With the growing demand for plant-based meals, the United States has become a much more vegetarian- and vegan-friendly destination. However, depending on where you are in the country, the availability of options may vary. To make your dining experience enjoyable, here are some essential tips to ensure you find the best vegetarian and vegan meals during your travels across the USA.
Research Before You Travel
Before you even set foot in a new city or state, do a little research. Many regions of the USA are highly accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets, but this varies significantly between urban and rural areas.
- Urban Areas: Cities like New York, Los Angeles, Portland, and Austin are known for their abundance of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. In these places, you’ll have no trouble finding eateries that cater to your dietary needs.
- Rural Areas: If you’re visiting smaller towns or national parks, vegetarian or vegan options might be more limited. Research the local dining scene and grocery stores ahead of time to avoid surprises.
Use Vegetarian and Vegan Apps
Technology can be a huge help when it comes to finding plant-based meals while traveling. Some apps are specifically designed for vegetarian and vegan dining, making it easy to find suitable restaurants wherever you are.
- HappyCow: One of the most popular apps, HappyCow helps you find vegetarian, vegan, and veg-friendly restaurants worldwide. It’s particularly helpful in unfamiliar areas.
- Yelp and Google Maps: Although not exclusively for vegetarians or vegans, you can filter restaurant searches on these apps by selecting vegetarian or vegan options.
- VegVisits: If you prefer cooking at home or staying in a place with a kitchen, VegVisits helps you find vegan and vegetarian-friendly accommodations.
Ask for Modifications
In many parts of the USA, especially at mainstream restaurants, plant-based options might not always be clearly listed on the menu. However, don’t hesitate to ask for modifications.
- Adapt Existing Dishes: Many dishes can easily be modified to be vegetarian or vegan. Ask to remove meat, dairy, or eggs from salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes.
- Look for Hidden Gems: Even if a restaurant isn’t specifically vegetarian or vegan, look for cuisines that are naturally more plant-based, such as Middle Eastern, Indian, or Mediterranean food. These often offer a variety of vegan-friendly dishes.
Know Common Ingredients to Watch Out For
Some seemingly vegetarian or vegan dishes in the USA may contain hidden animal-based ingredients. Here are some to watch for:
- Cheese: Even if a dish is vegetarian, cheese might contain rennet, an animal-derived enzyme. Ask for vegan cheese or omit it altogether.
- Broths: Soups and stews may seem vegan but can often be made with chicken or beef broth.
- Dressings and Sauces: Some dressings, such as Caesar or ranch, often contain dairy or anchovies. Request oil-based dressings or simple olive oil and vinegar.
Check Out Grocery Stores
If you’re staying in one place for a while or exploring more remote areas, grocery stores can be your best friend. Many supermarkets across the USA have sections dedicated to plant-based products.
- Whole Foods Market: This national chain is well-known for its variety of vegan and vegetarian products, from ready-made meals to snacks and pantry staples.
- Trader Joe’s: Another great option for plant-based foods, Trader Joe’s offers affordable and creative vegetarian and vegan products, including frozen meals and fresh produce.
- Local Farmers’ Markets: If you’re traveling in the summer or fall, farmers’ markets are fantastic for picking up fresh, local produce and plant-based snacks.
Plan for Road Trips
Road trips are a quintessential American experience, but dining on the road can be challenging for vegetarians and vegans. Here’s how to prepare:
- Pack Snacks: Bring along protein-rich snacks like nuts, fruit, granola bars, and hummus with vegetables to keep you full between stops.
- Check for Vegan Chains: Fast food in the USA is becoming more vegan-friendly. Chains like Chipotle, Taco Bell, and even Burger King offer vegan or easily modifiable options.
- Stock Up on Essentials: If you’re staying in a remote area, stock up on essentials like plant-based milk, canned beans, and grains, as these might not be readily available everywhere.
Learn Key Phrases
When dining out in the USA, it’s helpful to know some phrases to communicate your dietary needs clearly. Here are a few:
- “Is this dish vegetarian/vegan?”
- “Can this be made without cheese/eggs/meat?”
- “Do you have any plant-based options?”
Traveling as a vegetarian or vegan in the USA is becoming easier, but a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth experience. With the right tools, apps, and a bit of planning, you can enjoy delicious plant-based meals from coast to coast. Whether you’re dining in big cities or exploring remote areas, these tips will help you navigate the dining scene and make the most of your culinary adventures.
