I just discovered Takao Veg Stand restaurant, founded in October 2025, while hiking near Mount Takao (Tokyo, Japan). Open from 08:00 and accessible on foot from Takao station and Takaosan-guchi station, it’s super convenient for lone & couple hikers desiring a fresh takeaway or quick dine-in.
Small with only 3 indoor counter seats, it’s nevertheless luminous, clean, quiet, and free of heavy cooking smells. The bilingual menu is suitable for both vegans and lacto-ovo vegetarians. The friendly, English-speaking, Japanese chef-owner quickly served me a homemade vegan mushroom sandwich cooked before my eyes. Next time, I’ll be adventurous and taste test the vegan chili beans sandwich! Coffee was OK.
The chef opened this restaurant after noticing a high demand for plant-based options at his previous job. His dedication shows in his attention and motivation to test & adjust. Accordingly, I suggested adding sauces on the counter for hikers looking for stronger tastes, including trendy matcha latte (oat milk) on the menu, experimenting with seasonal ingredients, and ensuring a non-pungent option (many e.g. Taiwanese avoid chives/garlic/leeks/onions/shallots).
Note: The restroom is normally for staff only.
Access
Check Google Maps.
Next Time At Takao Veg Stand
I plan to:
- Ask the chef his name and how he learnt English.
- Ask the chef if he tested any of my suggestions and, if so, their results.
- Photograph the counter seats.
- Taste the soy-based vegan mayo and the vegan chili beans sandwich.
- Maybe suggest a miso sandwich.
