40 days a Vegan
I recently realized it may be slightly hypocritical of me to write about Vegan living while not being a Vegan myself; so I decided to be Vegan for lent this year. I considered myself "mostly Vegan" before lent eating only dairy and eggs in a few select products (coffee creamer, ice cream, the occasional cookie, and salad dressings). I figured by swapping out these few products my transition would be easy. I was also out on maternity leave, so I would be home to prepare meals and wouldn't be tempted by "treats" in the workplace. Boy was I mistaken! Here's what I learned during my 40 day challenge...
...going out to eat isn't easy! I'd researched Vegan options at restaurants before; however I allowed myself to eat small amounts of dairy and eggs in my meals. Without my Caesar dressing on the side, salads became boring lettuce with vinegar.
...when you don't ask...you don't know! My husband and I went out to Ruby Tuesdays for the unlimited salad bar (which was much more exciting until I realized the above) and zucchini sliders with French fries. I thought about asking whether or not the fries were cooked in the same fryer as the meat, but bit my tongue not wanting to be a pain. After eating the fries and zucchini sliders, I felt unsatisfied and "dirty".
...you're extremely limited. Dairy and eggs crept into many more products than I'd thought. Even at home I found myself craving a cookie, chips and candy. While I found substitutes for most foods, they didn't always satisfy my cravings.
...social situations are HARD! It's extremely uncomfortable to go over to a friends house for dinner and not be able to eat what they've prepared. I'm fortunate enough to have friends who tried to accommodate my diet; however they overlooked a few things and dinner ended up containing dairy. I was left with the choice...do I offend them by not eating the food they're thoughtfully prepared or cheat on my diet/beliefs?
After being 40 days vegan I have a newfound appreciation for all you Vegans out there! While I knew it was hard, it was much different experiencing it for myself. I realized that being 100% vegan is not for me right now. I hope to eventually build the tolerance and willpower to completely eliminate meat, eggs and dairy from my diet. For now, I'll continue to support all of you who can!
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Vegan Restaurants in Buffalo
Vegan dining in Buffalo is not easy. But there are options if you search for them. I hope to eventually highlight individual restaurants, but wanted quickly overview of places we've enjoyed.
1. Merge - http://mergebuffalo.com/
439 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202(716) 842-0600
Definitely the most Vegan restaurant in Buffalo. Several vegan/vegetarian options available for lunch, dinner and brunch, along with meat and fish. Quaint, trendy atmosphere and several events throughout the year (cooking classes, prix fixe menus, educational seminars, monthly Vegan gatherings).
2. Betty's - http://www.bettysbuffalo.com/
370 Virginia St, Buffalo, NY 14201(716) 362-0633
Brunch menu has the most vegan options (try the tofu scramble), but options are available for lunch and dinner as well (mostly tofu and salads; entrée of spaghetti squash alfredo). Vegan desserts at their bakery counter. Cute atmosphere, outdoor seating in summer.
3. Lexington Co-Operative Market - http://lexington.coop/
807 Elmwood Ave • Buffalo • 716-886-COOP
My hands down favorite for lunch on the go. Vegan/vegetarian options change daily on their hot and cold salad bar. Lots of vegan treats for dessert. My only complaint is there's no indoor seating (which means nowhere to sit 9 months out of the year). Tables outside weather permitting.
4. Allentown Pizza - http://allentownpizzabuffalo.com/
94 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222(716) 885-0529
Nothing fancy. Just delicious vegan pizza bar (as casual as Jim's Steakout).
5. Saigon Café Restaurant - http://www.thesaigoncafe.com/
1098 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222
Typical Thai café atmosphere with delicious, healthy (steamed) vegan stir fry and curry. Inexpensive. Pleasantly surprised by this little gem on Elmwood!
6. Pizza Plant - http://www.pizzaplant.com/
Walker Center - 5110 Main Street, Williamsville, NY 14221 (716) 626-5566
Transit Road - 7770 Transit Road, Williamsville, NY 14221 (716) 632-0800
Casual, fun Italian restaurant. Pages of options available for salads, pizzas, and their famous "pods" (calzones). Signature dishes or create-your-own with tons of veggies, wheat/white bread, vegan cheese and soy/vegan sausage and tofu available. Daily specials.
