Just like any other type of special diet, dining out as a vegetarian can be quite tough. You put your faith and trust in the hands of a stranger, and you can’t be 100% sure that he/she will provide you with a friendly meal that won’t affect you in the long run.
A few years ago, it used to be that the only food vegans could eat at most restaurants were French fries and iceberg lettuce filled side salads.
Fortunately, things have changed, and with the rising popularity of veganism, restaurants have at least one vegan option on their menu.
Today, there is a significant number of vegan-friendly restaurants in leading cities, but there are also many eateries that don’t have any plant-based offerings on their menus.
So, what are some of the things that you are supposed to do if you’re planning to eat out and you’re a vegan? Follow these simple tips to make your work easier.
Plan Ahead
The first and most important thing that you need to do is figure out where you are going since it can give you a good game plan when eating out on a vegan diet. Make sure that you check the restaurant menu online ahead of time so that you see the various vegan options available.
While checking the menu, also focus on the non-vegan options available that can easily be modified to suit your dietary needs.
It is good to note that most restaurant menus can be adapted in some way, and chefs are used to receiving dietary suggestions; therefore, don’t be afraid to ask their suggestions for menu swaps.
Make sure that you double-check how they prepare their meals and even ask the server what ingredients are included in your meal just to be sure that it is what you ordered.
Look Out for Soup
You can never go wrong with soup if you‘re eating out on a vegan diet. Go for lentil or pistou soup in French restaurants, bean soup in Italian restaurants and split pea or pureed vegetable soup in American restaurants.
Don’t forget to ask the waiter whether the soups are made without dairy, butter, ham, or chicken stock. If you don’t like soups, scan the restaurant menu for salads that are already vegan or can easily be converted into vegan-friendly salads.
If you’re dining out in Montreal, consider eating delicious salads at this Montreal restaurant that are vegan-friendly.
Get Creative with Sides
In most cases, vegetarian menu items can be prepared quite easily by simply replacing the butter for oil or leaving out the cheese. If you discover that your options are limited, be sure to ask if such swaps can be made.
Alternatively, you could order a few side dishes and ask the restaurant to hold the butter then proceed to create your own combination that gives you a healthy meal. A few sides of beans, rice, and vegetables can easily add up to a balanced and healthy meal.
Try a Fun Beverage
If you notice that vegan-friendly food options are limited in your preferred restaurant, treat yourself to a fun non-alcoholic or alcoholic drink. It will still feel fun and special if you take that drink that you normally wouldn’t have. After all, you don’t want to sweat so much over your dietary preferences.
