Category: GF Vegan On The Go

What I Ate Gluten-Free & Vegan in Cleveland, Ohio

Our visit to Cleveland, Ohio, was packed with fun sightseeing and, of course, delicious food. While we were excited to visit iconic spots like the Christmas Story House and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, we were just as eager to discover plant-based eats in the area. After a full day of exploring, we found a vibrant vegan spot just outside the city called The Vegan Club CLE — and it turned out to be one of the best meals of our trip.

Colorful Vibes & Warm Hospitality

As we pulled up to The Vegan Club, we were immediately drawn to the welcoming storefront and the cheerful interior. We arrived just before closing time and were lucky enough to be seated and served by the owner himself. The atmosphere was bright and modern, filled with vibrant art and cozy seating — a perfect place to unwind after a day on our feet.

The service was wonderful. The owner was incredibly kind and knowledgeable about the menu, taking extra care to point out the gluten-free options available. It’s always refreshing to dine somewhere that takes dietary needs seriously without compromising flavor or experience.

Our Gluten-Free Vegan Feast

We started by ordering a large bottle of Pellegrino sparkling water to share, which felt like a refreshing reset after a hot afternoon.

My husband ordered the okra fries and the black bean bowl, which came loaded with chili beans, wild rice, vegan crema, pickled veggies, and guacamole. It was hearty, flavorful, and full of nourishing ingredients.

I decided to treat myself to a more indulgent meal and ordered the Szechuan Buffalo Wingz with a side of fresh-cut French fries. These weren’t your typical vegan wings — they were made from crispy oyster mushrooms, battered in rice flour (yes, gluten-free) and tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce. Served with a creamy aioli, they hit that perfect balance of crunchy, spicy, and satisfying.

The French fries were hand-cut and perfectly crispy, lightly seasoned, and served with classic ketchup on the side. It felt like such a treat to be able to enjoy fried food at a restaurant, which is something I rarely get to do on a gluten-free vegan diet.

A Must-Visit for Plant-Based Travelers

If you’re planning a visit to Cleveland and want to find vegan food that’s both delicious and allergy-friendly, I can’t recommend The Vegan Club enough. Whether you’re looking for something nourishing or craving crispy comfort food, they have something for everyone — and they do it with heart.

Have you ever visited Cleveland or tried The Vegan Club? Let me know in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out the reel at the top of this post to see more behind-the-scenes shots of our experience.

Eating Gluten-Free Vegan at Moe’s in Bloomsburg, PA

On our road trip to Cleveland, Ohio, we made a quick and satisfying stop in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, at Moe’s Southwest Grill. It can be tough to find gluten-free vegan food while traveling, but Moe’s really came through. Watch my short video below to see exactly what I ordered and why I think this is a solid option for road trippers with dietary needs like mine!

Finding Healthy Food on the Road
Traveling with dietary restrictions isn’t always easy—especially when you’re trying to stay healthy and fueled for an athletic event. I was on my way to Cleveland to race in a half marathon, and I knew I needed a nutrient-rich meal that wouldn’t upset my stomach. Fast food is often a no-go for those of us avoiding gluten and animal products, so finding a place like Moe’s that offers customizable meals was a huge win. Stay tuned for upcoming blog posts where I share more vegan-friendly stops we discovered during our time in Ohio!

How Moe’s Works – Just Like Chipotle
If you’ve ever been to Chipotle, the setup at Moe’s will feel very familiar. It’s a made-to-order assembly line where you choose your base, protein, toppings, and extras. This kind of layout is perfect for people with dietary restrictions because you get to see exactly what’s going into your meal, and you can easily skip any ingredients that don’t work for your needs. I found the staff at this location to be helpful and patient as I asked questions about ingredients and cross-contamination.

My Vegan and Gluten-Free Bowl at Moe’s
I went with the Build Your Own Bowl option and packed it with satisfying and flavorful ingredients. My base was cilantro lime rice, and I added black beans, grilled peppers and onions, and roasted corn salsa. For protein, I chose the tofu, which was seasoned well and had a great texture. I topped it all off with shredded lettuce, black olives, and a generous scoop of guacamole. On the side, I grabbed their classic tortilla chips with salsa—simple and delicious. For a refreshing drink, I opted for an AHA sparkling water in lemon and lime, which came from their sleek, state-of-the-art drink machine.

Final Thoughts – Would You Try Moe’s?
Overall, Moe’s in Bloomsburg was a great stop. The restaurant was clean, affordable, and quick, and I left feeling full without any stomach issues—a big deal when you’re eating on the go. I love that Moe’s makes it easy to build a meal that fits a gluten-free vegan lifestyle. Have you tried Moe’s? What do you usually order there? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts and any recommendations for other road trip-friendly vegan spots!

