The Best Whole Food's On Earth (or at least in Georgia)

There are at least ½ dozen Whole Food’s or Harry’s Market in the Atlanta area. But only one of them stands as the pantheon of vegan accessibility and that’s the Whole Food’s on Ponce de Leon in Atlanta, GA. Not only do they have the cheapest tofu in town but last year they expanded their hot bar section to include an extended vegan hot bar with at least 6 vegan entrée’s available at all times on the bar and 1 to 2 vegan entrees available at the deli counter for their Blue Plate special. 90% of the vegetables, legumes, and grains are also vegan friendly making it easy for you to grab a quick hot lunch with just about any type of vegan goodness you can imagine. 

The deli has my all time favorite deli item, mock chicken salad. This stuff is so good that it wasn’t a vegan who told me about it first but several of my omni friends. They ranted and raved about it so much that I had to try it. My mouth is watering right now just thinking about it. When I’m in a rush from time to time they have mock chicken salad sandwiches available pre-made across from the hot-bar which come in handy as a grab and go lunch. Even though the pre-made sandwiches are pricey, usually about $6. 

Vegan Pizza with Daiya

The Whole Food’s on Ponce has vegan pizza made with Daiya but this is the one item I do not trust. I’ve tried this pizza three times and each time I’ve had less than favorable GI symptoms afterward. Leading me to believe that there’s a hint of dairy in there somewhere, not likely intentionally put there but through cross-contamination since it is warmed in the same oven as dairy-laden pizza and it might be possible that the servers are cutting multiple pizzas with the same pizza cutter. Pizza is the only dish I have had this issue with, so for now I’m steering clear. I prefer my pizza without any type of cheese at all so getting a big plain pizza with tons of veggies on it is all I need. 

They’ve also just opened a new taco bar with fantastic vegan options like seitan asada and a full salsa bar with every type of salsa you can imagine and a few flavor vegan slaws.I’m a sucker for a good taco and couldn’t resist gettingtwo big tacos each with a different salsa brimming over with guacamole, cilantro and roasted corn. 

Next to the deli is the bakery with a bevy of homemade vegan breads fresh out the oven. I love Whole Food’s bread not only because it’s vegan and fresh but because it’s cheaper than mass-produced breads and has simple ingredients which yield amazing flavor, my favorite is the rosemary sourdough. A couple steps down from fresh-baked breads are trays and trays of vegan cookies (usually located on the first two shelves). From time to time they will also have vegan muffins (which I love) and vegan cupcakes (which I strongly dislike).  

BBQ Tofu, Vegan Mac & Cheese, Fresh Garden Salad

Over the last year I’ve run across a couple hot bar combination's so good I had to document them. Some of my personal favorites are the BBQ Tofu, fried plantains and Kahlou green beans; Fried chik’n tofu, spicy collard greens and vegan macaroni and cheese; panang curry tofu, brown rice and Thai salad and my favorite light dessert is their vegan mousse (on the salad bar) topped with granola. They have also recently added Daiya cheese to their salad bar. Eat up!

Restaurant Review: Sid's Gourmet Vegetarian Restaurant (Stockbridge, GA)

I find myself in Stockbridge, GA at least four times a month and was thrilled when I heard there was a vegetarian restaurant in (what I consider) the middle of nowhere. I have to admit I was less than thrilled when I made four attempts, on a very hungry belly, to eat at Sid’s Gourmet Vegetarian Restaurant only for it to be closed during regular business hours. I looked online to see if the restaurant was still open and, indeed, it was but I found a myriad of complaints mirroring my experience – the hours they are open are simply unpredictable.

Finally, on a whim, I decided to try Sid’s Gourmet one last time and miraculously they were open. I was greeted by a friendly smiling gentleman, who turned out to be Sid. He was happy to walk me through the vegan options on the menu. Unfortunately none of the “chicken” items are vegan but most of the “fish” and half of the “beef” items are. I’m not too wild about vegan fish and beef substitutes but I thought I’d give it a try – after all that is my job as the Vegan Guinea Pig! I had the option of blackened fish, crab cakes, fried shrimp, baked salmon, meatballs or vegan lasagna. I decided the crab cakes would be a good barometer of what this restaurant has to offer so I went with crab cakes with peas n’ rice and plantains on the side. Thankfully most of the side items are vegan.

Then the waiting game began. From the time my order was taken to the time I put the first bite of crab cake in my mouth it took over 20 minutes. I was in the middle of a workday and was hoping to be in and out within 30 minutes at the very most. However, one bite of the crab cake and it was all worth it. I was also thrilled that the crab cakes were homemade which completely made up for the time. I’m actually surprised they were able to whip up such delicious crab cakes from scratch, cook them and have them on the plate within 20 minutes. I know this sounds like a strange thing to be thrilled about but often times when you order mock meat they’re just may-wah or match meats cooked to order which is great but I could do the same thing at home. My excitement grew when I found out that the Sorrell (one of my favorite drinks in the world!) was made with agave nectar and not honey. A lot of vegetarian and even vegan restaurants will make their sorrel with honey which is bummer for me especially when agave nectar is such an easy substitute. I literally squealed for joy when I found out they used agave nectar which brought a couple odd looks but when I have ever been one to worry about a couple odd looks?

