5 Tips for Finding Vegetarian Options in a Sea of Steaks

Jane Fields began a plant-based lifestyle in 2010 after she researched Caldwell Esselstyn’s approach to preventing heart disease. “I had been diagnosed with high cholesterol and stubbornly refused to ‘just take the meds,’ as one patient care representative had advised,” she says. After just a year on a plant-based diet, Fields says her cholesterol levels were drastically reduced, so she was sold.

But that doesn’t mean that everyone else is, she says. “My diet is often met with shrugs and slight annoyance from several family members who thrive on their love of surf and turf,” says Fields. “When traveling with that crowd, especially in the south, being the sole vegetarian can be a challenge.” Thankfully, Fields was happy to share her tips on how to find vegetarian options while traveling.

Know that some restaurants often have set menus and fewer options

“While most mainstream restaurants provide vegetarian options,” she says, “many of the iconic local restaurants may lack variety for plant lovers.” When a relative was visiting from Connecticut, she says, naturally he wanted to try classic North Carolina barbecue. “So we ended up at a barbecue shack, which is the equivalent of purgatory for plant-eaters. There were very few vegetarian options, so I opted for red slaw and fries, which was the best I could source from their menu.” By no stretch did she consider it a healthy meal, but she made it through—and the slaw was delicious, she admits.

Try specialty grocery stores

“One of my favorite lunches in Houston was from Phoenicia Specialty Foods, an international grocery store with a small deli inside,” she says. If you can't convince travel mates to try the deli for a quick meal, you can at least pick up some healthy snacks and vegetarian options to bring.

Speak up, research and when in doubt, go for Mexican

“Whenever we’re out, I always try to look up any restaurant under consideration, or even make suggestions when we begin the conversations about dinner,” she says. She also finds it helpful to consult online reviews and menus to plan in advance, when possible. When in doubt, go to a Mexican restaurant, she advises. “Almost everyone loves them, and it’s not difficult to find a dish with protein and vegetables.”

Offer to supplement meals when being hosted

“Over the years, I’ve learned to travel with snacks and food that not only meet my dietary needs, but also alleviate anxiety for both parties when visiting others,” she says. “It’s tough being the nonconformist at the table, and some hosts are disappointed when you don’t eat their meals.” So, she comes prepared with some vegetarian options. “I always bring extra food to share for those who are willing to try something new,” and she’s appreciative of their efforts to understand her choice.

Always bring your own snacks

Maybe most important, Fields says, she always packs her own snacks when she’s heading on a trip. “I always have baked chickpeas, packets of almonds and emergency protein bars to help stave off hunger,” she says. Pro tip for those looking for packable vegetarian options: “Kale chips don't travel well and crush easily. Better to pack baked chickpeas, although they also lose some of their crunch in transit.”

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