4 of 11

Write now Article Tools

I have been a vegetarian for six years, and throughout this time I have found ways to adapt to meat friendly menus found at most restaurants. It is not always easy, but it can be done. The majority of the population does include meat in their daily diet so it only makes sense that menus cater to that. Over the last five years, many places have taken notice to the vegetarian diet and try to offer at least one option for these guests. Vegan options are not as easy to come by, but with a little negotiating, it can be accomplished.

Several chain restaurants do carry a veggie burger, such as Denny's (Boca) and Chilli's (black bean burger). In addition, there are always salad options and numerous appetizers that offer some relief. If you are lucky, you will find a place with a veggie wrap or a gourmet grilled cheese, and even pasta dishes.

Then there are the places that only cater to carnivores, but rest assured you can still come up with something. Often times I have ordered a cheeseburger but without the meat, or another kind of sandwich without the meat such as a BLT or club sandwich. As long as you enjoy veggies, you should have no problem with that. Vegans would also have to consider any mayo or cheese that might be on something, but it can easily be substituted with relish, ketchup, hummus or mustard.

As far as fast food goes, it can be a bit more difficult. In my area, Burger King offers a veggie burger, but McDonald's does not. I wrote to McDonald's about a year ago to ask them why they didn't offer this on their menu. They said that they do in certain areas of the US, but that there was a minimal market for it in my area. So it may be best to avoid most fast food joints unless you want to eat fries or salads, but again the bun with the extras is pretty good if need be.

Eventually, I think we will find many more options that support the vegan and vegetarian diet. As more people realize the health benefits and moral reasons behind it, more people will change their ways. And to keep up with the market, restaurants will follow with more menu items. But until then, we may have to use our imagination a little bit to get the perfect meal on the go.

Learn more about this author, Ambi.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to find vegan and vegetarian food on the road?
We want to hear your view. Write now!