Located just outside of New Braunfels, Texas, you’ll find the historic district of Greune. It’s quaint streets played a major role in the John Travolta movie Michael and have been bustling since 1845. Another German settlement, Greune is a slice of history with some real All American charm. It’s great to walk around, shop, catch live music and eat! A fun day trip if you’re in San Antonio or Austin!

The most notable landmark, outside of the Greune water tower, is Greune Hall. Most notably shown in the Travolta film, Greune Hall was established in 1878, it is  Texas’s oldest dance hall. Still packed with folks, live music and flowing spirits, Gruene is like no other place. A great historic vibe that is still  going strong with live music, people dancing and enjoying the open air feel of this American gem. While they don’t serve food, the do serve booze, tunes and lots of smiles! A must visit, if even for 1 drink!

The most popular eatery, and rightfully so, is the Gristmill. Overlooking the Guadalupe River, this multi-level restaurant boats incredible outdoor dining with the sounds of the rushing river below along with it’s structure having been the original cotton mill in 1922. While it’s NOT a veggie paradise by any means, the location and feel of this place is enough to park it outside for a drink and perhaps a salad. I enjoyed some fries, a side salad and a cold beverage just so I could sit outdoors and take in the scenery. The beans are made with bacon and everything is pretty much Meaty McMeat but you can finagle and amend the menu if you’re itching to enjoy the gristmill experience!

Now, if you don’t care much for messing with the menu just to hang in a cool spot, try Cantina Del Rio. Also located on the river, you can rarely go wrong with Mexican food. Indulge in guacamole and salsa, ask for veggie fajitas and tip back a few margaritas! Perhaps start with dinner here and head over to Greune Hall for some tunes and dancin’ afterward!

If you’re looking to stay in Greune, maybe dine, shop and then do some tubing down the Guadalupe, check out the Gruene Mansion Inn. Built by the son of the man who which the town was named after, this original Victorian manor is charming and really epitomizes the town and the era of which is was constructed in. They are great about accommodating special diet travelers as well as serving their guests as though they are royalty. real southern hospitality in a wonderfully historic locale, you can’t beat it!

I adore small towns, especially ones filled with rich history like Greune! If you find yourself in Texas with some time to explore, put Greune on your list!

I love road trips and I love popping into cool, small towns that I might not have had the chance to visit had I just stuck to big cities. New Braunfels is that kind of place just outside of San Antonio in Texas Hill Country. Settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800′s, this quaint Texas town is home to the insanely awesome water park Schlitterbahn, as well as some cool bars and shops. It feels all American with touches of old Europe and even some yummy and healthy vegan eats!

I’ll start with dessert! 2tarts Bakery is a hip bakery that offers up tasty treats for all sorts of special diet sweet toothers. Conventional baked goods along with vegan and gluten free offerings, 2tarts is a great place to get your sweet on and hang with friends. I love that they are open late, are in the heart of downtown and rock dessert like nobodies business! They even do catering and weddings! I had the good fortune of stumbling upon them and devouring a giant vegan chocolate peanut butter cup! Yumm!! Be sure to stop in and say hi to the baking sisters of 2tarts for a treat.

A really cool place, not far from 2tarts, is Liberty Bistro. Located in the basement of the old city hall building, this all American bistro serves up some neat dishes in a unique setting. Sit in an old vault while sipping wine or in the main dining room while checking out the old photos and don’t forget to delve into their menu. Lots of healthy salads and easily veganizable dishes, it’s a neat environment for a meal. I had a tasty pats with an even more tasty salad and then asked around about ghost stories! And yeah, I got an earful!

If you’re looking for a drink, some more history and some great food, The Phoenix Saloon is your place. Not only is the Phoenix the birthplace of chili, oh yeah, it’s been serving up drinks since 1871. The bar was the first in Texas to serve women and even had an alligator pit for unruly customers. While it graciously serves all kinds of people and unruly customers just get kicked out onto the sidewalk now, the Phoenix has great veggie options. Veggie chili (of course), veggie burgers and fun sides, this historic gastropub is a must visit!

On the lighter side, you’ll find Naturally. A fresh juice bar and bakery, you can grab a sandwich, salad or even a healthy kids meal there too. Lots of healthy options along with vegan and gluten free, Naturally is the perfect place for a light and quick meal or snack.

My time in New Braunfels may have been quick but the experience will last forever. I’m a sucker for history and it’s even better when wrapped in awesome food! Stop in for Schlitterbahn and stay for some food and spirits!!

While in Austin, I had the pleasure if attending 2 incredible events on the same day! The first part of the day, I spent at Austin’s first VegFest, eating great vegan food, jammin’ out to awesome local bands and meeting lots of Texas veggies. My next stop was at a locl farm that was also hosting a first time event, the Farms to Forks Immersion event, hosted by none other than Rip Esselstyn. Both were fantastic and a damn cool way to spend a day in Texas!

I’ll start with the inaugural Texas VegFest! Held on a lovely Spring day at Fiesta Gardens, this first time event sure didn’t feel like one! Run smoothly by local vegans, the event was bustling with excited attendees from the moment the doors opened at 11am.

The event boasted some great live music, popular brands as well as some newbies in the vegan world. I was super honored to be asked to sign copies of my cookbook, The Healthy Voyager’s Global Kitchen at the Helen’s Kitchen booth. They were sampling their new vegan ground beef while I signed the day away. Not a bad gig for a hot day!

