Halloween as a Vegan

Happy Halloween!

I considered writing a handful of other things for this entry, but it landed too perfectly on Halloween... so, I had to cave. (Is that a bat reference? Are the Halloween puns beginning?! Someone stop me already.)

But, like I said - it's Halloween! And I'm a vegan. (You probably knew that. Maybe you are, too?) So here's how this works this time of year. Some things we'll be going over are: 

1) What vegans eat during this candy-infused holiday, 2) What vegans wear at this festive time, and 3) The general vegan Halloween or fall aesthetic.

What does 'Trick or Treat' mean for the vegan community?

Well, it doesn't mean Kit-Kats, Snickers, or Rice Crispies Marshmallow treats. (Unfortunately.) But as VegNews puts it in this article (regarding drinks and boo-ffets): 

"Trick or Treat, I don't eat meat, so gimme something good to eat!"

Here's a list of 15 vegan-friendly candies, for starters:

• Twizzlers
• Lemonheads
• Sour Patch Kids
• Sweet Tarts
• Skittles
• Swedish Fish
• Smarties
• Hubba Bubba Bubble Gum
• Airheads
• Cracker Jack Original
• Jolly Ranchers
• Mambas Fruit Chews
• Wonka Fun Dip
• Pixy Stix
• Blow Pop Lollipops

Did I say they were healthy? No. This is Halloween, people. Folks dress like they praise Satan while eating copious amounts of sugar. What about this holiday is "hell"-thee? (Get it? Healthy?)

Regardless, I'd rather praise Seitan. Heh, amIright?

Moving on!

What do vegans wear on Halloween? 

Well, if you're looking for vegan-friendly costumes, you might have to do some research on your own. I'm here to talk about makeup.

For time's sake, I'll give you the list in this amazing link for theatrical quality makeup from the best Halloween cosmetic companies that happen to be cruelty-free. I'll also go ahead and link an Amazon best-seller for a vegan kid's face paint kit.

For the skinny on some basic budget-friendly brands, I'll list my favorites:

• Elf
• NYX (select items)
• Tarte
• Wet 'n Wild
• Kat Von D

That's just to name a few - but these lines have some really bold and shimmery options. I personally used a bright pink Elf lip gloss for my costume this year.

This costume brings me to the next part of this section: hair product!

What I used here was a Hot Huez chalk pack from Sally's Beauty. Yes, it was non-toxic and vegan! (And marketed for teenagers. *shrug*) 

I enjoyed the chalk because it had a mess-free application - you clip a section of hair near the roots and slide it down - then you just spritz a little hairspray on top to keep it from staining your face or clothing. It also washes out completely after one shower.

If you're looking beyond chalks, you can also use products like Manic Panic, Ion, Punky, Arctic Fox, and Splat. I once dyed my hair pink with Ion Color Brilliance, and it was lovely.

But enough photos of me with pink hair. (It's tempting to go back to it!)

Let's move on to the third and final section of today's holiday blog:

The Vegan Halloween Aesthetic

What do I mean by this? Well, honestly, I needed to round out it to three things for my OCD's sake. But I think we can make it work. 😉

So many "vegan" activities for Halloween - and fall, in general - are awesome, adorable, and already normal activities. You've got your choice of the following, and then some:

• Apple-Picking or Bobbing for Apples
• Hayrack Rides
• Corn Mazes (as a Midwestern-born vegan, you know I love this one)
• Leaf Piles
• Pumpkin Carving
• Baking things with all the pumpkin, cinnamon, and chai flavors
• Savory, earthy, and/or spicy fall teas
• And, of course, fall-scented candles! 

I honestly don't know what fall would be without pumpkin, and I have to say, this vegan pumpkin souffle candle has got me all sorts of cozy right now. I also do prefer real candles to the scented wax, but that's a personal preference.

And it has to be said... I am a huuuuuge tea addict as of late. I recently quit coffee (post about that to come) but I love anything earthy to give me that full-bodied satisfaction that black coffee used to. The only thing that does it is Bengal Spice by Celestial Seasonings. It's the perfect non-caffeinated chai substitute! And with a splash of milk, I'm seriously in heaven. (Also - loving that Celestial Seasonings is local to where I'm at right now. They're just up in Boulder!)