7. PF Changs - http://www.pfchangs.com/index.aspx
1 Galleria Dr, Buffalo, NY 14225(716) 706-0791
Incredibly vegan friendly. Plenty of options for appetizers, entrees and sauces. Staff friendly and knowledgeable on vegan options reassuring for a chain! (unlike our experience at Cheesecake Factory next door...)
8. La Tee Da - www.lateedacafe.net
206 Allen St, Buffalo, NY 14201(716) 881-4500
We haven't been recently, and their menu isn't currently available online, but I've heard they have vegan options including eggplant wings. Cute outdoor patio in summer.
9. Red Robin - http://www.redrobin.com/
3460 Amelia Dr Orchard Park, NY(716) 827-6577
4080 Maple Rd, Amherst, NY 14226(716) 834-4100
Yes, the hamburger joint (Yumm). Veggie burger, bun and (bottomless) fries vegan. (Might want to specify vegan request to ensure separate grill/cooking).
10. Ruby Tuesdays - http://www.rubytuesday.com/menu
1669 Walden Ave, Cheektowaga, NY(716) 897-2523
3454 McKinley Pkwy Blasdell, NY (716) 825-3280
I'm on a roll with the chains restaurants but I used to overlook them. (Endless) salad bar is why we go, but we also the veggie trio (3 sides as an entrée, just specify no butter for veggies and rice.) Pasta and fries might be vegan (ask).
11. The Lodge - www.thelodgebuffalo.com/
79 W Chippewa St, Buffalo, NY 14202(716) 256-1940
Diverse menu. From tofu to bone marrow, they cater to all tongues. Torn on how I feel about the harsh meat options, but at least they have tofu and veggie burgers. On this note, definitely specify if you're making a vegan/vegetation request. I'm obsessed with the trendy Lodge décor and atmosphere.
12. Curly's - http://curlysgrill.com/
647 Ridge Rd, Lackawanna, NY 14218(716) 824-9716
Not a ton of options but it's a nice local restaurant. Try the Tofu Thailan without the curry sauce (ask for substitute).
13. The Poppyseed - http://www.thepoppyseedrestaurant.com/
3670 McKinley Pkwy #33, Buffalo, NY 14219(716) 824-0075
My all time favorite restaurant. Tons of salads and huge portions (my go to is the Fall Harvest). Huge menu, locally owned, and I've always had great service so they happily substitute/cater to vegan requests. Get the sweet potato fries.
14. Mangia - http://www.mangiaristorante.com/
4264 N Buffalo Rd, Orchard Park, NY 14127(716) 662-9467
Fine Italian dining in the village of Orchard Park. Staff very knowledgeable on vegan options. Try the gnocchi with red sauce (specify vegan) and pasta figioli. Other vegan pasta options available.
15. Cantina Loco - http://www.cantinaloco.com/
191 Allen St, Buffalo, NY 14201(716) 551-0160
Mexican is easily vegan, but they offer tofu in the quirky, festive Allentown district. Quac, house salad, veg tacos with tofu...Ole!
16. Moes - http://www.moes.com/
Several locations
Again, Mexicans are veg friendly. Our go-to take out joint.
17. Pita Gourmet - http://www.eatpitagourmet.com/
6733 Transit Road, Williamsville
1930 Military Rd, Niagara Falls, NY 14304(716) 298-8015
Quick, fresh, authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine (lunch or take-out atmosphere). Try the falafel, hummus, veggie wrap...
18. Amy's Place - http://www.amysplacebuffalo.com/
3234 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214(716) 832-6666
Think diner comfort food. Not intentionally at the bottom of my list, but not my favorite either. I appreciate their extensive vegan friendly menu, but find it ironically hard to eat healthy here. While vegan, I find most options greasy and heavy and the diner college atmosphere isn't my scene. Try for yourself!