I did get to check out some of the other booths an saw that some of my faves were there like Daiya Cheese, Vitamix, Whole Foods, Mrs. Meyer’s Soap, Herbivore Clothing and Food For Lover’s Vegan Queso. But I also got to meet some new goodies like the guys of NadaMoo Vegan Ice Cream, Qrunch Quinoa Burgers, Purrfect Pineapple’s Vegan Lingerie, Smirking Chicks Vegan Baby Food and Capital City Bakery. And the biggest surprise was seeing Miami’s own vegan food truck, Mac’n Food, dishin’ up goodies for hungry Texans!

All in all, Texas VegFest was a big success and I know that it’s just going to keep getting bigger and better in the coming years!

On a different side of the spectrum, I was delighted to have been invited to get a sneak peek of an incredible new event called Farms to Forks. The folks that brought you Forks Over Knives and the incomparable Rip Esselstyn, the man behind the Engine 2 Diet and upcoming line of food, have joined forces to create this “immersion”. An intensive weekend, in a beautiful farm setting, where 200 strangers are brought together to learn all about the health benefits of a plant storing diet. From in depth cooking demos to hearing experts in their fields (Rip and Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, T, Colin Campbell, Jeff Novick and more) talk about all aspects of a healthy, whole foods, plant based diet as well as dining in nature over beautiful plant based meals, it is an experience like no other.

I had the good fortune to pop in during dinner and had the chance to dine with Rip, his mother and one of my personal heroes, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn. The meal was nutritious, delicious and served in idyllic setting. All I could see was a sea of faces dining happily on what would be a life changing meal. Truly a sight to behold and I was giddy as a school girl to be witnessing it.

Farms to Forks will be holding immersions just like the one I was able to experience all over the country and farm settings, 4 times a year. be sure to catch one at a city near you, you won’t regret it!

And that’s a wrap on Austin eats and it’s cool events…for now!

I’m back for some more delicious, healthy, vegan and gluten free eats in Austin. I just couldn’t get enough after last week’s post, and quite possibly a third coming next week! Austin is jam packed with incredible options for special diet diners and travelers that I would have to dedicate my site to every place that offered up great dishes. How could I resist scouring the town of awesome veggie food and live music anywhere you turn? Let’s get to it!

I’ll begin with an Austin staple. An eatery that serves breakfast 24 hours a day and caters to veg heads, gluten free foodies and more. With 5 locations across town, Kerbey Lane Cafe is the place to go for breakfast, lunch, dinner or that oh so mandatory after partying meal at 3 or 4am! Normally, veggies opt for a lame salad or toast at n all night diner but not at Kerbey Lane. Feast on vegan queso, vegan pancake stacks for days or my personal fave, the vegan breakfast platter. Sandwiches, salads and entrees and sweet treats also include us finicky foodies wit dishes like the hippy burger, enchiladas and a daily vegan dessert (I had an insane strawberry lemonade cake!) So no matter the time of day, Kerbey Lane Cafe is your safe haven for awesome veggie comfort food in a hip and cool establishment!

On the opposite end of the spectrum you will find the serene and spiritual Casa de Luz. Located at the center for integral studies and the former home of the Natural Epicurean Culinary School, Casa is a beautiful and peaceful destination for foodies looking for a super healthy, balanced, macrobiotic meal. Serving breakfast through dinner, Casa is like no other restaurant. For a flat rate, customers are served a square macrobiotic meal of soup, salad, tea and a nutritious vegan and gluten free entree. The meal is the chef’s choice, the restaurant tables are set up community style and the outdoor patio overlooks the playground for the on grounds montessori.  If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of town and really enjoy a meal that heals and nourishes, this is the place for you!

A mega cool brewery with an even more mega cool concept is Black Star Co-Op. An eco-conscious and veg-friendly brewery, this hip watering hole is also a fully functioning cooperative. Meaning that the employees all own a piece of the pie as opposed to being “employees”. Additionally, customers can become members who can also own a piece of the pie, vote on policy changes and even be on the board. The co-op is fresh, the menu delicious and the beer variety vast. WHo woukdn’t want to be a part of the biz and keep it running in tip top shape. But now, the food and drink! Drink, lots of gluten free beers, woohoo!! Food, tons of killer vegan fare like the portobello and chips, seasonal grilled veggie sandwich on gluten free bread and veggie chili. Big thumbs up for this forward thinking gastropub!

No trip is complete without finding a local vegan pizza option. Conan’s Pizza, a legend in Austin, does deep dish vegan like nobody’s business. With lots of vegan toppings to choose from, oozy Daiya cheese (vegan and gluten free) and a to die for crust, this pizza parlor will send you back to your childhood. I could imagine filing in their with my friends after a raging roller skating session, talking about Ricky Schroeder and downing slice after slice without a care in the world. The classic Conan The Barbarian artwork along with the fun rock and 80′s memorabilia dishes up nostalgia along with their signature aromatic pizza pies. A must visit when hankerin’ for classic deep dish pizza!

One of the many things that made me fall in love with Austin are the mixed commercial use neighborhoods. Meaning that a coffee shop could move in right next door to your house. Bouldin Creek Cafe is just one of those awesome places. With the feel of home and a keen awareness of the surrounding neighborhood, this coffeehouse is rife with local art, eco love and yummy vegetarian and vegan food for all. I was told to tyr their vegan breakfast tacos and I’m so glad I listened. They rock as did their fair trade organic coffee. I love the vibe, I love the menu and I dig it’s open arms feeling to the community it services.