All right, there you have it! The essentials for a vegan Halloween and a vegan's mini-guide to the full swing into fall. I successfully kept the puns to a minimum, and had fun sharing these hacks with you.

😺

Have you used any of these products, or do you have hacks of your own for this spooky time of year? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy Halloween, Friends!

🎃

I am not sponsored by any of the products mentioned in this listing, nor do I represent their companies. However, I may receive a small commission from some of the links in this post, should you purchase an item. Thank you for supporting Uprooted Foodie!

Easy Pumpkin Desserts for the Baking-Challenged

It's... 
PUMPKIN SEASON!

Can you guess what I've been doing?

Baking.

(This cookie brownie is not in this post... but isn't she pretty? 😋)

Disclaimer: I am NOT a professional baker.

I am more of a stove-top pro... sometimes a blender pro...

but not a baker.

I simply wanted to test how many baked goods I could make with my favorite egg substitute...

PUMPKIN.

That's right: ¼ cup of pureed pumpkin will substitute for one egg in any baking dish. 

(The perfect vegan Halloween hack!)

That being said, these recipes I'm about to share with you are super easy!

Hey, if I can do it... anyone can.

For all of you out there who can identify with me on the not-quite-a-baker sitch, we're gonna start easy. Don't you worry. And for all you pro bakers... well, maybe you'll get a kick of out this post, at least!

1. Oatmeal-Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies.
(Dairy-free, egg-free, vegan.)

Here's why it's easy:
It's a prepackaged mix that you add butter and “egg” to. Betty Crocker, to be more specific.
Here's how I did it and what you'll need.

Ingredients:

• One stick or ½ cup vegan butter
• ¼ cup pureed or canned pumpkin
• Betty Crocker cookie mix (oatmeal chocolate chip)

Instructions:

1. Heat oven to 375 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, stir softened butter with the pumpkin, then add the cookie mix.
3. Drop your dough by large spoonfuls onto two ungreased cookie sheets (six per sheet).
4. Bake for 13 minutes.
5. Let cool for five minutes, and serve.

Click here to print the recipe.

WHEW! That was easy.
Now, let's move on to something a little more advanced.
Don't worry, it's still not that difficult. And it's still cookies. Yum!

2. Bourbon Vanilla Pumpkin Snickerdoodles.
(Oil-free, dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, vegan.)

Wait a minute – wasn't this supposed to be easy? These sound fancy...

Well, they are from scratch – but I promise, it's doable! (And wayyy worth it.)

This is a recipe I borrowed from Natalie - the only difference here is I used cane sugar (in lieu of coconut sugar) and a bourbon vanilla extract from Trader Joe's, because, who doesn't like to sound a little fancier?

This original recipe only calls enough ingredients for one large cookie. Here, I've saved you the trouble and quadrupled the recipe. So you can eat more than one. I mean – share with friends? Sure.

The cookie dough:

• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup gluten-free oat flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp bourbon vanilla extract by Trader Joe's

The topping:

• 4 tsp sugar
• 4 dashes of cinnamon

Quick word for the wise:

You can make oat flour at home by pulsing oats in a blender / food processor for a few minutes.
Look at you! You're so fancy!

Another quick word, for those who aren't in the know:

Not all baking powders or oats are automatically gluten-free. Do a little research beforehand and make sure you take the necessary precautions if you or a friend are gluten-intolerant.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. All the fixin's for the dough can be mixed together in one bowl. Dough will be sticky.
3. Lining a pan with parchment paper, you can press the cookie out into “giant” size. 
   (Natalie recommends about a 4 inch diameter.)
4. Hot tip: if you don't have parchment paper, fear not! You can put a little oil on the cookie sheet to keep it from sticking. (This would just take away the “oil-free” factor.)
5. Mix your cinnamon sugar topping and sprinkle on top, pressing lightly into the cookies.
6. Bake for 12 minutes and let cool for 5-10 minutes.

Click here to print this recipe.

It... looks a lot like meatloaf here. But it tastes AMAZING.

I love these because A) they're HUGE cookies! B) they're very sweet, but they're also hearty... and could seriously pass as a breakfast cookie, if you so desire. (We did. We did that. I don't regret it.)

3. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites.
(Paleo, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan.)

Photo by Kyle L.

Okay. Cookies are one thing. But vegan cheesecake bites?!?