Despite the unpredictable hours and a bit of wait time I will be back at Sid’s the next time I’m in Stockbridge. Sid was so warm and inviting you couldn’t help but want to sit down and chat with him all day. It was almost like meeting a long-lost relative. If you’re in Stockbridge on the weekends keep in mind that Sid’s Gourmet closes before sunset on Friday and is closed on Saturdays. 

My Delicious Crab Cakes, Peas n' Rice and Plantains 

Nom...Nom...Nom... 

Final Day of VeganMofo: Turning Housing Projects into Community Gardens (Truly Living Well Urban Farms)

On this last day of VeganMofo I could think of no better way than to round out this incredible month of food than to share a bit of outstanding news about my CSA Truly Living Well Urban Farms. The Press Release below says it all and I couldn't be more thrilled for Rashid and all the great hard working folks over at TLW.

Ground Breaking Ceremony, Sunday, December 5, 2:00 p.m.
Corner of Hilliard Street and Old Wheat Street NE, Atlanta GA 30312

The site will be called The Truly Living Well Wheat Street Garden. We are creating an urban farm that we trust will be embraced by the greater Atlanta community as a source of quality food, a learning center and an essential element in building community. The site was formerly a housing project. We will grow in regenerated soil, raised beds, greenhouses and hoop houses. The black and white picture below is of a site in Vine City circa 1893 that contains elements similar to what we intend to create.

Mayor Reed recently released a plan that, among other things, seeks to bring "local food within 10 minutes of 75 percent" of Atlanta residents. Truly Living Well will assist him in reaching this goal.

The work is being funded by generous investment from the Arthur M.Blank Foundation and the Environmental Protection Agency. 

So many of you have been very supportive of Truly Living Well over the past five years. We would really appreciate your presence at the ground breaking event. Here is a link to the press release being distributed.

Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture to open in Old Historic Fourth Ward

Ground Breaking Ceremony, Sunday, December 5, 2:00 p.m.
Corner of Hilliard Street and Old Wheat Street NE, Atlanta GA 30312

The Many Adventures of Vegan Guinea Pig and The Park Grounds Thief

Just 8 days into Vegan Mofo and my dreams of blogging for 30 straight days have been thwarted. I had the best intentions of blogging this weekend but with less than 6 weeks left in the semester school has taken over my life even more completely than usual. In fact, at this very moment I'm sitting in my research class pretending to type notes furiously while I write this blog - now that's mulit-tasking.

This weekend I had one of the most interesting experiences I've ever had when doing a restaurant review. In fact, I must warn you, this review is not so much about the food but the atmosphere on my latest voyage to discover what's new and wonderful in the kingdom of vegan. My latest trip took me to Park Grounds in the Cabbage Town neighborhood of Atlanta. My classmates and I agreed on it as the perfect place to get some work done, enjoy good food, a little caffeine and even bring our dogs (they have a great little dog park). As usual, I checked out their menu online before hand and was thrilled to see they had an extensive list of vegan breakfast, lunch and desserts items. A vegan breakfast sandwich with tofu, greens, lettuce and guacamole, a vegan breakfast burrito (which i was dying to try!) that is stuffed with tofu, hashbrowns, lettuce, tomato, onion, guacamole and pico de gallo, vegan pancakes, PG-VG Sandwich made with tofu, lettuce, onion, cucumbers and sriarcha on marble rye, a hummus veggie wrap, and of course a big veggie salad.

When I arrived at Park Grounds I was thrilled to see that the two speciality items of the day were vegan as well including vegan chocolate chip pancakes. I was too excited for words. Until I gave my order and they informed me the kitchen was closed. I tried to hide my disappointment but it was difficult, I came ready to eat and at only 2pm the kitchen was already closed for the day. I don't drink coffee on an empty stomach so I was stuck sipping on a grapefruit Izze, which was great, but doesn't compare to chocolate chip pancakes and hashbrowns.

Unfortunately, I will never get a chance to try the food at Park Grounds. I'm sure it's amazing but within an hour of sitting down with my classmates, with very empty belly's, trying to concentrate on our work a man came into the cafe and tried to rob a man of his laptop, while the man was still holding and using his laptop. It was such a jarring experience that everyone was pretty much speechless, well everyone except the barista running down the street chasing after the would-be robber. It's really a shame because I've been meaning to take my dogs down to Park Grounds and grab a little something to eat while studying there for over a year now. Unfortunately, after watching someone being robbed right in front of me in broad daylight I won't be able to go back there without constantly looking over my shoulder in fear and I definitely wouldn't bring anything I hold valuable there. I'm sure that Park Grounds is a wonderful place, and I hate to judge it based on the actions of others but for me it's not a place I would be able to go again. If you've ever tried the food please feel free to chime in with a comment and let me know how it is, and also, if you know what the hours of their kitchen are since they clearly aren't the same hours that are printed on their menus or online.

Quick & Easy Vegan Celebrations Booksigning (Atlanta, GA)

 I'll be signing copies of Quick and Easy Vegan Celebrations and Quick and Easy Vegan Comfort Food 

Saturday, November 6th at 3pm

Borders Buckhead in Atlanta (3637 Peachtree Rd. NE, Ste. C Atlanta, GA 30319)

Hope to see you there! 