I left my heart in Austin, Texas! I know the song says San Francisco but Austin is a great American city that is not only the progressive, college and music town state capital, it’s also super health conscious, green and mega vegan friendly. A Texas city like no other, Austin is home to the headquarters and first Whole Foods Market, The University of Texas Longhorns, IBM, Google, Facebook and Apple as well as being the live music capital of the world. In addition to all of the creative goings on, the city is buzzing with youth what with all of the hip neighborhoods that combine living and businesses such as quaint coffee shops, gourmet restaurants and cool bars tucked in all boroughs of the city. Located on the Colorado River (AKA Lady Bird Lake), Austinites enjoy their city, and their health, by biking the river trail, kayaking or even swimming in their city center natural spring.

As one would imagine, a city so vibrant with life and things to do, there is no shortage of incredible places to dine!

I’ll start with one of my most favorite places in the world, Park Lane Guest House. An eco-friendly, vegetarian bed and breakfast, this oasis in the city is a must for any Austin traveler. Nestled in the beautiful Travis Heights neighborhood and 2 blocks from the super cool South Congress strip, Park Lane is prime for sightseeing as well as relaxing.

Basically built from the ground up by owner and “hotelier” Shakti, she has made a cute home as veritable garden of Eden for her guests to enjoy. The bed and breakfasts boasts 3 private cottages as well as 1 single room for folks to enjoy. Eco-friendly is an understatement as not only is each room cleaned with chemical free cleaners, even the mattresses are organic! Each has its own unique style and amenities but all get to enjoy the grounds complete with crystal clear pool and waterfall; gardens rich with flowers, herbs and vegetables; and even a chicken coop with happy chickens!

Each morning Shakti wakes you with the aroma of her gourmet, organic vegetarian and vegan breakfast, all made from scratch and featuring herbs and veggies from the gardens. For vegetarians, the organic eggs come from her happy chickens. Sit and enjoy a delicious breakfast on your private patio while enjoying the wind chimes and waterfall, leaving all of your cares behind. Just make sure that you book in advance and make sure you stay a few days to soak in the beauty and relaxation. Indulge in fine local, organic coffee in the morning, sleep like royalty at night and leave feeling refreshed at Park Lane!

I crave Italian quite a bit so I had to try Asti in Hyde Park. yet another cool hood with tons of dining options for its residents, Asti is not your usual Italian joint. It’s decor is hip and chic and its menu is fresh and innovative. Sure, if you are really in the mood for pizza, pasta or espresso, they have you covered, but if you’re looking for the rest of the flavors of Italy, this is your place. Accommodating special diets is no problem for them as the chef is more then happy to wow you with his vegetable skills. Beautiful risottos, lightly braised veggies, outstanding bruschettas and bean dips, don’t forget about their vast array of vegan friendly sorbets. Top notch food that is light, healthy and beyond tasty, don’t forget to put Asti on your list of must eats!

While Whole Foods Market is the bigwig in town being that Austin is the birthplace of the popular natural food chain as well as having its headquarters located downtown, Austin’s large health conscious community made room for the super neat Wheatsville Co-op. A cooperative market that not only allows its employees and members to benefit from deals, gatherings and even be on the board, Wheastville also showcases a great variety of co-op products as well. Since 1976, the market as stayed ahead of the needs of its ever growing healthy and eco-friendly community by anticipating its every need. From outdoor rainwater receptacles to irrigate its gardens to encouraging folks to bring in their own containers for deli foods, the market has implemented many wonderful programs that help their customers, owners, community and the earth. The deli has a kick ass popcorn tofu po’ boy along with killer kale salads, veggie juices and shakes, an insanely awesome bakery complete with vegan donuts and more. The store lets you know on it’s pricing labels how far each product has traveled so you can gauge the carbon footprint as well as a produce board letting you know how many items are in fact organic as well as local. Come in for lunch, grab some cool specialty products and feel good about your contribution to the earth at Wheatsville ; )

Living in LA, the raw food craze is well engrained in my town. But Beets Cafe is the first of its kind in Austin and is doing a terrific job! the food is not only aesthetically pleasing but it’s hearty and fantastic. Plus the vibe is bright, modern and cool, exactly what Austin needs for its intro to living foods. Creative sandwiches, salads, noodle dishes and decadent desserts, Beets will be a tough act to follow for future raw eateries. Well known for their beet burger, Asian noodle salad and crazy good mint chocolate chip cheesecake (yes, I ate ALL 3), diners must come hungry because this raw foodery will fill you up like nobody’s business!

Seeing as how Texas heat is famous, ice creameries are a smart investment. And Sweet Ritual corners the market on making the smart choice of opening and all vegan ice cream parlor! Located inside the Daily Juice Bar in Hyde Park, Sweet Ritual is sheer heaven. With handmade vegan soft serve, an endless list of extraordinary vegan toppings and made from scratch vegan waffle cones, you have to break your diet for one of the sweet concoctions. No matter your sugary poison, they make shakes, sundaes, cups and cones in all shapes and sizes. So I warn you to caution to the wind and for once, don’t be “good”. Indulge and enjoy, I give thee permission!

Ok, I’m not done so stay tuned for more Austin awesomness next week!!

