Eating Vegan in Ann Arbor, Michigan

I've lived as a college student in Ann Arbor, MI for a few months now. I'm not a vegan myself, but I enjoy trying new things and expanding my horizons. This is a guide to, in my opinion, the 3 best vegan restaurants that my new city has to offer (at least from a college student's point of view).

Seva

I was initially a bit timid when I entered Seva. An all vegetarian restaurant? Mostly vegan? I came from a small town where such a thing was never heard of. I felt a bit better when I saw the wonderful and classic atmosphere that this restaurant had to offer. Plants hung from the ceiling, and I was immediately seated into a booth. I ordered the Hummus Wrap after thoroughly searching the menu. It wasn't an easy decision, but I was glad I made it. Every bite was full of flavor. I was sad when my wrap had finally disappeared from my plate into my mouth. Seva also has a fresh juice bar that, while pricey, is worth it.

Seva has been in Ann Arbor since 1973, and it's still going strong. A lot of its popularity comes from the fact that it's so established. Everyone trusts this restaurant to provide a delicious, healthy meal that won't put a dent in your pocketbook. Seva is located on 314 E. Liberty Street in Ann Arbor, MI.

The full menu can be viewed at www.sevarestaurant.com

bd's Mongolian Barbeque

The Mongolian Barbeque isn't a place you'd normally think of when eating vegan food. However, I've found that this restaurant has a little bit of something for everybody. It is ideal if not all of the family eats the same diet.

You create your own meal at this restaurant. Armed with a bowl, I approached the food. They have three separate buffets, one with meat, one with vegetables, and one with sauces and spices. I loaded up my bowl with every vegetable possible, and they even offer tofu for those less inclined to eat the meat. Once I had my bowl filled, and a separate saucer filled with my favorite sauce and spice (cayenne pepper is a must), I proceeded to the grill. Here I was "directed into battle" and my bowl was thrown on the fryer. I got to watch as the men and women behind the grill flipped and stirred my bowl with metal swords, then let the sauce sizzle before scooping my own personal creation into a plate. At the table, I used rice and tortillas to eat my creation, and I washed it all down with a Jones soda.

bd's Mongolian Barbeque is a favorite with college students as it's all you can eat and very affordable. This restaurant is located on 200 S Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI. Check out their website, www.gomongo.com to see their other locations across the country.

...Campus Dining Halls?

The dining hall isn't normally a place you'd think of eating when looking for vegan cuisine. However, I've found that there is a diverse array of food options. Ann Arbor is a very diverse place, and therefore the dining halls at the University of Michigan have to be prepared to handle a very diverse horde of students. My personal favorite is the vegan grinder that is often prepared by my dining hall. Pesto, bread and vegetables together make a wonderful treat for anyone. For a college student, the dining hall is the best and most accessible place to get vegan food. While not quite a restaurant, it is an important part of my town, and can even be tested by those not enrolled at the school; for a fee of course.