Newly opened Vanimal in Kennedy Town – hearty vegetarian fare in industrial setting

Inside, the industrial-looking space has lots of concrete, a long, winding ramp to get to the dining area, and a colourful statement wall behind the bar. The only indication that it’s a vegetarian restaurant are the displays of fresh vegetables next to its sleek black refrigerators.

The restaurant is still in the soft-opening stage. The dishes cover a one-page menu, while the cocktail and drinks list is much more extensive, which makes us wonder if the place is more of a bar, with the food as an afterthought.

We started with mixed beans croquettes (HK$98), six small pieces that didn’t have much flavour or texture, served on a bed of bland turnip powder that looked like icing sugar.

The fried potato dual (HK$88)was delicious – purple and orange potatoes seasoned with a smoky paprika aioli. The table next to us enjoyed theirs so much they ordered another one.

Another good dish was the slow-cooked Japanese egg with cepe and shiitake beurre blanc and Jerusalem artichoke chips (HK$128). We were encouraged to mix everything together, and it had a nice mix of soft and crunchy textures, although we had to eat it quickly so the chips didn’t get soggy.