Hopefully more to come in the near future! Still exploring. Please post your opinions and share any of your favorites :)
1. Merge - http://mergebuffalo.com/
439 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202
Definitely the most Vegan restaurant in Buffalo. Several vegan/vegetarian options available for lunch, dinner and brunch, along with meat and fish. Quaint, trendy atmosphere and several events throughout the year (cooking classes, prix fixe menus, educational seminars, monthly Vegan gatherings).
2. Betty's - http://www.bettysbuffalo.com/
370 Virginia St, Buffalo, NY 14201
Brunch menu has the most vegan options (try the tofu scramble), but options are available for lunch and dinner as well (mostly tofu and salads; entrée of spaghetti squash alfredo). Vegan desserts at their bakery counter. Cute atmosphere, outdoor seating in summer.
3. Lexington Co-Operative Market - http://lexington.coop/
807 Elmwood Ave • Buffalo • 716-886-COOP
My hands down favorite for lunch on the go. Vegan/vegetarian options change daily on their hot and cold salad bar. Lots of vegan treats for dessert. My only complaint is there's no indoor seating (which means nowhere to sit 9 months out of the year). Tables outside weather permitting.
4. Allentown Pizza - http://allentownpizzabuffalo.com/
94 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222
Nothing fancy. Just delicious vegan pizza bar (as casual as Jim's Steakout).
5. Saigon Café Restaurant - http://www.thesaigoncafe.com/
1098 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222
Typical Thai café atmosphere with delicious, healthy (steamed) vegan stir fry and curry. Inexpensive. Pleasantly surprised by this little gem on Elmwood!
6. Pizza Plant - http://www.pizzaplant.com/
Walker Center - 5110 Main Street, Williamsville, NY 14221 (716) 626-5566
Transit Road - 7770 Transit Road, Williamsville, NY 14221 (716) 632-0800
Casual, fun Italian restaurant. Pages of options available for salads, pizzas, and their famous "pods" (calzones). Signature dishes or create-your-own with tons of veggies, wheat/white bread, vegan cheese and soy/vegan sausage and tofu available. Daily specials.
7. PF Changs - http://www.pfchangs.com/index.aspx
1 Galleria Dr, Buffalo, NY 14225
8. La Tee Da - www.lateedacafe.net
206 Allen St, Buffalo, NY 14201
9. Red Robin - http://www.redrobin.com/
3460 Amelia Dr Orchard Park, NY
4080 Maple Rd, Amherst, NY 14226
Yes, the hamburger joint (Yumm). Veggie burger, bun and (bottomless) fries vegan. (Might want to specify vegan request to ensure separate grill/cooking).
10. Ruby Tuesdays - http://www.rubytuesday.com/menu
1669 Walden Ave, Cheektowaga, NY
I'm on a roll with the chains restaurants but I used to overlook them. (Endless) salad bar is why we go, but we also the veggie trio (3 sides as an entrée, just specify no butter for veggies and rice.) Pasta and fries might be vegan (ask).
11. The Lodge - www.thelodgebuffalo.com/
79 W Chippewa St, Buffalo, NY 14202
Diverse menu. From tofu to bone marrow, they cater to all tongues. Torn on how I feel about the harsh meat options, but at least they have tofu and veggie burgers. On this note, definitely specify if you're making a vegan/vegetation request. I'm obsessed with the trendy Lodge décor and atmosphere.
12. Curly's - http://curlysgrill.com/
647 Ridge Rd, Lackawanna, NY 14218
Not a ton of options but it's a nice local restaurant. Try the Tofu Thailan without the curry sauce (ask for substitute).
13. The Poppyseed - http://www.thepoppyseedrestaurant.com/
3670 McKinley Pkwy #33, Buffalo, NY 14219
My all time favorite restaurant. Tons of salads and huge portions (my go to is the Fall Harvest). Huge menu, locally owned, and I've always had great service so they happily substitute/cater to vegan requests. Get the sweet potato fries.
14. Mangia - http://www.mangiaristorante.com/
4264 N Buffalo Rd, Orchard Park, NY 14127
Fine Italian dining in the village of Orchard Park. Staff very knowledgeable on vegan options. Try the gnocchi with red sauce (specify vegan) and pasta figioli. Other vegan pasta options available.
