Since 2014, the number of people choosing to become vegetarian or vegan has grown over 500 percent. To accommodate this trend, existing eateries have expanded their menus and new restaurants have opened that are specifically tailored to vegetarians and vegans.
Compiled by Ally Melnik and Katie Chong, ’18
Exterior of Aladdin’s in Grandview. Photo by Charlotte Janes
Aladdin’s Eatery
This cafe is a Lebanese-American restaurant with locations in Clintonville, Grandview and Worthington. The menu is both vegetarian and vegan friendly, featuring over 40 vegetarian dishes and 30 vegan dishes. There’s also meat-included options to choose from, as well as a selection of gluten-free choices. You can enjoy this wide range of dishes with Aladdin’s selection of fresh smoothies and raw juices. Their prices range from $2.35 to $14.95.
Destination Donuts inside the North Market. Photo by Charlotte Janes
Destination Donuts
This locally-founded donut stand is located in the North Market in downtown Columbus. Destination Donuts prides itself in its use of locally sourced ingredients and commitment to never using preservatives or additives. They offer various flavors in both donuts and donut holes. Flavors change on a regular basis but have previously included buckeye, cookies and cream, salty caramel pecan and maple sausage. Their prices range from $2 to $10.
Dishes from Portia’s Cafe. Photo by Katie Chong
Portia’s Cafe
Located near North High Street, Portia’s Cafe is a vegan cafe with a menu that includes raw vegan, gluten- and GMO-free options. Specific dishes include raw, organic and gluten-free wraps, salads and soups. In addition, Portia’s serves desserts such as mousse, parfaits and macaroons. To top off the menu, Portia’s boasts a variety of smoothies that are freshly blended, as well as a selection of house-made sodas and local coffees. Their prices range from $1 to $14.