Food

Mariachi’s Dine-In in Fort Worth offers a fully loaded vegan menu, featuring plant-based Tex-Mex classics like tacos, quesadillas, and burritos. Owner Ashley Miller, a long-time vegan, expanded her offerings at a new location with a vibrant, urban atmosphere, making vegan Mexican food accessible and appealing to all dietary preferences.

Tex-Mex vegan cafe Belenty’s Love, founded by Belen Hernandez, offers plant-based Mexican dishes in Fort Worth. The vibrant venue serves homemade, cruelty-free options like Chickenless Enchiladas and Beefless Quesadillas. Hernandez plans further expansion due to the success of her unique concept.

The Boneless Butcher in Dallas, founded by Crystal Gomez, offers vegan steaks as sustainable meat alternatives. Gomez perfected her recipe and expanded her offerings to include Boneless Ribz, aiming to appeal to both vegans and meat-eaters. She plans retail and local farmers market expansions, with hopes for a storefront.

Stephanie and Mark Garza launched Planted Bakery in Fort Worth during quarantine, offering 100% plant-based goods. Their vegan bakery, known for unique "cruffins" and other delights, has been well-received locally and beyond. They prioritize community service and offer options for the lactose intolerant, promoting a plant-based lifestyle.

The Texas Poor People’s Campaign launched a community garden in Waxahachie, helping the disenfranchised during the pandemic. The initiative aims to teach sustainable living and honor history. Organizers emphasize food security and environmental justice, with support from local officials and community figures.

The Healthy Hippie Cafe, a plant-based venue in Watauga, expanded its space during quarantine, adding a bar and live music. Owners Kelli and Darrell Myatt doubled the venue's size to 3,000 square feet and introduced new menu items, outdoor seating, and special events.

North Texans encourage reviving Victory Gardens, a WWII tradition of home gardening, due to its health and environmental benefits. Gardening boosts immunity, mental well-being, and offers fresh produce. Experts advise on starting seeds, choosing plants, and utilizing small spaces, emphasizing patience and local resources.

Local vegan and vegetarian eateries have adapted to the pandemic by offering takeout and delivery options. Favorites like V-Eats, Nature’s Plate, Spiral Diner, Kalachandji’s, Reverie Bakeshop, The Healthy Hippie, Boulevard of Greens, and Righteous Foods are providing creative solutions to continue serving plant-based meals while encouraging community support.

Organic strawberries at Storm Farms, Arlington, will ripen early this year. The farm, offering U-Pick strawberries and other crops, is located in Dalworthington Gardens. Proprietor Johanna Storm, adding new crops annually, emphasizes agricultural practices and community engagement. Visits are recommended via Storm Farms' Facebook or web page.

With the holiday season right around the corner, it can be a busy and hectic time – so eating out or picking up ready-made meals is worth exploring. This Thanksgiving - why not try some delicious local plant-based options that will make even carnivore Uncle Bob’s mouth water?