Restaurant Review: La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant (Atlanta, GA)

It has come to my attention that I eat Mexican food at least once a day, sometimes for all three meals of my day including snacks. What can I say, I’m a California girl born and raised and no matter where I live in this world Mexican food will always be my favorite food to cook and eat (not to mention it’s so quick and easy to make!) Outside of Taco Bell (which doesn’t really count as a Mexican restaurant) I tend steer clear of most Mexican Restaurants primarily because of the use of lard in the refried beans. If I can’t eat beans and rice then there’s no point in me even entering the doors.

My girlfriends and I wandered into La Parrilla one afternoon look for margaritas and guacamole. My friends pointed out to me there was a vegetarian menu but I wasn’t too excited about it since I was sure that the beans would have lard in them. To my surprise they did not! La Parrilla uses vegetable shortening instead of animal fat in all their dishes! From that moment I was hooked. Veggie Fajitas, Enchiladas (bean, spinach and potato sin queso of course), Tacos, Chalupa’s, Burritos, nearly anything you can think of they have it. Just remember to order everything without cheese and you can’t go wrong. I go here about three times a month and amazingly they have never messed up an order or snuck a hint of cheese on anything. They also have an amazing guacamole and salsa, and don’t get me started on the Margaritas! By the way, Tuesday’s are $3 Margarita night and are worth the trip :) Not only is the food at La Parrilla astounding but the service is unmatched. I’ve never waited more than 5 minutes for my food to reach the table piping hot. Even in large parties the food was on the table and on our forks within 10 minutes, leaving us plenty of time to savor each bite of Mexican culinary happiness. The La Parrilla chain is growing throughout Georgia, it seems like a new one is popping up every month so check their website for a location near you. See you there!

UPDATE: Each LaParrilla is different, so please double check with your server to make sure the beans and rice aren't cooked in chicken stock. To date the Fayetteville location cooks there rice and beans in chicken stock and the Howell Mill location does not. No matter the location the VegiFajitas, Baja Fajitas, and Super Vegi Burrito are vegan (without the cheese of course). 

Truly Living Well Urban Farms East Point, GA

I grew up in the fertile San Joaquin valley where it’s commonplace to have fruit bearing trees in your front yard and gardens bursting with fresh herbs and vegetables in your back yard. Outside my bedroom window was a grapevine, a nectarine tree, a plum tree and a peach tree. Our kitchen overlooked the garden that bustled with seasonal produce year round and friends and neighbors were always willing to share their produce with one another. This is probably one of the biggest reasons why I was never a kid who you had to beg to eat their vegetables. I loved vegetables, there was a sense of pride and community in eating them.

I grew up, moved away, bustled from state to state and now I’ve found myself in Georgia. The new trend in food is the old trend that nearly every generation of my family grew up with, including myself, eating locally preferably out of your own garden or a community garden. For years I’ve had a small container garden of my own but once Curry and Queso, my goats, moved in I pretty much had to dash my dreams of any real garden let alone a flimsy container garden. My old co-op used to boast local foods from Truly Living Well Urban Farms and with a little investigation I found the farm and realized that it was only about 10 minutes from my house. When I drove up the first time it was a little intimidating, everyone seemed to know each other and they were chatting away. There were coolers upon coolers of fresh greens just picked and brought over from their other locations around the city, and a table spilling over with fresh vegetables, herbs and edible flowers. But soon enough I got into the rhythm of things, bought ½ a CSA share for $250 and was off to pick out what would be this week’s menu items.

There is truly nothing that compares to fresh picked organic produce planted with love. As I picked out the bounty of fresh produce I wanted Rashid Nuri, the founder of Truly Living Well, reminded me to cook it fresh, no freezing. This statement inspired me to utilize every bit of produce I bought. Everything from the greens of carrot tops (which I juice, put in salads and/or feed to my rabbit or dogs), to the large bounty of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers which ended up making a phenomenal gazpacho soup. If you live in the Atlanta or East Point, GA area I highly recommend making a stop by TLW Urban Farms. Produce pick up is on Wednesday’s from 3-6pm (currently 3-7pm for summer hours) and Rashid also hold natural/organic gardening classes. Most importantly, to me at least, they can help you get your own garden started in your backyard just like I had growing up. As soon as I build up the infrastructure in my backyard to keep the goats out of my fresh produce I now I’ll be calling TLW first to help me get my garden in shape.

Maddio’s Pizza Joint

Vegan Pizza is officially taking over in Atlanta. There are now four great pizzeria’s who not only having great vegan toppings but vegan cheese as well. No matter where you live vegan pizza is not far away. There’s Village Pizza Co in Cabbagetown, DaVinci’s Pizza in Smyrna, Pizza Fusion in Buckhead and now Maddio’s Pizza Joint in Toco Hills.

The Atlanta Vegan Lunch group recently had a lunch outing to Maddio’s Pizza Joint (3027 North Druid Hills Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329) and I had my first taste of Maddio’s amazing pizza. Although their menu says “soy cheese” they actually use Daiya cheese and I have to admit, this is the first time I have truly loved Daiya on a pizza. Before all you Daiya lovers get on me let me explain. I’ve spent 4 years learning to not like cheese and have succeeded. I’m not really keen on the actual taste of cheese anymore and don’t miss it at all. So for me, Daiya is just way too much like cheese. However, I still use it in small amount from time to time. Plus I love love love cheese free pizza now with just the crust, sauce and mounds of fresh veggies. But enough about me and more about Maddios!