Johnson City, Texas. Just an hour or so northwest of San Antonio, located in the beautiful rolling hill country, this is the small town that president Lyndon Baines Johnson grew up in. Being a history geek, along with my hubby, we took a day trip up to see LBJ’s boyhood home as well as to see the sprawling acreage at his Texas White House about 20 minutes west of there.

A peaceful area, Johnson City boasts a population of 1,200 people. Yes, you read that correctly. So what was I able to find in this little Texas town you ask? Plenty!

If you’re either making the pilgrimage out to check out some American history or just passing through Hill Country, rest assured that there are some veggie options available in good ol’ JC!

The first is at the Silver K Cafe. Super cute and part of what was an old lumber yard, this cafe is an all American gem. Easily veganizable salads and sandwiches, it’s the perfect place to stop for lunch or grab and go to eat on the road. I loved my fresh focaccia grilled vegetable sandwich and was delighted at the variety of seasonal veggies that they packed it full with. It’s small town America with a progressive and delicious menu!

If it’s an ice cold local beer you’re looking for, check out Pecan Street Brewing Company located in the town square. Grab your draft and order up a cheeseless pizza, salad or be naughty with some sweet potato fries. A hip brewery that overlooks the historic town square makes for a neat evening treat!

Pizza is always welcome after a day of sightseeing, especially when traveling with a group of buddies or family. AJ’s Pizza Shoppe is just the place what with their awesome outdoor stage and giant menu of toppings to make the veggiest pizza ever. AND they offer gluten free crust! Order up a big cheeseless pie, load on the veggie toppings and enjoy your slice under the stars while listening to some local jams. Ah, that’s Texas!

Johnson City is a great little town somewhat frozen in time. But as I just proved, no matter where you might be, metropolitan or not, The Healthy Voyager can always find vegan, gluten free and healthy eats!

Expanding on last week’s post on healthier fast food finds, I’ve compiled a list of popular restaurant chains that can be found nationwide. You never know when you are heading out for a meal with a group and need to do the best you can with the menu you are given. No matter where you may be in the U.S. (and Canada), you should have no problem finding a decent meal at any of the places on the list below. So fear not my little health conscious foodies, you may eat, drink and be merry in mainstream dining establishments!!! In no particular order:

