When you think of Philadelphia food the famous Philly Cheese Steak probably comes to mind. However, there are just as delicious options sans meat for all the vegetarians out there. Here are 5 of the best vegetarian eats in and around Philadelphia.
1. Brekkie Board at Bluestone Lane Cafe
This Brekkie Board at Bluestone Lane Cafe in Rittenhouse Square in Philly allows breakfast goers to enjoy half portions of their Avocado Smash and Collective Granola. The Avocado Smash consists of multigrain toast with vegemite, heirloom cherry tomatoes, feta, and, of course, avocado. This was my first time trying vegemite and I have to say it was a great and unique addition to the toast. The second component to the plate was the Collective Granola which has greek yogurt, house-made granola, coconut chips, seeds, nuts, fruit, and citrus curd. This outstanding breakfast hits the spot without containing any meat.
2. Spinach Artichoke Pizza at Jules Thin Crust
With 15 different vegetable pizzas and 4 cheese options to choose from, Jules Thin Crust is pizza heaven for vegetarians. Pictured here is their Cheese #4 and Veggie #6. The cheese option here is a simple pizza with organic tomato sauce and mozzarella. Veggie #6 is made with artichoke hearts, spinach, garlic, mozzarella, and pesto sauce. Jules Thin Crust has six locations in the suburbs of Philadelphia so you can always satisfy your pizza cravings. Their 19 veggie friendly options will have you constantly coming back for more.
3. Vegan Taco from the Blue Route Taco Truck
This vegan taco from the Blue Route Taco Truck can be found on the roof of the Whole Foods Market in Lower Gwynedd, PA. The truck offers four different types of tacos with components such as chicken, fish, pork, and vegan sausage. They also serve up freshly made chips with salsa and guacamole. The taco pictured here is both vegan and vegetarian friendly. It is made with spicy vegan sausage, pico de gallo, and a soft tortilla. Blue Route's taco was very enjoyable, as were the views on the rooftop.
4. Veggie Burger at Iron Hill Brewery
This black bean burger from Iron Hill Brewery is a super tasty vegetarian option. The black bean patty is topped with pico de gallo, pickled jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and ancho-honey mayonnaise on a sesame seed bun. This burger has great flavor and the jalapeños packed a nice punch. I opted to have sweet potato fries on the side which were also outstanding. They were perfectly salted and thick cut and paired nicely with the spicy burger. Don't worry about how you'll get your fill of these veggie burgers, because Iron Hill Brewery has 9 locations in the Philly area.
5. Peanut Butter Chocolate Donut from Beiler's Donuts
Head into the Reading Terminal Market in Philly and you'll find dozens of food and drink vendors that can satisfy and food craving you might have. However, one standout vendor is Beiler's Donuts. They have over 50 different flavors of donuts that are fresh-made and hand-rolled daily. In order to satisfy my sweet tooth I got one of their donuts filled with peanut butter creme and topped with chocolate icing. It was the perfect marriage of two flavors and the dough was incredibly fluffy. I will definitely be visiting again to try out one of the 49 flavors I haven't had yet.
Vegetarian or not these are five great options to try out if you are in the Philly area. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert these dishes will not disappoint.