What we know as veganism is trending, but not new. The choice to not eat or use animal products is, in fact, centuries—indeed millennia—old. In the 20th century, for example, India’s Gandhi went beyond Hindu vegetarianism to quit dairy and eggs, too, and opined, “We should cease to kill our fellow creatures for the satisfaction of our bodily wants.”
Today’s veganism, however, joins wellness with compassion. Medical experts say benefits can include positive effects for weight loss, diabetes, arthritis, cancer and more. Little wonder, then, that the number of vegans in the U.S. has jumped by a reported 3,000 percent in the last 15 years—and that chefs across the country are now creating vegan delights so good we all can love them.
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
Honolulu
Duke’s Waikiki is named for Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, the legendary Hawaiian surfer who once rode a Waikiki wave for more than a mile. This beachfront hangout is known for its tiki vibe and umbrella drinks, but don’t miss out on the wild mushroom and spinach vegan ravioli in a coconut ginger broth, accompanied by roasted sweet potatoes and locally sourced veggies.
Kimpton Aertson Hotel
Nashville, Tennessee
Overlooking the scenic Vanderbilt University campus in Midtown, this boutique hotel centerpiece of the Aertson mixed-use destination offers a spring vegan take on classic French cassoulet at its Henley restaurant. Oyster mushrooms and kale paired with earthy garlic confit and slow-braised tomatoes pair with white beans and a pickled turnip garnish to give big, earthy flavor to the creation.
Read More: Tennessee Backstage
Caesars Palace Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
Nevada
You know vegan dining is in high demand when Mr. Beef Wellington himself, fiery chef Gordon Ramsay, offers a separate vegan menu at his Hell’s Kitchen location on The Strip. Standout dish is the pan-seared tofu scallops with celery root, micro arugula and lemon oil. Other winners are the truffled artichoke risotto and spicy “white beans in purgatory” with cashew cream cheese.
Read More: 3 Las Vegas Bar Experiences for Groups
Hilton London Bankside
England
The “vegan suite” at this property near Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre boasts its own plant-based check-in desk with seating covered in pineapple leather, plus featherless bedding, bamboo flooring and organic cotton carpets in the suite. There’s a vegan minibar, and the hotel’s culinary team created a vegan in-room menu that features dining options like five-bean dhal. Plus, you can pick your own herbs.
This article appears in the digital-only May 2023 and June 2023 issue. You can subscribe to the magazine here.