• P.F. Chang’s – 3 words, veggie lettuce wraps! OMG, I LOVE these darn things. Tofu sauteed in a delicious soy sauce (gluten free people, have them sautee the tofu in rice vinegar and lemon) served with crunchy rice noodles and crisp lettuce “tortillas”. They are great about offering steaming vs frying, brown rice and lots of veggie dishes. Tofu can be substituted for most of the meat entrees as well. Chow down guilt free at PF Chang’s!
• Chili’s – I want my veggie meal, veggie meal, veggie meal….Yeah, order up the portobello & steak fajitas and have them hold the steak. They will add extra mushrooms and veggies like broccoli, onions, peppers and more!! Make sure, vegans, to ask for extra fixin’s to make up for the loss of the cheese and sour cream. Don’t forget extra chimichurri! Their black bean burger is also a great veggie and healthy hit, although not vegan. Also opt for their veggie tacos, hold the ranch sauce for a satisfying meal. Their salads are all modifiable but be sure to ask about the dressings as that’s where the naughty ingredients like to hide ; )
• California Pizza Kitchen -This place rocks for vegans, veggies, gluten free peeps and more! Vegan split pea soup, asparagus soup with no croutons and their grilled veggie salad are to die for!! Their hummus (with neopolitan crust instead of pita) is a winner for any diet type and the guacamole is a hit too. Salads can be modified to fit your special diet, the balsamic vinaigrette is vegan. Pizzas made on neopolitan dough are veganizable when ordered without cheese. I kill for their veggie or tricolor salad pizza!
• Houston’s -I know, what can you get at a steak house that’s healthy or even vegan? How about the best damn veggie burger ever!! A homemade black bean and brown rice patty smothered in a sweet soy bbq sauce. Order it without cheese and check out one of their vegan sides like steamed veggies or black beans with brown rice. You can also opt for a soy latte, a veggie sushi roll and a side salad. Insane!
• The Cheesecake Factory – This catalog for a menu always has something for all discerning orderers ; ) Tons of veganizable salads (choose a balsamic or citrus vinaigrette and nix the black beans as they are soaked in beef juice). Naughty fried zucchini, crisp artichoke hearts  and the best, avocado egg rolls. A healthier fire roasted artichoke dip is a great start choice as well edemame and guacamole. That dang bread the serve will come in handy for satiating the carb demon as the pastas and sauces are not vegan. And lastly, the grilled portobella on a bun is yummalicious without cheese and mayo!
• The Olive Garden - Italian is usually simple enough for a health nut ; ) Their minestrone is vegetarian, make sure they do not garnish it with cheese or throw in to many pasta shells. It’s hearty and tasty when paired with the all you can eat salad. Ask for oil and vinegar as the dressing as the house Italian contains Parmesan. The bruschetta appetizer with no cheese is a doozy too. Gluten free folks can ask for a separate menu that lists acceptable items as it is part of their new garden fare menu for those looking for the lighter side of the garden ; )
• Applebee’s – Try the veggie patch pizza appetizer with no cheese or spinach (it’s creamy). Change up any salad by omitting unwanted items and tossing it in their balsamic dressing. Go for the chicken portobello sandwich without the chicken with a nice side salad. Those of you on weight watcher’s, they’ve got the points values of everything on their menu so you don’t have to guess!
• TGIFriday’s – You are pretty much subject to ordering a salad without meat or cheese and going with a vinaigrette. You can indulge in a basket of sweet potato fries though ; )
• Panera Bread – This is one of my all time favorite spots. Fresh salads, soups and breads that work well on any diet. I always go for the pick 2 and get a vegan soup with the classic cafe salad. Go for an apple as your side and you are good to go! The sandwiches can be veganized with proper direction and its worth it as their bread selections are awesome. Soy lattes and healthy meals are the perfect combo!
• Ruby Tuesday – Gluten and peanut allergy sufferers can dine happily here along with us greenies. They have detailed menus of what special diets can order without worry. For me, I can chow on a guacamole dip starter. Then I can move on to a salad I make on my own at their salad bar. Perhaps a homemade veggie burger and some brown rice pilaf or steamed broccoli and I’ve just had one vegtastic feast!
• Fuddrucker’s – If you must, a veggie burger with all of the fixin’s can hold you over. I normally order it protein style, no bread, wrapped in lettuce ; )
• Chevy’s - I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Mexican is a great way to go for all kinds of special diets. Always make sure of the chips and tortillas are made with lard but usually one or the other is ok! Chevy’s has some kick ass guac and salsa! Their veggie fajitas rock as does their veggie burrito. Just save the sour cream and cheese and you are golden! AT a chevy’s the black beans are vegan and the both tortillas are lard free (with the exception of the El Machino flour tortillas) The salsa vinaigrette and Mexican rice are also perfecto!!
• Sweet Tomatoes/Souplantation -You can’t go wrong when you make your own salad at a salad bar! Some of the tossed salads are also vegan such as the mandarin spinach with caramelized walnuts, strawberry fields with caramelized walnuts, thai peanut & red pepper, and the thai udon & peanut. Vegan friendly prepped salads are white bean, arugula citrus, red pepper slaw, Asian pepper salad, bean & cilantro, dijon potato & garlic dill, mandarin noodles w/broccoli, mandarin shells w/almonds, green bean & potato, roasted potato & chiplote chili, southwest pasta, summer barley w/ black beans, tabbouleh, citrus & brown rice, tomato cucumber marinade & 3 bean marinade. gain, it’s safe to stick to the vinaigrettes. Lots of soups to choose from as well, providing they are available on the day you pop in like the tomato onion, ratatouille, black bean, veggie harvest, minestrone and lentil. The bakery and pasta bars don’t have much for vegans but you may get lucky with some of the bread or sauteed veggies ; )
