When it comes to Indian cuisine, vegetarian fare is typically a standard. Nataraj take it a step further by dedicating themselves to serving up a wide vegetable-based selection that promotes Ayurvedic health effects to strengthen both body and mind.

On the menu are the restaurant’s healthier versions of the essentials: the Dal Tarka, Chana Masala, Palak Paneer, etc. Nataraj also incorporates soy meat into some of the restaurant’s own delectable concoctions: the Nataraj Mushroom is a creamy delight, and the Nataraj Keema, using minced soy meat, boasts a savory flavor and chewy texture that’s a treat for the taste buds. The menu also has tofu curries—a rarity anywhere in the world—that are surefire winners, as well as vegan naans.

Dairy is the only animal-derived ingredient used here. However, vegan options are also available, making Nataraj a vegetarian spot where herbivores and curious carnivores can mingle merrily.

B1F Hukumura-sangyo Bldg., 5-30-6 Ogikubo, Suginami-ku. Nearest station: Ogikubo. Branches also in Ginza, Aoyama, and soon in Shibuya. http://nataraj.sakura.ne.jp