Vegetarian Travel in South America

Many vegetarians hesitate to travel to South America due to concerns about the predominance of meat-centric dishes, such as the renowned parrillas of Buenos Aires and the pig roasts found across Ecuador. However, it’s important to know that South America offers a diverse array of culinary options, with many meals centering around staples like rice and beans.

Although you may need to clarify your dietary preferences to restaurant staff, most establishments are open to accommodating special requests. Be mindful that some restaurants might view the term vegetarian as inclusive of chicken, yet growing vegetarian-friendly establishments are emerging as the demand for meatless dining increases.

Moreover, a quick inquiry about the presence of a Hare Krishna community in a city often leads to discovering vegetarian restaurants, as these communities typically include widespread vegetarian options.

Cali, Colombia

Cali, often referred to as the salsa dancing capital of the world, is also a treasure trove for fresh produce and vegetarian cuisine. In the trendy San Antonio neighborhood, Mononoke stands out. This Japanese-inspired vegetarian restaurant operates Wednesday through Friday from noon to 3 p.m., offering a delightful set lunch at an affordable price, making it a fantastic spot to savor nourishing green vitamins.

Cuenca, Ecuador

Cuenca, Ecuador, is a picturesque city renowned for its stunning architecture, but it is also home to a thriving vegetarian scene. Three prominent vegetarian restaurants – El Paraiso, Govindas, and Café Austria – serve an array of delectable dishes. Notably, El Paraiso is cherished by locals for its generous fruit salads and affordable lunch options paired with fresh juice. This growing vegetarian culture is drawing attention, making Cuenca one of the leading vegetarian-friendly cities in South America.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Surprisingly, Buenos Aires offers more than just well-known parrillas; it boasts a variety of excellent vegetarian options. While the city has a strong meat-eating tradition, Palermo neighborhoods—Hollywood, Palermo, and Palermo Chico—are hotspots for the vegetarian community. Notable locations include Bio, with its organic offerings in Palermo Hollywood, and Spring in Palermo, known for its popular vegetarian buffet. Natural Deli in Palermo Chico may not be fully vegetarian, but it presents many meatless choices, particularly renowned salads. Visitors should be prepared to pay higher prices in these chic districts.

Lima, Peru

Lima is notably accommodating for vegetarians, especially pescatarians. Renowned for having some of the finest ceviche globally, Lima also features an array of delightful seafood options. For vegetarians avoiding fish, the city presents a selection of vegetable-focused dishes, including roasted stuffed peppers and various street food. El Alma Zen in Miraflores stands out as a popular vegetarian restaurant, despite being on the pricier side.

For a casual dining experience, La Gran Fruta in San Isidro offers fresh juices along with a simple menu of fruit salads and sandwiches. Additionally, markets throughout the city are excellent for finding freshly squeezed juices and affordable vegetarian meals prepared with care.