Maddio’s wheat crust is vegan and their menu is so extensive it’s hard to know where to begin. I literally wanted to try everything. Here are just a few of the vegan options on Maddios menu:

Sauces:

Tamato-Basil

Zesty Tomato BBQ

Spicy Buffulo

Garlic Infused Olive Oil

Toppings:

Artichoke hearts

Banana peppers

Basil

Black bean corn salsa

Black olives

Broccoli

Caramelized onions

Celery

Cilantro

Corn

Garlic

Green olives

Green peppers

Grilled tofu

Mandarin oranges

Mushrooms

Pickled jalapenos

Pineapple

Portabella mushrooms

Red onions

Spinach

Sundried tomatoes

Tomatoes

Zucchini

Toasted Subs:

Garden Veggie with Daiya

Maddio’s also caters and has amazing lunch specials. If you’re in the neighborhood, check them out.

Restaurant Review: Ria's Blue Bird (Atlanta, GA)

I am not a morning person. If the sun isn’t up then my body can’t even begin to process anything beyond orange juice and tea. Last semester I somehow ended up with a 7:30am research class which required me to be up before the sun, my goats, my bunny and my dogs – in my opinion if the companion animals aren’t up yet then there is no earthly reason I need to be up either. It’s just nature right?

Every Monday and Wednesday I would run out the house, brushing my teeth on the way out the door, shoes and socks in hand with no more than a mug of hot black tea or orange juice to fill my stomach. By the time class was over my stomach was not only grumbling it was yelling, cursing and I think it might have even back-handed me a time or two. Usually when I came under assault from my stomach I would head to my usual spots like Stone Soup Kitchen, R. Thomas Deluxe Grille or even Whole Foods but one morning I was craving something new. A quick Google search on ye ole blackberry and tada! – I was off to Ria’s Blue Bird (421 Memorial Drive Atlanta, GA).

As I pulled up to the parking lot I realized I’ve passed by this place dozens of times and not even realized it was there. It’s one of those unassuming dives that just blends into the background of a city drive. The menu is geared more towards vegetarians than vegans but the waiter was super friendly, helpful and steered me in the direction of all things vegan. As with Stone Soup Kitchen, Ria’s “soysage” isn’t vegan (haven’t these people ever heard of the joys of gimme lean sausage?!)

However, their southwest scramble is and it is marvelous! Although the description is very clearly laid out on the menu when I got my big bowl of southwest scramble it was nothing like what I expected, but I was still pleasantly surprised. The base was black beans, then there was your standard tofu (cubed, not scramble) topped with tomatoes, onion, and broccoli (it comes with a cilantro pesto which I just automatically told them to leave off since I always assume pesto has some hidden cheese in it). The combination of flavors was a fiesta in mi boca (that's a little spanglish for ya)! I would have never thought of putting this combination of flavors together in this way. It was such a filling meal that incorporated nearly every food group. And best of all the service was fast (which was great because I think if I would have waited one more minute my stomach would have hauled off and dropped kicked me).

Other vegan-friendly menu items are:
Country Fried Tempeh (minus the buttermilk biscuit of course)
Oatmeal (boring!)
Granola (super boring!)
Tempeh Reuben (hold the cheese please)
BBQ Veggie Riblet
Arugula or Spinach salad + tofu or tempeh (sin queso)

You can also get a side of spicy tofu, cup of beans, grits, or a fruit cup. Eat up!

Vegan Brunch at Stone Soup Kitchen Atlanta, GA (and the start of VeganMofo III)

I'm writing this blog while sitting on the back patio of Stone Soup Kitchen (584 Woodward Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312 ). Enjoying a perfect Thursday morning, not too hot, not too cold, just enough breeze and the birds are chirping (but not in an annoying way, just right). The perfect way to start a day and to kick-off Vegan Mofo III (the Vegan Month of Food). All month long I'll be blogging overtime bringing you recipes, giveaways, and tons of vegan food porn. But for today, it’s all about Stone Soup Kitchen.

Stone Soup Kitchen is a phenomenal breakfast/brunch restaurant, only open to 3pm. They have plenty of indoor seating but my favorite place to be is their outdoor patio which is hidden away from the street and always peaceful and quite (except for the birds of course).

Stone Soup is an omni-restaurant with vegan options. If you're lucky enough you'll get a server who asks u if you're vegan and will point out to u potential pitfalls in the menu - like the soysage which is Morningstar brand and therefore has eggs in it. And will make sure they give you the vegan butter for your toast not the regular butter. Thankfully my server was amazing and made sure all my food was 100% vegan to the letter.

Stone Soup is one of those rare places in which I love everything vegan on their menu. I honestly don't have a complaint about one item and could eat their food for breakfast or brunch everyday for the rest of my life if my budget allowed. Their vegan menu consists of:

Oatmeal (steel cut)
Blueberry cornmeal flapjacks
Vegos Rancheros (veganized juevos rancheros)
Tofu Scramble (pictured above)
Grits
Home Grilled Potatoes (pictured above)
Cuban Black Beans Soup
Lil’s Favorite Sandwich (avocado, lettuce, tomato, sunflower sprouts, and Dijon mustard)
As well as daily specials

Restaurant Review: Café Sunflower Atlanta, GA

Year after year, Café Sunflower always manages to win the top marks as Atlanta’s best vegetarian restaurant. Because of this I find myself trying to like it, even though there are at least ½ a dozen better vegetarian restaurants in Atlanta. Over the last 3 years I’ve tried just about everything vegan on the menu. I have never been completely disappointed but then again I’ve never been completed inspired either, at least not with the entrees.

