Webmaster note: I recently discovered a few posts
saved as drafts that were inadvertently never published to the blog.
These were drafted from August to September, 2007.
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? While I appreciate very much that ingredients are listed on your site, some may or may not be of animal origin (L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate), so I'm hoping you might be able to clarify. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Blimpie response:
Mr.[sic] Thompson,
Thank you for sending us your feedback. If you could please contact the corporate office at 866-4-KAHALA or email Jennifer Garnatz at jrgarnatz@kahalacorp.com.
Jennifer is in charge of all nutritional information for all of our brands, she will gladly help you with your inquiry.
Thank you for taking the time to send us your feedback.
Sincerely,
Kristen Nardini
Operations Coordinator
My email(#2) to Jennifer:
Hello Jennifer,
I was given your name by Kristen Nardini, who told me you might be able to help me. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products), including your breads, etc? While I appreciate very much that ingredients are listed on your site, some may or may not be of animal origin (L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate), so I'm hoping you might be able to clarify. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Jennifer's response (#2):
Hello,
After reviewing the ingredients for our breads, they do contain the ingredients which you have listed below. The Ciabatta bread and the Wraps do contain enzymes used in the manufacturing process. In addition, the veggie sub patty that we use is a vegetarian item, but not vegan. Let me know if there are any further questions.
Please and Thank You,
Jennifer Garnatz
Kahala Cold Stone
9311 E. Via De Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Jennifer is pleasant, but rather than answering my question, confirms the information in my email to her. Considering how frequently I'm seeing this, I'm wondering if confusing the issue or not answering the question I asked is just some tactic to induce frustration with the hope I'll give up. Most consumers would. My reply (#3):
Hello Jennifer,
Thanks for your response. I am aware the ingredients mentioned are present in their respective products. My question is whether these ingredients are from an animal source. I am asking because these are food additives that may or may not be from an animal source. Can you please tell me whether the L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate in your menu items are vegan?
Thanks,
Erin
Jennifer relents and addresses my question, but takes the easy way out, unfortunately. Reply (#3):
Erin,
I cannot confirm that they are or are not. The nutrition facts label for these products (breads) do not state that they contain egg or milk, but I cannot be 100% positive that they are not from an animal source.
Please and Thank You,
Jennifer Garnatz
Kahala Cold Stone
9311 E. Via De Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
If Jennifer is in charge of nutritional information for Blimpie, I find it absurd she does not have this information available and is not willing to pursue it. I wrote back (#4)to Kristen Nardini, who first referred me to Jennifer, with my conversation with Jennifer included:
Hello Kristen,
Unfortunately Jennifer Garnatz, to whom you referred me regarding my question regarding the source of some ingredients found in your menu items, was unable help me (our email exchanges follow). Is there someone else who can? I cannot imagine a company making it so difficult for a potential customer to patronize your restaurants. I remain hopeful someone can address my question satisfactorily.
Thanks,
Erin
[forwarded conversation here]
Verdict: no menu items have been determined to be vegan.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Papa John's
Webmaster note: I recently discovered a handful of posts saved as drafts that were inadvertently never published to the blog. These were drafted from August to September, 2007.
Hello,
Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? From your website's nutritional area I can only determine if certain things are or are not present in your foods, but without seeing an ingredient list I cannot determine what products have no animal ingredients in them. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Papa John's reply #1:
Thank you for your comments. I will forward them on to the appropriate people for review.
Have a great day!
Sincerely,
Consumer Services Team
Eight days pass. My follow up (#2):
Hello,
Still waiting to here back from some one regarding which menu items can be ordered or modified so as to be considered vegan (no meat, dairy, cheese, animal derivatives of any kind). Someone's help in this matter would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Erin
Hello,
Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? From your website's nutritional area I can only determine if certain things are or are not present in your foods, but without seeing an ingredient list I cannot determine what products have no animal ingredients in them. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Papa John's reply #1:
Thank you for your comments. I will forward them on to the appropriate people for review.
Have a great day!
Sincerely,
Consumer Services Team
Eight days pass. My follow up (#2):
Hello,
Still waiting to here back from some one regarding which menu items can be ordered or modified so as to be considered vegan (no meat, dairy, cheese, animal derivatives of any kind). Someone's help in this matter would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Erin
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Chuy's
Another guest post from Brenna:
From: Brenna
Date: March 12, 2012 11:39:39 AM CDT
To: xxx
Subject: Vegan Items at Chuy's
Thanks for writing in. We offer some great items that don’t contain any animal products. I’ve gone ahead and attached the menu here.
Please keep in mind you can always speak with the manager on duty about any concerns or questions you might have.
Thanks and we’re looking forward to offering you and your friends some delicious and ‘safe’ Tex-Mex!
Love,
Chuy
________________________________________
Chuy’s Vegan Menu
www.chuys.com
Sauces
Ranchero
Tomatillo
Appetizers
Chips and salsa
Crispy chips and fresh salsa
Guacamole
Blend of fresh avocados and Salsa Fresca
Nachos (without cheese)
Tostada chips layered with refried beans, jalapenos, lettuce, tomato
Special Nachos (without cheese)
Tostada chips layered with refried beans, jalapenos, lettuce, tomato, with guacamole and pico de gallo
Salads
Mexi-Cobb Salad (without chicken or cheese)
Green chiles, avocados & tomatoes on a bed of fresh, mixed salad greens
Dinner Salad
Tomatoes, cucumbers and fresh, mixed salad greens
Dressings
Cilantro Vinaigrette
Sides
Corn, Flour, Blue Corn, Wheat Tortillas
Mexican Rice
Green Chile Rice
Refried Beans
Charro Beans
Tacos, Sopapillas, Burritos, Enchiladas
Guacamole Tacos (without cheese)
Handmade flour tortillas with lettuce, pico de gallo & guacamole. Served with your choice of Mexican rice or green chile rice & refried or charro beans.
Bean Tacos (without cheese)
Handmade flour tortillas with lettuce, cheese, pico de gallo & guacamole. Served with your choice of Mexican rice or green chile rice & refried or charro beans.
Bean and Cheese Burrito (without cheese and with above sauces)
A homemade, 12” flour tortilla stuffed with refried beans and served with your choice of sauce, Mexican rice or green chile rice
Veggie Enchiladas (without cheese and with above sauces)
Spinach, onions, zucchini, yellow squash, red bell peppers, serranos, roasted green chiles, and corn in homemade blue corn tortillas with Ranchero sauce
From: Brenna
Date: March 12, 2012 11:39:39 AM CDT
To: xxx
Subject: Vegan Items at Chuy's
Thanks for writing in. We offer some great items that don’t contain any animal products. I’ve gone ahead and attached the menu here.
Please keep in mind you can always speak with the manager on duty about any concerns or questions you might have.
Thanks and we’re looking forward to offering you and your friends some delicious and ‘safe’ Tex-Mex!
Love,
Chuy
________________________________________
Chuy’s Vegan Menu
www.chuys.com
Sauces
Ranchero
Tomatillo
Appetizers
Chips and salsa
Crispy chips and fresh salsa
Guacamole
Blend of fresh avocados and Salsa Fresca
Nachos (without cheese)
Tostada chips layered with refried beans, jalapenos, lettuce, tomato
Special Nachos (without cheese)
Tostada chips layered with refried beans, jalapenos, lettuce, tomato, with guacamole and pico de gallo
Salads
Mexi-Cobb Salad (without chicken or cheese)
Green chiles, avocados & tomatoes on a bed of fresh, mixed salad greens
Dinner Salad
Tomatoes, cucumbers and fresh, mixed salad greens
Dressings
Cilantro Vinaigrette
Sides
Corn, Flour, Blue Corn, Wheat Tortillas
Mexican Rice
Green Chile Rice
Refried Beans
Charro Beans
Tacos, Sopapillas, Burritos, Enchiladas
Guacamole Tacos (without cheese)
Handmade flour tortillas with lettuce, pico de gallo & guacamole. Served with your choice of Mexican rice or green chile rice & refried or charro beans.
Bean Tacos (without cheese)
Handmade flour tortillas with lettuce, cheese, pico de gallo & guacamole. Served with your choice of Mexican rice or green chile rice & refried or charro beans.
Bean and Cheese Burrito (without cheese and with above sauces)
A homemade, 12” flour tortilla stuffed with refried beans and served with your choice of sauce, Mexican rice or green chile rice
Veggie Enchiladas (without cheese and with above sauces)
Spinach, onions, zucchini, yellow squash, red bell peppers, serranos, roasted green chiles, and corn in homemade blue corn tortillas with Ranchero sauce
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Pei Wei
Guest poster Brenna shares her experience interacting with Pei Wei regarding the vegan status of their food, an example of an all-too-common occurrence facing vegan diners.
Brenna writes -
Here's some info to add to their list of items marked "vegetarian."
The conversation started with me complimenting them and thanking them for modifying vegetarian menu items to be vegan. (I have an allergy to dairy, and so it's extra important to me to make sure my food is vegan, or I will get sick.)
They responded...
PEI WEI: We actually do not claim any of our food is vegan friendly.
ME: "Vegetarian" would imply that you all do not use animal additives in the products. As long as the products also do not contain dairy or egg, then they are vegan. If you use animal additives but no meat, it is still not vegetarian in any case.
PEI WEI: There are a few reasons why we do not claim our food is vegan. The first is the sugar. Most processed sugar is not vegan, and the second are our woks. We cook all our dishes in the same woks, and we do not have a dedicated wok for just vegetables and/or tofu dishes.
ME: Refined sugars which use animal bone char are not vegetarian, either. Vegetarians eat no animal products or additives but include dairy, egg, and honey. Do those products marked "vegetarian" include sugar made from bone char?
