The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are often known for fresh seafood and coastal delicacies, but what if you’re a vegetarian? Many travelers assume that finding vegetarian food in Andaman can be challenging, but the reality is quite the opposite. Whether you’re a pure vegetarian, vegan, or looking for plant-based food options, Andaman has a wide variety of Indian, South Indian, and even international vegetarian dishes to offer.
From authentic South Indian dosas and Bengali-style vegetarian thalis to tropical fruit-based dishes and innovative vegan-friendly meals, Andaman has something for every vegetarian traveler. This guide will help you discover the best vegetarian restaurants, must-try dishes, and essential tips for enjoying vegetarian food in Andaman.
Is Andaman Vegetarian-Friendly?
Yes! Andaman is home to a diverse population of Bengali, Tamil, and North Indian communities, which means you’ll find plenty of vegetarian food options across the islands. While seafood is a staple here, most local restaurants also offer pure vegetarian meals, and some even serve vegan-friendly dishes.
✔ Wide Variety of Cuisines – Indian, South Indian, Continental, and Fusion Veg Dishes.
✔ Many Pure Vegetarian Restaurants – Especially in Port Blair and Havelock Island.
✔ Fresh Tropical Fruits & Coconut-Based Dishes – Great for vegans.
✔ Availability of Jain Food & Satvik Meals – Many places offer food without onion & garlic.
✔ Local & Organic Ingredients – Vegetables, spices, and grains sourced from local farms.
Now, let’s explore the best vegetarian dishes and where to find them!
Best Vegetarian Dishes to Try in Andaman
If you’re traveling to Andaman as a vegetarian, these are the dishes you must try:
1. Coconut Rice 🥥🍚
One of the most popular vegetarian dishes in Andaman, this dish is prepared by cooking steamed rice with coconut milk, curry leaves, and mild spices. It pairs perfectly with vegetable curries or dal.
📍 Where to Try:
- Annapurna Restaurant (Port Blair)
- Full Moon Café (Havelock Island)
2. Vegetable Thali (Bengali & South Indian Styles) 🍛
A vegetarian thali in Andaman usually includes:
✔ Steamed rice
✔ Dal (lentil soup)
✔ Sabzi (vegetable curry)
✔ Papad (crispy wafer)
✔ Pickles & Coconut chutney
📍 Where to Try:
- Annapurna Restaurant (Port Blair) – Best for Bengali thali.
- Icy Spicy (Port Blair) – Best for North Indian thali.
3. Masala Dosa & Idli 🥞
Due to the strong South Indian influence, you’ll find excellent dosa, idli, vada, and uttapam in Andaman. Crispy dosas stuffed with spiced potatoes and served with coconut chutney are a local favorite.
📍 Where to Try:
- Icy Spicy (Port Blair) – Best for pure veg South Indian food.
- Annapurna Restaurant (Port Blair) – Famous for traditional South Indian meals.
4. Jackfruit Curry 🌿
Jackfruit is a commonly used ingredient in Andaman. This delicious vegetarian curry is made with young jackfruit, coconut, mustard seeds, and spices. It has a meaty texture and is great for vegans.
📍 Where to Try:
- SeaShell Restaurant (Havelock Island)
5. Banana Flower Sabzi 🍌
A unique dish found in tribal and local cuisine, banana flowers are stir-fried with coconut, mild spices, and herbs to create a nutritious vegetarian dish.
📍 Where to Try:
- Local food stalls in Port Blair markets.
6. Tropical Fruit Salads & Smoothies 🥭🍍🍌
Since Andaman is rich in tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, banana, and coconut, you must try the fruit salads, smoothies, and fresh juices available in beachside cafés.
📍 Where to Try:
- Full Moon Café (Havelock) – Best for tropical smoothies.
- Fat Martin’s Café (Havelock) – Best for fresh fruit bowls.
7. Dal Makhani & Paneer Butter Masala 🧀
For travelers who prefer North Indian flavors, restaurants in Andaman also serve Dal Makhani, Paneer Butter Masala, and Aloo Gobi with fresh naan or paratha.
📍 Where to Try:
- Icy Spicy (Port Blair)
- Annapurna Restaurant (Port Blair)
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Andaman
Here are the top vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Andaman:
1. Annapurna Restaurant (Port Blair) – Best Pure Vegetarian Restaurant
A 100% vegetarian restaurant, famous for North Indian, Bengali, and South Indian dishes.
✔ Best For: Bengali Thali, Masala Dosa, Dal Makhani
✔ Location: Aberdeen Bazaar, Port Blair
2. Icy Spicy (Port Blair) – Best for South Indian & North Indian Cuisine
A vegetarian restaurant serving authentic dosas, thalis, and North Indian meals.
✔ Best For: Idli, Dosa, Paneer Butter Masala, North Indian Thali
✔ Location: Junglighat, Port Blair
3. Full Moon Café (Havelock Island) – Best for Vegan & Organic Dishes
A beachside café with plant-based dishes, fruit salads, and smoothies.
✔ Best For: Vegan Smoothies, Coconut Rice, Jackfruit Curry
✔ Location: Beach No. 5, Havelock Island
4. Fat Martin’s Café (Havelock Island) – Best for Fusion Vegetarian Food
A great place for vegetarian and vegan-friendly fast food, wraps, and sandwiches.
✔ Best For: Vegan Burgers, Fruit Bowls, Grilled Sandwiches
✔ Location: Govind Nagar Beach, Havelock
Tips for Vegetarian Travelers in Andaman
✔ Communicate Clearly: While most places understand “vegetarian,” mention that you don’t eat eggs or seafood if needed.
✔ Try Local Ingredients: Andamanese vegetarian food heavily relies on coconut, banana flowers, and jackfruit—embrace the flavors!
✔ Ask for Customization: Many seafood restaurants offer vegetarian versions of their dishes.
✔ Street Food Caution: Some street vendors use fish sauce or shrimp paste in dishes—always confirm before ordering.
✔ Pack Snacks: If traveling to remote areas like Neil Island or Baratang, carry dry snacks, as vegetarian options may be limited.
Final Thoughts
Finding delicious vegetarian food in Andaman is easier than you think! Whether you’re looking for a full vegetarian thali, South Indian dosas, or vegan tropical fruit smoothies, there’s something for every traveler. Andaman’s food culture is diverse, delicious, and surprisingly vegetarian-friendly—so go ahead and enjoy the flavors of the islands!