Traveling to the Andaman Islands is like stepping into a postcard—azure seas, powdery beaches, swaying palms, and a sense of calm that lingers long after you leave. But what if you’re vegan or vegetarian? Can you still enjoy the flavors of this island paradise without compromising your food choices?

The answer is a resounding yes! The Andaman Islands offer a surprising range of plant-based delicacies, fresh tropical produce, and creative vegetarian-friendly meals that reflect both local and global influences. From rustic thalis to smoothie bowls on the beach, Andaman on a plate is as much a feast for the taste buds as it is for the eyes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best vegetarian and vegan options in the Andamans, highlight must-try local specialties, and share insider tips so you can indulge worry-free while island-hopping.

Why the Andamans are a Paradise for Plant-Based Foodies

The Andamans may not immediately strike you as a vegetarian haven, given the island’s coastal setting and reliance on seafood. But peel back a layer, and you’ll discover that much of its food culture—shaped by Indian mainland influences, tribal traditions, and a growing eco-conscious traveler base—lends itself beautifully to plant-based diets.

·        Fresh tropical produce: Think bananas, coconuts, pineapples, and jackfruit, available in abundance.

·        South and North Indian culinary influence: Idlis, dosas, vegetarian curries, rotis, and biryanis are widely served.

·        A rising café culture: Backpacker hubs like Havelock and Neil Island are dotted with vegan-friendly cafés serving smoothie bowls, salads, and plant-based twists on global favorites.

Traditional Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes to Try

South Indian Comforts

You’ll never go wrong with idlis, dosas, vadas, and uttapams, often served with coconut chutney and sambhar. These are light, wholesome, and widely available, especially for breakfast.

North Indian Staples

From rajma-chawal to paneer butter masala, North Indian curries are standard on menus across Port Blair and popular tourist islands. Many eateries happily substitute dairy-based dishes with vegetable curries for vegan travelers.

Local Island Flavors

·        Banana flower curry – earthy, nutritious, and deeply traditional.

·        Coconut-based gravies – creamy yet naturally vegan.

·        Jackfruit dishes – from curries to fried snacks, jackfruit is a true island hero.

Best Places to Eat Vegetarian and Vegan Food in the Andamans

Port Blair – The Starting Point

Being the capital, Port Blair offers the widest variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.

·        Annapurna Cafeteria: A long-standing vegetarian restaurant, known for simple South and North Indian meals.

·        Vegan-friendly cafés: Newer cafés around Aberdeen Bazaar serve plant-based burgers, sandwiches, and smoothie bowls.

Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) – For the Foodie Explorer

Havelock has embraced global café culture thanks to its backpacker vibe.

·        Shakahaar Pure Veg Restaurant: Affordable and reliable Indian vegetarian meals.

·        Beachside cafés: Smoothie bowls with chia seeds, fresh fruit salads, and dairy-free shakes are popular among health-conscious travelers.

Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep) – The Laidback Food Haven

If you’re into slow travel and fresh food, Neil is the place.

·        Small family-run eateries: Simple vegetarian curries, dal, and roti.

·        Café hubs: Vegan pancakes, salads, and tropical juices dominate menus here.

Tips for Vegan and Vegetarian Travelers

Communicate Your Preferences

While English and Hindi are widely spoken, it’s always good to clarify:

·        “No egg, no meat, no fish.”

·        “No milk, no butter, no ghee” (if vegan).

Stock Up Smartly

Carry snacks like energy bars, roasted nuts, or vegan biscuits, especially if you plan to travel to remote islands where choices may be limited.

Leverage Coconut and Tropical Fruits

Coconuts are your best friend. Coconut water keeps you hydrated, and fresh coconut flesh makes for a filling snack. Fruit platters are available almost everywhere.

Seek Out Cafés and Resorts

Many resorts are increasingly offering vegan menus to cater to international travelers. Don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions like almond milk or coconut cream.

Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Activities Beyond the Plate

Food is only part of the Andaman experience. Pair your meals with experiences that align with sustainable and mindful travel.

·        Beach picnics with local fruit baskets.

·        Cooking classes in Port Blair where you can learn island-style vegetarian dishes.

·        Eco-friendly resorts that grow their own organic produce and serve farm-to-table meals.

Sample 3-Day Vegan & Vegetarian Food Itinerary

Day 1 – Port Blair: Breakfast with dosa & chutney, lunch at Annapurna Cafeteria, evening fresh fruit juice and street-side snacks.

Day 2 – Havelock Island: Morning smoothie bowl at a beach café, coconut-based curry with rice for lunch, vegan pizza for dinner.

Day 3 – Neil Island: Start with banana pancakes, enjoy a vegetable thali for lunch, and sip on a dairy-free shake while watching the sunset.

Conclusion

Being vegetarian or vegan in the Andamans doesn’t mean missing out—it means experiencing the islands in a unique, flavorful, and often healthier way. From coconut-rich curries to smoothie bowls by the beach, the islands cater beautifully to plant-based travelers.

So pack your appetite along with your sunscreen, and get ready to savor Andaman on a plate. Your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.

Planning your Andaman adventure? Explore our curated guides and tips at Fascinating Andaman.