Vegetarian with a Vengeance: Beware, meat-eaters, because despite its inexplicably deceptive name, VANIMAL is NOT for you. Do not step in if you’re actually craving meat – ‘cuz there ain’t none of that here.

Look & Feel: This vegetarian restaurant in Kennedy Town is high-ceilinged, dark and trendy. There’s a glass-top communal table as centerpiece, a bar at the back, and a display of chilled fresh veggie-based products along one of its walls.

On the Menu: The food menu is small compared to its multi-page beverage menu, but that just makes decision-making easier. For starters, there are homemade pickles and salads on offer, while meant-for-sharing mains include everything from onsen eggs to paella to curry.

Service: The service is prompt and friendly.

Jeng: The Daily Catch (actually a vegetable salad, haha? — $98 to $188) comes with an impressive selection of fresh produce, from beetroot to radish to sea grapes, accompanied by handmade camomile oil, pickle juice, salt and pepper — it’s a light and beautifully balanced combo. The slow-cooked Japanese onsen egg with cep and shiitake mushrooms, and Jerusalem artichoke chips ($128) is another winner. Go for the moreish mixed beans croquettes ($98) if you’re looking for something deep-fried to balance out all the healthy.

Not So Jeng: Sorry, vegetarians, but the VANIMAL paella ($368) will never compare to the stuff in Spain — which are rightfully drenched in rich seafood stock and topped with tasty shellfish. This meat-free version lacks the umami factor and is rather bland, to be honest.

Great For: A meat-free evening, a healthy lunch.

FYI: The logo for VANIMAL is a predatory T-Rex. Passive-aggressive much?

This writeup was based on an independent tasting. The Loop doesn’t guarantee/sell restaurant review coverage. See our editorial policy here.