I do have to admit that there are two items off the Café Sunflower menu that I will order, to go, every time I’m in the neighborhood – their Vegan Spinach Dip and the Vegan Carrot Cake. The serving size on the vegan spinach dip is much much smaller than what you typically would think of for a spinach dip. It is really an appetizer for one. Nonetheless it is perfectly creamy and cheesy and always makes me second guess whether or not it’s vegan. There are no words to describe the vegan carrot cake. It is hands down the best carrot cake I have ever had. It was actually recommended to me by one of my omni friends who also thought it was the best carrot cake she’d ever had. But other than these two items I tend to be pretty unimpressed with the Café Sunflower menu. But, if you find yourself drawn there a couple times a year, as I inevitably do. Here are my recommendations:

The nightly specials are usually always good. Much better than what is on the regular menu and much more inventive. So I recommend giving whatever is on the specials menu another look.
Of course you have to try to spinach dip and the vegan carrot cake.

The fajitas are actually pretty good, and really even better the next day as leftovers.
Another plus of Café Sunflower is that, unlike most vegetarian restaurants, they do actually have wine and beer on the menu. So even if you’re not in love with you entrée by your second glass of pinot noir you won’t care anymore!

Restaurant Review: Pizza Fusion

After my review of Village Pizza Company everyone suggested that I try the new pizza spot in town Pizza Fusion. Finally I decided to make a trip down there to see what all the hype has been about. Pizza Fusion touts itself as being an earth-friendly, fresh and organic pizzeria and it definitely does not disappoint. Pizza Fusion manages to get all three of these things done while coming off more hip than hippie (even though I like the hippie places too).

The pizza, sandwiches and desserts were all delicious. I loved the texture and taste of the crust and even though the cheese was just your normal run of the mill Follow Your Heart Brand it tasted better than any package of follow your heart I’ve ever eaten. There was only one problem. Well, we had a couple problems that night but there was really only one problem when it came to the food. The pizza only comes in one size, unless you come at lunch and then you can get a personal sized pizza. Even though my date was no stranger to vegan pizza and didn’t mind eating it, it was a bit of a nuisance that the only way we could get exactly the kind of pizza we wanted was to order two separate pizzas. With just one pizza, one sandwich, a couple beers and a free dessert our bill ended up being double of what we’re used to when we go out and get pizza and beer (usually at Village Pizza Co.)

As much as I enjoyed the pizza at Pizza Fusion I doubt I’ll go back there unless it’s during lunch time, otherwise it’s just an overpriced hassle for me. I’d rather just go to Village Pizza Co., spend $3 on a generously portioned slice of pizza that has everything I want on it and call it a day.

Unlike most of the restaurants I review Pizza Fusion is actually a chain which has locations all over the U.S. so check out their website at http://www.pizzafusion.com/locations/ to see if there is one near you.

Restaurant Review: Village Pizza Company Atlanta, GA

I've always been jealous of cities like New York and Chicago where a vegan slice of pizza is not terribly hard to come by. Little did I know that right here in my backyard of Atlanta I had access to great vegan pizza by the slice or a whole pie.

Village Pizza Co. ( 186 Carroll St., Atlanta, GA 30312) , nestled in the heart of the Cabbage Town district of Atlanta, has an excellent assortment of vegan ingredients including soy based vegan cheese, vegan sausage, vegan beef and vegan pepperoni in addition to just about any other type of veggie you like on your pizza. The prices are low and the slices are huge. For me one slice of the Village Vegan Supreme Pizza (pictured above with vegan cheese, vegan sausage, vegan pepperoni, vegan beef olives, bell peppers and onions) is more than a meals worth. Here’s a quick guide to all things vegan on the Village Pizza Co. Menu:

Toppings:
21 different types of vegetables (and fruit) including: mushrooms, onion, green peppers, red peppers, Roma tomatoes, black olives, green olives, broccoli, baked eggplants, artichoke hearts, garlic, jalapeño peppers, banana peppers, pepperocini, pineapple, sundried tomatoes, zucchini, basil, spinach & summer squash

Vegan Meats: beef, pepperoni, sausage

Salads:
House Salad (minus the mozzarella) with balsamic vinaigrette – romaine lettuce, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, black olives & Roma tomatoes

Green Salad (minus the feta cheese) – mixed field greens, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, red peppers, broccoli, Roma tomatoes, black olives, cucumbers and pepperocini

Spinach Salad (minus the feta cheese) – spinach, Roma tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette

Specialty Pizzas:
Veggie – mushrooms, onions, green peppers, black olives, green olives, Roma tomatoes, garlic and cheese (make sure to ask for soy cheese)

Veggie Supreme – spinach, eggplant, sun dried tomatoes, red and yellow bell peppers, summer squash, zucchini, broccoli, Roma tomatoes, garlic and cheese (make sure to ask for soy cheese)

Village Vegan Deluxe - vegan cheese, vegan sausage, vegan pepperoni, vegan beef, mushrooms, black olives, green olives, green bell peppers and onions

Calzones:
The Village Calzone (minus the ricotta and Parmesan cheese) – garlic, Italian spices and your choice of filling from the toppings selection (ask for soy cheese instead of mozzarella)

Village Pastas:
Classic Marinara – Roma tomato sauce made with extra virgin olive oil, sautéed onions, garlic, red wine, basil herbs and spices

Panini Sandwiches:
Veggie Delight – mushrooms, onions, red bell peppers, green peppers, artichoke hearts, black olives, tomatoes (ask that they replace all cheese with soy cheese)

Restaurant Review: Healthful Essence - Caribbean Vegan Restaurant (Atlanta, GA)

I'm always excited when a new vegan restaurant opens in Atlanta. Like every restaurant, you go in praying it will be good but brace for anything. The grand opening of Healthful Essence Caribbean Vegan restaurant (875 York Ave, Atlanta, GA) was October 18 and my first visit to the restaurant was the 22nd. I've been to several restaurants in their first week of business and its always usually a bit scattered and manic but the opposite was true for Healthful Essence.