Yes.

This recipe was altered from Arman and he boasts that these are paleo, vegan, and an awesome no-bake keto fat bomb. So if that's your jam, here you go!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened (I used tofutti)
• ¾ cup Wild Friends pumpkin spice peanut butter
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree
• a few dashes of (bourbon) vanilla
• 1 cup RAW sugar

Note: If you're not able to find or use this specific pumpkin spice peanut butter, you can substitute with any nut butter of your choice and just add some pumpkin pie spice. You can also add the spice to your sugar mixture.

Instructions:

1. Place sugar in a small bowl and set aside.
2. Combine all ingredients except sugar and mix well. 
   Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until firmed up.
3. Line a large plate with parchment paper (it's fine if you don't have any, though). Form bite-sized balls, dipping each in the sugar bowl to coat. Place on lined plate. Repeat.
4. Place all balls in the freezer to firm up, I'd recommend at least 30 minutes.

Click here to print this recipe.

See? Was that so hard?!

Well, okay, so I technically only baked TWO items (cookies) and the last was a no-bake cheesecake bite recipe, but... can you blame me? It was too easy.

Now you can try your hand at these pumpkin-tastic desserts at the coven next week! Er, um, when... you... meet at your friends house to watch Hocus Pocus.

Did you try any of these? Let me know in the comments how they turned out! I'd love to hear if you have any tips or tricks... at the very least, you'll have the treats. 🎃

(Get it? See what I did there? Halloween puns, for the win!)

👻 Happy Spooking! 👻

Foodie Hideaways, Part 3: San Luis Obispo

Welcome to the final Foodie Hideaways blog!

You may have seen my top recommendations for the central coast's best all-vegan restaurants. Then you may have read where you can find some vegan menu items in Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Arroyo Grande, and Oceano... 

This is going to give you the third and final part in the mini-series I've dubbed Foodie Hideaways - where you can easily find some vegan grub in tucked away spots or at mostly-omnivorous places in the San Luis Obispo area. These places are perfect for stopping when you have non-veg family or friends and you're beach-ing it up together in this area.

Here we go!

SAN LUIS OBISPO.

The Habit
839 Higuera St.

Get yourself to The Habit and order their veggie burger (assuredly, vegan) on sourdough. Have you ever been to a Steak 'n' Shake? This sandwich reminded me of a steakburger... without the blood and guts, or whatever. Oh, also worth mentioning, we literally hiked up and down the street asking every host, bartender, or cashier if their veggie burgers were vegan – and this was the only omni place that said yes. Trust me – I've done the work for you!

Photo by Cayla Marie H.

Habit Hours: Mon - Thurs 10:30 am - 10:00 pm

Friday - Saturday 10:30 am - 11:00 pm

SLO Brew: The Rock
855 Aerovista Lane

If you're into Happy Hour (like me) then you'll want to swing by SLO Brew downtown or the SLO Brew: The Rock location just a hair south of town. They won't be able to feed you a totally vegan meal, but they can get you set up with a basket of fries for $5, Brussels sprouts (ask for no honey) for $5, or their Hummus Trio with lav crackers and veggies.

Lavish Crackers, Veggies, Hummus/Beet Hummus

The Rock Hours: Sun 10am-9pm; Mon-Thurs 11:30am-9pm

Friday-Saturday 11:30am-10pm

Big Sky Cafe
1121 Broad Street

Hands Down: Get the Vegan Paella for $17 and split it with a friend (or save for leftovers). It's plenty of food and they are not over-charging you. If you're strictly vegan, beware of the free rolls, for they are cheesy and not vegan-friendly, although they smell amazing. As for this Paella... I really have no words... it's epic. Whether you're vegan or not, just do it. They bring it out on a piping hot cast iron skillet and oh, my, my. It's hearty, savory, somehow "buttery" heaven! Nice work, Big Sky.

Vegan Paella

Big Sky Hours: Sun 8am-9pm; Mon-Thurs 7am-9pm
Friday 7am-10pm; Sat 8am-10pm

Woodstocks Pizza
1000 Higuera Street

Woodstocks Pizzeria: Vegan cheese for any of your pizza choices. Need I say more?
Well, fine, I'll say a little bit more.
This is one of those spots where you'll find the college crowd gathering, but you'll also see a lot of families enjoying a night out. Woodstocks recently expanded their location as well as their tap beer selection. However, if you're one for nostalgia and "the way things were"... fear not, this set-up truly is better for all. They coined the new space as The Backyard with a cool outdoor vibe in their barely sub-street level seating areas, with plenty of cozy picnic-style seating. The staff is always friendly, and they'll steer you right with food or drink all night.