PEI WEI: We are checking for complete accuracy, but we are fairly certain that the sugar is standard refined sugar.
ME: Then it isn't vegetarian or vegan. Thank you for checking.
I try not to sound rude when talking to restaurants about their food and ingredients, but this irritates me. Sometimes it seems like people purposefully try to be oblivious to the fact that vegetarians and vegans don't eat any part of an animal's body or anything that touches part of a dead animal. Sugar is refined through bone char from animals, which makes it neither vegetarian nor vegan. I am by no means a "perfect" vegan, but I don't like false claims made to entice people to buy a product. :/
Brenna writes -
Here's some info to add to their list of items marked "vegetarian."
The conversation started with me complimenting them and thanking them for modifying vegetarian menu items to be vegan. (I have an allergy to dairy, and so it's extra important to me to make sure my food is vegan, or I will get sick.)
They responded...
PEI WEI: We actually do not claim any of our food is vegan friendly.
ME: "Vegetarian" would imply that you all do not use animal additives in the products. As long as the products also do not contain dairy or egg, then they are vegan. If you use animal additives but no meat, it is still not vegetarian in any case.
PEI WEI: There are a few reasons why we do not claim our food is vegan. The first is the sugar. Most processed sugar is not vegan, and the second are our woks. We cook all our dishes in the same woks, and we do not have a dedicated wok for just vegetables and/or tofu dishes.
ME: Refined sugars which use animal bone char are not vegetarian, either. Vegetarians eat no animal products or additives but include dairy, egg, and honey. Do those products marked "vegetarian" include sugar made from bone char?
PEI WEI: We are checking for complete accuracy, but we are fairly certain that the sugar is standard refined sugar.
ME: Then it isn't vegetarian or vegan. Thank you for checking.
I try not to sound rude when talking to restaurants about their food and ingredients, but this irritates me. Sometimes it seems like people purposefully try to be oblivious to the fact that vegetarians and vegans don't eat any part of an animal's body or anything that touches part of a dead animal. Sugar is refined through bone char from animals, which makes it neither vegetarian nor vegan. I am by no means a "perfect" vegan, but I don't like false claims made to entice people to buy a product. :/
Razzoo's
Another post from guest author/investigator Brenna! *round of applause*
Here's my conversation with Guest Relations:
A co-worker’s birthday is today and we have a party of ten or so planning to visit your Arlington location. Can you please let me know what menu items are vegan, or could be made vegan? (Vegans do not eat any meat, seafood, honey, eggs, dairy products, or animal derived ingredients.)
After reviewing your menu, I see the Chopped Salad could be made vegan upon removing the bacon, eggs, and cheese. Do you all have oil and vinegar or any other salad dressings which are vegan? Are there any other options?
Guest Comments Razzoo's [mailto:comment@razzoos.com]
We believe the Chopped Salad as you describe with oil and vinegar is the most suitable option.
Verdict: Nothing really substantial. and no apparent wilingness to work with me. The salad is $8 with tax. Since it's so expensive, I ended up eating something else beforehand.
Here's my conversation with Guest Relations:
A co-worker’s birthday is today and we have a party of ten or so planning to visit your Arlington location. Can you please let me know what menu items are vegan, or could be made vegan? (Vegans do not eat any meat, seafood, honey, eggs, dairy products, or animal derived ingredients.)
After reviewing your menu, I see the Chopped Salad could be made vegan upon removing the bacon, eggs, and cheese. Do you all have oil and vinegar or any other salad dressings which are vegan? Are there any other options?
Guest Comments Razzoo's [mailto:comment@razzoos.com]
We believe the Chopped Salad as you describe with oil and vinegar is the most suitable option.
Verdict: Nothing really substantial. and no apparent wilingness to work with me. The salad is $8 with tax. Since it's so expensive, I ended up eating something else beforehand.
Rockfish Seafood Grill
The following posts come to you courtesy of awesome reader Brenna, who kindly shares her correspondence with several restaurants for the benefit of others. Brenna did a GREAT job and I'm so pleased to add her work to the archive here!
From Brenna:
My conversation with Guest Relations:
I am interested in dining at Rockfish to find more restaurants suitable for both vegans and omnivores.
I am vegan and allergic to dairy. I eat no animal products (no dairy, egg, meat, fish, honey, lard, or other animal additives.) What options would I have at Rockfish? I am interested in your House Salad. Is the Fat Free Sundried Tomato Vinaigrette free of dairy and other animal products? Do your black beans contain lard? Can your mixed veggies, sweet potatoes, roasted potatoes, and grilled asparagus be made without butter?
I encourage you to offer more meatless items at Rockfish. With vegan options on your menu, you will “hook” those of us who do not eat animal products, and also bring in those who do. My boyfriend is not vegan, and we are always looking for more restaurants which are suitable for both of our tastes. Including vegan items will be a huge boon to your business. Your menu already includes many items which can be combined to create delicious vegan entrees. You will find that fresh vegetables are inexpensive, and you probably already stock many veggies in your kitchen. We vegans will appreciate the meatless options and frequent your restaurant for tasty vegan meals, and bring along our non-vegan family and friends who will enjoy your other offerings.
Thank you sincerely for your help.
Response from Matt Baum, Corporate Chef and Culinary Operations Manager:
I just received your email questions via our Guest Relations site and have the answers for you. Our Rockfish House Salad without the Candied Pecans would definitely be an option. The Fat Free Sun-dried Tomato Vinaigrette and Black Beans are clear also. All of our Vegetables (Broccoli, Carrots, Spinach, Asparagus, Squash, and Corn on the Cob) can be prepared without butter. We can also do Grilled Sweet Potatoes or Boiled New Potatoes. I hope this will help make a great meal for you. Thank you for your questions and comments about our food and please let me know if you need any more information. I will look into other non-meat options and maybe in the near future be able to add that item to our menu. Thank you and I hope the birthday celebration goes well.
I ended up ordering the House Salad (as described), black beans, and sweet potato medallions. I spent about $12 and was pleasantly full. The sweet potatoes were cooked PERFECTLY. I really enjoyed my meal at Rockfish, and I will definitely go back.
From Brenna:
My conversation with Guest Relations:
I am interested in dining at Rockfish to find more restaurants suitable for both vegans and omnivores.
I am vegan and allergic to dairy. I eat no animal products (no dairy, egg, meat, fish, honey, lard, or other animal additives.) What options would I have at Rockfish? I am interested in your House Salad. Is the Fat Free Sundried Tomato Vinaigrette free of dairy and other animal products? Do your black beans contain lard? Can your mixed veggies, sweet potatoes, roasted potatoes, and grilled asparagus be made without butter?
I encourage you to offer more meatless items at Rockfish. With vegan options on your menu, you will “hook” those of us who do not eat animal products, and also bring in those who do. My boyfriend is not vegan, and we are always looking for more restaurants which are suitable for both of our tastes. Including vegan items will be a huge boon to your business. Your menu already includes many items which can be combined to create delicious vegan entrees. You will find that fresh vegetables are inexpensive, and you probably already stock many veggies in your kitchen. We vegans will appreciate the meatless options and frequent your restaurant for tasty vegan meals, and bring along our non-vegan family and friends who will enjoy your other offerings.
Thank you sincerely for your help.
Response from Matt Baum, Corporate Chef and Culinary Operations Manager:
I just received your email questions via our Guest Relations site and have the answers for you. Our Rockfish House Salad without the Candied Pecans would definitely be an option. The Fat Free Sun-dried Tomato Vinaigrette and Black Beans are clear also. All of our Vegetables (Broccoli, Carrots, Spinach, Asparagus, Squash, and Corn on the Cob) can be prepared without butter. We can also do Grilled Sweet Potatoes or Boiled New Potatoes. I hope this will help make a great meal for you. Thank you for your questions and comments about our food and please let me know if you need any more information. I will look into other non-meat options and maybe in the near future be able to add that item to our menu. Thank you and I hope the birthday celebration goes well.
I ended up ordering the House Salad (as described), black beans, and sweet potato medallions. I spent about $12 and was pleasantly full. The sweet potatoes were cooked PERFECTLY. I really enjoyed my meal at Rockfish, and I will definitely go back.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Important opportunity
Compassion Over Killing has launched a campaign to encourage Subway to offer vegan meat analogues, such as Tofurkey's deli slices. Go to their We Love Subway page to voice your support! This is a rare opportunity for vegans to be heard as one massive voice, pushing for change in a very competitive market.
If you're worried about giving up your email address for potential spamming, go get yourself a free spamgourmet account. Quite handy.
If you're worried about giving up your email address for potential spamming, go get yourself a free spamgourmet account. Quite handy.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Neglected.
Menus change, and hopefully attitudes are too. Even Gardenburger is making more of their formerly vegetarian offerings vegan.
I'm frustrated to find that much of the work I'm doing here may become obsolete.
I'm glad to find much of the work I'm doing here may become obsolete - because people have listened and adjusted or added items to their menus to accommodate vegans.
Accuracy of information is one of my highest priorities, however, and this project has taught me the difficulty of that goal as applied here. There exists great resources on the web, which are working towards the same goal I outlined here. I'm going to leave these old posts up because I think they do continue to have value and relevance, if nothing than from an archival standpoint.
Please visit the following sites for help in finding vegan restaurant menu items. Of course, I cannot attest to the accuracy of the information contained within these sites:
Quan Yin Method Meditation - "vegan eating in any restaurants"
Happycow
Scottandfaisa.com vegan page
CommunityWalk Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurant Guide to the World
Vegeats World Vegan Restaurants Guide (directory)
Happy dining!