15. Cantina Loco - http://www.cantinaloco.com/
191 Allen St, Buffalo, NY 14201
16. Moes - http://www.moes.com/
Several locations
Again, Mexicans are veg friendly. Our go-to take out joint.
17. Pita Gourmet - http://www.eatpitagourmet.com/
6733 Transit Road, Williamsville
1930 Military Rd, Niagara Falls, NY 14304
Quick, fresh, authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine (lunch or take-out atmosphere). Try the falafel, hummus, veggie wrap...
18. Amy's Place - http://www.amysplacebuffalo.com/
3234 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214
Hopefully more to come in the near future! Still exploring. Please post your opinions and share any of your favorites :)
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Spreading the Vegan Love
I've been very into vegan baking this past month (nesting?). A typical Sunday for me this past February involved baking for hours and trying several new recipes. My husband was treated with aromas of Banana Chocolate Chip muffins, Zucchini Walnut Bread, Cranberry Orange Scones, Pistachio Whoopie Pies, Mint Oreo Brownies, Rosewater cream cheese Cookies and his all-time favorite Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies...mMmMmm...
What I love about vegan baking (besides being delicious and healthy!) is how easy it is! I initially used only vegan recipes (mostly from The Joy of Vegan Baking by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau) but soon discovered how simple it is to make pretty much any recipe vegan. I've listed some quick substitutes below. I love using EnerG Egg Replacer. At around $5 for a 16 oz box (that's 116 eggs!) I don't have to worry about eggs going bad.
With our kitchen overflowing with baked good, I decided to spread the love. My husband pouted a little, but I ignored his puppy dog eyes and dropped off some cookies to the neighbors and brought treats into work. I casually mentioned they were vegan, and everyone was shocked. Not many people knew what Vegan meant, so it was a great opportunity to educate, and show they how delicious it is! Several people asked for recipes and even shared on Facebook. What a great way to introduce and enlighten coworkers and neighbors on a vegan lifestyle.
Baking Substitutes:
Earth Balance for Butter/Margarine
Vegan Chocolate Chips (I use Wegmans)
Soy or Almond Milk for Milk
EnerG Egg Replacer for Eggs
For a reduced fat option:
Applesauce for oil (equal portions)
Favorite Cookbooks:
http://www.compassionatecook.com/publications/the-joy-of-vegan-bakinghttp://www.amazon.com/Isa-Does-It-Amazingly-Delicious/dp/0316221902
What I love about vegan baking (besides being delicious and healthy!) is how easy it is! I initially used only vegan recipes (mostly from The Joy of Vegan Baking by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau) but soon discovered how simple it is to make pretty much any recipe vegan. I've listed some quick substitutes below. I love using EnerG Egg Replacer. At around $5 for a 16 oz box (that's 116 eggs!) I don't have to worry about eggs going bad.
With our kitchen overflowing with baked good, I decided to spread the love. My husband pouted a little, but I ignored his puppy dog eyes and dropped off some cookies to the neighbors and brought treats into work. I casually mentioned they were vegan, and everyone was shocked. Not many people knew what Vegan meant, so it was a great opportunity to educate, and show they how delicious it is! Several people asked for recipes and even shared on Facebook. What a great way to introduce and enlighten coworkers and neighbors on a vegan lifestyle.
Baking Substitutes:
Earth Balance for Butter/Margarine
Vegan Chocolate Chips (I use Wegmans)
Soy or Almond Milk for Milk
EnerG Egg Replacer for Eggs
For a reduced fat option:
Applesauce for oil (equal portions)
Favorite Cookbooks:
http://www.compassionatecook.com/publications/the-joy-of-vegan-bakinghttp://www.amazon.com/Isa-Does-It-Amazingly-Delicious/dp/0316221902
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
31 Club
My first restaurant shout out goes to 31 Club - an upscale steakhouse located at 31 Johnson Street in downtown Buffalo.
I was pleasantly surprised, but skeptical, to hear they would be able to accommodate us with a Vegan Menu on New Years Eve. I only emailed a week in advance; they had plenty of reservation times available and didn't make a "big fuss" over my Vegan menu request.