Woodstocks Hours: Sun - Thurs 11am - 12am; Fri - Sat 11am - 1am

Seeds
1133 Garden Street

Yogi and Yoginis: Assemble!
Juices, smoothies, avo toasts, and now, paninis. This small, minimally decorated store is a gem. I ordered a Kombucha from their tap and Toast #3: avo on some seriously thick squaw bread, with Himalayan pink salt, pepitas, and sunflower seeds. (Also where I tried my first charcoal lemonade.) They have an abundance of offerings for vegans and non-vegans, alike. Just be sure you look closely, if you're vegan - they do offer bee pollen, honey, and cheese products, as well.

Seeds Hours: 8am - 6pm Daily

Whole Foods
1531 Froom Ranch Way

I stopped in to Whole Foods towards the end of my stay on the central coast. Now, most people know that Whole Foods has a hot bar and salad bar and plenty of delis, right? Well, this one had plenty of vegan options. I swooped up a piece of jalapeno, pineapple, and tempeh "bacon" pizza with Daiya mozzarella... yum. I also got a vegan samosa - AND- they told me to take some free samples! (I believe I chose a version of a spicy asian "chicken"-broccoli, mac-n-cheez, and a lentil item.) Definitely give this one a go if you've got a group of semi-healthy folks who can't decide on a meal.

Whole Foods Hours: 8am - 10pm Daily

Taco Tuesdays
Bang the Drum & Taqueria 805

950 Orcutt Road

Double Whammy!
Bang the Drum is a quirky warehouse-lookin' area that looks like it relocated to SLO from the southwest. They serve up cold, tasty brews with fun names (like "I Call B.S." for their Belgian Strong, or the "Life is a Beach" Porter). Stop down on a Tuesday between 5pm-8pm and you'll see the Taqueria 805 food truck posted out front. Beer and vegan tacos?! Yes!
(Perk: Free side of guac if you check in on Yelp.)

Vegan Soyrizo Tacos with Hot Salsa, Cilantro, Onions

Bang the Drum Hours: Mon - Thurs 2-10pm; Fri-Sat 12-12; Sun 12-10pm
Tacqueria 805 Hours: Tuesdays 5pm - 8pm

SLO DESSERTS.

Free Me Ice Cream Company

This super yummy, all-vegan, small batch ice cream can be found at my blog's aforementioned #1 vegan restaurant recommendation on the central coast: Bliss Cafe. (Also available at an adorable gluten-free bakery in Paso Robles called Bless Your Heart - which I haven't been to, personally. But you should take Free Me's word for its adorableness!)

If you go to their Facebook page (linked above) you can find more info to contact them about SLOcal (local in SLO county) delivery and pick-up. Right now they're offering Peanut Butter Coconut Cayenne, their "OG and yogi favorite" Goldenmilk (with turmeric), Mint Chip with Spirulina, Chocolate Maca, EVOO Vanilla, Pistachio, and Churro - with more cozy fall flavors coming soon. I didn't get to try all of these... but my personal faves are Goldenmilk and Mint Chip.
Make sure you get a taste!

Nite Creamery
570 Higuera Street, Suite 103

Tucked away on a ped mall near the freeway end of downtown, you'll find Nite Creamery, probably with a long line out the doors. But this one is an experience - everything is made with liquid nitrogen!

As your vegan choice: Pineapple Picante is the WAY TO GO. 

Just be sure to mix it all up first so you don't burn your tongue with the spice!

Both of these are creamier textures, not a bland, water-y sorbet. So, eat your heart out, and enjoy the charming pedestrian mall atmosphere.

Photo by Erika S.

Nite Hours: 3-10:30pm Daily

SloDoCo Donuts
793F Foothill Blvd

Near your entrance back on to 101 South and the California Fresh Market SLO location, you'll find a 24-hour study hall/coffee & donut shop... and they have an entire case of vegan (some gluten-free) donuts. I'd recommend you get there early in the day, though - they tend to run out of these fast!
Their Vegan Maple donut is a delight.