I'm frustrated to find that much of the work I'm doing here may become obsolete.
I'm glad to find much of the work I'm doing here may become obsolete - because people have listened and adjusted or added items to their menus to accommodate vegans.
Accuracy of information is one of my highest priorities, however, and this project has taught me the difficulty of that goal as applied here. There exists great resources on the web, which are working towards the same goal I outlined here. I'm going to leave these old posts up because I think they do continue to have value and relevance, if nothing than from an archival standpoint.
Please visit the following sites for help in finding vegan restaurant menu items. Of course, I cannot attest to the accuracy of the information contained within these sites:
Quan Yin Method Meditation - "vegan eating in any restaurants"
Happycow
Scottandfaisa.com vegan page
CommunityWalk Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurant Guide to the World
Vegeats World Vegan Restaurants Guide (directory)
Happy dining!
Monday, September 17, 2007
P.F. Chang's
***I have re-opened the case P.F. Chang's due to information found elsewhere. Immediately below is the original post (from August 9, 2007) which is subsequently followed by the update. ***
I was told in a past correspondence that everything on P.F. Chang's menu marked vegetarian is also vegan, as long as one doesn't exclude regularly refined white sugar (which is processed with bone char). My subsequent inquiry contradicts this.
On 2007-08-09 Erin wrote:
Hello, I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to research this. Best, Erin Thompson
On 2007-08-09 P.F. Chang`s China Bistro wrote:
Erin,
We only have one true vegan dish on our menu and that is our Budda`s Feast Steamed. We have many vegetarian dishes, but only one true vegan dish. Thanks for your patronage!
Sincerely,
Louise Rohling
Market Partner
On 2007-08-09 Erin wrote:
Hello, This contradicts what I was told by the in-house manager. Would you mind elaborating? I was told any of the vegetarian items are also vegan. If not, can you explain why? Your time is much appreciated! Erin
On 2007-08-09 P.F. Chang's China Bistro wrote:
Erin,
I apologize for the miss communication. Our sauces contain animal product, we use egg in our marinades, and we cook with chicken base in many of our dishes. I will personally better educate the team in Indianapolis. Again, our only true vegan dish is our Budda's Feast steamed. Sorry for the mix-up.
Sincerely,
Louise Rohling
Market Partner
The verdict:
Budda's Feast, steamed, is vegan.
P.F. Chang's was very helpful in determining what menu items are vegan.
***Update! 9/17/07 ***
Peta's vegan chain restaurant dining guide contradicts the above findings. There P.F. Chang's is called "one of the most vegan-friendly restaurant chains around," and according to this site, everything from the vegetarian menu can be ordered vegan. As a result, I followed up with P.F. Chang's:
Hello,
On August 9th of this year I contacted P.F.Chang's regarding vegan menu options. I was told that only the Budda's Feast Steamed, was vegan. A complete transcript of this conversation is available here:
http://veganmasterlist.blogspot.com/search/label/P.F.%20Chang%27s
However, I since stumbled upon Peta's guide to chain restaurants (http://vegcooking.com/ChainRestaurants.asp), which indicates that everything on the vegetarian portion of the menu can be ordered vegan. It states, in fact, that your restaurant is one of the most vegan-friendly chain. High praise indeed, but completely contradictory to my conversation (in which, you will note, I even stated that I was told by a manager basically the same thing as stated on the Peta site).
Can you please set the record straight?
Thanks,
Erin
To be continued.
I was told in a past correspondence that everything on P.F. Chang's menu marked vegetarian is also vegan, as long as one doesn't exclude regularly refined white sugar (which is processed with bone char). My subsequent inquiry contradicts this.
On 2007-08-09 Erin wrote:
Hello, I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to research this. Best, Erin Thompson
On 2007-08-09 P.F. Chang`s China Bistro wrote:
Erin,
We only have one true vegan dish on our menu and that is our Budda`s Feast Steamed. We have many vegetarian dishes, but only one true vegan dish. Thanks for your patronage!
Sincerely,
Louise Rohling
Market Partner
On 2007-08-09 Erin wrote:
Hello, This contradicts what I was told by the in-house manager. Would you mind elaborating? I was told any of the vegetarian items are also vegan. If not, can you explain why? Your time is much appreciated! Erin
On 2007-08-09 P.F. Chang's China Bistro wrote:
Erin,
I apologize for the miss communication. Our sauces contain animal product, we use egg in our marinades, and we cook with chicken base in many of our dishes. I will personally better educate the team in Indianapolis. Again, our only true vegan dish is our Budda's Feast steamed. Sorry for the mix-up.
Sincerely,
Louise Rohling
Market Partner
The verdict:
Budda's Feast, steamed, is vegan.
P.F. Chang's was very helpful in determining what menu items are vegan.
***Update! 9/17/07 ***
Peta's vegan chain restaurant dining guide contradicts the above findings. There P.F. Chang's is called "one of the most vegan-friendly restaurant chains around," and according to this site, everything from the vegetarian menu can be ordered vegan. As a result, I followed up with P.F. Chang's:
Hello,
On August 9th of this year I contacted P.F.Chang's regarding vegan menu options. I was told that only the Budda's Feast Steamed, was vegan. A complete transcript of this conversation is available here:
http://veganmasterlist.blogspot.com/search/label/P.F.%20Chang%27s
However, I since stumbled upon Peta's guide to chain restaurants (http://vegcooking.com/ChainRestaurants.asp), which indicates that everything on the vegetarian portion of the menu can be ordered vegan. It states, in fact, that your restaurant is one of the most vegan-friendly chain. High praise indeed, but completely contradictory to my conversation (in which, you will note, I even stated that I was told by a manager basically the same thing as stated on the Peta site).
Can you please set the record straight?
Thanks,
Erin
To be continued.
TGI Friday's
Thank goodness Friday is only one day of the week. At least they didn't try confusion tactics.
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Since your website does not provide ingredients lists and you do not give "ingredient statements," can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Note, TGI Friday's states directly on the website that they do not release ingredient statements. At least this allowed me to tailor my question accordingly, and avoid at least one wasted message-and-response. However, that fact doesn't excuse their neglect. People have the right to know where their food is coming from and of what it consists; considering the events of the last year I find it amazing a corporate chain restaurant would so stubbornly adhere to this stance, and that the consuming public stomachs it.
TGI Friday's reply:
Dear Erin:
As healthy eating continues to diversify, T.G.I. Friday’s restaurants understand that people have different nutritional desires. Our menu offers a wide variety of cravable items which are prepared by our staff using our proprietary recipes. Although we have great procedures in place, any deviation from our recipe would alter nutritional information. Deviation could simply mean the restaurant substituted one of the ingredients from a different or local vendor. Currently, I do not have the recipe or ingredient statements available for many of our menu items, the nutritional information we provide is available on our menu under the "Low Fat" and "Low Carb" section. Listed there you will find specific menu items providing the "Net Carbs" and items which have approximately 10g FAT AND 500 CALORIES. T.G.I. Friday’s guests, like yourself, expect our high standard of great taste, innovation, and value. Watch our menu as we expand our offer! ings even more or visit www.fridays.com
We appreciate your interest in T.G.I. Friday's.
Heather
Guest Relations
The verdict:
Nothing is vegan at TGI Friday's.
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Since your website does not provide ingredients lists and you do not give "ingredient statements," can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Note, TGI Friday's states directly on the website that they do not release ingredient statements. At least this allowed me to tailor my question accordingly, and avoid at least one wasted message-and-response. However, that fact doesn't excuse their neglect. People have the right to know where their food is coming from and of what it consists; considering the events of the last year I find it amazing a corporate chain restaurant would so stubbornly adhere to this stance, and that the consuming public stomachs it.
TGI Friday's reply:
Dear Erin:
As healthy eating continues to diversify, T.G.I. Friday’s restaurants understand that people have different nutritional desires. Our menu offers a wide variety of cravable items which are prepared by our staff using our proprietary recipes. Although we have great procedures in place, any deviation from our recipe would alter nutritional information. Deviation could simply mean the restaurant substituted one of the ingredients from a different or local vendor. Currently, I do not have the recipe or ingredient statements available for many of our menu items, the nutritional information we provide is available on our menu under the "Low Fat" and "Low Carb" section. Listed there you will find specific menu items providing the "Net Carbs" and items which have approximately 10g FAT AND 500 CALORIES. T.G.I. Friday’s guests, like yourself, expect our high standard of great taste, innovation, and value. Watch our menu as we expand our offer! ings even more or visit www.fridays.com
We appreciate your interest in T.G.I. Friday's.
Heather
Guest Relations
The verdict:
Nothing is vegan at TGI Friday's.
On the Border
It seems there exists restaurants who have indeed "figured it out."
Hello,
I haven't yet, but I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products) or could be ordered that way? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
On the Border reply:
September 12, 2007
Dear Ms. Thompson,
Thank you very much for taking the time to send us an email and for your interest in On The Border. We do have several options available for vegetarians. And, since there is no single vegetarian eating pattern, our company dietitian has compiled the list below of suggested menu options for the various types of vegetarian diets.
Below is a list of On The Border's suggested "vegetarian" menu options and modifications. Please be aware that none of our food items are certified vegetarian. As various 'levels' of vegetarianism are practiced today, we do hope that you will find this list helpful during your visit to our restaurant. If an item you desire does not appear on the list below, please keep in mind that our chefs will gladly try to accommodate your special dietary needs by custom-preparing a meal using any ingredients that we have available in our kitchen. However, prior to placing your order, we strongly suggest that you speak with the manager about your menu needs as they may be able to help you with recommendations. Please be aware that many of our recipes contain meat, fish, egg and dairy products and normal kitchen operations involve the sharing of cooking and preparation areas.
