When it comes to plant-based eating, there are various options to choose from, including vegan and vegetarian food. While both vegan and vegetarian meals avoid meat, there are significant differences between the two. Vegetarianism allows for the consumption of animal-derived products such as milk, cheese, and eggs, whereas veganism eliminates all animal products and by-products. Vegan food tends to rely on alternatives made primarily from plant-based proteins such as tofu and tempeh while vegetarian food often uses dairy and eggs as primary protein sources. Overall, both vegan and vegetarian diets can be healthy options when balanced correctly, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and values.

At Two Chicks, we offer many Vegetarian and Vegan options. Infact- by using a few simple modifications you can make most of our existing menu items meat free or even vegan!

First things first, find the menu key.

Menu keys are a great visual aid for diners when browsing through a restaurant's menu. Menu keys can be found next to menu items, usually in the form of symbols or icons, and they provide important information for the customer. These keys could signify whether an item is vegan, vegetarian, or indicate the degree of spiciness in a dish. To use a menu key, simply look for the symbol or icon that corresponds with the information you're seeking. For instance, if you're looking for vegan options, check for a black “V” in a circle icon next to the menu item. Using menu keys can help diners choose the right dishes, particularly if they have dietary restrictions or preferences.

You could stop there and have some quick and easy options at your fingertips, or by making a few slight modifications you could have the custom plant-based brunch you’ve been craving!

Vegetarian

When choosing vegetarian options at a restaurant, start by looking at the menu for any dishes that are already vegetarian or can easily be made vegetarian. Many restaurants now offer specialized vegetarian menus or clearly mark their vegetarian options. It's also important to communicate with your server and ask about any dishes that may contain hidden animal products, like dishes made with chicken broth or fish sauce. Don't be afraid to ask for substitutions or customizations to make a dish meatless. Finally, don't be afraid to get creative and build your own dish from sides or appetizers. With a little bit of effort and communication, dining out as a vegetarian can be both satisfying and delicious.

Vegan

As more and more people embrace a plant-based lifestyle, many restaurants are beginning to offer vegan options on their menus. But what happens when you go to a restaurant that doesn't have many vegan options listed? Fear not! Many dishes can easily be made vegan with a few simple substitutions. At Two Chicks you can ask for our vegan sausage and vegan eggs, and opt for plant-based milks or coconut milk in place of dairy. We also offer a delicious vegan cheese substitute that can be used to make everything from an omelette all the way to a grilled cheese! Many restaurants also offer a variety of vegetable sides that can be combined to make a filling and delicious meal. Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations or to suggest vegan substitutions.

Vegan food has a reputation for being more expensive than traditional animal-based products. However, we hope that as plant based lifestyles become more mainstream, vegan products will become more affordable. Until then, we are proud to offer high quality, delicious vegan options to our guests.