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Vegan’s Guide to Eating Well in Glenwood Springs

When it comes to eating vegan while on vacation in Glenwood Springs, knowing where to go takes the guesswork out of dining out.

Eating vegan while traveling often requires careful planning and flexibility. Fortunately, Glenwood Springs restaurants offer a cornucopia of delicious plant-based options for visitors. One of the most significant challenges for vegans is the lack of familiarity with the local dining scene. For the wholesome eats in town, check out the options below.

Best for Breakfast

Vegan breakfasts provide all the essential nutrients you need to kick-start your day. For the ultimate fuel-up, remember to choose menu options that feature whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds and a variety of fruits and vegetables. You’ll find lots of great choices at the following Glenwood Springs breakfast spots.

  • Bluebird Cafe
  • Deja Brew & Sunshine Too
  • Sweet Coloradough

Leading Lunch & Dinner Options

More than ever, Glenwood Springs is a vegan-friendly destination. Even if the restaurant you want to visit is known for its meat-heavy menu, you’ll almost always find something delicious to satisfy your appetite. The establishments listed here are top choices for plant-based dining.

  • Glenwood Canyon Brewpub
  •  Local on Cooper
  • Masala & Curry
  • Native Son
  • Nepal Restaurant
  • Everest Nepal Restaurant
  • Slope & Hatch
  • The Grind (a burger joint that has veggie and falafel burger options)
  • The Pullman
  • Riviera Supper Club & Scratch Kitchen
  • Uncle Pizza and Rocky Mountain Pizza (choose toppings that align with your dietary priorities)
  • Zheng Asian Bistro

Savvy Ordering Skills

As the popularity of veganism continues to rise, Glenwood Springs restaurants and eateries are increasingly catering to the needs of plant-based diners. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just looking for meat and dairy-free options, it’s essential to know how to navigate the menu effectively. Here are some tips on what to seek when perusing choices at local eateries.

  • Start with the Plant-Based Section. Not all, but many restaurants now offer a dedicated section on their menus for vegan food. These dishes are intentionally crafted to be completely free of animal products.
  • Be Cautious with Sauces and Dressings. Sauces and dressings can be sneaky sources of animal-derived ingredients such as butter or hidden dairy products. When ordering, request that sauces or dressings be served on the side or ask for a vegan alternative. Common vegan-friendly options include vinaigrettes, tahini or balsamic glazes.
  • Choose Whole Foods. Opting for dishes that primarily consist of whole, unprocessed plant-based foods is a safe bet. These items are less likely to contain hidden animal ingredients. Look for salads, grain bowls, stir-fries and other dishes loaded with plenty of fresh vegetables and grains.
  • Don’t Forget About Sides and Appetizers. Occasionally, entrees might not be the most vegan-friendly choice on the menu. In such cases, explore the appetizers and sides sections. Even restaurants that specialize in steak, seafood or other animal proteins offer vegan-friendly choices like guacamole, hummus, vegetable spring rolls or vegan soups that can make a satisfying meal.
  • Ask for Alternatives. Don’t be afraid to ask the chef to make your meal vegan-friendly. If possible, most restaurants are willing to accommodate diners’ dietary preferences.

Eating vegan while traveling can be a challenge but in Glenwood Springs it’s an opportunity for culinary exploration and satisfaction. Learn more and make plans to visit Colorado’s favorite hot springs town today!

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Visit Glenwood Springs

Hanging Lake winter hiking reservations are  available through April 30, 2024. The US Forest Service has scheduled a rebuild of the Hanging Lake Trail that is set to begin this spring and last throughout the summer months. Reservations will be available at the discretion of the US Forest Service, continue to check this page for updates. Visit the Hanging Lake page HERE for more information and the booking portal.