Please be aware that our rice and refried beans are not vegetarian -- the refried beans contain pork and the rice is prepared with chicken stock. It is important to note that anything prepared with refried beans will also contain pork. When ordering your meal, we recommend that you ask your server to eliminate refried beans from any dish that you order. Additionally, all fried items are prepared in 100% vegetable oil, but it is possible for these items to come into contact with animal products during the cooking process. Based on our supplier information, the items you may consider are as follows:
Suggested Menu Options for Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarians (contain egg and dairy, but no meat):**
All "Suggested Menu Options for Vegans and Lacto-Vegetarians" listed below
Salad Dressings: Fat Free Balsamic Vinaigrette, Chipotle Honey Mustard, Ranch
Desserts: Border Brownie Sundae, Dulce De Leche Cheesecake
Suggested Menu Options for Lacto-Vegetarians (contain dairy, but no meat or egg):**
All "Suggested Menu Options for Vegans" listed below
Corn and Flour Tortillas (omit all fried varieties, i.e. Corn Tortilla Chips or Strips)
Appetizers: Chili Con Queso
Salads: House Salad - Order without Tortilla Strips.
Sides: Black Beans with Cheese, Grilled Veggies (not sautéed)
Enchiladas: Cheese only – Order without Enchilada Sauces, including Tomatillo Sauce
Desserts: Kahlua Ice Cream Pie, Vanilla Ice Cream w/ or w/out Chocolate Syrup
Suggested Menu Options for Vegans (contain no meat, dairy or egg):**
Only Corn Tortillas (omit all fried varieties, i.e. Corn Tortilla Chips or Strips)
Appetizers: Guacamole Live
Salads: House Salad – Order without Cheese and Tortilla Strips (choose dressing below or Salsa)
Fajita Salad with Portobello - – Order Portobello as a substitute for chicken or beef in the salad.
Salad Dressings – Smoked Jalapeno Vinaigrette
Sides: Salsa, Black Beans (omit Cheese), Black Bean and Corn Relish, Steamed Veggies, Guacamole
Fajitas: Portobello with Corn Tortillas
Quesadillas: Veggie with Corn Tortillas – Order with Steamed Veggies only.
Tacos: Veggie with Corn Tortillas – Order with Steamed Veggies only.
** Note: All desserts and fried items may come into contact with animal products during normal kitchen preparation and cooking processes due to cross-contamination. On your next visit to On The Border, please speak with a manager about your dietary restrictions to ensure that your meal is carefully prepared with your needs in mind. We hope that you are able to choose a meal to your liking and look forward to serving you soon.
On The Border
Guest Relations
Ref # 683357
The verdict:
Corn Tortillas are vegan (note elaboration in letter, above)
Guacamole Live is vegan
The House Salad is vegan if ordered without cheese or tortilla strips
The Fajita Salad with Portobello is vegan if ordered with Corn Tortillas
Smoked Jalapeño Vinaigrette dressing is vegan
Salsa is vegan
Black Beans are vegan if ordered without cheese
Black Bean and Corn Relish is vegan
Guacamole is vegan
Steamed Veggies are vegan
Veggies Quesadillas are vegan if ordered with Steamed Veggies only and with Corn Tortillas
Veggie Tacos are vegan if ordered with Steamed Veggies only and with Corn Tortillas
Hello,
I haven't yet, but I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products) or could be ordered that way? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
On the Border reply:
September 12, 2007
Dear Ms. Thompson,
Thank you very much for taking the time to send us an email and for your interest in On The Border. We do have several options available for vegetarians. And, since there is no single vegetarian eating pattern, our company dietitian has compiled the list below of suggested menu options for the various types of vegetarian diets.
Below is a list of On The Border's suggested "vegetarian" menu options and modifications. Please be aware that none of our food items are certified vegetarian. As various 'levels' of vegetarianism are practiced today, we do hope that you will find this list helpful during your visit to our restaurant. If an item you desire does not appear on the list below, please keep in mind that our chefs will gladly try to accommodate your special dietary needs by custom-preparing a meal using any ingredients that we have available in our kitchen. However, prior to placing your order, we strongly suggest that you speak with the manager about your menu needs as they may be able to help you with recommendations. Please be aware that many of our recipes contain meat, fish, egg and dairy products and normal kitchen operations involve the sharing of cooking and preparation areas.
Please be aware that our rice and refried beans are not vegetarian -- the refried beans contain pork and the rice is prepared with chicken stock. It is important to note that anything prepared with refried beans will also contain pork. When ordering your meal, we recommend that you ask your server to eliminate refried beans from any dish that you order. Additionally, all fried items are prepared in 100% vegetable oil, but it is possible for these items to come into contact with animal products during the cooking process. Based on our supplier information, the items you may consider are as follows:
Suggested Menu Options for Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarians (contain egg and dairy, but no meat):**
All "Suggested Menu Options for Vegans and Lacto-Vegetarians" listed below
Salad Dressings: Fat Free Balsamic Vinaigrette, Chipotle Honey Mustard, Ranch
Desserts: Border Brownie Sundae, Dulce De Leche Cheesecake
Suggested Menu Options for Lacto-Vegetarians (contain dairy, but no meat or egg):**
All "Suggested Menu Options for Vegans" listed below
Corn and Flour Tortillas (omit all fried varieties, i.e. Corn Tortilla Chips or Strips)
Appetizers: Chili Con Queso
Salads: House Salad - Order without Tortilla Strips.
Sides: Black Beans with Cheese, Grilled Veggies (not sautéed)
Enchiladas: Cheese only – Order without Enchilada Sauces, including Tomatillo Sauce
Desserts: Kahlua Ice Cream Pie, Vanilla Ice Cream w/ or w/out Chocolate Syrup
Suggested Menu Options for Vegans (contain no meat, dairy or egg):**
Only Corn Tortillas (omit all fried varieties, i.e. Corn Tortilla Chips or Strips)
Appetizers: Guacamole Live
Salads: House Salad – Order without Cheese and Tortilla Strips (choose dressing below or Salsa)
Fajita Salad with Portobello - – Order Portobello as a substitute for chicken or beef in the salad.
Salad Dressings – Smoked Jalapeno Vinaigrette
Sides: Salsa, Black Beans (omit Cheese), Black Bean and Corn Relish, Steamed Veggies, Guacamole
Fajitas: Portobello with Corn Tortillas
Quesadillas: Veggie with Corn Tortillas – Order with Steamed Veggies only.
Tacos: Veggie with Corn Tortillas – Order with Steamed Veggies only.
** Note: All desserts and fried items may come into contact with animal products during normal kitchen preparation and cooking processes due to cross-contamination. On your next visit to On The Border, please speak with a manager about your dietary restrictions to ensure that your meal is carefully prepared with your needs in mind. We hope that you are able to choose a meal to your liking and look forward to serving you soon.
On The Border
Guest Relations
Ref # 683357
The verdict:
Corn Tortillas are vegan (note elaboration in letter, above)
Guacamole Live is vegan
The House Salad is vegan if ordered without cheese or tortilla strips
The Fajita Salad with Portobello is vegan if ordered with Corn Tortillas
Smoked Jalapeño Vinaigrette dressing is vegan
Salsa is vegan
Black Beans are vegan if ordered without cheese
Black Bean and Corn Relish is vegan
Guacamole is vegan
Steamed Veggies are vegan
Veggies Quesadillas are vegan if ordered with Steamed Veggies only and with Corn Tortillas
Veggie Tacos are vegan if ordered with Steamed Veggies only and with Corn Tortillas
Friday, September 14, 2007
Blimpie
(in progress)
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? While I appreciate very much that ingredients are listed on your site, some may or may not be of animal origin (L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate), so I'm hoping you might be able to clarify. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Blimpie response:
Mr.[sic] Thompson,
Thank you for sending us your feedback. If you could please contact the corporate office at 866-4-KAHALA or email Jennifer Garnatz at jrgarnatz@kahalacorp.com.
Jennifer is in charge of all nutritional information for all of our brands, she will gladly help you with your inquiry.
Thank you for taking the time to send us your feedback.
Sincerely,
Kristen Nardini
Operations Coordinator
My email(#2) to Jennifer:
Hello Jennifer,
I was given your name by Kristen Nardini, who told me you might be able to help me. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products), including your breads, etc? While I appreciate very much that ingredients are listed on your site, some may or may not be of animal origin (L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate), so I'm hoping you might be able to clarify. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Jennifer's response (#2):
Hello,
After reviewing the ingredients for our breads, they do contain the ingredients which you have listed below. The Ciabatta bread and the Wraps do contain enzymes used in the manufacturing process. In addition, the veggie sub patty that we use is a vegetarian item, but not vegan. Let me know if there are any further questions.
Please and Thank You,
Jennifer Garnatz
Kahala Cold Stone
9311 E. Via De Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Jennifer is pleasant, but rather than answering my question, confirms the information in my email to her. Considering how frequently I'm seeing this, I'm wondering if confusing the issue or not answering the question I asked is just some tactic to induce frustration with the hope I'll give up. Most consumers would. My reply (#3):
Hello Jennifer,
Thanks for your response. I am aware the ingredients mentioned are present in their respective products. My question is whether these ingredients are from an animal source. I am asking because these are food additives that may or may not be from an animal source. Can you please tell me whether the L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate in your menu items are vegan?
Thanks,
Erin
Jennifer relents and addresses my question, but takes the easy way out, unfortunately. Reply (#3):
Erin,
I cannot confirm that they are or are not. The nutrition facts label for these products (breads) do not state that they contain egg or milk, but I cannot be 100% positive that they are not from an animal source.
