No Onion or Garlic
Why We Don’t Use Onion or Garlic at VINA Vegan
At VINA Vegan, we believe that great food is more than just flavor—it’s about respect for tradition, health, and the unique needs of every guest. That’s why we have made a thoughtful choice not to include onion or garlic in any of our dishes.
The Roots of Our Philosophy
Our journey began with a deep appreciation for ancient culinary wisdom and mindful eating. Many cultures across Asia and around the world have long regarded onion and garlic as powerful ingredients—not just for taste but for their strong effects on the body and mind. In some traditions, these ingredients are believed to stir the senses too intensely, affecting calmness and clarity.
Catering to Sensitivities and Wellness
We also recognize that many people experience digestive discomfort or allergic reactions from onion and garlic. By leaving these out, we ensure our dishes remain gentle on the stomach and accessible to those with sensitivities. Our kitchen focuses on fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables that nourish without overwhelming, creating balanced meals full of vibrant flavors.
Pure, Honest Flavor
Removing onion and garlic challenges us creatively. It pushes us to explore a wider palette of tastes—fragrant lemongrass, zesty ginger, bright kaffir lime leaves, delicate fresh herbs, and rich fermented ingredients. This allows VINA Vegan to offer dishes that are uniquely subtle, layered, and satisfying.
Respect for All Guests
Finally, we want every guest who walks through our doors to feel cared for. Whether you follow specific dietary laws, have allergies, or simply prefer cleaner flavors, our menu is designed with you in mind. We invite you to experience how delicious plant-based meals can be—without onion or garlic—and discover your new favorite tastes at VINA Vegan.
Sensitivities and Wellness
At Vina Vigan, we respect ancient wisdom and traditions that guide healthy living and spiritual well-being. That’s why we choose not to use onion and garlic in our dishes. Despite being common ingredients worldwide, onion and garlic are considered non-vegetarian or unsuitable for spiritual growth in many ancient Indian traditions such as Ayurveda, Hinduism, Jainism, and Vaishnavism.
Ancient Wisdom from Ayurveda and the Upanishads
According to Ayurveda and the Upanishads, everything in the universe is made up of three qualities:
Sattva (purity and goodness)
Rajas (passion and activity)
Tamas (ignorance and inertia)
Foods are also classified based on these qualities:
Sattvik foods promote purity and calmness — like fresh fruits, nuts, grains, and dairy.
Rajasik foods stimulate passion and restlessness — including strong-smelling foods like onion and garlic.
Tamasik foods increase lethargy and dullness — such as stale or overly processed items, meat, alcohol, etc.
Onion and garlic fall under the Rajasik category because of their strong aroma and stimulating effects. They are believed to stir up negative emotions like anger, pride, and desire — which can obstruct spiritual growth.
Effects of Onion & Garlic on Mind and Body
They stimulate the nervous system and increase sexual desires.
They increase worldly thoughts and restlessness.
Their pungency is considered to inhibit inner peace and meditation.
Hence, for those seeking mental clarity and spiritual progress, avoiding onion and garlic is essential.
Historical and Scriptural Perspectives
Manusmriti’s Guidance
The ancient Hindu text Manusmriti advises against eating onion, garlic, mushrooms, and certain meats. It states that these come from impure origins (soil or animal flesh) and require atonement if consumed by pious individuals.
Origin Story in Vaishnavism
A well-known story explains that onions and garlic originated from the remains of a cow during a sacred sacrifice ritual. Because they are linked to animal flesh indirectly, Vaishnavas consider them non-vegetarian and avoid them.
Jainism’s View on Root Vegetables
Jainism teaches non-violence toward all life forms, including plants. Root vegetables like onions and garlic are avoided because uprooting kills the entire plant along with many tiny life forms within it.
Islam’s Approach
In Islam, onion and garlic are permitted but discouraged before entering mosques due to their strong odor which may disturb others.