In the January 2013 issue of Orlando Magazine, I wrote a story about part-time vegetarianism. It seems that it’s becoming less of a trend and more of a way of life for those of us realizing that we don’t need to cut meat out entirely to reap benefits like lower cholesterol and weight loss; cutting it down makes a big impact too. READ MORE.
So, for those dipping a toe into the world of vegetarian eating, here are a few local eateries that will not only serve up a delicious and hearty meat-free meal, but they might even inspire some vegetarian cooking in your kitchen. Oh, and they’re great date night spots too!
Ethos Vegan Kitchen
Recently relocated from Ivanhoe Village to its new home in Winter Park, Ethos Vegan Kitchen boasts a menu of fare free of meat, dairy and eggs. Expect hearty comfort food in an uber-casual setting where hippies and hipsters happily mix. Ethos demonstrates that eating vegan isn’t just for veggie extremists; even carnivores are savoring these meatless meals.
Café 118
Those with progressive palates will appreciate Winter Park’s herbivore hotspot, Café 118, where a menu of entirely raw and organic “living cuisine” attracts a foodie crowd ready to dine on meals designed by celebrity raw chef Matthew Kenney. Located just off Park Avenue, this chic eatery features BYO wine with no corkage fee, plus plenty of guiltless desserts and smoothies.
Loving Hut
At this 100 percent vegan downtown diner, the staff is rumored to meditate for two hours each day to make sure each dish is infused with pure love. Offering lots of veggie takes on favorites like stir fry, spring rolls, and noodle dishes, the Loving Hut pays homage to a wide variety of Asian cuisines as well as a few American mainstays, such as a vegan club sandwich.
P.S. Here's a segment I did on Fox 35 about flexitarianism and it also gives some restaurant ideas.