The Great Transition
OK, let’s face it, transitioning to veganism after being raised in a meat-dominated society like the South can be HARD! But it doesn’t mean it’s Impossible (…get it?).
It just means you’ll need to get creative. Learn how to veganize your favorite meals (download the Color Palete app for help with that), stay far, far away from any and all What-a-Burgers (seriously, take the back roads okay? Trust me on this), and if all else fails, find you a local vegan restaurant and CAMP OUT!
Otherwise, you’ll be hungry. And I’m not talking about just regular hunger, I mean HANGRY.
Because here’s the thing, when you first transition, you have to learn how to stay full without meat protein. And unless you’ve been used to replacing protein with beans and tofu, you’ll have to learn what you like and don’t like. And that’s just simple trial and error, honey.
Believe me when I say in the beginning, the errors can be ROUGH. I mean rough, like it’s Summer 2020, 50 days into Coronavirus lockdown, you’re on your last roll of toilet paper and all stores within a 50-mile radius are sold out rough.
Let Me Help
You don’t want to go back there. I don’t want you to go back there. So, let me help you out, new vegan friend. Here’s how:
- Download the Color Palete App and learn how to cook great vegan meals
- Join me on my Vegan Eats Near Me adventures and learn about local vegan eats
- Both 1 & 2 (let me save you time, friend, THIS is the answer)
Our First Adventure
Let’s jump right into our adventures, starting in Austin, Texas. Whether you’re a new vegan living in the Weird City or you’re just passing through, Citizen Eatery has to be added to your must-try list. This musician-owned plant-based restaurant has been around for almost five years. Nestled in one of Austin’s most eclectic neighborhoods: North Loop.
Citizen Eatery sits right off Burnet Road. A street known for its thrift shops, boutiques, locally-owned restaurants, and more. As of the writing of this post, this part of the city still holds an authentic Austin vibe.
And when I say vibe, I do mean vibe. I don’t want to give away all my secrets but there’s a local boutique located on the same street serving fresh baked cookies and champagne. Now, if that’s not a vibe I don’t know what is.
THAT’S exactly the type of vibe you’ll find in this North Austin neighborhood. So, it’s only right to check out this local vegan hot spot which has been around for over five years. But just as Austin has experienced an evolution over the years so has Citizen Eatery.
Local Vegan Eats
Originally a vegetarian restaurant. Citizen Eatery has evolved to become a 100% vegan restaurant focused on making and serving you the best food possible. From fresh, garden-fare salads to meaty, meatless burgers, you’ll find everything you need at one of Austin’s top-rated vegan restaurants.
Citizen Eatery, founded by Mike and Aimee Moyer, started as a dream. The health-conscious couple wanted to be able to serve families quick, healthy plant-based meals. So, they put their dream in motion and in November 2016 opened Citizen Eatery. I had a chance to catch up with one of the co-owners, Mike.
During our discussion, I asked for one thing he would share about Citizen Eatery with others, it was gratitude. He shared he was so grateful to the Citizen Eatery community of customers. Those who have taken the time to visit during and after the pandemic.
Luckily for us, I believe this gratitude manifests beautifully: GREAT FOOD. And if I must say so myself, Aimee and Michael Moyers’ commitment to serving vegan breakfast all day along (#WINNING) while also grilling some of the best vegan burgers in the city is more than appreciated.
So appreciated in fact, that this go-to vegan restaurant is not only sought after for those hangover brunch moments (*ahem* late night/early morning on Sixth Street?) but for their seasonal farm-to-table menu items and deliciously shareable appetizers… I certainly could have indulged more in their Southern Style Fried Mushrooms served with house espresso BBQ sauce.
What To Order
Which leads me to the good part: what should you order while you’re there? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with four of the most popular, top-rated dishes on the menu.
The Citizen Burger, is a no-brainer. In a state where BBQ and Burgers rule, you really can’t go wrong with this option. House-made with one of Austin’s signature peppers: the Hatch green chili. You can rest assured you’re getting your authentic Austin “fix” with this juicy hand-held burger.
Chik’n Tacos. The city of Texas may be known for BBQ and Burgers but Austin is known for Tacos and Queso. And trust me, Citizen Eatery does not disappoint here. Comfort is taken to another level with these tacos and they’re topped with creamy coleslaw and a spicy aioli dressing. Texas comfort, indeed.
Next up is their Chorizo Omelette. This always breakfast menu item is a TexMex brunch favorite. Packed with smoky chorizo “sausage” and topped with a tangy salse verde sauce, creamy avocado, and flavor-rich garlic aioli. The perfect Sunday Funday option or weekday meal.
Last but certainly not least, the Citizen Scramble, another always breakfast favorite. You’ll be served with JUST Eggs, cheddar cheeze, crimini mushrooms, potatoes, sweet onions, and kale scrambled to perfection with a side of sourdough toast. Don’t worry, I’ll reply for you: yes, please.
This doesn’t even scratch the surface. Between their delicious featured specials, garden fresh salads, and one-of-a-kind burgers you’re well on your way to satisfying whatever vegan food craving you may have.
Happy Food Dance Guaranteed
So, whether you’re looking for a place to dine in with family and friends, or you’re in search of a bike-friendly neighborhood spot, or maybe you’re simply looking for a good meal and a full bar, Citizen Eatery is your spot. With their laid-back authentic ATX vibe and great vegan eats you can’t wrong. Don’t worry, I’ll be there hitting the happy food dance with you in spirit.
