Vegetarian Date Nights

I have been a vegetarian since 2004 and will be celebrating a decade of my meat-free diet this year. Although I love the lifestyle, I have learned the hard way that this small characteristic about me is something that needs full disclosure before the first date to ensure that it is at a restaurant with a variety of vegetarian dishes. Fortunately for me and your future vegetarian date, there are many options in and around the DMV.

Don’t leave your date having to order the side dishes! (Illustration: Jon Keegan)

Sunflower

Perhaps the most well-known restaurant among the veggie community is Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant. The dishes are amazing and the staff is very friendly. It is a low-key restaurant that is perfect for any couple looking for vegetarian dishes with flavor. Although located at 2531 Chain Bridge Rd., Vienna or 6304 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, your vegetarian date will be delighted to grab a bite to eat at Sunflower.

Sunflower is the ultimate vegetarian haven in the DMV. (Photo: Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant)

Sticky Rice

If you aren’t in the mood to drive out to Sunflower, check out Sticky Rice at 1224 H St. NE. Your veggie-head will be happy to dine at an establishment that offers more than just California rolls as a meatless option. Sticky Rice offers lettuce wraps with tofu, tofubites tossed in teriyaki sauce, and of course, the Dirty Vegan — a plate of tofu and noodles tossed with peanut coconut sauce and a variety of vegetables.

Sticky Fingers

What started out as a vegan bakery has now turned into a full-fledged vegetarian paradise. Sticky Fingers, located at 1370 Park Rd. in Columbia Heights is now serving salads, veggie burgers and a variety of hot plates. The best part about the food at Sticky Fingers is that it is 100 percent vegan and uses heart-healthy soy. I particularly enjoy going there to grab some dessert in the form of a sticky bun paired with a coffee.

Smoke and Barrel

My favorite place is Smoke and Barrel at 2471 18th St. NW in Adams Morgan. Do not be fooled by the country western décor. The smoked vegan chicken wings are so good that I usually end up ordering a second round. The dinner menu also offers a delicious veggie chili as well as BBQ smoked tofu tacos. If you are looking for a heartier meal, check out the vegan spare ribs. It can be tough to grab a table there so make sure you plan ahead and arrive early.

Bring your vegetarian date to this Adams Morgan hot spot. (Photo: Scott Suchman/Washingtonian)

If you have never dated a vegetarian, picking the right restaurant for date night can seem like a daunting task. Luckily for you, there are many restaurants in the area that offer vegetarian dishes on the menu. Make sure that you check how much variety there is in on the menu to ensure that your date is able to comfortably pick out a plate without having to settle for the only available broccoli dish. He or she will be thrilled with this and you will score many good boyfriend/girlfriend points that night.