With the prospect of my new vegetarianism, I was in a panic, at a loss of how to keep myself nourished in China, a country renowned for including meat in every meal, wherever possible. I went to my closest vegetarian friend and asked for advice; to which she let me in on the not-so-well-kept secret of Qingxinsushi (清心素食), literally “Tranquil Vegetarian; My Saviour”.
This vegetarian buffet is located in the centre of the Nanjing tourist district of Fuzimiao. After a brisk 5-minute walk from the metro, you will be welcomed into a traditional Chinese style canteen, with classic lantern decor and a spacious seating area. With payment upon entrance of just ¥23 or ¥18 if you are lucky enough to receive a discount token, you will be presented with your plate, bowl and utensils and let loose to tackle the buffet.
The restaurant offers a wide range of Chinese vegetarian specialities, with all the crowd favourites represented “sans” meat. Expect to find seitan, tofu and bean dishes, replicating traditional monastic diets of plant-based proteins. Nutritious soups of baimu’er and black rice congee are served up in cauldron-esque pots, alongside fresh dou jiang (soya milk). Indulging in the fun of choosing which dishes to eat, everyone can enjoy what suits their personal preference.
The downside, this place is a product of its popularity; as with the nature of buffet-style restaurants, the early bird gets the worm, so being there right on opening at 11:30 am is a must. Tranquil Vegetarian is an essential for vegetarians looking for a cheap easy Traditional Chinese meal out, loaded with local atmosphere.
Tranquil Vegetarian; My Saviour is located at 2F, Zhanyuan Commerce Building, 199 Zhanyuan Lu. Extract the orange QR code for map.