Please and Thank You,
Jennifer Garnatz
Kahala Cold Stone
9311 E. Via De Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
If Jennifer is in charge of nutritional information for Blimpie, I find it absurd she does not have this information available and is not willing to pursue it. I wrote back (#4) to Kristen Nardini, who first referred me to Jennifer, with my conversation with Jennifer included:
Hello Kristen,
Unfortunately Jennifer Garnatz, to whom you referred me regarding my question regarding the source of some ingredients found in your menu items, was unable help me (our email exchanges follow). Is there someone else who can? I cannot imagine a company making it so difficult for a potential customer to patronize your restaurants. I remain hopeful someone can address my question satisfactorily.
Thanks,
Erin
[forwarded conversation here]
To be continued...
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? While I appreciate very much that ingredients are listed on your site, some may or may not be of animal origin (L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate), so I'm hoping you might be able to clarify. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Blimpie response:
Mr.[sic] Thompson,
Thank you for sending us your feedback. If you could please contact the corporate office at 866-4-KAHALA or email Jennifer Garnatz at jrgarnatz@kahalacorp.com.
Jennifer is in charge of all nutritional information for all of our brands, she will gladly help you with your inquiry.
Thank you for taking the time to send us your feedback.
Sincerely,
Kristen Nardini
Operations Coordinator
My email(#2) to Jennifer:
Hello Jennifer,
I was given your name by Kristen Nardini, who told me you might be able to help me. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products), including your breads, etc? While I appreciate very much that ingredients are listed on your site, some may or may not be of animal origin (L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate), so I'm hoping you might be able to clarify. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Jennifer's response (#2):
Hello,
After reviewing the ingredients for our breads, they do contain the ingredients which you have listed below. The Ciabatta bread and the Wraps do contain enzymes used in the manufacturing process. In addition, the veggie sub patty that we use is a vegetarian item, but not vegan. Let me know if there are any further questions.
Please and Thank You,
Jennifer Garnatz
Kahala Cold Stone
9311 E. Via De Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Jennifer is pleasant, but rather than answering my question, confirms the information in my email to her. Considering how frequently I'm seeing this, I'm wondering if confusing the issue or not answering the question I asked is just some tactic to induce frustration with the hope I'll give up. Most consumers would. My reply (#3):
Hello Jennifer,
Thanks for your response. I am aware the ingredients mentioned are present in their respective products. My question is whether these ingredients are from an animal source. I am asking because these are food additives that may or may not be from an animal source. Can you please tell me whether the L-cysteine, enzymes, sodium stearoyl lactylate in your menu items are vegan?
Thanks,
Erin
Jennifer relents and addresses my question, but takes the easy way out, unfortunately. Reply (#3):
Erin,
I cannot confirm that they are or are not. The nutrition facts label for these products (breads) do not state that they contain egg or milk, but I cannot be 100% positive that they are not from an animal source.
Please and Thank You,
Jennifer Garnatz
Kahala Cold Stone
9311 E. Via De Ventura
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
If Jennifer is in charge of nutritional information for Blimpie, I find it absurd she does not have this information available and is not willing to pursue it. I wrote back (#4) to Kristen Nardini, who first referred me to Jennifer, with my conversation with Jennifer included:
Hello Kristen,
Unfortunately Jennifer Garnatz, to whom you referred me regarding my question regarding the source of some ingredients found in your menu items, was unable help me (our email exchanges follow). Is there someone else who can? I cannot imagine a company making it so difficult for a potential customer to patronize your restaurants. I remain hopeful someone can address my question satisfactorily.
Thanks,
Erin
[forwarded conversation here]
To be continued...
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
O'Charley's
(in progress)
Hello,
Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? From your website's allergen chart I cannot determine what products have no animal ingredients in them. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
The response I received was a link to their nutritional data, which does not include ingredient info and therefore is useless in answering my question:
August 31, 2007
Thank you for your request in regards to obtaining an O'Charley's nutrition guide. It is always a pleasure to hear from one of our loyal customers. Per your request, please click on link below that will allow you to view our nutrition information.
http://64.213.197.19/fulfillment/OCharleysNutritional.pdf
Request: 3159907
My reply (#2):
Hello,
My question was in regards to whether O'Charley's serves anything free of animal ingredients (vegan). This nutrition guide does not answer that question since ingredients are not listed. If your company is unwilling to release the ingredients in the food you serve so that I can make that determination, can you please determine for me which foods on your menu are, or could be ordered, vegan?
Thank you,
Erin
Twelve days, no response. Try #3:
Hello,
I have written twice and asked for help determining which of your menu items are or could be ordered vegan. Both times my response was a link to nutritional data, which does not answer my question in the least since ingredients are not given. I haven't yet, but I would like to visit your restaurant. Since your website's nutritional data doesn't include ingredient information, can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products) or could be ordered that way? Thus far my experience has been that O'Charley's is making it extremely difficult to patronize your restaurant. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Oh, the power of media. Please see the comments section for an update!
The verdict:
Nothing at O'Charley's can be determined to be vegan.
Hello,
Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? From your website's allergen chart I cannot determine what products have no animal ingredients in them. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
The response I received was a link to their nutritional data, which does not include ingredient info and therefore is useless in answering my question:
August 31, 2007
Thank you for your request in regards to obtaining an O'Charley's nutrition guide. It is always a pleasure to hear from one of our loyal customers. Per your request, please click on link below that will allow you to view our nutrition information.
http://64.213.197.19/fulfillment/OCharleysNutritional.pdf
Request: 3159907
My reply (#2):
Hello,
My question was in regards to whether O'Charley's serves anything free of animal ingredients (vegan). This nutrition guide does not answer that question since ingredients are not listed. If your company is unwilling to release the ingredients in the food you serve so that I can make that determination, can you please determine for me which foods on your menu are, or could be ordered, vegan?
Thank you,
Erin
Twelve days, no response. Try #3:
Hello,
I have written twice and asked for help determining which of your menu items are or could be ordered vegan. Both times my response was a link to nutritional data, which does not answer my question in the least since ingredients are not given. I haven't yet, but I would like to visit your restaurant. Since your website's nutritional data doesn't include ingredient information, can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products) or could be ordered that way? Thus far my experience has been that O'Charley's is making it extremely difficult to patronize your restaurant. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Oh, the power of media. Please see the comments section for an update!
The verdict:
Nothing at O'Charley's can be determined to be vegan.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Chipotle
Chipotle's website features the coolest Flash animation description of its menu components. Many items are labeled vegetarian, and they even note that their cheese has rennet from a vegetarian source. However, we still need to know what vegetarian items are also vegan.
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items marked vegetarian are also vegan (no animal products, i.e. dairy, cheese, etc.)? Thank you for your time in determining this.
Best,
Erin
(six burritoless days pass)
Try #1b
Hello,
This is the second time I am writing to ask what vegan options Chipotle has on their menu. Without access to ingredients lists, I cannot make this determination from what information is available on the website. Saying something has no dairy doesn't mean it is without animal products. Additionally, your website touts that there are several vegan dining options available. Can you please help me by telling me what those are?
Many thanks for your time,
Erin
Chipotle response #1:
Hello Erin,
Thank you for writing us with your question. The Tortillas, Chips, Rice, Black Beans, Fajitas, all Salsas, Guacamole, and Lettuce is all Vegan ingredients. I hope this information is helpful and we wish you many more burritoful visits.
Sincerely,
Kenwood
Chipotle
The verdict:
Tortillas are vegan
Chips are vegan
Rice is vegan
Black Beans are vegan
Fajita Vegetables are vegan
All Salsas are vegan
Guacamole is vegan
The lettuce is vegan
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items marked vegetarian are also vegan (no animal products, i.e. dairy, cheese, etc.)? Thank you for your time in determining this.
Best,
Erin
(six burritoless days pass)
Try #1b
Hello,
This is the second time I am writing to ask what vegan options Chipotle has on their menu. Without access to ingredients lists, I cannot make this determination from what information is available on the website. Saying something has no dairy doesn't mean it is without animal products. Additionally, your website touts that there are several vegan dining options available. Can you please help me by telling me what those are?
Many thanks for your time,
Erin
Chipotle response #1:
Hello Erin,
Thank you for writing us with your question. The Tortillas, Chips, Rice, Black Beans, Fajitas, all Salsas, Guacamole, and Lettuce is all Vegan ingredients. I hope this information is helpful and we wish you many more burritoful visits.
Sincerely,
Kenwood
Chipotle
The verdict:
Tortillas are vegan
Chips are vegan
Rice is vegan
Black Beans are vegan
Fajita Vegetables are vegan
All Salsas are vegan
Guacamole is vegan
The lettuce is vegan
Nothing But Noodles
(in progress)
Far too often, I'm asked to drive somewhere and essentially interview a manager on the spot just to give these people my money and my recommendation. Why must the consumer do all the footwork in order to patronize a restaurant?
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? I cannot determine this from the information on your website. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Nothing But Noodles response:
Dear Erin,
Thank you for taking the time to write. It will be easier to tell you which dishes have either beef or egg in them. These are the Beef Stroganoff and Pad Thai Noodles. The only sauce with beef in it is Beef Stroganoff Sauce. The only noodles that contain egg are the Wide Egg Noodles. For more information I would suggest that you contact your local Noodles. Just ask to speak with a manager. They would be more than happy to try and accommodate you with any special requests. If you have any other questions just let me know. We hope to see you in one of our stores soon.
