Chinatown may seem like a death wish for a newly practicing vegan as your nostrils fill with aromas of roast pork and General Tso’s Chicken. (or Kitten depending on how seedy the place looks) Surprisingly, finding vegan options in a Chinese restaurant isn’t as nearly as daunting of a task as it sounds. Most Asian cuisine doesn’t feature dairy so as long as it’s meat-free, you’re in business. The only really sneaky ingredient you must be vigilant for that makes it’s way into most vegetarian options is egg so make sure to consult your server.
Thankfully, there happens to be a wonderful cafe that’s completely cruelty-free a few steps from the Chinatown T station. My Thai Vegan Cafe or formerly Buddha’s Delight ranks high on my list of exclusively vegan cafes. I ate here quite often even before embarking on veganism. I don’t believe they use MSG in their food either but best to check with your server if it’s something you’re concerned about. Most of the dishes are of Thai orientation but the menu also boasts a few staple general Chinese dishes. (ex: Sweet and sour chicken)
I’m a big Pad See Ew fan and haven’t really had it since switching my diet so I decided to give theirs a go. They give the option of adding veggie-chicken, veggie-beef, veggie-shrimp, tofu or gluten. I usually go for the shrimp but they were out so I went for the chicken. My life also lacked bubble tea since discovering my issues drinking milk and they happen to make theirs with coconut milk. I went for a Thai tea as it seemed appropriate for a Thai cafe. VERY delicious! As for the main course, the sauce was exactly how I remembered it in standard Pad See Ew so kudos there. (Sometimes the absence of animal product can hinder asian sauces because many of them are fish based) The chicken was pretty spot on. The texture didn’t have that ‘too soft to be convincing’ feel and it absorbed the sauce quite well. The asparagus and spinach were very fresh and delectable to boot.
So My Thai gets gold stars across the board from me. I will certainly be back, especially for their bubble teas. I would say it’s your best bet for an experience closest to the real thing as far as Asian eateries in the Boston area.
3 Beach St
(between Washington St & Knapp St)
Boston, MA 02111
-S
