Deva Taylor
4 Great Vegetarian Options in DC
Deva Taylor
Fall 2015
- Tono Sushi, Woodley Park
If you’re anything like me, changing from an omnivorous to a vegetarian diet was made particularly difficult by that simple preparation of raw fish and rice called sushi. And while I have grown to love sweet potato rolls and vegetable tempura, every now and then I crave something a little more fun on my plate – a craving perfectly satisfied by Tono Sushi’s spicy crunchy tofu roll. If the name doesn’t give it away, this maki roll is a blend of spicy mayo, protein-packed tofu, and tempura flakes.
- Paragon Thai, Cleveland Park
I’ve had Panang Curry at more than a dozen Thai restaurants up and down the East Coast, and I have to say, Paragon Thai’s version is exceptionally rich and flavorful. It’s also bursting with perfectly-cooked vegetables and filling tofu (if you should so choose). Be sure to try their spring rolls with an intense sweet and sour sauce, too.
- Masala Art, Tenleytown
If you’re planning on stopping by on a Friday or Saturday night, it might just be worth it to make a reservation ahead of time, because the Paneer Makhan Masala is a can’t-miss favorite of mine. Not every Indian restaurant has a great vegetarian alternative to Chicken Tikka Masala, but the creamy tomato sauce in this dish is a dead ringer. And don’t forget an appetizer! Try the Aloo Tikki Chaat or Papri Chaat for something light and complex in flavor.
- Good Stuff Eatery, Capitol Hill
Look, veggie-heads, a burger joint! While your meathead friends can chow down on a variety of traditional and innovative patties, you get to revel in the absolute splendor that is the ‘Shroom Burger: two portobello tops stuffed with cheddar and muenster cheese, fried with panko crumbs, and topped with onions, tomatoes, pickles, and “good stuff” sauce (believe in the name). I made it a habit to eat this burger after long days studying at the Library of Congress, along with a side of Good Stuff’s rosemary fries dipped in Chipotle sauce – and maybe a hand-spun milkshake if I had been extra productive that day.
Indulge in a sinfully delicious meal at Good Stuff Eatery near Capitol Hill.
- Vegan Bonus: Baked and Wired, Georgetown
Don’t let the line intimidate you as you make your way into this hip bakery just off of M Street. They’ve got the best cupcakes (or, rather, cakecups) in town – move over, Georgetown Cupcakes! For vegans with a serious sweet tooth, Baked and Wired always has one or two delicious options, including I Can’t Believe It’s Vegan, a chocolate and peanut butter delight. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the cupcakes are about the size of your face. Just have one!
Deva Taylor is a Health Science Sophomore.