• Hard Rock Cafe – Yep, depending on where you are or who you are with, you just might find yourself at one of these ; ) Fear not as you can grab a tried and true HRC veggie burger, with no cheese or mayo. Have a side salad unless you want to be naughty, then order the fries!
• Boston Market – Love their market salad with no cheese. It is super fresh and tasty! You can also order a veggie carver and indulge in the apple cobbler, Cinnamon applesauce or fruit bowl.
• Denny’s – You know you might end up here one night after a show or a long drive! So if and when you do, know that you can consume a veggie burger and a side salad. Or for breakfast, oatmeal with no milk, a veggie patty with dry toast along with some oj and coffee ; )
• Macaroni Grill – My favorite thing to order here is the create your own pasta in which I ditch the pasta all together and have them saute all of the veggies they have in a garlic and olive oil! Goes down great with a glass of red wine and some of their peasant bread ; ) Vegans can’t do the pasta, pizza crusts or even the red sauce. They are great with food allergies and special diets so don’t fret if you don’t know before you go!
• Buca di Beppo – Start with some bruschetta (hold any sprinkled cheese) and then split a big ol’ mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette. I mess with the menu by ordering the gnocchi with plain marinara and veggies and I’m sure you can do the same with any pasta dish.
• Pick Up Stix – You can’t go wrong with Asian cuisine as you can always get some sort of stir fried veggie dish. Here you can do tofu lettuce cups, tofu and veggies, rice bowls and whole slew of lighter fare. Go for the steamed, not fried items if you can swing it, have some salad, and watch out for the soy and teryaki of you are wheat and gluten sensitive.
• Jason’s Deli - This is a nice spot to pick up fod for a trip or day at the park. Sandwiches and sides for all. Go for the spinach veggie wrap with no cheese or the Mediterranean wrap with no mods.
• Bennigan’s - The usual American fare can be health-ified by veganizing the salads and keeping an eye on the dressings. Same for the veggie burger ; )
• Outback Steakhouse – haha, ok. For non veggies, get your meat grilled and get a side salad instead of that damn bloomin onion! For veg heads, get a salad with the tomato dressing, no cheese. You can also pull out all the stops and get a steamed sweet potato! Their veggies are drowned in butter but you can ask for them steamed and dry. No mushrooms either as they are swimming in beef broth ; (
• Johnny Rockets -Boca burger is your friend here and is customizable to be as fat or as plain as you want it. Fries here are a-ok as they are fried in soy oil. Vegan but not to healthy ; )
• Z Pizza – This organic pizza joint is a hit! Organic crusts, toppings and even vegan cheese and meatless toppings. Pizzas, salads and sandwiches are all made fresh and taste freakin’ great!!
• The Habit – It can’t be healthy and again, these places are supposed to be had once in a blue moon. However, if you find yourself here, get the veggie burger (unfortunately not vegan but ok for veggies), no cheese, on grilled sourdough with cucumber, sprouts, avocado and grilled onions. OMG!!! oh, and they have salads too ; )
• Pizza Fusion – This is what heaven must be like!! Organic salads, sandwiches and VEGAN PIZZA!! Yes!! Gluten free crusts, vegan cheese, a gajillion awesome toppings…Word.
• Daphne’s – Mediterranean rocks for healthy choices. I love their veggie combo plate with hummus and pita, dolmas, falafel and salad. Filling, tasty and no guilt to wasty ; ) I hold the spanikopitas (cheese) and add more of everything else. falafel pitas and salads are good too!
• Pomodoro – I really like the selection here. I go light with a mixed green salad and minestrone. Sometimes I do the melanzane penne pasta primavera ; ) They also have some great side veggies, some even organic!
• Louise’s Trattoria – This place wins for the best minestrone! Ask for it with no sprinkly cheese or crusty cheese bread and it’s still mega tasty! I pair this with a huge Louise’s chopped salad with no cheese and I am elated ; )
• Mimi’s Cafe -A large menu always has some good options for alternative meals. The salads are veganizable with balsamic dressing as is the veggie ciabata with no cheese or pesto. The vegetarian vegetable is a good choice as is veggie burger.
• El Torito – oh yeah, tableside guac – the best in the biz! Go for that and some salsa but make room for their veggie burrito as it is chock full of great veggies. Order it with the vegetarian beans and you will be a happy camper! And if you drop the dairy on the veggie enchiladas, you will be full for days!!
• Acapulco – Similar to el torito, their appetizer guac is pretty good. Check out the veggie fajitas with no cheesey or creamy condiments.
• Chin Chin – Veggie potstickers and minced veggie lettuce cups every time!! But they do have some great veggie noodle and rice dishes as well as being able to sub tofu for meat on most of the menu items.
• Claim Jumper – mmm, fire roasted artichoke (ask for it with ponzu sauce) or avocado rolls to start! Veganize any salad by nixing meat and dairy items and sticking to citrus or balsamic vinaigrettes. Also try to produce bar! For a heartier meal grab a veggie sandwich sans cheese with a veggie stuffed baked potato with no cheese ; )
• El Pollo Loco – I forgot these last 2 guys last week so here they are! If you catch yourself around here, sides are alright. Like a side salad with no cheese, pinto beans and some veggies with no margarine. Slather all your stuff in salsa!
• Pollo Tropical - I am a sucker for Cuban food so the sides here make me very happy! Boiled yucca in garlic sauce, plantains, and some rice with black beans. They also offer the veggie tropichop which is like a cuban veggie rice bowl. Oh so good!