Sincerely,
Katey Casey
Office Manager
Noodles Development, LP
14300 North Northsight Suite 221
Scottsdale, Az 85260
Phone 480.513.7008
Fax 480.513.7989
www.nothingbutnoodles.com
kcasey@nothingbutnoodles.com
My reply (#2):
Dear Katey,
Thanks for your response. I am trying to compile a list of vegan dining options and so making a drive up to a store to speak to a manager about this would become very difficult if I have to do that for every restaurant. I am hopeful you or someone else can accommodate my request for identifying which of your products do not contain animal ingredients (meat, egg, dairy, butter, cheese, etc.) without requiring a trip to the restaurant, which would be followed by my needing to write down everything I'm told as I talk to the manager.
I know only your Beef Stroganoff comes with meat automatically; can someone please identify which sauces contain no meat/dairy/animal products, and confirm that the noodles are free of animal ingredients beyond eggs. I really appreciate your time and help in this matter!
Thanks,
Erin
Updates posted as received.
Far too often, I'm asked to drive somewhere and essentially interview a manager on the spot just to give these people my money and my recommendation. Why must the consumer do all the footwork in order to patronize a restaurant?
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? I cannot determine this from the information on your website. Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Nothing But Noodles response:
Dear Erin,
Thank you for taking the time to write. It will be easier to tell you which dishes have either beef or egg in them. These are the Beef Stroganoff and Pad Thai Noodles. The only sauce with beef in it is Beef Stroganoff Sauce. The only noodles that contain egg are the Wide Egg Noodles. For more information I would suggest that you contact your local Noodles. Just ask to speak with a manager. They would be more than happy to try and accommodate you with any special requests. If you have any other questions just let me know. We hope to see you in one of our stores soon.
Sincerely,
Katey Casey
Office Manager
Noodles Development, LP
14300 North Northsight Suite 221
Scottsdale, Az 85260
Phone 480.513.7008
Fax 480.513.7989
www.nothingbutnoodles.com
kcasey@nothingbutnoodles.com
My reply (#2):
Dear Katey,
Thanks for your response. I am trying to compile a list of vegan dining options and so making a drive up to a store to speak to a manager about this would become very difficult if I have to do that for every restaurant. I am hopeful you or someone else can accommodate my request for identifying which of your products do not contain animal ingredients (meat, egg, dairy, butter, cheese, etc.) without requiring a trip to the restaurant, which would be followed by my needing to write down everything I'm told as I talk to the manager.
I know only your Beef Stroganoff comes with meat automatically; can someone please identify which sauces contain no meat/dairy/animal products, and confirm that the noodles are free of animal ingredients beyond eggs. I really appreciate your time and help in this matter!
Thanks,
Erin
Updates posted as received.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Fazoli's
Short and sweet, what a delight.
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Fazoli's reply:
Thank you for your interest in the Fazoli's menu. Although we are limited in vegan options, we do offer a few. The list of these options includes:
Spaghetti (or any of our other noodles)
Marinara Sauce
Dry Breadsticks - no garlic butter topping
Garden Side Salad - Lite Italian Dressing, no croutons
Lemon Ice
If I can answer any other questions about the Fazoli's Menu, feel free
to contact me. I am more than happy to help.
Thanks,
Teresa Broaddus
Fazoli's Quality Assurance Manager
The verdict:
The pasta is vegan
Marinara Sauce is vegan
Breadsticks are vegan if ordered without garlic butter topping
Garden Side Salad is vegan if ordered without croûtons
Lite Italian Dressing is vegan
Lemon Ice is vegan
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Fazoli's reply:
Thank you for your interest in the Fazoli's menu. Although we are limited in vegan options, we do offer a few. The list of these options includes:
Spaghetti (or any of our other noodles)
Marinara Sauce
Dry Breadsticks - no garlic butter topping
Garden Side Salad - Lite Italian Dressing, no croutons
Lemon Ice
If I can answer any other questions about the Fazoli's Menu, feel free
to contact me. I am more than happy to help.
Thanks,
Teresa Broaddus
Fazoli's Quality Assurance Manager
The verdict:
The pasta is vegan
Marinara Sauce is vegan
Breadsticks are vegan if ordered without garlic butter topping
Garden Side Salad is vegan if ordered without croûtons
Lite Italian Dressing is vegan
Lemon Ice is vegan
Monday, August 20, 2007
Quizno's
Amazing Broccoli Cheese Soup
Hello,
Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? From your website's nutritional area I can only determine if certain things are or are not present in your foods, but without seeing an ingredient list I cannot determine what products have no animal ingredients in them. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Response #1 from Quizno's:
Hi Erin,
Sorry we could not reach you at the phone number provided on your customer response. With regards to which of our menu items are animal product free a more full response may be received by contacting our Guest Relations line (800-4Toasted) and ask for Melinda Allen.
The current menu has on vegitarian sub called the Italian Caprese which has Baslamic Vinegarette and Basil Pesto along with Tomato, Mozzarella Cheese, Basil, Oregano, Garlic Spice and Romain Lettuce.
Another option is an item not currently on the menu that we can make on request which I refer to as the "original" veggie. It has Red Wine Vinegarette, Tomatoes, Onions, Mushrooms, Black Olives, Mozzarella, Cheddar, Lettuce (and optional Guacamole). Additionally our Brocolli Cheese soup is amazing and does not have any meat in it.
Kinds Regards,
Steve
(Many of the companies I question have online forms to submit questions, rather than allowing the consumer access to an actual email address. Some of these forms include required fields for address and phone number, so I usually fill these in with false information because I do not feel it need be mandatory that I give up that personal information in order to simply determine if I can patronize their business. And, of course, for the purposes of this blog, I want answers in writing. Quizno's is one of these, hence his reference to "my" phone number not working.)
So, two problems here: confusion over the definition of the term vegan, and no email address for the contact he provides for further investigation.
My reply #2:
Hello Steve,
Thanks for your response. I am compiling vegan menu options offered by national restaurants, so I would like a response in writing. With regards to my question, I am looking for vegan menu offerings: vegan means free of animal products, and "animal products" include not just meat, but anything made with products of animals, i.e. cheese, butter, dairy, etc. None of the food mentioned below fits this criteria, but I am hopeful that there is still something at Quizno's that does. For example, if I knew they ingredients of your bread (or if someone could attest with certainty that they are vegan), I could order a sub with veggies and no cheese. If you or someone could help me determine this I would greatly appreciate it!
Thanks,
Erin
Quizno's response #2:
If you contact the person I mentioned they may well be able to provide you a written response to your request.
Thanks,
Steve
Thanks, Steve?
My reply #3:
Steve,
Do you have an email address for her? Your message contains only a phone number. Thank you,
Erin
Quizno's reply #3:
I don't but I'm sure she could give it to you. If she does not satisfy you let me know and we'll push it further up the "food" chain. :)
Stephen Price
I think I'll try forwarding my correspondence to Quizno's HQ, if I can track down an email address. In searching for that on Google, this warning was returned as result number one. Regardless of whether it's true or not, I think it's time to set up a spam gourmet account.
I also found the low-carbers have documented problems even getting a carb breakdown (only net carbs are provided online, not even standard nutritional data).
I did not find, unfortunately, any email address for Quizno's corporate HQ. So, back to the form for response #4:
Can you please give me an email address for someone who can help me determine what, if any, of your menu items are vegan? What follows is my correspondence with Stephen Price, who could not help me.
Thanks,
Erin
(previous correspondence here)
Twenty days after my initial inquiry, and no noise from Quizno's in my inbox...
9/17/07
I found an entry for Quizno's on a page to which Peta links, a vegan guide to chain restaurants. It doesn't state explicitly their bread is vegan, but recommends their subs as an alternative to Subway. I sent Peta this message (their web form says to expect a two week wait for response):
Hello,
I saw on your vegan chain restaurant dining guide (http://vegcooking.com/ChainRestaurants.asp) a listing for Quizno's. It does not say their bread is vegan, and to my understanding it is not. I have tried to contact their headquarters to determine whether their bread is vegan or not, and have met with much resistance to say the least. In fact, they have become the poster child for resisting giving out ingredient statements, or telling the public whether their bread is vegan or not, and for generally being unhelpful and unaccommodating. If Peta or Veg Cooking has had a different experience I would love to know. I am collecting this information for my blog on vegan options at chains. You can see my correspondence with Quizno's here: http://veganmasterlist.blogspot.com/search/label/Quizno%27s
If Quizno's is unwilling to confirm their bread is vegan, I think you will agree they have no place on your vegan chain restaurant dining guide.
Thanks,
Erin
Peta response:
Hi Erin,
When we called the company, they were happy to confirm their ingredients list. Hopefully they’ll respond to you in a positive manner in the future.
Regards,
Corey Portlatin-Berrien
Program Coordinator | People for the Ethical Treament of Animals
PETA.org | Vegcooking.com
I guess I need to work on clarity. My reply #2:
Hi Corey,
Thanks for your reply. By Quizno's inclusion on Peta's (or VegCooking's) vegan chain restaurant dining guide, is it being stated that the bread at Quizno's can be considered vegan?
thanks,
Erin
Peta's reply #2:
Yes, we were told it was vegan.
Regards,
Corey Portalatin-Berrien
Program Coordinator | Vegcooking.com
757.962.8262
So there you have it folks. Peta was told the bread is vegan. If you're Peta someone will tell you.
The verdict (unconfirmed by Quizno's):
See Peta's guide to chain restaurants. (They are claiming the breads to be vegan.)
Hello,
Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? From your website's nutritional area I can only determine if certain things are or are not present in your foods, but without seeing an ingredient list I cannot determine what products have no animal ingredients in them. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
Response #1 from Quizno's:
Hi Erin,
Sorry we could not reach you at the phone number provided on your customer response. With regards to which of our menu items are animal product free a more full response may be received by contacting our Guest Relations line (800-4Toasted) and ask for Melinda Allen.