Photo by Lauren T.

SloDoCo Hours: 24 hours!

BONUS ROUND!

Okay - so I couldn't just give you the deets on the SLO scene, and I had to throw in dessert... but now I have to give some honorable mentions nearby!

PASO ROBLES: Galley Bite
1413 Riverside Ave

Vegan Breakfast Burrito

I stopped in here after a meeting in Paso Robles, and I was pleasantly surprised! The chef/owner (who is super outgoing, friendly, intelligent and eco-conscious) personally asked me how I wanted my vegan burrito prepared. She went above and beyond to customize this deliciousness. (The tomatoes were even vine-ripened, locally.) Not only did I get to have conversations with the owner about veganism and plastic straws - which, there were none in sight at this restaurant - but it was so busy when I got there that I ended up sharing a table with the loveliest elderly German couple. Speaking about travel over a vegan burrito... do you think I was in heaven, much?

Strawberry Lemonade: Galley Bite

Santa Maria: Moxie Cafe
1317 W. McCoy Ln

Returning from a long flight/shuttle back from the Midwest after my summer acting gig, Kyle took me straight to Moxie Cafe for some nurturing California food. This house-made veggie burger hit the spot - and they even threw some fresh fruit on the side! Stop in here for a classic American diner vibe and healthy choices.

As you can see, there truly are endless options for finding something vegan along the central coast. It can be difficult without some research, and Happy Cow didn't seem to pull through as much as I'd hoped they would. Luckily, Californians are mostly open-minded, and there is plenty of fresh fare to be had all along the coast.

For fast food...

You can always hit up Panera (vegan black bean bread bowl), Domino's (their thin crust is vegan), or Taco Bell (vegan crunchwrap, anyone?) but I say: 

Save these for the road travels when you don't have time to spend searching for a new vegan spot in your long travel days. Try something local! There are plenty of other one-time stop options I couldn't even squeeze in here to mention.

And if you end up going somewhere besides these places, just call ahead, or try your hand at asking your server what they can do for you (nicely, of course). A lot of folks will surprise you with their vegan knowledge, and the ones that don't know much will hopefully at least seek out an answer for you.

Thanks for keeping tabs on this mini-series of Foodie Hideaways: California. 
Are you from the central coast? Do you have any favorite vegan eats that I've missed? Please comment down below to share your favorite hideaways!

Safe travels and happy eats!

For a drool-worthy gallery of foodie photos from these places and more, head over to my Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook page: @UprootedFoodie. 

Any and all Photo By's in this post were used with prior permission.

Foodie Hideaways, Part 2: Pismo Beach

Welcome to the second part of the Foodie Hideaways series!

For this three-part series, I'm going to walk you through all of the tucked away gems on the central coast that are just begging you to stop in and find their yummy plant-based menu options among their "regular", omnivorous items.

(See my last blog entry for Grover Beach, Arroyo Grande, and Oceano must-stop spots.)

Let's jump right into Round Two, shall we?

PISMO BEACH.

 Cool Cat Cafe
198 Pomeroy Ave

I strayed from this place for nearly nine months before believing that they offered a vegan burger – but THEY DO. And guess what? It's mouthwatering. Just let them know you're vegan and they'll hook you up. I got mine with BBQ and an onion ring. Because, why not?

Cool Cat Hours: Sun - Thurs 10:30am - 9:30pm
Fri - Sat 10:30am - 10:30pm

Chipwrecked
246 Pomeroy Ave

Signs boast their vegan options, and although they are few, they are delicious. You're gonna want to go for the Port Banes (website lists that it's only vegetarian, but the owner has made it vegan for me twice – just ask nice!) and if they're out of plantains, then the Port Margherita or Port Bella Bella are available in vegan style as well! And don't forget a side of their famous chips. Mmmm. Grab a Lacroix from their fridge and it's the perfect to-go lunch for a beach picnic off the pier.

Storefront Photo by David G.

Chipwrecked Hours: Sun - Tues & Thurs 11:30am - 5:00pm

Closed Wednesdays

Friday - Saturday 11:30am - 7:00pm

California Fresh Market
555 Five Cities Drive

Okay, so technically this is a grocery store BUT hear me out! Inside, they have a coffee bar. Their lovely staff will gladly hook you up with many-a-vegan option from their juice, smoothie, or coffee items. (They use a vegan brown rice protein, and even make their own almond milk in-house!)