What I Ate Gluten-Free Vegan at the Grand Canyon

What I Ate Gluten-Free Vegan at the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon isn’t just a bucket-list destination for stunning views; it also offers unique dining experiences for those of us navigating special diets. As a gluten-free vegan, I was thrilled to explore how this iconic national park could accommodate my dietary needs. On our honeymoon, we stayed right on the canyon rim at the historic El Tovar Hotel, and its 4-star dining room turned out to be the culinary highlight of our trip.

Here’s a breakdown of what I ate and my honest thoughts about the experience!

Staying at the El Tovar Hotel

Built in 1905, the El Tovar Hotel combines rustic charm with a rich history. We were fortunate to book a room with a view of the canyon, which added so much to the magic of our honeymoon. Waking up to the sun rising over the Grand Canyon from our window is something I’ll never forget.

But let’s get to the food! The El Tovar Hotel boasts a fine-dining restaurant that caters to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan. While the options are limited, the staff was accommodating and knowledgeable, making the experience enjoyable.

Dinner at the El Tovar Dining Room

The restaurant’s ambiance was warm and inviting, with a classic and slightly dark rustic vibe that perfectly complemented the surrounding landscape.

To start, I treated myself to a refreshing Black Cherry White Claw. It was light, fizzy, and the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the canyon. My husband enjoyed the complimentary bread basket, which looked amazing but wasn’t gluten-free, so I had to pass.

For our main course, we both ordered the stuffed portabella mushroom, a seasonal special that was gluten-free and vegan. The dish included a marinated mushroom cap filled with a mix of red peppers, onions, and a balsamic glaze, served alongside a rice pilaf and fresh green beans. While the presentation was beautiful and the ingredients fresh, the strong vinegar taste of the balsamic glaze overpowered the other flavors. If you’re a fan of bold, tangy flavors, this dish might be for you, but it wasn’t my favorite.

Dessert Delight

Dessert saved the meal! I ordered a simple yet delightful lemon sorbet that was absolutely perfect. It was light, refreshing, and the ideal palate cleanser after a rich main course. If you’re dining at El Tovar, this dessert is a must-try, especially if you’re gluten-free vegan.

A Grand Finale

We ended our Grand Canyon adventure with a breathtaking helicopter ride over the canyon. Seeing this natural wonder from above was the perfect way to cap off our visit.

While the dining experience at El Tovar wasn’t flawless, I appreciated the effort to accommodate gluten-free vegan options in such a remote location. I highly recommend the hotel and restaurant for anyone visiting the Grand Canyon. The combination of historic charm, iconic views, and decent plant-based options makes it a worthwhile experience.

Have you dined at the El Tovar or explored other vegan options at the Grand Canyon? Let me know in the comments!

What I Ate Gluten-Free & Vegan in Las Vegas: Crossroads at Resort World

Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, entertainment, and incredible food, but finding delicious gluten-free vegan options can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. On a recent trip, we managed to snag tickets to the Beatles LOVE Cirque du Soleil show at the Mirage, which was a magical, music-filled experience. But by the time the show ended, we had worked up an appetite and were on the hunt for a tasty, plant-based late-night meal.

The Quest for Gluten-Free Vegan Food in Vegas

After filling up on popcorn during the show, I was ready for something a little more substantial. So, I did a quick search for vegan-friendly spots that were still open late and stumbled upon Crossroads Kitchen in the Resort World Casino Hotel. It seemed like a promising choice, so we hopped into a taxi and made our way over!

Crossroads is a renowned vegan fine dining restaurant with locations in other cities, so I was thrilled to see that they’d opened one in Las Vegas. It’s not every day that you find a plant-based restaurant with a dedicated gluten-free menu, and Crossroads did not disappoint!

Dinner at Crossroads: Gluten-Free Vegan Goodness

The menu was packed with all sorts of mouth-watering options, from appetizers to desserts, with many clearly marked gluten-free items. After some deliberation, I settled on their Gluten-Free Sausage, Peppers, and Onion Pizza, complete with creamy cashew cheese. The idea of enjoying pizza at a fine dining spot had me intrigued, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.

When the pizza arrived, it looked absolutely delicious. The cashew cheese was melty and smooth, while the toppings were perfectly seasoned. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors blended, making each bite super satisfying.

However, I did notice that the crust was very thin, which made it a bit of a challenge to lift and eat like a regular slice. Still, the thin crust gave the pizza a lightness that balanced the rich flavors, so I didn’t mind using a fork and knife. The taste was so good that the slightly flimsy crust was easy to overlook!