The current menu has on vegitarian sub called the Italian Caprese which has Baslamic Vinegarette and Basil Pesto along with Tomato, Mozzarella Cheese, Basil, Oregano, Garlic Spice and Romain Lettuce.
Another option is an item not currently on the menu that we can make on request which I refer to as the "original" veggie. It has Red Wine Vinegarette, Tomatoes, Onions, Mushrooms, Black Olives, Mozzarella, Cheddar, Lettuce (and optional Guacamole). Additionally our Brocolli Cheese soup is amazing and does not have any meat in it.
Kinds Regards,
Steve
(Many of the companies I question have online forms to submit questions, rather than allowing the consumer access to an actual email address. Some of these forms include required fields for address and phone number, so I usually fill these in with false information because I do not feel it need be mandatory that I give up that personal information in order to simply determine if I can patronize their business. And, of course, for the purposes of this blog, I want answers in writing. Quizno's is one of these, hence his reference to "my" phone number not working.)
So, two problems here: confusion over the definition of the term vegan, and no email address for the contact he provides for further investigation.
My reply #2:
Hello Steve,
Thanks for your response. I am compiling vegan menu options offered by national restaurants, so I would like a response in writing. With regards to my question, I am looking for vegan menu offerings: vegan means free of animal products, and "animal products" include not just meat, but anything made with products of animals, i.e. cheese, butter, dairy, etc. None of the food mentioned below fits this criteria, but I am hopeful that there is still something at Quizno's that does. For example, if I knew they ingredients of your bread (or if someone could attest with certainty that they are vegan), I could order a sub with veggies and no cheese. If you or someone could help me determine this I would greatly appreciate it!
Thanks,
Erin
Quizno's response #2:
If you contact the person I mentioned they may well be able to provide you a written response to your request.
Thanks,
Steve
Thanks, Steve?
My reply #3:
Steve,
Do you have an email address for her? Your message contains only a phone number. Thank you,
Erin
Quizno's reply #3:
I don't but I'm sure she could give it to you. If she does not satisfy you let me know and we'll push it further up the "food" chain. :)
Stephen Price
I think I'll try forwarding my correspondence to Quizno's HQ, if I can track down an email address. In searching for that on Google, this warning was returned as result number one. Regardless of whether it's true or not, I think it's time to set up a spam gourmet account.
I also found the low-carbers have documented problems even getting a carb breakdown (only net carbs are provided online, not even standard nutritional data).
I did not find, unfortunately, any email address for Quizno's corporate HQ. So, back to the form for response #4:
Can you please give me an email address for someone who can help me determine what, if any, of your menu items are vegan? What follows is my correspondence with Stephen Price, who could not help me.
Thanks,
Erin
(previous correspondence here)
Twenty days after my initial inquiry, and no noise from Quizno's in my inbox...
9/17/07
I found an entry for Quizno's on a page to which Peta links, a vegan guide to chain restaurants. It doesn't state explicitly their bread is vegan, but recommends their subs as an alternative to Subway. I sent Peta this message (their web form says to expect a two week wait for response):
Hello,
I saw on your vegan chain restaurant dining guide (http://vegcooking.com/ChainRestaurants.asp) a listing for Quizno's. It does not say their bread is vegan, and to my understanding it is not. I have tried to contact their headquarters to determine whether their bread is vegan or not, and have met with much resistance to say the least. In fact, they have become the poster child for resisting giving out ingredient statements, or telling the public whether their bread is vegan or not, and for generally being unhelpful and unaccommodating. If Peta or Veg Cooking has had a different experience I would love to know. I am collecting this information for my blog on vegan options at chains. You can see my correspondence with Quizno's here: http://veganmasterlist.blogspot.com/search/label/Quizno%27s
If Quizno's is unwilling to confirm their bread is vegan, I think you will agree they have no place on your vegan chain restaurant dining guide.
Thanks,
Erin
Peta response:
Hi Erin,
When we called the company, they were happy to confirm their ingredients list. Hopefully they’ll respond to you in a positive manner in the future.
Regards,
Corey Portlatin-Berrien
Program Coordinator | People for the Ethical Treament of Animals
PETA.org | Vegcooking.com
I guess I need to work on clarity. My reply #2:
Hi Corey,
Thanks for your reply. By Quizno's inclusion on Peta's (or VegCooking's) vegan chain restaurant dining guide, is it being stated that the bread at Quizno's can be considered vegan?
thanks,
Erin
Peta's reply #2:
Yes, we were told it was vegan.
Regards,
Corey Portalatin-Berrien
Program Coordinator | Vegcooking.com
757.962.8262
So there you have it folks. Peta was told the bread is vegan. If you're Peta someone will tell you.
The verdict (unconfirmed by Quizno's):
See Peta's guide to chain restaurants. (They are claiming the breads to be vegan.)
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Arby's
Arby's took seven days to respond, and did not offer any vegan suggestions, but rather directed me to their online ingredient information.
The verdict:
Apple Turnover is vegan
Cherry Turnover is vegan
Arby's Sauce is vegan
Homestyle Fries have no animal ingredients but may be fried in oil shared with animal products
Potato Cake may or may not be vegan (Disodium Dihydrogen Pyrophosphate)
Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing is vegan
Red Wine Vinaigrette may or may not be vegan (Calcium Disodium EDTA)
Sub Roll may or may not be vegan (L-Cysteine)
Garden Salad is vegan if ordered without croutons (no crouton ingredient information found)
Side Salad is vegan if ordered without croutons (no crouton ingredient information found)
The verdict:
Apple Turnover is vegan
Cherry Turnover is vegan
Arby's Sauce is vegan
Homestyle Fries have no animal ingredients but may be fried in oil shared with animal products
Potato Cake may or may not be vegan (Disodium Dihydrogen Pyrophosphate)
Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing is vegan
Red Wine Vinaigrette may or may not be vegan (Calcium Disodium EDTA)
Sub Roll may or may not be vegan (L-Cysteine)
Garden Salad is vegan if ordered without croutons (no crouton ingredient information found)
Side Salad is vegan if ordered without croutons (no crouton ingredient information found)
Bravo Cucina Italiana
I wrote to Bravo! Cucina Italiana and after seven days and no response, wrote again with the same message.
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
The same day I received a nice response from Lisa:
Erin,
Has anyone contacted you?
Lisa Gillenwater
Executive Assistant
Bravo Development, Inc
Phone: (614) 340-9208
Fax: (866) 625-4761
lgillenwater@bdi.cc
To which I replied (#2):
Hello Lisa,
No, still awaiting a reply.
Thanks,
Erin
Lisa (#2a):
Erin,
I apologize. You should be contacted today or tomorrow at the latest. Please let me know if no one contacts you by then.
Thank you,
Lisa
Lisa Gillenwater
Executive Assistant
Bravo Development, Inc
Phone: (614) 340-9208
Fax: (866) 625-4761
lgillenwater@bdi.cc
Great! Hard to mind that former lack of response with such courteousness now. Later the same day, I received a message from chef Dan Kahle.
Reply (#2b) from Dan Kahle, Bravo! Italiana Cucina, Castleton, Indianapolis location:
Erin,
In regards to your question about vegan dishes, we could do a portabello mista appetizer without the creamy horseradish dressing. Also, if you call us and let us know when you are coming, we would be happy to do a grilled vegetable plate, or something else to suit your needs. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions, or you can also call the restaurant @(317) 577-2211.
Dan Kahle
Chef
Bravo! Castleton
Dan and Lisa, while perhaps late to respond, more than made amends with their friendly demeanor and helpfulness. While I would like, of course, for vegans to be considered at the time the menu was created, their willingness to accommodate vegan diners in such a personalized way is very impressive. However, one obvious question comes to mind: is their pasta vegan?
I submitted this reply (#3) to Dan:
Thanks so much for your reply Dan!
I really appreciate you taking the time to write and your offer to accommodate my diet. I do have one question I'm hoping you can help me with: do you know if your pasta is free of animal ingredients, or if possible, since some ingredients aren't clearly of animal origin, could you send the ingredients of your pasta (or one or two popular types if you use different brands with different ingredients)? I know this is a hassle and time consuming, but please know that your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Erin
Bravo! Cucina Italiana reply #3:
Erin,
We use Barilla pasta. The ingredients for all string and round pastas are semolina, duram flour, niacin, iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. The whole wheat pasta we use contains egg whites, and all of our raviolis contain cheese. Let me know if you have any more questions.
Dan
The verdict:
The Portobello Mista appetizer, ordered without the creamy horseradish dressing, is vegan
String and round pastas may or may not be vegan (thiamin mononitrate) (the whole wheat pasta is not vegan).
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to determine this, your help is greatly appreciated.
Best,
Erin
The same day I received a nice response from Lisa:
Erin,
Has anyone contacted you?
Lisa Gillenwater
Executive Assistant
Bravo Development, Inc
Phone: (614) 340-9208
Fax: (866) 625-4761
lgillenwater@bdi.cc
To which I replied (#2):
Hello Lisa,
No, still awaiting a reply.
Thanks,
Erin
Lisa (#2a):
Erin,
I apologize. You should be contacted today or tomorrow at the latest. Please let me know if no one contacts you by then.
Thank you,
Lisa
Lisa Gillenwater
Executive Assistant
Bravo Development, Inc
Phone: (614) 340-9208
Fax: (866) 625-4761
lgillenwater@bdi.cc
Great! Hard to mind that former lack of response with such courteousness now. Later the same day, I received a message from chef Dan Kahle.
