World Meat Free Week: A plant-based chef shares her go-to dining spots

You've heard the benefits and uplifting testimonies, but it can still be tough pulling the plug on meat from your diet. Perhaps it's the sizzling slab of a fillet mignon that makes the insides of your stomach churn, or simply because you're just not that into vegetables. No judgement here.

However, in honour of World Meat Free Week, which falls between 11 and 17 June, we figured it's time to at least, try. After all, there are only three remaining days to make things right. How can we make the most of it? Plant-based chef and pilates instructor, Sandra Lim (@theveggiemaiden) divulges her top dining (and meat-free) spots for a hearty, satisfying meal. So ready an open mind and appetite — these meatless meals might just grow on you after this long weekend.

1. Wholesome Savour

This café at Palais Renaissance goes by a strict gluten-free/plant-based pact, while retaining the essential nutrients in the grub served here. Most of the food is dehydrated to minimise the loss of nutrients.  

Must-try: Citrus parfait.

2. COMO Cuisine

Leave it to COMO Cuisine to always put up a refined, gastronomical experience. The stunning restaurant is replete with hearty, wholesome brunch options and smashing dinner plates, but above all, they also have decent vegetarian and vegan options.

Must-try: Roasted cauliflower and raw salad.

3. Real Food

Sustainable and organic; these are the two words that Real Food lives by. You'll find the chic vegetarian eatery dishing out a blend of Asian and Western cuisine at one of their three outlets on our shores.

Must-try: Steamed dumplings.

4. Loving Hut

Keep things light and casual (bonus if you live in the East) at none other than Loving Hut. This vegan restaurant serves up Asian fare of local favourites like Kampung fried rice and Nyonya laksa lemak.

Must-try: Laksa and mee pok

5. Joie by Dozo

Joie terms its grub as Japanese-French Creative Modern Meatless Cuisine, where diners can expect artful finesse and ingenious food substitutes to take on their plates. Think posh interiors and a slew of decadent choices (of ravioli and wild rice). You won't be missing the substantial role of meat here, that's for sure. 

Must-try: Their set menu, which comprises of a few courses.

Read about how to start a plant-based diet.