Traveling to China as an Indian especially if you're vegetarian, vegan, or follow a Jain diet can be a unique challenge. While China boasts a diverse and flavorful food culture, it heavily incorporates meat, seafood, animal-based oils, and sauces in its dishes. Even visually vegetarian meals can include hidden non-veg ingredients like lard, oyster sauce, or meat broth. But worry not with a little preparation, a basic understanding of the local language, and the right apps and strategies, you can navigate the culinary scene in China comfortably and deliciously.
General Dos for Indian Travelers
1. Learn Key Mandarin Phrases
Having a few essential phrases ready helps prevent confusion and ensures clarity:
“I am vegetarian” – Wǒ chīsù (我吃素)
“No meat” – Bù yào ròu (不要肉)
“No pork” – Bù yào zhūròu (不要猪肉)
“No beef” – Bù yào niúròu (不要牛肉)
“No egg” – Bù yào jīdàn (不要鸡蛋)
Consider printing or saving a Mandarin food card explaining your dietary needs.
2. Use Helpful Food & Translation Apps
Equip yourself with:
Google Translate – Real-time menu and sign translation
Pleco – Best Chinese-English dictionary for food terms
HappyCow – Finds vegetarian/vegan restaurants nearby
WeChat – Essential for communication and mobile payments
3. Seek Out Indian or Halal Restaurants
Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou have:
Indian restaurants (Ganges, Masala Art, Tandoor)
Halal eateries (search for “清真”) that may suit eggetarian diets
4. Try Local Vegetarian Dishes (Carefully)
Some Chinese dishes can be vegetarian-friendly, with clarification:
Stir-fried greens
Tofu dishes (ask for meat-free preparation)
Cold sesame noodles
Vegetable dumplings
Eggplant in garlic sauce
5. Be Polite but Firm
Clearly and respectfully explain your dietary restrictions. Always ask if food includes:
Meat broth
Oyster/fish sauce
Lard or animal oil
Major Don'ts While Eating in China
1. Don’t Assume “Vegetarian” Is Fully Meat-Free
In China, “vegetarian” doesn’t always exclude meat stock or sauces.
2. Don’t Trust the Look of a Dish
A “veg-looking” dumpling or noodle may still contain minced meat or meat broth.
3. Don’t Rely Entirely on Hotels
Hotel buffets might lack strict vegetarian options. Always have backup food or snacks.
4. Don’t Skip Reading Food Labels
Processed food might contain:
Gelatin
Lard
Fish oil
Animal enzymes
Regional Food Guide: What to Expect Across China
Tips for Vegetarians, Vegans, and Jains
Where to Eat
Buddhist temple canteens often serve 100% vegetarian meals.
Look for signs saying “素食 (Sùshí)” – means vegetarian.
Avoid dishes labeled “腊肉” (preserved meat) or “肉汤” (meat broth).
What to Carry
Ready-to-eat Indian food (e.g. MTR, Haldiram)
Dry snacks: Thepla, Khakhra, Poha mix, Cup noodles
Energy bars, nuts, and dry fruits
Electric kettle, travel spoon, bowl, tissues, etc.
Tools & Resources for Smooth Travel
Dining Etiquette & Cultural Notes
Always thank servers
If offered non-veg food, decline politely.
Tea is often free and served warm with meals.
Don’t expect tipping it’s not mandatory, but appreciated.
Travel Checklist for Food Survival
Navigating food in China as an Indian traveler especially if you're vegetarian or follow a specific diet requires a bit of homework, but it's entirely doable. With key Mandarin phrases, food translator apps, a stash of travel-friendly Indian food, and polite communication, you can enjoy your time in China without compromising your diet.Many travelers have made it work even in remote areas with proper preparation. Use this guide to explore the best of China’s culinary offerings while staying true to your personal or religious food preferences.
