Vegetarian & Vegan Food in Baku: A Survival Guide

Azerbaijan is famous for its kebabs, but don't panic. While it is a meat-loving country, the local cuisine has surprisingly delicious plant-based options—if you know what to order.

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Must-Try Local Vegetarian Dishes 🍆

You can find these in almost any traditional restaurant.

1. Qutab (Pumpkin or Greens):
   • What is it? Thin savory pancakes stuffed with pumpkin (balqabaq) or mixed greens (göyərti).
   • Vegan? Usually yes. Ask for "no butter" (yağsız) on top to be 100% vegan.
2. Mangal Salad (Manqal Salatı):
   • What is it? Roasted eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, chopped and mixed with garlic and herbs. Smoky and delicious.
   • Vegan? Yes, naturally vegan.
3. Dovga (Dovğaa):
   • What is it? A cold or warm yoghurt soup with rice and loads of herbs.
   • Vegetarian? Yes. Vegan? No (contains dairy).
4. Lobya Chigirtma (Lobya Çığırtması):
   • What is it? Green beans cooked with onions, tomatoes, and eggs.
   • Vegetarian? Yes. Vegan? No (contains eggs).
5. Kuku:
   • What is it? A dense herb frittata (similar to Persian Kookoo Sabzi).
   • Vegetarian? Yes. Vegan? No (contains eggs).
6. Lentil Soup (Mərcimək Supu):
   • What is it? Red lentil soup served with lemon.
   • Vegan? Usually yes, but ask if they use meat stock (ət suyu).

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Best Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Baku 🌿

While there are few 100% vegan places, these spots have great options:

1. De Rama: A fully vegetarian/vegan cafe with a yoga vibe. Great bowls and smoothies.
2. Manipura Ethic Cafe: Cozy spot with healthy, plant-based meals.
3. Paul's Steakhouse: Ironically, they have a great separate vegetarian menu.
4. Indian Restaurants: Baku has great Indian food (Maharani, The Indus) with tons of veg options.

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How to Order (Phrases) 🗣️

• I am vegetarian: Mən vegetariana.
• I don't eat meat: Mən ət yemirəm.
• Does this have meat? Bunda ət var?
• Without meat, please: Ətsiz, zəhmət olmasa.

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Summary

• Breakfast: Bread, cheese, honey, eggs (Vegetarian heaven).
• Lunch/Dinner: Stick to Qutabs, Mangal Salad, and Lentil Soup.
• Snacks: Fresh fruits, nuts, and dried fruits from the bazaar are amazing.

You won't go hungry!