Biz Travel and Eating Vegan

I travel a lot on business. Too much. I am often asked how I can sustain a healthy vegan diet while on the road. In all honesty it is not that hard if you can remember one word: Ask.

Favorite meal this week- room service pizza-to die for!

I have come to the conclusion that I can eat just about anywhere. As a last resort there is always a mixed green salad or baked potato without the butter and sour cream but what I have found is that most chefs are more than willing to accomodate a vegan meal if you just ask.

Veggie burger and fries at Cibo Bistro and Wine bar
Philadelphia Airport

If you do ask, be willing to answer a lot of questions and ask a few of your own.  Be willing to allow the chef creative license- you may find you get a meal much better than expected and once in a while one that is downright divine!

OK, this  I did not ask for... but I found it at a concession stand 
Philadelphia Airport

I have spent the last two weeks traveling back and forth to Denver, a city that I find to be relatively vegan un-friendly. But, I was able to eat pretty well anyway (no rental car  so I mostly "dined" in).  But,  I ate well. Because I was willing to ask.

Tofu with spicy oriental glaze and steamed vegetables at Sonoma'z
Denver Marriott South at Park Meadows

I honestly believe that a decent chef welcomes the opportunity to stray from the routine of their day to day dishes and create something different and delicious. Don't get me wrong. It is not like I don't ever have a bad meal on the road but fortunately they are fewer than the good ones!

Room Service no cheese pizza
Denver Marriott South at Park Meadows

While in Denver  this week I  was lucky enough to frequent my favorite Denver chain restaurant- Tokyo Joe's! Never been to Tokyo Joe's?  That in itself it is worth the trip to Denver!

Boulder Veggie Bowl from Tokyo Joe's
Photo courtesy of Fit on the Rocks

The last last night in Denver this week left me too tired to do anything but pack and order room service.  Turned out to be a great choice!

Spinach salad with roasted beets and tomatoes room service
 Denver Marriott South Park Meadows

Garlicky veggie pasta room service
Denver Marriott South Park Meadows

All in all, though a short trip, it was a good one. I believe I am going to be able to settle in at home now for a few weeks. And, for as much as I enjoy the pursuit of a good meal on the road there is no place like my own kitchen!

Bon Appetit!