you walk into the restaurant put on a friendly smile and courteous manner then ask the staff if they have a vegan option or are able to alter the menu items to become vegan. Not everyone understands what vegan is, so if they don’t know, help them out by politely telling them what you don’t eat. Most folks are curious about veganism – I’ve had many a chat with a server who genuinely wanted to know more.
This not only helps them get your meal right but also gives them a greater understanding of how to serve the next vegan customer.
There are many fine places to eat vegan in Bahrain. Here’s a small sample of some of the places I and my friends frequent.
Café Amsterdam
17 007-404
Road No 3801, Adliya
An entire section of the menu is dedicated to vegan selections. It’s easy to bring your non-vegan mates along too, so everyone is happy.
Anand Bhavan
17 227-362
Manama Souq
Cheap and cheerful, be sure to stipulate no dairy.
Emma Wash
17 309-030
Hamala and Budaiya Road
We bring our own take away containers for pick up to lessen the use of plastic. The Budaiya branch is used to this now.
Hopscotch
17 691-124
Rd No 3371, Saar
Great Buddha bowl and they are also happy to veganise other menu items.
Masso
17 721-061
Palace Boutique Hotel
Make it easy with small changes to the pasta and risotto menu. Also, all sides can be cooked in water or oil and the taste is still amazing.
Re Asian Cuisine
17 115-000
Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, 50th Floor According to chef Stefano more exciting vegan menus will soon be rolled out in all areas of the hotel.
Roots Cafe
17 211-561
2253B Wali Al Ahd Highway, Hamala 1014 Dana and her team are super happy to help you out with vegan selections and be sure to ask for their milk alternatives for your hot cup of tea or coffee.
Swagat
17 225-137
Manama
Souq Budget delights to fill your belly whilst taking a tour of the souq.
The Orangery
17 369-696
Palace Boutique Hotel CAKE – please try the selection of vegan desserts. Too pretty to eat but we managed it!
Villa Mama’s
17 305-031
Saar, opposite Saar Cinema
Always a staple go to for a variety of vegan meals. Chef Theo is happy to come and chat about what you would like to see on the menu in future and to get feedback – pardon the pun – on the current dishes.