Aside from getting to visit the boyfriend at his work, this was a great place to sit down and handle some online tasks while sipping their Energy Smoothie with a shot of espresso added, and sometimes extra banana. Then when you get hangry? Take a break and walk over to their fresh-ass salad bar. It's by the pound, and they even have tofu and vegan soups available.

If you're staying in a hotel, this is also a great place to get your vegan grocery snack haul while getting your caffeine or quick meal on the go. (And say hi to my friend Mia, while you're there!)

Photo by Mia B. - California Fresh Juice Bar

Cal Fresh Hours: 6am - 11pm Daily

Thai Elephant Restaurant
561 Five Cities Drive

Right next door to California Fresh, you'll run into Thai Elephant Restaurant. The best vegan thai options in the area, hands down. And super friendly service.

Photo by Mia B.

Thai Hours: Sunday 11:30am - 9:30pm; Closed Mondays
Tues - Thurs 11am - 3pm / 4pm - 9pm
Friday 11am - 3pm / 4pm - 9:30pm
Saturday 11:30am - 9:30pm

Hapy
821 Oak Park Blvd

Falafel Burger Heaven.
Pro-tip: be sure to order NO tzaziki. For some reason, they actually do use dairy in their tzaziki, so steer clear. Not to worry, though, it won't be a dry sandwich - they really pile on the hummus and LTOP for you. This one will definitely fill you up and please your palate!

Hapy Hours: Sunday 11am - 9pm; Mon - Wed 11am - 9:30pm;
Thurs - Sat 11am - 10pm

Gino's Pizza
533 Five Cities Drive

On the opposite side of California Fresh, you'll find Gino's Pizza. Everybody loves Gino's! And what's not to love? It's got a low-key Chicago or New York vibe with the Italian family-style setting, local beer on tap, and tasty pizza and pasta. I typically prefer pizza over pasta, but I 10/10 recommend their spaghetti marinara. You can't go wrong with this simple dish at Gino's.

Gino's Hours: 11am - 9pm Daily

Last, but certainly not least...

Old West Cinnamon Roll
861 Dolliver St.

Old West cinnamon rolls (without the cream cheese frosting) are - here are the million dollar words - accidentally vegan! I know, I could hardly believe it myself.

The ingredients for their rolls are listed on a giant board as you walk in. People come from all over to eat here. These are the best cinnamon rolls of your life... Pecan, Walnut, Raisin, Original, Almond... and they DO offer non-dairy milk in their coffees/lattes, if you ask. It's a MUST. STOP.
You're welcome.

Photo by B.J. - almond cinnamon roll at Pismo Pier

Old West Hours: 6:30am - 5:30pm Daily

That wraps up Pismo Beach and Part Two of this Foodie Hideaways series. Check in next week for Part Three: San Luis Obispo. You're definitely going to want to hit up this quirky college town for their eats - and the people, considering it's voted one of the happiest places in the country!

Sunset at Pismo Pier

Foodie Hideaways: California Series, Part 1

Hello, and welcome to the first foodie hideaways series!

For this three-part entry, I'm going to walk you through all of the tucked away gems on the central coast that are just begging you to stop in and find their yummy plant-based menu options among their "regular", omnivorous items.

Champagne sunset at Avila Beach

Whether you're travelin' through or Cali-based, I've listed more than a handful of spots in multiple beach towns for you to explore. 

These places may be sleepy, but your appetite doesn't have to be! 😉

Last week, I posted about the The Best All-Vegan Restaurants on the Central Coast of California. (If you're looking for restaurants that are 100% vegan, check that one out.) This week, I figured I'd stick with the theme and elaborate on some other awesome eats where you can still order plant-based food.

So, without further ado, here are some popular spots to still get your vegan kicks on the central coast!

GROVER BEACH.