When I walked in I was immediately greeted by several members of their helpful staff and was elated to see that the food was served in a "hot bar" style where all the food was already prepared, piping hot and just waiting for me. Meals ranged from $2-$10 (choice of 1 item to 4 items respectively). And the serving sizes are very generous. For my first meal I went conservative with brown rice, barbeque tofu and plantains ($8 and enough for two meals). The brown rice is not your typical brown rice it was beautifully seasoned and mixed with a variety of different color bell peppers. The bbq tofu was the perfect texture and the sauce was amazing! Definitely homemade, I've never tasted sauce that good coming out of a bottle. Of course the plantains were perfect, it takes a lot of effort to mess up plantains.

For my second trip I moved away from my comfort zone and into unknown territory. There was something on the menu I thought I'd never hear of at a vegan restaurant - curry goat. I never had this dish in my omnivore days and two out of my 6 companion animals are goats (one of which is named Curry) so the thought of eating anything that might even closely resemble the taste of my beloved goat just grossed me out. But...with much hesitation I tried it. It wasn’t bad and if there wasn’t a goat named Curry in my backyard right now I probably would have liked it.
Other must try items on the menu are the Jerk UnChicken, Fried UnFish Cakes, Curried Vegetables and Collard Greens. The only thing that Healthful essence is missing is my all time favorite, the Jamaican Veggie Patty. But the rest of the food is so delicious that I will forgive them on this one point.

Update!!! After taking a brief hiatus I found myself back at Healthful Essence and the food is better than ever! With some delicious additions to the menu including...drum roll please...Veggy Patties! Not only that but you simply must try their raw foods bar as well. The Spicy Kale Salad and Nori Rolls are worth every penny and will literally make you want to lick your plate clean. And don't get me strated on the Chickpea Patties. I dreamt of them last night and woke up craving them this morning. If a dish is able to make it into my dreams then it truly holds a special place in my heart.

They also now take credit and debit cards for orders over $10 so no need to run to the ATM before venturing down to Healthful Essence.

Hours of Operation:
Monday 2pm - 7pm
Tuesday 11am - 7pm
Wednesday 11am - 7pm
Thursday 11am - 7pm
Friday 12pm - 8 pm
Saturday 12pm - 8pm
Sunday 12pm - 6pm

Vegan Gathering: Potluck/Picnic at Candler Park (Atlanta)

Calling all Atlanta Vegans. This upcoming Sunday, October 26 at 1:30 pm there will be a Halloween inspired Vegan Potluck at Candler Park. We had a similar potluck in April and it was a huge success so hopefully this one can be even bigger. Don't forget to bring the following:

• Plates & utensils for yourself and your guest


• Folding chair - just in case we run out of space at the tables


• To-Go containers to take home any leftovers


• A vegan dish that will feed about 8-10 people

I hope to see you there!

2nd Annual Vegetarian Restaurant Week (Atlanta)

Here's some details about the Opening Reception:

Vegetarian Restaurant Week Opening Reception

Thursday, October 16 at 8pm

An evening of savory vegan appetizers, A Tea Experience: Learning & Tasting by Dr. Theresa Bey, Tea Educator with Green Tea Space.com, musical performance by Forgotten Foods Remembered with Baratunde the Herbalist a seriously Guitarist, The Golden Child, Spoken Word Artist and King Ma-at on Conga, give-aways and other surprises.... Our Featured Chefs are Jenny Jahfa and Chef Elitahl, Our Featured Exhibitors are Grammy's Kidz, Rah Eco Designs, and Djali's Healing Touch.

The Grounds Coffeehouse at Sky Lofts

898 Oak Street at the intersection of Ralph David Abernathy Blvd and Joseph Lowery Blvd; in the rear of CVS parking lot.

Reserve your space now, 770.621 5056 See you there!

Our door prizes so far...

10 subscriptions to VegNews, $20 value Gift pack from VegNews, including their signature over-sized tote bag, 6 jumbo vegan cookies, a one-year subscription to the magazine, and a copy of the current edition

1 Deluxe Gift Bag Body care by Grammy's Kidz, $50 http://www.grammykidz.com/

1 half hour massage by Djali's Healing Touch, $30 value

1 bottle of Immune Protection 10th Power http://www.theforgottenfoods.com/

2 bottles Blood Tonics, all are $40 value each http://www.theforgottenfoods.com/

5- 21st Century Vegetarian Cookbook by Martha Theus, $19.95 http://www.21stcenturyvegetarians.com/

1 Delicious Jamaica! by Yvonne McCalla Sobers $12.95

Restaurants Participating:

Enjoy three-course meals and special discounts at your favorite vegetarian restaurants for one week only.

