Eating out as a vegetarian isn’t always easy. You not only have to be wary of dishes that feature meat but also those that contain broths or flavorings. Thankfully, with a little research, it’s easy to find vegetarian food that suits your palate. Here are a few tips to ensure dining success.

3 Tips for Eating Out as a Vegetarian

1. Explore the Menu

Most restaurants have their menus online, allowing patrons to peruse options beforehand. Search for a section that lists vegetarian food.

If they don’t have anything specific, call the restaurant and ask if they can accommodate your needs. Obtaining this information before your arrival can alleviate confusion and reduce the time it takes to place your order.

2. Learn the Ingredients

Each type of cuisine is known for certain ingredients, and knowing what they are can prevent any unfortunate surprises. For example, Thai food tends to have red, green, and yellow curries that contain nam pla, a salty sauce made from fermented fish. Korean dishes, on the other hand, can feature kimchi, and its pungent aroma can disguise the flavors of shrimp or fish paste. If you’re ever unsure, ask if the restaurant can omit the liquids and prepare your dish with soy sauce instead.

3. Get Creative

When it comes to spontaneous trips out to eat, rather than declining the offer, find a way to get creative. Start with the appetizer section of the menu. If there’s no vegetarian food available, move on to the salads. Ask about sides and whether the restaurant will allow you to order them separately from an entree. With a little ingenuity, you can create a satisfying vegetarian spread.

Find a wide selection of tasty vegetarian food at Thailand Cuisine 2 in Kahului, HI. They offer a full menu of authentic Thai cuisine made with only the freshest ingredients. Some of their most popular vegetarian items include Pad Thai Tofu, Ginger Coconut Tofu Soup, and Panang Tofu. For a look at the menu, visit their website. Call (808) 875-0839 to place an order.