Vegetarian on Montrose

Montrose Avenue is not only the southern border of the Ravenswood neighborhood; but it is also home to some of the popular restaurants that offer either vegetarian or vegan options. It only takes a short walk West from Clark street to begin to see that this neighborhood is ready to cater to all ranges of culinary needs. Here are just a few of those places serving up non-meat deliciousness.

Nested at 1522 W. Montrose near Ashland; this cozy and vibrant Asian-American Fusion restaurant is a new addition to the Ravenswood family. Inside, geometric light fixtures and art work enhance the ambiance of the dining room while the exhibition kitchen prepares the food. Here; vegetarians will find themselves with an abundance of options to satisfy their palate.

The Holy Basil with Vegetables and Tofu: It isn’t blessed by the Pope but this entree deserves some praise with its perfect balance between flavor and spice. The various vegetables (green beans, onion, bell peppers) are perfectly paired with chunks of tofu that are all cooked in delicious chili paste sauce. As vegetarians know; tofu can be a hit or a miss and Bliss Restro did not disappoint with their preparation. The tofu absorbed the richness of the sauce flawlessly. The crunch of the veggies followed by the heat of Holy Basil will help clear any winter sniffles. The dish overall was as much a delight as the left overs from the ample service size of the meal. Even though the interior is on the smaller side of restaurants, the atmosphere is pleasant and promotes conversation amongst the table; especially if one is lucky to see the interesting ornaments on their Christmas Tree.

Don’t forget to indulge in a few non-meat appetizers like their vegetable dumplings or egg rolls. Crunchy exteriors with a tasteful filling and dipping sauce that won’t fill you up before the main event.

A long-time staple in Ravenswood; Bien Me Sabe (1637 W. Montrose) serves traditional Venezuelan cuisine that, while known for strip steak and shredded chicken; offers a variety of vegetarian items among their entrees and appetizers to indulge in.

While sipping on your self-brought wine or beer, take the chance to order the Tequenos; a delicious combination of fried cheese wrapped in wheat flour. These light and fluffy Tequenos come with a sweet n tangy sauce and a spicier aioli that provide the perfect flavor addition to the bather and fried cheese.

There is no better way to experience the taste of vegetarian Venezuelan food like the Arepa. With nearly a third of their selection meat free; it won’t be hard to find a favorite. Take the Tropical Vegan Arepa: Served in fresh Corn-flour bread; marinated tofu, plantains and black beans are brought together for a perfect Venezuelan taste. Even if plantains are not desired; check out the Domino: flavorful black beans and Caribbean cheese that will leave anyone licking the plate (adding the marinated tofu gives it even more substance and zest).

As the name suggests; vegetarians and vegans will find an entire menu that is catered to their tastes and desires at this eclectic restaurant. When it comes to Thai food, often the non-meat eaters must rely on vegetables and tofu but here; soy chicken soy fish and even soy shrimp are battered, fried or sautéed to bring that little extra to the table.

Start your meal out with an order (or two if you want to share) of their crispy chicken nuggets; Soy chicken that is lightly battered then fried and served with a finger-licking sweet chili sauce to dip and/or their Chicken Satay; Marinated and charbroiled chicken on skewers with peanut sauce and cucumber salad on the side. These appetizers are sized perfectly to hold you over until the main course.

The entrée selection is dizzying in all the best ways with the knowledge of their soy-meat selection. From Spicy Bok Choy to Sweet and Sour, the vegetarians can have it all. While it’s near impossible to pinpoint a dish that stands above the rest, the Orange Chicken was a prime example of perfectly marinated soy-chicken in their zesty orange sauce and provided an ample supply of take-home.