We’d love to hear about your special diet menu secrets at national chains!

So, there are times where despite our best efforts, our only options just might be fast food, especially on vacation or a trip. On a road trip or in a podunk town with little to zero options for a healthy meal, I’ve found ways to navigate the fast food menu. I do not, I repeat, do not, advocate the consumption of fast food except for in a pinch and other compromising situations. So I suggest you print this blog in case of emergency!

Here are some of the biggies:

• Subway – This one of the most veg and health friendly places if you are in a bind. You can always go with a veggie sub on Italian bread (9 grain wheat contains honey), hold the cheese and mayo, while piling on the veggies, avocado and mustard. You can also get this wrap style or forgo the carbs and chomp on a salad ; ) They do have veggie patties however, if your vegan, it’s a no go as they contain egg. For allergy sensitive folks, stick to the salads.
• Quizno’s - These guys aren’t far behind Subway. I do love a warm sandwich but Subway has better veggie options. Here I order a veggie sub, no cheese or mayo, add guac and vinaigrette. Toasty yumminess ; ) Also, grab a salad if you’re not doing bread! Again, for allergy sensitive folks, stick to the salads.
• Taco Bell – You’d be surprised but the Taco Bell menu can be easily manipulated to bring it down to somewhat a’ight ; ) Everything is still full of high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils BUT the menu can be veganized. And again, don’t make this a habit ; ) Ok so, their new Fresco Style menu is easy to change up. Order the tacos or burritos Fresco style and swap the meat for beans and voila, veganized. The crunchwrap supreme can be veganized by tossing the meat, cheese and sour cream and subbing beans and guac. You can also have a 7 layer burrito minus the layers of cheese and sour cream, BAM, vegan 5 layer burrito! So yes, the ingredients in all of these are vegan but certainly not the best thing for you. But like I said, in a bind, it’s fine ; ) Make sure, for allergy sensitive diners, to check the site as each item contains different allergens. Their site is very comprehensive regarding allergens ; )
• McDonald’s – Oh yes, the golden arches. It can be done if there is no choice. Don’t even think about the fries if you’re vegan as they contain beef and milk. Not even kosher! Although, you can go for a side salad and ask for the cilantro lime as that one, despite being chemically, is still vegan. Or opt for salt, pepper and a lemon wedge. The other salads can be veganized by picking off the croutons and cheese. And you can get their new iced coffees sans milk.
• Burger King - Well, vegans, no can do on the veggie burger as it contains egg whites but the fries are fried in a separate fryer with no animal products. Not so much for the onion rings, they a cooked in a shared fryer. So allergen diets, beware of the buns as well as the croutons in the salads. I say you’re safest here with a salad and to find out before you drown your greens, what is in the dressings they happen to have available at that store. Again, there is always, salt, pepper and a lemon wedge ; )
• Jack in the Box - Well, here is a place you have some ok options outside of a salad. The Teriyaki Rice Bowls are veganizable by dropping the meat out and are packed with veggies. Sugary ones, but veggies nonetheless. Sometime you just gotta take what you can get ; ) Go for a taco here by ordering it with black beans instead of meat and leaving off the cheese. Fries and hash brown sticks, while fattening, are vegan friendly and only if you must! In addition, Jack food is all made to order so you’re likely to get a fresher meal here then the burger royalty.
• Carl’s Jr/Hardee’s – Well, a side salad with no cheese and balsamic vinaigrette seems to be the safest bet here. If you are so inclined to fill your tummy, make sure you share and don’t eat the whole order of fries or hash brown nuggets as those are vegan as well. You can also grab a taco salad without the meat, cheese or sour cream.
• Wendy’s – oddly enough, they are great to gluten free diners. As for vegans, we can have their side and regular salads so long as we pick of the meat and/or cheese and choose an appropriate dressing. The baked potatoes can be ordered plain so you can add salt, pepper, chives and any other healthy toppings on your own. They also offer oranges as a combo side too so if you do happen to go for burger, grab some fruit instead of fries ; )
• Arby’s - Um, its pretty tough here. You have to pick a lot off of the salads and read the ingredients on the dressing packets to be 100% safe. The market fresh sandwich bread had honey in it but is suitable to vegetarians and calories counters as you can make a lettuce, onion and tomato sandwich if you must. The subs can be made veggie as well.
• Pizza Hut – Vegans, we are screwed here unless we order multigrain dough with no sauce and tons of veggies. All other sauces and doughs contain dairy ; ( For non vegans, go for the cheeseless veggie on multigrain ; )
• Domino’s – Crunchy thin crust is the only vegan crust (contains soy for those sensitive to it). Pizza sauce is dairy free so pile on the veggies and order up! Salads are ok without cheese and any of the Italian dressings. Skip the breadsticks as they contain dairy as well. Go ahead and get the pasta primavera but swap the alfredo for pizza sauce (not marinara as it has cheese in it).
• Papa John’s - I’m leery as they do not have ingredients listed although they do claim to be all natural. Call and ask the manager before ordering anything regarding vegan and/or allergen ingredients.
• Baja Fresh – I love Baja as everything is made fresh with no lard, msg, etc. I go for the tostada salad with no meat, cheese or sour cream and pile on salsa, guac and all their cool fixin’s from their salsa bar. It’s chock full of beans, rice and crispy veggies. You can also go for the veggie burrito or tacos with no cheese or sour cream!!
• Chipotle -Another great place in a pinch for healthy fast food. The beans, rice, guac, and tortillas are all vegetarian so eat away people and create you dish however you choose ; )
• Del Taco - From what I can decipher, the veggie works burrito without cheese or sour cream is vegan as are their fries. Make sure you ask a manager before ordering.
• Starbucks - Soy latte, soy tea latte, soy chai latte, yum ; ) If you need the extra flavors, they use syrups for most of them and they too are vegan but chemically and high fructose sugary. Also, Frappucinos can be made with soy now so have at it for a sinful treat! If you’re hungry, go for the tofu and noodle bento box or a fruit medley. Starbucks in Canada carries vegan baked goods!
• Coffee Bean – Soy lattes and hot tea with soy milk here. No yummy flavored drinks as they use powders that all contain dairy ; (

Stay tuned as next week I navigate chain restaurants!! Be safe and conscious fast fooders!!

Put away the sweaters and dust of your swim suits, Spring Break is nigh! Well deserved time away from school and/or work, you might be interested in some off the beaten path vacation locations. It’s a chance to let your hair down and go on a pre-summer adventure that tickles your green and/or foodie fancy to the max. And I’m not talking about drinking until your face falls off in some crazy, college kid-infested beach town. I’m talking about one week away from the grind to experience some of the best vegan food and eco-vacations the world has to offer. Be it a full week or just a few days, check out some of the most interesting locales across the globe to get your eco-vegan spring break on!

For the green traveler:

Portland, OR – Portland takes top honors for being both green as well as vegan-friendly. Be sure to fast for a full week prior to arriving in Stumptown, because if you’re a foodie, this is your haven. Sure, it’s not the sunny, hang-out-by-the-pool kind of place, but there is plenty of booze and tons of killer food. And if you’re feeling especially gluttonous, you can always bike or hike off the calories on any of their beautiful trails or eco-friendly streets.
Eco Must-Do: Pedal Bike Tours of the city

Burlington, VT – Want to get away from all the hustle and bustle? Then make Burlington your choice for this year’s spring vacay. The area is the epitome of eco-friendliness, from citizen-based groups that tackle any number of issues like solar energy and recycling to the fact that the city makes it a point to have its energy come from renewable resources; Burlington is a great place to cozy up and enjoy some time away. Explore the various hiking trails, prep fresh food from local farms, help with the maple farming, or stay at any number of their eco-resorts.
Eco Must-Do: Take a green cab and stay at the eco Willard Street Inn

Channel Islands National Park, CA – If you are looking for a little sun and splash, the very green Channel Islands are for you. Just a jaunt up the coast from Los Angeles, you can be enjoying the surf and the incredible marine life in a few short hours. With a wide array of diving and other eco tours like kayaking, set up shop in a green hotel by the sea and enjoy!
Eco Must-Do: Hang out underwater with the Eco Dive Center

