In 2015, less than 1% of Americans were vegan. But now, we are seeing a huge switch towards plant-based living, especially among Millenials.
But still, going out to eat at restaurants that aren’t vegan can be tricky. A lot of menus include vegetarian options that are clearly marked as being so. But vegan options at restaurants can be harder to spot.
Often you will have to request adjustments to the items on their menu to make it fit your vegan lifestyle.
But that doesn’t mean you can only eat from vegan restaurant menus! Read on for the best tips on eating out vegan in an omnivore restaurant.
Be Clear About Eating Out Vegan
The number one rule for vegan dining at omnivore restaurants is to make sure you communicate your dietary needs.
As soon as your server approaches the table, smile and explain that you want to make sure both the server and chef understand your dietary restrictions.
Be polite but firm. Make sure there is no confusion. Clearly explain your limitations.
If necessary ask for an allergy menu. Restaurants keep these special menus so that people with severe allergies can make sure their chosen dish is safe.
Get the Happy Cow App
Happy Cow is a great resource for finding vegan options. It relies on users to rate restaurants as well as specific vegan and vegetarian options.
This is a great app to check out if you are going to a restaurant you haven’t been to before. It’s super handy when you are traveling, too.
Don’t Be Shy to Ask for A Substitution
A cobb salad “hold the eggs and bacon” makes for a pretty boring meal for you.
Whenever you need to remove an ingredient, feel free to check out the menu for other tasty options that you can sub in.
If you are ordering tacos without the chicken, why not as for guacamole and the roasted cauliflower you saw listed in another dish?
When you use the word sub many servers will not charge you extra.
Check Out the Sides
Sometimes, there aren’t any good options on the menu for eating out vegans, unfortunately. But if you’re out with friends it’s better to focus on having a good time than worrying about the lack of options.
If this happens, be sure to take a look at the list of sides. There’s no reason you can’t order a few vegan sides and call it a day. It’ll be inexpensive and can be a fun way to try various items.
Pick an Ethnic Restaurant
If you get to pick the restaurant, choose an ethnic one. Many ethnic dishes can be easily made vegan. These are typically options if you are looking for a healthy restaurant.
Chinese, Indian and Thai dishes are especially easy to make vegan. Plus, eating at these ethnic spots means there’s no risk of getting a bland and boring meal like a limp salad.
Your tastebuds will sing and you may just find a new favorite vegan dish.
Now You Know How to Eat Out Vegan
There you have it! A few great tips for helping you eat vegan in an omnivore restaurant.
Eating out vegan can be a challenge. But the more vegan push for meals that work for them, the more restaurants will begin to cater to these diets.
So keep eating out to grow the vegan movement!