This summer will mark two years that I decided to eliminate meat from my diet. This was a major lifestyle change for me and at times I still can’t believe that I’m actually doing it. In the beginning, I must admit that it had its challenges. The reason it was difficult is that I barely did my research and quit cold turkey. While this approach may have worked for others, it did not work for me. After three months, I made the choice to take a step back and educate myself about my new diet, while still eating fish. Since then, I’ve read tons of articles, learned new recipes and made sure that I received all the necessary nutrients I needed to continue living a healthy lifestyle. For instance, I learned about the benefits of tempeh and seitan, the best way to cook tofu and discovered my love for a good lentil soup and a delicious falafel wrap.
It has been over a year and making the switch has been one of the most gratifying decisions I have ever made. Not only am I living a healthier lifestyle, but I know that I am also making a difference and that alone, is an amazing feeling. So, why wouldn’t I want others to feel the same way? My goal is to share my experiences through my journey. I am looking forward to posting about my own personal recipes, all the amazing vegetarian restaurants that I have dined in, as well as great dishes I’ve tried on my travels!
In the past few years, I have noticed that restaurants are offering more meatless options and vegan restaurants are popping up around the country more than ever before. It really isn’t as difficult as it was say, 5 years ago. With that being said, one of my favorite vegan restaurants is located in Brooklyn, New York and is called Toad Style. Super affordable and delicious. I wouldn’t call this the healthiest of meals but that’s why it’s called “comfort food”. My boyfriend found this little gem one day while searching for a vegan restaurant and we were not disappointed. Restaurants like this make switching over so much easier! If you have a craving for “comfort food”, these dishes can be a healthier substitute. Below are just a few of my favorites.
Toad Style’s Tasty Vegan Dishes:
Banh Mi: Fried oyster mushrooms coated with crusted coconut, cilantro, cucumber, aioli and hot sauce on a baguette.
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit: Hickory Smoked Jackfruit, bbq sauce, grilled cabbage slaw & pickles on a potato bun.
Cheesy Broccoli: Broccoli florets covered with smoked cashew cheese sauce = DELICIOUS.
Who needs meat when there’s this?
These were just a few of the dishes I tried, but there’s so much more. From salads to brunch and desert options, Toad Style is the perfect spot if you’re craving a comforting, delicious vegan meal!
What’s your favorite vegan restaurant?