It’s not always easy being a vegetarian in Tahoe where many casual dining restaurants focus on what visitors want to eat while on vacation – burgers, pasta, pizza and the like.
I love pizza and pasta (probably too much) and most eateries offer veggie burgers now, some even made in house, but I crave healthy, more nutritious options when I dine out.
Dining choices for vegetarians have always been more plentiful on the South Shore, however, and I was excited to return to some of my favorite spots during a recent 3-day workcation I took (read the story in this edition) to satiate my cravings. Here’s some of my favorite spots.
Freshies | Long before you could find even veggie burgers on anyone’s menu, Freshies was serving tasty vegetarian offerings. I’ve enjoyed the tacos, noddle bowl and red curry during past visits, but this time I went for something new – the Mana Meal. And what a meal.
The server laughed when I was taken aback by the size of the meal when it arrived – a massive plate with brown rice piled high with a yummy, crunchy, housemade grain loaf of oats, peas, beans and rice topped with sautéed mushrooms and vegan gravy. You’ll definitely have leftovers to enjoy later. | freshiesohana.com
The Divided Sky | This local favorite in Meyers has long been a great spot for music, drinks, meeting up with friends and delicious vegetarian fare. It’s been years since I’ve been in, so when my friends Karly Trout and Brian Strouse suggested it for dinner, I was in.
The Divvied Sky did not disappoint with delicious grilled sandwiches and a mountainous vegetarian nacho platter. I enjoyed one of their many vegetarian sandwiches – The Pollard with grilled eggplant, onions and a basil pesto on ciabatta. I could only eat half. | thedividedsky.com
Sprouts | The next day, Karly and I enjoyed lunch at Sprouts Café after a walk on the Cove East Trail. I’ve enjoyed many delicious menu items through the years, but I always return to my favorite – the Rice Bowl Cadillac. Brown rice, a trio of beans, carrots and red cabbage are topped with salsa and guac and served with tortilla chips. No leftovers this time as I relished every bite. | sproutscafetahoe.com
Artemis Mediterranean Grill | I didn’t get a chance to dine at Artemis, another favorite, on this trip, but I’ve eaten here many times and enjoyed the fresh offerings and I’m a sucker for falafels. I highly recommend trying the hummus and babba ghanoush, as well. | artemismediterraneangrill.com
I’ll share my favorite North Shore and Truckee vegetarian spots another time. Enjoy your visit to these local eateries and share your favorites with us @TheTahoeWeekly.
