Back in the day it was not easy being a vegetarian. Sure, it was great to have principles, but there were precious few places to find a breakfast tofu scramble or sans-meat dining digs to impress your new Birkenstock-wearing, veggie girlfriend.
Back in the 1970s, vegetarianism was looked upon by society's majority in much the same way as it now looks at smokers, as in "Really? You're kidding."
At some point, as people realized vegetarian cuisine could be more than brown rice and steamed veggies and that non-meat eaters were a growing demographic, vegetarian fare slowly began to gain favor - and flavor.
Although there was little fanfare when it closed, it was a sad day this past February when the Casbah Teahouse and Restaurant closed its doors at 628 N. 4th Ave. Never known for its service, the Casbah's fame and charm was in the pride it took in its unabashed bohemian ambience and its all vegetarian/vegan menu. Although the Casbah is no more, the following is a brief guide to some of Tucson's better vegetarian locales.
The Blue Willow
This venerable establishment, though never billed as a vegetarian restaurant, has long been noted as one of the more veggie friendly eateries since its inception in 1978. The Blue Willow Tostada is a huge expanse of whole pinto beans, avocado, tomatoes, olives, lettuce, salsa and cheese spread over an oversized light and crispy tortilla, and as the name implies, it's a signature plate. The veggie lasagna is also a house specialty while spinach and mushroom crepes, sautéed tofu scramble, sesame ginger stir fry, the breakfast burrito and the grilled eggplant/toasted feta sandwich are but some of the many splendid non-meat choices available. 2626 N. Campbell Ave. 327-7577, www.BlueWillowTucson.com
The Garland
Like the Willow but much smaller, the Garland has long been known as both a veggie friendly place and a healthy place, a tradition it was proud to continue after new owners took over a few years ago. There are lots of choices, including a variety of green and leafy salads as well as stir frys, fish (considered vegetarian by some) and a kickass veggie-burger, though some would consider breakfast, veggie or otherwise, as its strongest suit. 119 E. Speedway Blvd. 792-4221.
Lovin' Spoonfuls
Lovin' Spoonfuls Owner Peg Raisglid was a vegan for 16 years and turned 50 before she got into the restaurant biz. After years of bringing alternative casseroles and dishes to dinner parties and potlucks, she finally realized her true calling. A Best of Tucson winner for veggie restaurants, Lovin' Spoonful specializes in dishes that sound like they have meat. Mock tuna, ham and chicken, soy bacon, a veggie chili dog and mushroom based bbq "beef" are all ideal for the transitional veggie not quite ready to give up the familiar and comfortable. These substitute meat dishes are supplemented by an extensive menu representing more traditional veggie options. 2990 N. Campbell Ave. 325-7766, www.LovinSpoonfuls.com
Govindas
The local Krishna temple created its non-meat "all you can eat" buffet in 1992, featuring various Indian oriented vegan options, soups and salads. When the weather is nice, outdoor seating is the way to go. Don't forget to check out the peacocks they keep in the back. On Sunday evenings, there is usually a spiritual lecture and chanting followed by a limited $3 buffet that is quite possibly the best deal in town. 711 E. Blacklidge St. 792-0630, www.GovindasofTucson.com
Tucson_Cowgirl