A Great Option for Plant-Based & Gluten-Free Travelers

Dining at Crossroads was a fantastic experience overall. The ambiance was sophisticated, and it’s refreshing to find a restaurant in Vegas that caters specifically to vegan and gluten-free diets without compromising on taste or quality. Their dedication to plant-based options is evident in every dish, and the flavor combinations show a lot of creativity

If you’re visiting Las Vegas and looking for a great spot to enjoy some plant-based fine dining, I highly recommend checking out Crossroads at Resort World. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or just looking to try something different, this spot has a wide variety of options to explore.

In the meantime, you can catch a glimpse of our experience at Crossroads in my latest Instagram reel, where I walk you through each bite of that tasty pizza! From the thin crust to the creamy cashew cheese, it was the perfect ending to a night on the Las Vegas Strip.

Have you tried Crossroads in Las Vegas? Let me know your favorite dish!

What I Ate in Davis, West Virginia on a Gluten-Free, Vegan Diet During a Half Marathon Weekend

Last weekend, I ran a half marathon in Davis, West Virginia, and let me tell you, it was an adventure both on the trail and in the kitchen! While I was excited about the race, I quickly realized that finding local gluten-free, vegan food in such a remote area would be nearly impossible. We were staying in a small hotel with no kitchen, so I had to be prepared with all my meals. Here’s a rundown of what I ate and how I managed to stay fueled and energized for the big race.

On the Road – Harrisburg, PA Pit Stop

Before we even made it to West Virginia, we took a break in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Luckily, we found a Red Robin on the way. If you follow a gluten-free, vegan diet, you probably already know how tricky it can be to eat out, but Red Robin is a great option. I ordered their veggie burger with a gluten-free bun, and topped it with pickles, lettuce, tomato, and ketchup. The best part? Their endless fries, which are also vegan and gluten-free! This was the perfect road trip meal to keep me satisfied until we arrived at our hotel.

Breakfast – Tofu Scramble with Gluten-Free Wraps

Once we arrived in Davis, I knew I had to stick to my pre-planned meals since there were no local restaurants catering to my dietary needs. For breakfast, I made a tofu scramble ahead of time and brought gluten-free wraps with me. The scramble was packed with fresh vegetables like peppers and kale to keep things nutritious and flavorful. I quickly heated the wraps in a microwave, stuffed them with the tofu scramble, and had a delicious, filling breakfast each morning. This meal was packed with protein and fiber, which helped me stay energized throughout the day, especially before the race. You can find the full tofu scramble recipe on my blog for all the details!

Lunch – 7 Bean Burgers

Lunch was all about convenience, and I found a fantastic option in the 7 bean burger mix by Augason Farms. It’s a dehydrated mix that only requires water. After adding water and allowing it to hydrate, I cooked the burgers in a nonstick pan until they were crispy and browned on both sides. These bean burgers were perfect for a quick, hearty lunch in the hotel, and they packed a ton of flavor. The best part? You can make these at home, too! Check out my blog for step-by-step instructions.

Dinner – 4-Ingredient Taco Mix

For dinner, I kept things super simple but incredibly tasty. I made a 4-ingredient taco mix using black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a taco seasoning packet. This versatile mix can be used in a gluten-free wrap, like a taco, or eaten on its own as a bowl, similar to chili. Either way, it was a delicious, warming dinner after a long day. Plus, it was easy to store in the mini-fridge in our hotel room.

Snack – Fresh Mango

Lastly, for a sweet and refreshing snack, I cut up two ripe mangos before the trip. Mangos are a great portable option, and they were the perfect snack to satisfy my sweet tooth after meals or during breaks between race prep.

Staying Fueled While Traveling

While Davis, West Virginia didn’t have many local food options that fit my gluten-free, vegan diet, I was able to stay on track by planning ahead and preparing all of my meals. It’s not always easy to find plant-based and gluten-free food in remote areas, but with a little prep work, you can still enjoy delicious, nutritious meals no matter where your travels take you. If you want to recreate any of these meals, check out my blog for all the recipes!

Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever been in a similar situation, and how you managed your diet while traveling. Happy eating and running!

What I Ate Gluten-Free and Vegan in Sedona, AZ

If you’re a gluten-free vegan like me, you know the struggle of finding a restaurant that offers delicious, safe options while traveling. That’s why I was thrilled to find Picazzo’s Italian Kitchen in Sedona, Arizona, a true gem for plant-based diners. After spending the day hiking the gorgeous red rocks, my appetite was in full swing, and Picazzo’s did not disappoint.

