Being Vegan/vegetarian: Enjoying a Delicious Dinner Out with Friends and Family

As a vegan or vegetarian, dining out can sometimes feel limiting. The usual concern is whether the restaurant will have any suitable options or if anything beyond a boring salad will be available. However, with some planning and a few strategic moves, you can enjoy a delicious dinner without any boring or unsatisfying meals.

Common Challenges and Solutions

One of the most frustrating parts of being a vegan or vegetarian is the demand to choose a restaurant with limited options. It's not just about the lack of choice; it's also about the expectations of others. Whether you're spending time with new friends or your family, the goal of a meal out is to relax, enjoy good food, and create delightful moments. If you're stuck with a boring salad, it defeats the entire purpose of being out.

Ask Your Server for Customized Options

When you dine out, communicate your dietary needs clearly to your server. This doesn't mean you have to put up with a boring meal. Ask your server to put together a vegetarian plate for you. This can include a variety of delicious options like:

PotatoesRiceVegetablesPolentaOther plant-based dishes

Some restaurants are already familiar with accommodating customers with special dietary requirements. By being proactive, you show the restaurant that it is important to you to have a satisfying meal. Most servers are willing to help in this regard.

Don't hesitate to ask specific questions about the dishes and their ingredients. Many restaurants now offer detailed descriptions of each dish, including any potential allergens or non-vegetarian ingredients. This can help you make an informed decision.

Ask for a Vegetarian Plate or Create One on Your Own

Another option is to ask your server to create a vegetarian plate based on what they have. This can be a fun and engaging way to explore the restaurant's menu. Here are some steps you can take:

Tell the server that you are a vegetarian and would like a meal custom-made for if they can compile a plate based on their daily specials or any dishes that are vegetarian-friendly.If they are not able to create a plate, you can ask for individual items from the menu that are suitable for vegetarians.

For example, you might request:

Veggie stir-fry with mixed vegetables, tofu, and riceGrilled vegetables with a side of quinoa or mashed potatoesPasta with a vegan sauce and sautéed vegetablesA gratin with layers of potatoes and vegetables

By asking for a vegetarian plate, you can ensure that you have a memorable and delicious meal, even if the restaurant is not entirely vegan-friendly.

Explore Newity and Expand Your Dishes

Often, the problem with vegetarian meals at restaurants is that they might be limited to salads. However, there are many other dishes that can be adapted to suit a vegetarian diet. Here are some tips:

Explore different types of grains such as quinoa, farro, or wild ordering soups, stews, or chili made with a variety of vegetables and for vegetarian pasta dishes with tomato or garlic-based sauces.Look for dishes that feature grilled or sautéed vegetables as a main ingredient.

Many restaurants now offer creative vegetarian options, and a good server can help you find them. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations or to be a little adventurous with your choices.

Conclusion

Being a vegan or vegetarian shouldn't mean you have to compromise on your dining experience. With the right approach, you can enjoy delicious meals out with friends and family, without any boring or unsatisfying dishes. Whether you ask your server to create a vegetarian plate, explore the menu, or impress your friends with your culinary knowledge, you can make the most out of your dining out experience.

Remember, the goal of dining out is to relax and enjoy good food, not to feel restricted. By being proactive and clear about your dietary needs, you can have a memorable and satisfying meal every time.