Belize – Eco-tourism is Central America’s biggest coup. With gorgeous beaches and breathtaking rainforests, Belize lends itself to green living. Jam-packed with fresh-from-the-land cuisine and eco resorts, this is the place to sip from a coconut on the beach without worrying about your carbon footprint.
Eco Must-Do: Stay at Chaa Creek Resort and take part in its Go Green activities

Maasai Mara, Kenya – One of my most favorite places in the world is the Maasai Mara in Kenya. Not only will you be within arms length of some of the most magnificent animals you will ever see, you will experience a countryside unlike any other. The Maasai tribe’s people are some of the coolest people you will ever meet. With a variety of terrains from oceanside to desert, there are a number of eco-lodges and tours that will take you into a world that will ultimately change yours.
Eco Must-Do: Take a Maasai walking tour with Basecamp Explorer

For more eco spring break picks, check out my recent VegNews Article

For the vegan gourmand traveler:

Berlin, Germany – Surprisingly, vegan fast food (as well as tasty vegan comfort food) is all the rage in this German metropolis. Fan of organic, local food? Berlin will rock your vegan socks off.
Must-Visits: Vöner, Chipps, and Lucky Leek

India – India is one of the most veg friendly countries in the world. With roughly 30 percent of the country vegetarian and beef considered a big no-no, it’s easy to find delicious dishes. As vegans, we need to be mindful of ghee (clarified butter), creams, and cheeses, but the lovely folks of India are more than helpful when it comes to feeding vegan travelers.
Must-Visits: Haldiram’s in Delhi, Little Italy in Mumbai, and Suruchi in New Delhi

Greece – Ah yes, the Greek islands; the beautiful Mediterranean sea and lots of sun. Who wouldn’t want to vacay in this costal paradise? Luckily for veggies, there is plenty to eat (and drink!) that is not only vegan but healthy, too.
Must-Visits: Avocado in Athens, Ifestioni in Santorini, and Señor Zorbas in Fira

Thailand – Aside from India, Thailand is the next best exotic destination to chow as a vegan. Avoiding meat and dairy is no problem at all, but beware of fish sauce: It’s pervasive!
Must-Visits: Vegetarian Cottage in Bangkok, May Kaidee’s in Bangkok, and King Liew in Phuket

New York, NY – OK, so we all know that NYC is kick-ass all on its own. But did you know that vegan food is abundant in the city famous for it’s greasy, cheesy pizza? Yeppers!
Must-Visits: Candle 79, Pure Food & Wine, and Four Course Vegan

For more vegan foodie spring break picks, check out my recent VegNews Article

So green, hungry or both, make this spring break the adventure trip of a lifetime!

Well, what was once a few trucks with crazy long lines popping up here and there has now become a nationwide phenomenon. With major metropolitan cities everywhere joining in the mobile food movement, the varieties have become as unique as the cities they are found in. And with variety, comes options for special diet diners.

So with no further a due, here is The Healthy Voyager’s Round Up of food trucks all across America that feed the hungry, veggie and health conscious masses!

Los Angeles ( and surrounding areas)

• The Kogi Truck – The truck that started it all has a number of great veggie korean bbq options
• Sea Birds – 100% vegan and organic all the time
• FrankenStand -  100% vegan hot dogs in a horror themed cart
• Dosa Truck – Lots of vegan Indian food options
• The Nacho Truck - Great Mexican vegan options
• Organic Oasis – Eco and organic truck with a ton of raw vegan options
• Sweet E’s Bake Shop – Dessert truck with lots of vegan options and some gluten free
• The Green Truck – Eco friendly truck with all natural options and tons of veggie goodies
• Mandoline Grill – Vietnamese food with great vegan options
• Smokin’ Willie’s – BBQ with vegan options
• Frysmith – French Fry truck with vegan options

San Francisco, CA

• Sunny Vibrations -Eco-vegan awesomeness
• The Pie Truck – Has veggie pies

Portland, OR

• Homegrown Smoker – Vegan BBQ and Comfort Food
• Unicart – Vegan mythical beast food
• D.C. Vegetarian - Veggie truck with lots of vegan options
• Native Bowl – Vegan bowls
• Sneaky Kitty – Vegan Thai
• Off The Griddle – Veggie and vegan burgers
• The Biscuit Bike – Vegan biscuits and gravy
• The Pedal Kettle – Eco-vegan kettle corn

New York , NY & New Jersey

• The Cinnamon Snail – 100% vegan and organic breakfast, lunch and dessert truck
• The Desi Truck – Indian food with veggie options (Manhattan)

Miami, FL

• The Mac N’ Food Truck – 100% vegan comfort food, specializing in awesome mac n’ cheese and other yummies

Chicago, IL

• Soul Vegetarian – run by the makers of Ste. Martaen vegan cheese and Soul vegetarian East, this food truck serves up 100% vegan food

Providence, RI

• Like No Udder – 100% soft serve vegan ice cream truck

Durham, CT

• GMonkey – Eco and vegetarian, local and seasonal truck

Dallas, TX

• Good Karma Kitchen  – Organic vegetarian truck

Austin, TX

• CCV - Vegan food trailer

Washington, D.C.

• The Fojol Bros. Truck – A traveling culinary carnival with veggie options

Boston, MA

• Clover Truck – Veggie and vegan organic options

And there’s more and more popping up every day! Be sure to leave a comment if you know of one we should add to the list!