The Veganuary focus for today is dining out. You might be worried that dining out won't be possible or fun anymore once you've vegan, I'm here to tell you not to worry It Is possible and It Is fun!
As I've mentioned in a recent blog, I wasn't exactly adventurous with food in my pre-veg days but once I made that shift, I was excited (not afraid) to try new foods. I would have never eaten sushi before, but now, I enjoy so many wonderful vegetable rolls. From simple cucumber avocado rolls to elaborate rolls filled with lots of veggies, I've even had rolls with sweet potatoes and mango or peanuts and avocado! Just like when cooking at home, check cuisines you've never had before, or cuisines you love that do offer vegan options.
Dining out as a vegan will undoubtedly present a different experience compared to traditional dining, as navigating menus often requires a keen eye and a thoughtful approach. You may find yourself scrutinizing the menu in various establishments, especially in those places that do not have vegan options clearly labeled or indicated. This can lead to some challenges, as you will likely need to ask a good number of questions to ensure that the dishes do not contain any animal products, which can include hidden ingredients like dairy, eggs, or even certain flavorings (ex. animal fat). To make the experience smoother, I always make it a point to check the menu ahead of time, either online or by calling the restaurant directly. If it seems like there aren't any suitable options for me to enjoy, I will often suggest going somewhere else that has a more accommodating menu. In situations where you are attending a gathering or event where you cannot request a change in venue, such as a family celebration or a business dinner, there are still proactive steps you can take to ensure you have a pleasant dining experience. One effective strategy is to call ahead to the restaurant. By giving them a heads up about your dietary preferences and restrictions, you can provide the kitchen with the opportunity to prepare something special for you or to ensure that they have suitable options available. This communication can be incredibly helpful, as it allows the staff to anticipate your arrival and potentially create a dish that meets your vegan needs, thereby enhancing your overall dining experience. Moreover, by being open and communicative about your needs, you not only pave the way for a more enjoyable meal but also help raise awareness about veganism in the culinary world, encouraging restaurants to consider expanding their offerings for future guests.
One of the apps I use regularly when seeking out vegan options is Happy Cow. This app has become an indispensable tool for me in my quest for delicious vegan meals. I've linked to their website for those who prefer browsing on a larger screen, but it's worth noting that they also have a user-friendly app available for both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible no matter where I am. Happy Cow is known for its commitment to providing the most accurate and comprehensive listings of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores around the world. It is regularly updated, ensuring that users have access to the latest information about new establishments and changes to existing ones. The app is chock full of reviews from fellow users, which adds a personal touch and offers insights into the dining experiences of others. These reviews often include details about specific dishes, ambiance, and service quality, making it easier for me to make informed choices about where to eat. In addition to the extensive database of vegan dining options, Happy Cow also features filters that allow me to narrow down my search based on various criteria such as distance, cuisine type, and whether a restaurant offers takeout or delivery. This level of customization is incredibly helpful, especially when I'm in a new city or looking for something specific. The community aspect of Happy Cow cannot be overlooked either; users can share their experiences, upload photos of their meals, and even contribute to the app by adding new locations that may not yet be listed. This collaborative effort makes Happy Cow not just an app, but a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about veganism and supporting businesses that align with their values. Happy Cow stands out as the most comprehensive vegan dining app available, making it an essential resource for anyone seeking to explore and enjoy vegan options in their local area or while traveling.
Have a favorite restaurant that doesn't seem to get "the whole vegan thing?" I can help, I'm a Vegan Hospitality Consultant. Trained by the incredible Meredith Marin of Vegan Hospitality and Vegan Aruba, I have insight and resources to help your favorite restaurant continue to hold that title now that you're vegan. Learn more about Vegan Hospitality Consulting and how I can help here. You can also share that page with someone at the restaurant if you'd like to connect them directly with me.
Check out my interview with Meredith Marin here to learn more about the amazing work she's doing and more about Vegan Hospitality.
Check the menu for your favorite restaurant, do they already have vegan options? If so, which one will you try next time you're there? If not, what could you veganize? Tell me in the comments below!
I am looking for guests for Season 6 of the Did You Bring the Hummus Podcast! Podcast recordings will begin this month with a planned release beginning in March. If you're a vegan or know a vegan who would be a great fit for the podcast, fill out the Be A Guest Quiz here and I'll be in touch!
Need a little relaxation after the holidays? Join me tonight, January 8th at 8pm ET for my weekly meditation practice, Meditations for All. We're doing a special meditation for the New Year. Sign up here: Meditations for All Can't make the next one? No problem, Meditations for All occur on alternating Mondays and Wednesdays at 8pm ET. Click the link above and check the calendar for a date that works for you. You can sign up for single sessions or one of my package options.
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Lots of parallels with Gluten Ø dining - I'mSo fortunate here in the Pacific NW, as many restaurants label menu items, offer gluten free options, Etc.
My grands and I also enjoy nori rolls, and that's an easy outing. Cucumber or seaweed salad and edamame are nice sides.
Chinese can be tricky, as many items are cooked in soy sauce (wheat or barley). Likewise Mexican, if they make their own corn tortillas (but add a little wheat flour for texture?) or thicken salsa with flour ....
As you say, calling ahead can help, and saying before each item, "I'm ordering the gluten free____"
The US is certainly more advanced not only in terms of vegan restaurants and vegan menus at "regular" restaurants but when it comes to customer service.
Switzerland has a growing market where grocery store offers are concerned, and we have some innovative companies developing "vegan meat" that apparently is hard to tell apart from real meat, but your choices are clearly limited if you live outside the major cities.
I can only imagine the challenges of eating out as a vegan, or other dietary restrictions. Thats amazing that some restaurants are open to creating a special dish just for you if you call ahead!