When Pittsburgh restaurant Onion Maiden announced it will close at the end of March, it was a punch in the gut for area vegans and plant-food enthusiasts. The owners say they are burned out, not because there’s a lack of business. Unfortunately, this leaves vegans like me in search of other local restaurants that offer quality plant-based meals, especially after several other vegan go-tos also closed within the past year.

As more people adopt diets that are healthier, more ethical and better for the planet, it’s time for more Pittsburgh restaurants to offer plant-based options. According to a recent report from the Plant Based Foods Association, nearly half of U.S. restaurants now offer plant-based choices. That’s a 62% increase since 2012.

Plant-based eating is gaining momentum, especially among younger generations. More restaurants in our region would be wise to adapt their menus and offer at least a few nutritious plant-based options. In the meantime, here’s to the remaining vegan restaurants holding down the fort.

Ashley Macik

Monongahela

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