March 13, 2023

Top Vegetarian Options at UVA

Welcome to the world of vegetarian cuisine! 

Fellow vegetarians know that going to a restaurant and trying to find variety can sometimes be a gamble.

You might know the feeling of opening a menu and trying to hunt down your options a little too well.

But what if we told you there were more options than a veggie burger and fries (although you can't go wrong with that combo!)

The foodie in you doesn't have to compromise when finding vegetarian dishes around campus that pack in the flavor. In fact, some of our favorite vegetarian meals have been enjoyed right here at UVA. 

Come take a food tour with us to find some of our go-to vegetarian spots and meals!

1. Lemongrass - Mango Curry With Jasmine Rice

This dish was literally made for all the curry lovers out there. It's safe to say once you have this Mango Curry, it's hard not to want to order it again and again (and again). The creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors all blend so well together to make a flavor symphony in your mouth. Plus, it comes with a bed of rice, and we really can't think of anything that goes better together with curry. Lemongrass is a must-try restaurant.

2. Thyme & Co - Manousheh Falafel

If you're like us, you're probably always in the mood for falafel, and nothing satisfies that craving quite like this Manousheh Falafel from Thyme & Co. Each falafel is made with mouth-watering spices, fresh veggies, and home-made tahini sauce that we seriously would put on everything if we could. Need we say more? 

3. Roots Natural Kitchen - Mad Bowl 

A bowl of goodness - that's what you're getting with the Mad Bowl. Who doesn't love getting the perfect bite every time? We know we do, and that's what happens when we eat at Roots Natural Kitchen. You're sure to get a mouthful of fresh toppings and delicious vinaigrettes that you simply can’t get enough of. 

4. Corner Juice - Banana Toast

Raise your hand if you like to start your mornings off with something sweet! We go absolutely bananas for this tasty Banana Toast from Corner Juice. We already know that bananas and honey make the perfect pair but adding almond butter, almond slivers, chia seeds, and coconut flakes to the mix is a recipe for success. Even if you're just looking for a healthy and sweet treat, this toast is a great dessert. 

5. Box'd Kitchen - Veggies Over Rice And Salad

Sure, you may have had veggies, rice, and salad. But have you had it quite like this? The Veggies Over Rice And Salad dish from Box'd Kitchen puts a twist on the veggies you may know and love. With their pepper chickpeas, box'd basmati rice, house salad, and so much more - you're getting a top-notch meal. 

6. Pearl Island Cafe - Creole Beans Platter 

Whenever we're at Pearl Island Cafe, we know to order the Creole Beans Platter - it's really a no-brainer! Not only is this dish for vegetarians, but it's also vegan-friendly. It’s a platter that doesn't skip out on the flavor. 

7. Oakhurst Inn Cafe - Quinoa And Root Salad Bowl

Not all salad bowls are the same. So trust us when we say that this Quinoa And Root Salad Bowl is unique. Just look at that list of ingredients included, they really load you up at Oakhurst Inn Cafe. And we wouldn't have it any other way. 

8. The Biltmore - 3 Cheese Veggie Sub

CHEESE, please! When you're looking for the ultimate comfort food, cheese lovers can turn to the 3 Cheese Veggie Sub at The Biltmore. That ooey, gooey, cheesy goodness can be found with each bite. They toss in provolone, American, and mozzarella cheeses together on a toasted amoroso roll, and they don't even stop there. They top each roll with fresh veggies too - and it's so good! 

9. Tropical Smoothie - Chia Banana Boost

For those on the go, a smoothie in hand is always a good idea. Especially when it's the Chia Banana Boost from Tropical Smoothie. If you need the energy to tackle the day ahead, then we recommend this as your next drink. It's made with so many deliciously nutritious ingredients that help to put an extra spring in your step. 

10. The Market At Preston - Yogaville

We love a good sandwich, and Yogaville from The Market At Preston is no exception. It's got everything you'd want in a sandwich, plus it comes with Deep River chips, a chocolate chip cookie, and your choice of drink. It's a great combo to satisfy your cravings. 

Conclusion

Although our food tour is coming to a close, we encourage all our fellow vegetarians to give any of these meals a try the next time you're at UVA. We'd love to hear which meals made your top ten list!

To join Elevate at UVA and enjoy these delicious meals on your meal plan, go to elevatemealplan.com/uva

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