News Releases

August 16, 2007

Tokyo -- With more and more people across Asia eliminating or cutting down on their meat intake, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Asia-Pacific (PETA) scoured the continent to find the 10 restaurants that are best meeting the demand for meatless meals. After completing the most delicious tour in PETA Asia-Pacific's history, the results are in, and Tokyo's Nataraj Indian restaurant ranks among the top.

Nataraj is unique among Indian restaurants in Asia because it serves a spectacular array of wheat gluten- and soy-based mock meats in addition to traditional Indian vegetarian fare. Curries made from wheat gluten and soybeans abound and are served with a variety of fresh greens and spicy sauces. The tandoori mirch--capsicums stuffed with "meaty" gluten nuggets, potatoes, and spices--is not to be missed.

Also ranking high on the list is the Korean Temple Cooking in Seoul, which specializes in an array of perfectly prepared mountain-grown greens. Bangkok's Vegetarian Cottage offers an eclectic selection of French, Italian, American, Japanese, and Thai favorites, all prepared with delicious mock meats. Next is Taim Hakaim ("a taste of life"), which is located in Israel and famous for its barbecue twist sandwich--complete with mock meats, gravy, and dressing--and other delicious dishes. If you'll be in Manila any time soon, don't miss The Farm, which offers an extensive buffet of raw vegan cuisine.

Rounding out the top 10 are Hong Kong's Hoi Sum (a favorite haunt of PETA Asia-Pacific's staff), Singapore's Fortune Centre (a mall full of vegetarian restaurants), Shanghai's Vegetarian Life Style, Mumbai's Little Italy, and Bangkok's Govindas.

Why go vegetarian? One reason is for better health. Consumption of meat and other animal products has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and several types of cancer; bird flu and mad cow disease are also directly related to the meat industry. Another reason is animal suffering--pigs, chickens, goats, cows, and other animals raised and killed for food are tormented, mutilated, and terrorized throughout their lives.

"Going vegetarian is the single best thing you can do for your health, for animal welfare, and for the environment," says PETA Asia-Pacific Director Jason Baker. "And judging by the fantastic food on our tour, Asians have gotten the message loud and clear!"

For more information and to read more about the restaurants, please visit GoVeg.com.

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