Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Time to get your (vegan) street food on!


Welcome, food truck food lovers!

One of the most exciting non-political (though it did become political!) things to happen in our nation’s capital lately has been the proliferation of street food. No, not more of those icky hot dog vending carts emanating that awful smell, but actual freshly-prepared off-the-truck street food. You know, like in “real cities.”

For far too long DC has lagged far behind other major metropolitan areas in terms of its street food scene. Yeah, I realize we’re not known for our trendsetting ways. I do still see women walking around in black panty hose and white shoes, or Dog forbid—suits and sneakers ala Tess McGill. Still, it has always struck me as a bit odd that in cities all around the world there is a vibrant street food scene, but here? Nada. And no, half smokes don’t count.

Much to my delight, and clearly that of many others, that’s all changed now; and to my further delight, many of these food trucks have vegan options—some even using the word “vegan” on their website and/or menus on the truck. Most I have contacted directly have been very welcoming of my questions regarding their vegan offerings, and are happy to modify an item if needed. Some even solicit ideas from their fans on how to be more vegan friendly.

As veganism becomes more “mainstream” (well, it is), most food trucks as well as brick and mortar restaurants will have no choice but to provide a decent selection of vegan foods. Sure, there are some that don’t now, nor will they ever, but if they pay attention to their bottom line—which they have to; and to their reputation—which they should; we will see more and more vegan options from non-vegan restaurateurs.    

This blog has grown out of my love for good food, food trucks, local businesses, and that certain something I can’t quite put my finger on that causes such excitement when these things come together. I will be patronizing and contacting as many of DC’s beloved food trucks as I can, and I will share the reviews and news with you. Your own reviews are welcome, as is any information you have to share regarding vegan food truck eats, in DC or elsewhere.

So, tuck in your paper napkin and grab your plastic fork…it’s time for street food!

2 comments:

  1. We offer dairy free cheese, and tomato pies any day of the week, all with lotsa veggie options. Hope to see you at the curb!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi! I was wondering if you have a list of the food trucks that have vegan options (and what they are, but who they are is more important). Thanks!

    ReplyDelete