Upon arrival the server presented us with 4-5 Vegan menu options (appetizer, salads, 2 main course options, and dessert) along with their regular menu. Within minutes, the owner was at our table to introduce himself and make sure these options were acceptable. My husband and I started with a spinach salad (sans cheese with balsamic) and main course of crispy (not oily or mushy) lentil cakes over mashed sweet potatoes with a Sriracha sauce. He rated it an 8 "always leaving room for improvement", I give it a 9.5. We were thrilled to have 'Pecan Pie" Vegan option for dessert; however it wasn't impressive. (4.5 from him...2 from me). Service and atmosphere were impeccable. It's hard to find classy Vegan dining, and it was the perfect way for us to celebrate New Years Eve.
Who knew all these Vegan options were hiding inside this downtown steakhouse? Unfortunately they're not typically on the menu, so I recommend calling ahead to ensure accommodations.
Thank you 31 Club for starting our 2014 off treading well on the right foot!
http://www.the31club.com/
I was pleasantly surprised, but skeptical, to hear they would be able to accommodate us with a Vegan Menu on New Years Eve. I only emailed a week in advance; they had plenty of reservation times available and didn't make a "big fuss" over my Vegan menu request.
Upon arrival the server presented us with 4-5 Vegan menu options (appetizer, salads, 2 main course options, and dessert) along with their regular menu. Within minutes, the owner was at our table to introduce himself and make sure these options were acceptable. My husband and I started with a spinach salad (sans cheese with balsamic) and main course of crispy (not oily or mushy) lentil cakes over mashed sweet potatoes with a Sriracha sauce. He rated it an 8 "always leaving room for improvement", I give it a 9.5. We were thrilled to have 'Pecan Pie" Vegan option for dessert; however it wasn't impressive. (4.5 from him...2 from me). Service and atmosphere were impeccable. It's hard to find classy Vegan dining, and it was the perfect way for us to celebrate New Years Eve.
Who knew all these Vegan options were hiding inside this downtown steakhouse? Unfortunately they're not typically on the menu, so I recommend calling ahead to ensure accommodations.
Thank you 31 Club for starting our 2014 off treading well on the right foot!
http://www.the31club.com/
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Welcome to Treadwell - a blog about sustainable living. We only get one body, one life on one earth so let's treat it well by treading well! I've had intentions of blogging for months, maybe even years as I'm sure many have. My focus for this blog is to share my experiences about Vegan/Vegetarian lifestyles and hopefully inspire some people along the way!
A little about me...I live in Buffalo, NY, and area famous for chicken wings, Beef on Weck, hot dogs, fish fries...blizzards and football. Sounds healthy, right? Truth is, I love Buffalo and the Western New York Area. Healthy options are available, but you have to seek them out. Which is the main reason I'm starting this blog!
My husband is my inspiration for finally launching this blog. He became vegan 4 months ago in effort to be healthier, lighten his environmental footprint, and in compassion for animals. I've dabbled in Vegan/Vegetarianism for over a decade, and have settled on a mostly vegan lifestyle. My husbands regent veganism has led me to explore vegan dining options in the Buffalo area, which as I've mentioned are not easy to find!
My passion is exercise and fitness. My husbands passion has recently become sustainable living. We both love "the great outdoors", gardening (he grows, I eat), cooking, baking and traveling. So look forward to some highlights around these adventures throughout the years!
A little about me...I live in Buffalo, NY, and area famous for chicken wings, Beef on Weck, hot dogs, fish fries...blizzards and football. Sounds healthy, right? Truth is, I love Buffalo and the Western New York Area. Healthy options are available, but you have to seek them out. Which is the main reason I'm starting this blog!
My husband is my inspiration for finally launching this blog. He became vegan 4 months ago in effort to be healthier, lighten his environmental footprint, and in compassion for animals. I've dabbled in Vegan/Vegetarianism for over a decade, and have settled on a mostly vegan lifestyle. My husbands regent veganism has led me to explore vegan dining options in the Buffalo area, which as I've mentioned are not easy to find!
My passion is exercise and fitness. My husbands passion has recently become sustainable living. We both love "the great outdoors", gardening (he grows, I eat), cooking, baking and traveling. So look forward to some highlights around these adventures throughout the years!
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