Make sure you call and visit the restaurants and tell them you are participating in Vegetarian Restaurant Week.

Calabash Vegetarian Kitchen (an island inspired cafe)
10% off with at least a $6.00 purchase
404 957 7376
233 Mitchell Street
Atlanta GA 30303
404 957 7376
Monday - Saturday 10:30am - 7pm
(closed Sundays)

..........

Healthful Essence Caribbean Vegan (cooked and raw)
404. 806 0830
875 York Avenue
Atlanta GA 30310
Tuesday - Friday 11am -8pm
12pm - 9pm Saturday
12pm - 6pm - Sunday
(closed on Mondays)

.........


Lovin' it Live (all live and raw cuisine)
404 765 9220
2796 East Point Street
East Point GA 30344
www.lovingitlive.com
Tuesday-Sunday
(closed on Mondays)

..........

Sunday, October 26 3pm
Sid's Gourmet Vegetarian Cafe
770 389 9181
1445 Rock Quarry Road
Stockbridge GA 30281

Monday- Friday 11:30am - 7pm
Sunday 11:30am -
(closed on Saturdays)

Cosmo's Vegan Shoppe Atlanta, GA

Atlanta might not have a fancy vegan mini mall like Portland but we do have Cosmo's Vegan Shoppe (which has the strength of 10 mini malls!)

Cosmo's Vegan Shoppe is a storefront owned by vegans with 100 percent vegan goods so you don't have to go through the infamous label scan for whey, gelatin, albumin and all the other animal derivatives that are hidden deep within the labyrinth of the ingredient list on the back of nearly everything you buy.

What makes Cosmo's truly special is that they offer many items that are usually only available online. This probably has something to do with the fact that they also have a virtual store front online that carries nearly everything in the store. So if you're not in Atlanta check out http://www.cosmosveganshoppe.com/

I have a routine when I enter the store. Say hi to Leigh (one of the owners) who is usually at the register when I walk in, then walk straight back and to the right to the freezer and refrigerated foods section. There you will find vegan twinkies, fauxtess cupcakes, vegan donuts in multiple flavors, pizza, vegan orange chicken and even vegan shrimp! Their refrigerator holds all the reigning crown jewels of vegan cheese: sheese (block cheese and cream cheese), cheezly (in white cheddar and mozzarella) and the brand new mozzarella teese (reviews on teese coming soon). As you are checking out you'll also see a little table of baked goods courtesy of Atlanta's own Dulce Vegan bakers. Their cinnamon rolls and cupcakes are to die for but that's a topic that is worthy of its own post so more on Dulce Vegan later.

If you're an avid reader of this blog then you know that cheezly and I are entrenched in a torrid love affair that has no signs of stopping anytime soon. Cosmo's has cemented this bond by adding two new flavors of cheezly to their arsenal, cheddar with "bacon" and garlic and herb. To my knowledge Cosmo's will be the only one in the U.S. who currently carries these new flavors.

As much as I love food, Cosmos isn't just a one trick pony. They carry clothing (usually in the form of vegan t-shirts), mens and womens footwear, purses, bags, wallets, vegan inspired dishes, cat food, dog food, supplements, books, cookbooks, and a variety of other health and beauty products. They even carry vegan lube and condoms.

What I really love the most about cosmos is its "mom and pop" feel. Its not a big corporate giant with some wizard behind the curtain calling all the shots. Its a husband and wife team bringing vegan into the mainstream. If you're looking around Cosmo's and notice that they don't carry something you want, just ask and they will be happy to stock it for you. I requested they order one of my favorite natural deodorant's from them and they had it in stock within two days.
Before you head to whole foods, or Publix or even Sevananda I encourage you to start your shopping at Cosmo's you'll most likely find that (outside of fresh fruits and vegetables) you won't need to go anywhere else.

UPDATE: As of April 1, 2009 Cosmo's Vegan Shoppe has moved. They are now located at 200 North Cobb Parkway, Building 100 Suite 126, Marietta, GA 30062. If you live in our around the Atlanta area you can still stop by and shop at their new hours of Monday-Friday 12-4 and Saturday 12-6.

Restaurant Review: Lov'n It Live East Point, GA

When most people think of raw foods they think of salad, baby carrots and those little fresh vegetable trays that are at every party. Lov'n it live ( 2796 East Point Street, East Point, GA 30344) has set out to change that mindset. Instead of baby carrots and boring salads Lov'n it live serves up a menu of lasagna, tacos, nachos, battered "fried" cauliflower, pizza, chicken strips, sun burgers, apple pie and even ice cream. And it is all raw, all vegan and most importantly all good for you.

There are four basic premises to the raw food "movement". First, raw foods contain live enzymes that aid in digestion and other metabolic processes. Heating foods above 118 degrees Fahrenheit destroys many of these essential enzymes. Additionally, over-processing and cooking certain foods also destroys the vitamins within them. Secondly, eating food that is devoid of these essential enzymes makes digestion more difficult because the body has to work hard to produce it's own enzymes, which deplete over time. It is believed by some that this could lead to toxicity in the body, and cause excess food consumption leading to weight gain (obesity) and all the health "baggage" that comes along with it. Thirdly, as eluded to before, raw foods are believed to have a higher nutrient and mineral composition than cooked food. Last but not least the food is just incredible and the fact that it is good for you makes it even better. I can say from personal experience that even though being vegan makes me feel energetic and alive eating Raw is an amazing experience. When I eat raw I not only feel more energetic and alive but I feel like my body is working in perfect harmony, it's an exhilarating feeling.


