Andrew Ridout

Food Reporter

Andrew Ridout, has a degree in software engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington and is currently living in Dallas. He has written articles for The Daily Texan newspaper and numerous other personal essays both for school and work.

He is a strong advocate of a wholly plant-based diet. He's the founder of Frankly Good, a vegan baking company. Contact him at fridout106@gmail.com.

By Andrew Ridout

Jun 26 2023, ANDREW RIDOUT

Spiral spin-off revolves around vegan donuts and ice cream

Dreamboat Vegan Donuts and Scoops, a new vegan dessert shop in Fort Worth, offers vegan donuts and expanded ice cream options. Located near Spiral Diner, Dreamboat pairs sweet treats with ice cream and offers a variety of flavors and seasonal items in a chic urban location.

Mar 30 2023, ANDREW RIDOUT

Plant-based pizzeria in Fort Worth expands DFW's vegan scene

Pizza Verde, a 100% plant-based pizzeria in Fort Worth, was founded by Jennifer and Landon Cabarubio, offering a diverse vegan menu with unique toppings and their own dairy-free mozzarella. After pop-up beginnings, they opened a brick-and-mortar location, expanding DFW’s vegan dining scene.

Feb 10 2023, ANDREW RIDOUT

Local couple crafts vegan chocolate with sustainable twist

Wicked Bold, a vegan chocolate company in Flower Mound, Texas, was founded by Deric and Brooklynn Cahill to offer sustainably sourced, additive-free chocolates. Their products, including spicy Cayenne Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt varieties, are available at Dallas-Fort Worth Whole Foods and online.

Nov 17 2022, ANDREW RIDOUT

Vegan Thanksgiving fare 'greens up' your plate

Thanksgiving, a beloved time for family, friends, and a feast, now offers abundant vegan options that rival traditional dishes. Vegan products have surged, with restaurants and stores like Field Roast and Gardein providing plant-based roasts. Dine-in, takeout, or home cooking, vegan choices brighten the holiday table.

Oct 14 2022, ANDREW RIDOUT

One Spiral closes, three new venues to open next year

Spiral Diner, a beloved Dallas vegan eatery, closed after 14 years but will open three new venues in Tarrant County: a new Spiral Diner in Arlington and two Fort Worth ventures, Maiden and Dreamboat Donuts and Scoops, offering plant-based fine dining, donuts, and ice cream in early 2023.

Aug 05 2022, ANDREW RIDOUT

Rangers' vegan concession stand offers winning lineup

Rangers' vegan concession stand at Globe Life Field offers plant-based classics like hotdogs, burgers, and nachos, thanks to the efforts of vegan advocate Twalla Grant. Since its launch in 2016, it has become a model for other MLB stadiums. The stand features popular items like vegan nachos and bratwurst.

Apr 12 2022, ANDREW RIDOUT

McDonald's tests McPlant burger in Texas venues

McDonald's launches its plant-based McPlant burger at 600 locations in Texas and California, collaborating with Beyond Meat for a patty made from peas, rice, and potatoes. The initiative aligns with McDonald's sustainability goals. Vegan options are trending, with competitors like Burger King also offering plant-based items.

Mar 04 2022, ANDREW RIDOUT

Vegans get 'chikn' fix at new plant-based venue in Dallas

Vegans can now indulge in comfort food at Project Pollo in Dallas, offering delectable plant-based dishes like Mushroom Impossible Cheeseburgers and Buffalo Mac N’ Cheez. Founded by Lucas Bradbury, the chain is expanding rapidly, aiming to promote animal welfare and affordable, tasty vegan options nationwide.

Sep 01 2021, ANDREW RIDOUT

Fort Worth taco shop offers fully loaded vegan menu

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.

Apr 08 2021, ANDREW RIDOUT

Tex-Mex vegan cafe finds home in Cowtown

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.

Mar 10 2021, ANDREW RIDOUT

Dallas vegan deli sells tasty plant-based steaks

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.

Jul 28 2020, ANDREW RIDOUT

Fort Worth bakery delivers the plant-based goods

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.