Hiking Adventures in Sedona

Let’s backtrack a little. My day started with some incredible hikes in Sedona’s scenic desert landscape. If you’ve ever been, you know just how jaw-dropping the views are—towering red rocks, open skies, and peaceful trails. Sedona has some of the most breathtaking hikes I’ve ever done, so by the time dinner rolled around, I was ready for a feast.

Discovering Picazzo’s Italian Kitchen

After a long day outdoors, I headed over to Picazzo’s Italian Kitchen, which has an entire plant-based vegan menu. Yep, you read that right—an entire menu dedicated to plant-based eaters with plenty of gluten-free options. I practically hit the menu lottery!

It’s not often that I find a restaurant that caters to both my vegan and gluten-free lifestyle, so I was beyond excited to explore their offerings. Picazzo’s prides itself on serving organic, wholesome dishes, and it shows in the quality of their food.

The Appetizer: Gluten-Free Cheese Bread

To start off, I couldn’t resist ordering the gluten-free cheese bread. Now, if you’ve been gluten-free for a while, you know how hard it is to find safe, delicious bread at a restaurant, let alone cheese bread! This was a major treat for me—it was perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey with melted vegan cheese on the inside. I can’t even remember the last time I was able to safely enjoy cheese bread at a restaurant. The flavor and texture were spot on. It truly set the tone for the rest of the meal.

The Main Course: Vegan Chick’n Parm

For the main course, I went with their vegan chick’n parm, which came with gluten-free rigatoni pasta and garlic butter French green beans with almonds. Let me tell you, this dish was an absolute dream! The vegan chick’n was perfectly breaded and crispy, the pasta was cooked to perfection, and the green beans added a delicious crunch with a buttery garlic flavor. Every bite was a reminder of why I wished we had a Picazzo’s back home in Pennsylvania!

Dessert: Vegan Cheesecake to Go

I was so full by the time dessert came around, but I couldn’t resist ordering their vegan cheesecake to take back to my Airbnb. Later that evening, I finally dug into the cheesecake, and it did not disappoint! The creamy texture and slight tanginess were everything I had hoped for. It was the perfect way to end an already amazing dining experience.

Why You Should Visit Picazzo’s

If you’re ever in Sedona, Picazzo’s Italian Kitchen is a must-visit spot for gluten-free vegans. The extensive plant-based menu, paired with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, makes it the perfect stop after a day of hiking. Whether you’re craving comfort food like vegan chick’n parm or something lighter, they’ve got you covered.

Sedona is a stunning place, and with food this good, I’m already planning my next trip back!

A Gluten-Free Vegan Adventure in Rehoboth, Delaware

Are you a gluten-free vegan looking to fuel your adventures in Rehoboth, Delaware? Look no further! Join me on a flavorful journey through this charming coastal town, where I discovered three hidden gems for safe and delicious plant-based dining.

Chipotle: Convenient and Delicious

First up on my culinary expedition was Chipotle, a trusty go-to for quick and tasty meals. I opted for a bowl packed with white rice, black beans, peppers, corn, pico, lettuce, and guacamole. While the flavors were on point, there was one drawback – onions galore! As someone with a sensitive stomach, I spent a little extra time picking them out. Nevertheless, Chipotle proved to be a convenient and satisfying option for my gluten-free vegan needs.

Seedbowl: A Haven of Flavor

Next stop: Seedbowl in Rehoboth Beach, a haven for wholesome and flavorful eats. Here, I crafted my dream bowl with quinoa, kale, mushrooms, pesto chickpeas, Asian tofu, scrambled falafel, tomatoes, cucumbers, and garlic red pepper dressing. Each bite burst with deliciousness, leaving me craving more. And let’s not forget about dessert – I indulged in their peanut butter cheesecake and chocolate chip banana muffins, savoring every bite in my hotel room throughout the weekend.

Irish Eyes: Vegan Delights in Unexpected Places

My final stop led me to Irish Eyes in Lewes, where I discovered vegan delights in unexpected places. Although they didn’t offer a gluten-free bun for their Beyond burger, I made do with lettuce, tomato, and mushrooms. Despite a slight hiccup with undercooked patties and unwanted onions, the meal ultimately proved to be a satisfying option for my gluten-free vegan palate.

In conclusion, Rehoboth, Delaware, may be a small town, but it’s big on flavor – especially for gluten-free vegans like myself. Whether you’re fueling up for a race, indulging in post-run treats, or simply exploring the local cuisine, rest assured that Rehoboth has plenty to offer. So, pack your appetite and get ready to embark on your own gluten-free vegan adventure in this coastal paradise!