Lov'n it live turns the philosophy of the raw foods movement into reality in a brilliant and flavorful way. Even their salads are masterpieces. I crave their kale salad with marinated kale, fresh tomatoes and avocado. And I can't say that I've ever had anything on their menu that I didn't like. I hate mushrooms and even though their chicken strips are made out of mushrooms I still devoured them in record time.

They have a rotating menu of specials depending on what is fresh and in season and everything is organic. As an added bonus the majority of their produce comes from local growers so you can support local organic farmers while eating increidble food. I highly recommend the battered cauliflower, nachos or spaghetti for any first timers. You won't be disappointed.

As much as I love Lov'n it live they do have 1 Achilles heel, timing. Everything at Lov'n it live is made to order. The only items that are ready made are the flax crackers or other types of "breads". Making food to order means that there is a considerable wait time. I live about 10 minutes away and usually get my food to go. I either call my order in 30 minutes before I leave the house or give my order at the restaurant then run some errands. The average wait time is between 30 and 45 minutes for call in orders. If you prefer to dine in order multiple courses and try their Irish moss shake or fresh raw sorrel ( both are available to go as well). When ordering in I always start with and Irish moss and kale salad so while I'm munching and sipping my food is being prepared and I'm not sitting there starving.

The chef's at Lov'n it live also offer raw preparation classes so u can prepare the same amazing dishes at home. The classes are custom built around your schedule and you get hands on experience and knowledge. I've already mastered the art of raw lasagna, nut cheeses, and desserts but I would take this class just to learn how to make their battered cauliflower, raw Jamaican patties, and the raw cheesecake (you read right...CHEESECAKE!).


Timing aside, you won't be disappointed with Lov'n it live. It was my first dive into raw foods and although I've since been to raw food restaurants all across America I can still say that Lov'n it Live has the best raw food I've ever tasted.

Restaurant Review: Eden'z Vegetarian Restaurant Macon, GA

When it comes to vegetarian and vegan cuisine its not too hard to find in Atlanta. However, a short drive will reveal that there is a vast difference between Atlanta and the rest of Georgia and the rest of Georgia isn't too kind to veg*ns. However, there is a little beacon of hope in Georgia's original capitol of Macon. Eden'z vegetarian restaurant (617 Poplar Street, Macon, GA 31201) stands as the only vegan restaurant in middle Georgia. Like many vegan restaurants they advertise themselves as vegetarian so passers by aren't scared off by the unknown. But once you try their food it is undeniable why Eden'z has been in business so long and why there success has recently allowed them to open a new location in the nearby town of Warner Robins.

Eden'z features a daily special for $7.95 that I get every time I go, no matter what the special is I'm never disappointed. The eggplant lasagna and chicken salad sandwich are hands down some of my favorite items that have graced the daily special menu. They recently opened up a lunch buffet as well for $8.95. All you can eat vegan goodness - the world just isn't ready. They also offer a wide array of fruit smoothies, ice cream and 46 different types of fresh healthy juices. If you call ahead they'll even bake you up a loaf of their amazing flax seed bread or zucchini bread.

Recently, Eden'z has also started selling their famous (well it should be famous) Sorrel and Vanilla Sweet Tea. Both are southern sweet and strong. I usually dilute my sorrel with a little bit of water so 16 ounces goes a long way in my house. Today when I stopped in for my bi-monthly visit I saw that they now are selling some of their most popular side dishes to go. In the case today was sautéed spinach, macaroni and cheese and collard greens. If I didn't have an 1 1/2 hour drive home with no cooler I would've bought at least 2 packages of sautéed spinach, it is some of the best spinach I have ever had!

Although I love Eden'z I do have a couple words of caution. Beware of the desserts! I have never, and I mean never, had a dessert from Eden'z that I enjoyed. Twice a month for a year I came in and tried every dessert they had on the menu or on the "specials" board hoping for something spectacular but ending up with a dense and inedible block instead. I'm not sure what they use to make their desserts at Eden'z but the cakes are far from light and fluffy (although the icing is always good) and the muffins have a stiff texture to them. Additionally, Eden'z used to have vegan Jamaican beef, chicken and spinach patties that were worth selling your first born for. When I inquired about them I was told they came from a lady in Conyers, GA. Unfortunately, one day the Jamaican patties went away. Every time I came into the restaurant hoping for vegan patties I was sent away with my daily special but no Jamaican patty. Finally they started showing up on the menu again, but they were obviously no longer coming from my Jamaican patty princess in Conyers. The dough on these new patties is anything but authentic. It's spongy and way too sweet, if you've ever had a real Jamaican patty then you would cry at the disservice that has been paid to them at Eden'z. The filling is great but the filling is only a small part of what makes Jamaican patties so good. I've given up on trying desserts and Jamaican patties at Eden'z for good.

But other than those two missteps Eden'z is a vegan oasis in middle Georgia. Now I know you probably would never have a good reason to be in Macon, unless you lived nearby, but just in case you happen to be driving from Atlanta to Savannah (or vice versa) one day you should take a quick detour to stop by Eden'z and fill your soul with amazing food! If you're in a hurry they accept call in orders 478-745-3336