By Emma Giebel

While spending a windy March weekend down in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, I decided to grab lunch at a spot I had never noticed before. Located in Beach Haven, just two blocks from the ocean, sits Living on the Veg, an almost entirely vegan breakfast and lunch destination that may have just changed the game for vegans and vegetarians in LBI. As I walked in, I was shocked at how perfectly they were utilizing such a small space. A counter is located inside the restaurant, but all of the other seating is found outside, in the form of picnic tables. Since it was a cold day, I decided on take-out.

Glancing at the menu, I was shocked at the variety and creativity. From appetizers, salads, many different options for sandwiches, smoothies, acai bowls, and breakfast options, it seems like there really is something for everyone. Considering it was lunch time, I decided on the Smooth Operator smoothie and the barbeque seitan wrap. The smoothie was a great sweet tooth quencher, especially since it was filled with strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and a banana. When I returned home to eat my wrap, after only waiting roughly 6 minutes, I was delightfully surprised at its size. It was filled with brown rice, black beans, seasoned seitan, vegetables, and perfectly spiced barbeque sauce. The wrap was a savory lunch that offered something new in every bite. The side of vegan potato salad complimented the wrap, and made for a perfect lunch. In all, the wrap filled me up and was one of the best vegan spins on a classic sandwich that I have ever had.

Living on the Veg has set themselves up to be a major success. The restaurant is nearly entirely vegan, with the exception of some breads containing honey, and has many options that would be a perfect meal for anyone. What truly sets Living on the Veg apart is its location, just a short walk to the beach. For anyone looking for an easy and portable lunch to grab for a day at the beach, Living on the Veg is the one-stop shop. Being a vegan beach bum has never been easier!

To find other veggie restaurants in the USA and Canada, visit: https://www.vrg.org/restaurant/index.php