Red Bee Coffee
278 W. Grand Ave.
Hours: Mon - Thurs 6:30 - 4:00 pm; Friday 6:30 - 5:00 pm
Saturday 7:00 - 5:00 pm; Sunday 7:00 - 4:00 pm

Superfood Bites

The friendliest and happiest baristas I've ever interacted with. They remember your face, even if it's been a while, and their coffee tastes the BEST in my opinion – and there's food! The veggie panini is vegan, but if you want more of a breakfast snack, you can always go for the $3 nut bar or the $1 superfood bites.

Garland's Hamburgers
701 W. Grand Ave.
Hours: 11am - 8pm Daily

Black Bean Burger, Fried Zuchinni, Fries

The name sounds like a deterrent to most herbivores, but I promise you they have options!
You'll find this one on the main drag, or Grand Avenue, the strip on the way out to the beach – they have a black bean and a veggie burger basket option (just ask for no mayo).
The must-try, though, is their fried zuchinni – the freshest fried zuke chips you'll ever eat.

(After you're done at Garland's, walk next door and check out the California Cool thrift store.)

Sushi 805
460 W. Grand Ave.
Hours: 12pm - 10pm Daily (10:30pm Friday/Saturday)

Veggie Tempura Roll

"Wait - you can eat sushi?!"
YEP. 
You can still be vegan and try the best sushi in town! Just go to Sushi 805 and order their veggie tempura roll, veggie roll, avocado roll, or veggie yaki soba. You'll be glad you tried some California sushi, belive you me.

ARROYO GRANDE.

Branch Street Deli
203 E. Branch St.
Hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 8:30 pm; Sunday 10am - 4pm

Photo by Wesley S.

I know of this place because we would order from here for work production meetings. Here's another one of those instances where you'll have to ask for something sans some non-vegan items – but well worth it. Super fresh veggie sandwich with hummus, no swiss and no mayo.

Cafe Andreini
131 E. Branch St.
Hours: Monday - Friday 6am - 6pm
Saturday 7am - 6pm; Sunday 7am - 4pm

Wake Me Up Toast

Cafe Andreini is a must-visit. They have such a cool vibe, and they offer wine and beer, as well as coffee drinks and kombucha. When I questioned the cashier for what I could have that is vegan, she recommended the “Wake Me Up” avocado toast.
Bruh.
Let me tell you... you may think you can make avocado toast at home. But you're wrong.

When in California, let the Californians handle your avocado dishes. They'll never steer you wrong. Topped with tomatoes, microgreens, lemon pepper, and balsamic drizzle, I squeezed a lemon over top and felt so effing fancy. For how much? $7.25. They consider it an open-faced sandwich, so you can't be mad about a $7 sandwich. Trust me.

Alphy's Broiler
130 W. Branch St.
Hours: Mon - Sat 6:30am - 7:00pm; Sunday 6:30am - 3:00pm

Menu Photo by Ollie M.

A funny little counter service place with a giant patio and maybe two tables indoors – great for patio sitting, I'm sure, but I've only ordered to-go for lunch meetings.
I've never been so obsessed with a salad in my life.
They PACK it in a large (compostable) to-go container, throw on half an avocado, and give you two giant “croutons”... which are more like bread loaf ends, in size! The salad name: The Veggie. Ask for no blue cheese, and get it with balsamic. Mmmhmmm.

OCEANO.

Not much to mention in the dusty little town of Oceano right by the dunes... however, if you stop in at the Melodrama (shout-out! My former work place) to see a show, you can definitely ask for some vegan-friendly items there (the "Ole Ole", popcorn, and a few other snacks) – but if you're looking to go for dinner before or after a show, stop next door at Sylvester's and get their black bean burger and fries. They'll even offer you a free burger basket on your birthday!

Great American Melodrama
1863 Front Street
Hours: 11am - 6pm (Box Office)
Shows: See Calendar.

Preset stage for A Christmas Carol

Sylvesters Burgers
1875 Front Street

Photo by Rigs R. - garlic fries

Hours: 11am - 9pm Daily
www.sylvestersburgers.com

This concludes Part One of foodie hideaways for this round of beach-y eats!

Because you've read this far (woo-hoo!) I'll let you in on what's to come:
Part Two will cover hot spots in Pismo Beach, and Part Three San Luis Obispo.

Stick with me 'til next week, and I'll let you in on the best hidden places to go with your non-vegan friends or family while you're in, or may be planning to go to, the central coast.

Happy Eats, Friends!

Kyle at SLO Brew - The Rock's $2 Pint Night