Round-up: Local Dining

Our friends over at SpoCOOL are challenging themselves this month to eat as vegans with an emphasis on local foods. They already have their doubts though, so for your benefit and theirs, we’ve put together a list of local restaurants serving up great vegan fare. This is by no means a comprehensive list of veg-friendly restaurants in the area. If you have a favorite spot that we didn’t mention, let us know in the comments!

Mizuna – A perennial favorite. Somewhat obvious, but in our experience never disappointing.

Picabu – Another go-to choice, especially if you’re dining with “mixed” company. Try: the curry bowl with Small Planet Tofu; vegan cheesecake

Hill’s Restaurant – It’s hard to imagine this place would be considered a diner, drive-in or dive. They serve up a wholly satisfying vegan black bean burger (black beans, brown rice and shiitake mushrooms) on a fresh-baked bun made in-house from local wheat. It’s not on the menu though, so look for the sign in the window and ask your server about it.

Gordy’s – We’re not sure how local their ingredients are, but this is one of our favorite take out places in Spokane.  Almost anything on the menu can be made vegan. Try: coconut curry tofu

Pacific Ave.  Pizza – Again, we’re not sure how local the ingredients are, but we’re told that they’ll make a vegan pizza with Daiya cheese with a day’s advance notice.

Main Market Deli –  Looking for a quick lunch downtown? Stop in to the co-op and check their deli counter. They often have vegan salads made with local ingredients.

We can tell you from personal experience that both Sante and Latah Bistro can make a vegan dish upon request. And if you’re up for the drive (and it is totally worth it), Lovitt Restaurant in Colville will do the same. While you’re there, why not order a glass of vegan wine from China Bend (unless of course, you’re straight edge)?