Restaurants- Central Virginia

I have to give a shout out to my alma mater James Madison University. Also, a big shout goes out to U.V.A. and William and Mary (Kelly's Alma maters)(plural). If you ever fine yourself driving on I-81, I-66, I-64, I-95, and assorted highways from NOVA down to Staunton and east to the Beach, then I can recommend some great eateries therein.

Harrisonburg (Hometown of JMU): I graduated in 1999, so some of these may or may not still be there. However, it was one of the more vegetarian freindly towns in all of Virginia.

The Little Grill Collective is a stand out place that does not look like much. Located at 621 N Main St, The Little Grill is a worker owned restaurant and does quite a bit of local charity work, including a soup kitchen. Every Tuesday is All-You-Can-Eat Mexican food and I highly recommend going for this. If you say you're vegan, they'll make everything without dairy for you. The BBQ Tempeh sandwich is amazing as is the "Go Ask Alyce" sandwich (falafel and veggies). Wednesdays used to be Indian Night, but it appears that they have made Wednesday their "Special" night and the type of food changes per week. Other assorted falafel dishes abound as well as burritos and vegetarian chili. This place is a must if travelling to and/or from Harrisonburg. http://www.littlegrillcollective.com/

Taste of Thai is a nice Thai place located at 917 S High St. They have a Fried Tofu appetizer that is really good. They also have a nice section of their menu labeled as "Vegetarian". If you are vegan, you can ask tell them that and they'll know not to add Fish Sauce. The Sweet and Sour Tofu and the Spicy Tofu are both excellent choices. Their Curries are also very well done and fresh. One another note is that they tend to cook their veggies well and not overcooked. You could also try their Pad Thai (without egg, of course). A little away from the main areas of H'Burg, this place is worth the trip. http://www.taste-of-thai.com/

Charottesville (Home of UVA and Thomas Jefferson): I spent almost every weekend in Charlottesville because Kelly went to UnderGrad there. Home to a plethora of veggie friendly restaurants, it is home to our favorite Chinese place in the country.

Ming Dynasty is located at 1417 Emmet St North just north of the college. It is run by a Buddhist woman and her family. It is not 100% vegan, but will make ANY item on their menu vegan, using faux meats. I really enjoyed their Sweet and Sour Vegetarian Chicken, and Kelly's staple was Vegetarian Pepper Steak. The Buffet for Lunch is good, never made it for a Dinner buffet. Their Orange Vegetarian Beef might be the top entree as the sauce is unmatched so far in my experience. Plenty of good veggie options and a wonderfully friendly staff makes Ming Dynasty the best Chinese place in Virginia, maybe even the country.

Baja Bean Co. is a great Mexican outing. Located on the "Corner" right off Campus, 1327 Main St. Although there is nothing truly amazing with their vegetarian options, their veggie burritos, quesadillas, and tacos are fresh and good. Also, their "fishbowl" margaraita is a classic.