Reply (#2b) from Dan Kahle, Bravo! Italiana Cucina, Castleton, Indianapolis location:
Erin,
In regards to your question about vegan dishes, we could do a portabello mista appetizer without the creamy horseradish dressing. Also, if you call us and let us know when you are coming, we would be happy to do a grilled vegetable plate, or something else to suit your needs. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions, or you can also call the restaurant @(317) 577-2211.
Dan Kahle
Chef
Bravo! Castleton
Dan and Lisa, while perhaps late to respond, more than made amends with their friendly demeanor and helpfulness. While I would like, of course, for vegans to be considered at the time the menu was created, their willingness to accommodate vegan diners in such a personalized way is very impressive. However, one obvious question comes to mind: is their pasta vegan?
I submitted this reply (#3) to Dan:
Thanks so much for your reply Dan!
I really appreciate you taking the time to write and your offer to accommodate my diet. I do have one question I'm hoping you can help me with: do you know if your pasta is free of animal ingredients, or if possible, since some ingredients aren't clearly of animal origin, could you send the ingredients of your pasta (or one or two popular types if you use different brands with different ingredients)? I know this is a hassle and time consuming, but please know that your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Erin
Bravo! Cucina Italiana reply #3:
Erin,
We use Barilla pasta. The ingredients for all string and round pastas are semolina, duram flour, niacin, iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. The whole wheat pasta we use contains egg whites, and all of our raviolis contain cheese. Let me know if you have any more questions.
Dan
The verdict:
The Portobello Mista appetizer, ordered without the creamy horseradish dressing, is vegan
String and round pastas may or may not be vegan (thiamin mononitrate) (the whole wheat pasta is not vegan).
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Noodles and Co.
Help, please...
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to research this.
Best,
Erin
Noodles and Co. reply:
Dear Erin,
Thank you for your inquiry. At Noodles [and] Company, we are always happy to accommodate special requests. Because some of our guests follow a vegan diet differently than others, we do not claim that any of our dishes meet these criteria. Additionally, please note that our “vegetarian” dishes may contain ingredients such as eggs and all dairy products.
The Japanese Pan Noodles, Bangkok Curry and Indonesian Peanut Sauté are considered vegetarian and do not contain eggs or dairy. They do however have some sugar in them if you wish to avoid that as well. The staff also has access to an Allergen Chart which lists our vegetarian dishes as well as ingredients such as eggs, dairy etc. Please check with them whenever you come in as they will have the most current information.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Kara
I like that they are aware of the sugar issue. But I find it hard to believe that in order to get "the most current information," that requires customers to go to the store. A website, a centralized entity, can be updated much more easily than all of the literature for individual stores.
I attempted a follow-up (#2):
Dear Kara,
Thank you for your reply. Noodles and Co. is clearly aware of some of the difficulties of eating a vegan diet in a dining-out atmosphere, and that is encouraging. I am hoping you can confirm for me, without me having to take a trip to one of your stores only to be disappointed, if the three dishes you named (Japanese Pan Noodles, Bangkok Curry and Indonesian Peanut Sauté), currently have animal-derived ingredients other than the sugar you mentioned? Your time and help are greatly appreciated, and I would love to add Noodles and Co. to the small repertoire of vegan dining options.
Thanks,
Erin
Noodles and Co. response #2:
Hi Erin,
I appreciate your understanding. These dishes do not contain any dairy or eggs or any ingredients such as gelatin or fish sauce. The only menu items with any beef or chicken are found in our protein add-ons and we do not use any honey if you are concerned with that. I hope this helps! Are there any other ingredients you would be interested in?
Kara
Without berating poor Kara with all of the intricacies of food additives, it's difficult to make a determination without access to an ingredient list. Such is available in-store, but indirectly via the mouths of employees, according to Kara. My recommendation, if you don't mind making the trip and want further confirmation, is to ask an employee to read ingredients to you. Perhaps a printed-out copy of Kara's letter might be a good accompaniment in case an employee balks at that idea. Still, one would need to have memorized the additives here to make this work. It would be so much more helpful if the ingredients were available on their website, or even given to those who ask. I do think Kara herself did a good job working within what, I assume, are corporate guidelines for these situations.
Still, I decided to follow up (#3) with Kara, who has been receptive and helpful, thus giving me at the very least the illusion of feeling like my efforts are not falling on deaf ears:
Dear Kara,
I do wish a list of ingredients would be made available via the website. However, you have been very friendly and [accomodating] otherwise, which I appreciate, and I invite you to view my vegan dining blog where I have shared this information. It’s at http://veganmasterlist.blogspot.com/
Thanks again,
Erin
(For the record, I follow up all conversations with an email of this type, thanking them and inviting the representative to view my post and assessment of their help. Exposing these results to the companies themselves is as important as any of the goals of this blog.)
Noodles and Co. reply #3:
Erin,
I am sorry that I cannot provide you with an ingredients statement. Since we keep all our recipes secret we do not currently share that information with our guests.
I do hope that the information I was able to provide will help you with your decision. If you visit Noodles & Company in the future, I would still encourage you to ask for the allergen guide in case an ingredient has changed or that particular location is offering a new dish.
Thanks again for contacting us at Noodles & Company.
Kara
Ingredient lists and recipes are two very different things. Noodles and Co. should allow their customers to view ingredient lists.
The verdict:
Japanese Pan Noodles may be vegan except for traditionally-refined sugar
Bangkok Curry may be vegan except for traditionally-refined sugar
Indonesian Peanut Sauce may be vegan except for traditionally-refined sugar
Noodles and Co. was friendly, helpful, and responsive; however, to be vegan friendly they must provide customers with access to ingredient lists if they are unable to say positively whether items on their menu are vegan.
Hello,
I would like to visit your restaurant. Can you tell me what menu items are vegan (no animal products)? Thank you for taking the time to research this.
Best,
Erin
Noodles and Co. reply:
Dear Erin,
Thank you for your inquiry. At Noodles [and] Company, we are always happy to accommodate special requests. Because some of our guests follow a vegan diet differently than others, we do not claim that any of our dishes meet these criteria. Additionally, please note that our “vegetarian” dishes may contain ingredients such as eggs and all dairy products.
The Japanese Pan Noodles, Bangkok Curry and Indonesian Peanut Sauté are considered vegetarian and do not contain eggs or dairy. They do however have some sugar in them if you wish to avoid that as well. The staff also has access to an Allergen Chart which lists our vegetarian dishes as well as ingredients such as eggs, dairy etc. Please check with them whenever you come in as they will have the most current information.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Kara
I like that they are aware of the sugar issue. But I find it hard to believe that in order to get "the most current information," that requires customers to go to the store. A website, a centralized entity, can be updated much more easily than all of the literature for individual stores.
I attempted a follow-up (#2):
Dear Kara,
Thank you for your reply. Noodles and Co. is clearly aware of some of the difficulties of eating a vegan diet in a dining-out atmosphere, and that is encouraging. I am hoping you can confirm for me, without me having to take a trip to one of your stores only to be disappointed, if the three dishes you named (Japanese Pan Noodles, Bangkok Curry and Indonesian Peanut Sauté), currently have animal-derived ingredients other than the sugar you mentioned? Your time and help are greatly appreciated, and I would love to add Noodles and Co. to the small repertoire of vegan dining options.
Thanks,
Erin
Noodles and Co. response #2:
Hi Erin,
I appreciate your understanding. These dishes do not contain any dairy or eggs or any ingredients such as gelatin or fish sauce. The only menu items with any beef or chicken are found in our protein add-ons and we do not use any honey if you are concerned with that. I hope this helps! Are there any other ingredients you would be interested in?
Kara
Without berating poor Kara with all of the intricacies of food additives, it's difficult to make a determination without access to an ingredient list. Such is available in-store, but indirectly via the mouths of employees, according to Kara. My recommendation, if you don't mind making the trip and want further confirmation, is to ask an employee to read ingredients to you. Perhaps a printed-out copy of Kara's letter might be a good accompaniment in case an employee balks at that idea. Still, one would need to have memorized the additives here to make this work. It would be so much more helpful if the ingredients were available on their website, or even given to those who ask. I do think Kara herself did a good job working within what, I assume, are corporate guidelines for these situations.
Still, I decided to follow up (#3) with Kara, who has been receptive and helpful, thus giving me at the very least the illusion of feeling like my efforts are not falling on deaf ears:
Dear Kara,
I do wish a list of ingredients would be made available via the website. However, you have been very friendly and [accomodating] otherwise, which I appreciate, and I invite you to view my vegan dining blog where I have shared this information. It’s at http://veganmasterlist.blogspot.com/
Thanks again,
Erin
(For the record, I follow up all conversations with an email of this type, thanking them and inviting the representative to view my post and assessment of their help. Exposing these results to the companies themselves is as important as any of the goals of this blog.)
Noodles and Co. reply #3:
Erin,
I am sorry that I cannot provide you with an ingredients statement. Since we keep all our recipes secret we do not currently share that information with our guests.
I do hope that the information I was able to provide will help you with your decision. If you visit Noodles & Company in the future, I would still encourage you to ask for the allergen guide in case an ingredient has changed or that particular location is offering a new dish.
Thanks again for contacting us at Noodles & Company.
Kara
Ingredient lists and recipes are two very different things. Noodles and Co. should allow their customers to view ingredient lists.
The verdict:
Japanese Pan Noodles may be vegan except for traditionally-refined sugar
Bangkok Curry may be vegan except for traditionally-refined sugar
Indonesian Peanut Sauce may be vegan except for traditionally-refined sugar
Noodles and Co. was friendly, helpful, and responsive; however, to be vegan friendly they must provide customers with access to ingredient lists if they are unable to say positively whether items on their menu are vegan.
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