AIN SOPH. Soar IKEBUKURO

Let’s face it — vegans don’t have it easy in Japan. This is a country basically obsessed with seafood, with beef coming in a close second. However, it wasn’t always this way. For centuries of its history, Japan was a vegan’s dream, as meat consumption was heavily regulated and frowned upon due to Buddhist religious beliefs. Things may have changed considerably since then, but there are still some safe havens for vegan diners in Tokyo. AIN SOPH is a company which manages a few of the best, and their Ikebukuro branch is one of the newest. The theme of the decor is glamping, meaning you can either choose to sit at white wood countryside-style tables, or languish on the long, deep, cushioned seating running across the window. The menu is a fusion of Japanese and Western elements, with everything using only plant-based ingredients. Think deep fried tofu cutlet, soy and mushroom burgers with coconut cheese, fries with vegan chili, tofu karaage, and delicious vegetable curries. Organic wines and vegan desserts (caramel and nut brownie, anyone?) complete what must be one of the most appetizing vegan menus in the country. As a bonus touch for inclusive dining, the management even includes an allergy chart on each of their menus, to help diners with strict dietary requirements navigate the choices.