Catching Up with Mena Massoud, Host of the Peacock Travel Series ‘Evolving Vegan’

From forksoverknives.com

Jet-setting vegan foodies, take note: Evolving Vegan, the food and travel series hosted by Mena Massoud, is now streaming on Peacock. The series follows the Aladdin star as he eats his way through North America and beyond, digging into cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, rolling sushi with a master chef in Tokyo, and revisiting favourites in his hometown of Toronto. Along the way, he interviews chefs for their perspectives on the evolution of plant-based cuisine.

Massoud’s own path to veganism started almost a decade ago, when he and two friends began gradually eliminating animal products because of environmental concerns. “We approached it very slowly,” he recalls. “The more we did, the more we felt better. I personally started seeing a difference in my workout regimen and my body that I had never seen before.”

What began as a choice for the planet soon grew into a commitment to his own well-being. That personal evolution inspired the title of his show and still shapes the way he approaches veganism today. “Everybody’s journey is different… I encourage people to be non-judgmental and try to be more empathetic,” Massoud says.

Read on for more from our recent conversation with Massoud, where we discuss how his perspective on veganism has evolved since launching his show, what makes a city a standout as a plant-based destination, his top tips for finding great vegan food while traveling, and more.

How has your perspective on plant-based food evolved since you first started working on the show?

Mena Massoud: When vegan [food] had a boom in the markets back in 2019 … what became really popular was the mock meats. Now I think we're seeing people prioritize health and whole foods over vegan [highly processed foods]. … My view has also changed since I started the show and since I went vegan back in 2015, to focusing on healthy alternatives.

You can have a mock meat burger once a week and probably be fine, but if you're having ultra-processed food like that every day, it's likely not good for you. So that's kind of how my view has changed. I’ve gravitated more toward whole foods and healthy plant-based foods instead of just imitations.

Have you seen that shift reflected in the restaurants you’ve visited for the show?

Massoud: There’s a mix of everything, and everybody has their own style and agenda. Some chefs just want to get people into vegan eating, and the easiest way to do that is to make something that tastes really good and reminds them of meat; often that is processed. In places like Vancouver, where they have a plethora of fresh produce, I didn’t see a lot of processed meals. They really relied on whole foods that they got from the local environment. You see that in LA, as well, because there’s so much fresh produce. So, it depends on the city, the chef, and a lot of things, but I think there’s a good mix out there.

What makes a city stand out as a plant-based destination?

Massoud: One thing is whether it surprises you versus your expectations. For example, Philadelphia shocked me. The restaurant Pietramala is one of the best vegan restaurants in the world that I’ve ever tried. That chef really has a unique point of view—everything he makes is from the vision of fermentation and fire—and that makes for some incredible food.

Another [factor] is the availability of fresh produce and unique vegetables and fruits. In Miami, I tried fruit I’d never seen before. And Vancouver and California, like I was saying, have a plethora of fresh produce, which makes for an incredible plant-based city as well. … Portland is another standout. The chefs there are kind of avant-garde. They're not afraid to experiment.

You’ve filmed in many cities. Any favorite moments from the Los Angeles shoot?

Massoud: LA is special because I lived there for five years and had personal relationships with some of the restaurants we visited, like H.O.P.E. Vegan. One of my best friends, [celebrity trainer] Kollins Ezekh, introduced me to the chef-owner, Maud. So for the show, we did this cool segment where all three of us went boxing [at Ezekh’s gym] and then went to Maud’s restaurant. We got to hang out basically all day.

Also, my film crew was all from Toronto, and getting to take them to some of my favourite spots in LA was really nice. I took them hiking in Runyon Canyon.

What’s your top advice for traveling as a vegan?

Massoud: Do your research beforehand. And hit up the locals. All you need is one or two good vegan spots before you arrive, and then ask people there where they go. You’ll find some hidden gems that way. When we went to Osaka (not for the show), we found a tiny vegan spot with six seats, asked everyone there where else they liked to eat, and ended up with incredible recommendations.

What do you hope people take away from Evolving Vegan?

Massoud: There hasn’t been a show like this before. It’s hard to convince a network to do a vegan show. People still think vegan is niche, but more people than ever are [incorporating plant-based meals] into their diets. The more people that do that, the bigger impact we can make.

Also, I’ve always been a foodie, even before going plant-based, and I wanted to make a show that foodies could enjoy. I think we’ve done that. It’s a show that everybody can enjoy, not just vegans.

https://www.forksoverknives.com/people/mena-massoud-on-peacock-tv-evolving-vegan-and-his-plant-based-journey/ 

Blowing Away the Competition! PETA Names Top Vegan-Friendly Cities in the U.S.

From peta.org

With the demand for vegan dining options skyrocketing from coast to coast, PETA is naming its picks for the Most Vegan-Friendly Cities in the U.S.—and is now sharing all the delicious details about the winners.

Chicago (aka the “Windy City”) earned the top spot on the list with its plethora of plant-powered choices. The honour may surprise fans of the Emmy Award–winning series The Bear—which cooked up the idea that Chi-town is all about beef—but despite what viewers might see in Carmy’s kitchen when season four debuts on June 25, more Chicagoans than ever are ditching meat (as well as eggs and dairy). Restaurants that helped secure Chi-town’s top spot include Buona and its Italian Beefless Sandwich and Bowl, as well as The Chicago Diner, which offers a Radical Reuben and other veganized comfort food classics, and Kale My Name, an award-winning vegan restaurant known for its delectable, dairy-free Cheddar Broccoli Soup.

Other cities that made the list include the following.

• Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love is showing love for vegans, too, with an abundance of animal-friendly eateries, including pizza joint 20th Street Pizza and fast-casual burger restaurant HipCityVeg.
• Washington: Restaurants like DC Vegan and NuVegan Cafe are putting the nation’s capital on the map for plant-powered eating.
• Denver: The Mile High City is setting an elevated standard for vegan dining, with animal-friendly eateries such as Watercourse Foods and The Easy Vegan.
• New Orleans: The Big Easy boasts an abundance of vegan eateries, including Sweet Soulfood and Breads On Oak.
• Atlanta: Slutty Vegan’s bangin’ plant-powered burgers and La Semilla’s unbeatable Latin flavours are among the plethora of vegan eats that make Hotlanta a hot spot for animal-friendly dining.
• Charlotte, North Carolina: Vegan fare rules in the Queen City, with restaurants that include Bean Vegan Cuisine and Oh My Soul.
• Detroit: Vegan restaurants in the Motor City are outperforming the competition, with options that include Detroit Vegan Soul and comfort food favourite Trap Vegan.
• Los Angeles: The City of Angels includes a host of heavenly vegan options, such as Cruzer Pizza and dairy-free ice cream destination Creamo.
• New York City: Meat, eggs, and dairy? Fuhgeddaboudit! Vegan options are endless in The Big Apple, including P.S. Kitchen’s animal-friendly cuisine and soul food favourite Uptown Veg.

                                                                                     Buona’s Italian Beefless Sandwich. Credit: Buona

“Hearty meat-free burgers, delicious dairy-free desserts, and other plant-powered foods are as American as apple pie, and cities across the country have taken note,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “Every city on PETA’s list has cemented its status as a vegan dining destination, proving that delicious animal-friendly fare is available from sea to shining sea.”

Every person who goes vegan spares the lives of nearly 200 animals each year. PETA’s free vegan starter kit can help those looking to make the switch.

https://www.peta.org/media/news-releases/blowing-away-the-competition-peta-names-top-vegan-friendly-cities-in-the-u-s/

The Top Vegan Cities in the US

From vegoutmag.com

Book your flight now to one of these vegan-friendly cities! 

Need a weekend away? Book your flight now to one of the top vegan cities in the US! Catch a show, browse the museums, and hit all the tourist sights. You’re sure to enjoy a wide selection of vegan eats during your stay.

Los Angeles, CA

Consistently ranked as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the US, Los Angeles is the place to go for plant-based eats! Whether your cravings are for tacos, burgers, sushi, or pasta, you have a variety of options to choose from. Looking to support women-owned restaurants? Try Hey, Sunshine Kitchen; Pura Vita; and Little Barn Coffee House to start. Want to uplift Black-owned businesses? We suggest Coffee and Plants; Hart House; Berbere; and more.

New York, NY

NYC never looked so good! This vegan hot spot not only boasts plant-based eats, but also offers a number of vegan-friendly sustainable hotels. From 1 Hotel Central Park to citizenM Times Square, you can rest in planet-conscious comfort while exploring the town. Might we suggest starting your vacation food journey with pasta? Try Soda Club. Or maybe you prefer burgers, pizza, cookies, or bagels. No worries! They’ve got all of that and more!

                                                                                COURTESY OF SODA CLUB

Atlanta, GA

From gluten-free stir-fries to elevated plant-based dining, Atlanta knows where it’s at when it comes to vegan eats! We’re talking Stir House, PLANTA, La Semilla, and more. And let’s not forget the area’s own Slutty Vegan. There you will find burgers like the One Night Stand, Dancehall Queen, Fussy Hussy, and beyond. Want to have a little plant-based fun? Use the “10 Black-Owned Vegan Restaurants to Support in Atlanta” as your bucket list while you’re there.

Portland, OR

What’s not to love about 100% plant-based ice cream, craft cocktails, vegan caviar, and more? Whether you are searching for brunch or dinner and drinks, Portland has what you need. Check out Vertical Diner, Fermenter, and Blossoming Lotus, among others. In addition to all-vegan eateries, you will find a wide selection of vegan-friendly mainstream spots like Salt & Straw! Vegan cities for the win!

Austin, TX

One of our favourite vegan cities is Austin. The famously rebellious, quirky Texas town offers a plethora of vegan options. From restaurants and food trucks to a vegan Queer-owned bar and nightclub called Cheer Up Charlies, this city can’t be beat. We’re especially loving Casa De Luz, a vegan sanctuary right in the middle of Texas, offering communal macrobiotic meals, meditation, and more. And hat tip while we’re at it to University of Texas Austin. Half of all meals served there are now 100% plant-based!

                                                                                         COURTESY OF CASA DE LUZ

Philadelphia, PA

You will find more in Philly than just vegan cheesesteaks! The city offers some great brunch spots like Bar Bombón, Fitz on 4th, and Primary Plant Based. Or grab an ice cream at Van Leeuwen or Scoop DeVille. Of special note is that Philadelphia has recently been home to plant-based product testing such as Oatly’s new cream cheese! Before you catch your flight back home, be sure to pick up some vegan donuts from Dottie’s Donuts.

Las Vegas, NV

Check out our Guide to Vegan Dining at Las Vegas Resorts if you’re headed to Caesars, the Bellagio, or Mandalay Bay. At The Venetian, be sure to hit up Truth & Tonic. They offer frittatas, smoothies, wraps, and other nutrient-dense picks. At Resorts World, head to LA’s own Crossroads for Fusilli Pesto, Spaghetti Carbonara, Tagliatelle Bolognese, and more. There are also numerous vegan restaurants located off the strip, such as Chef Kenny’s, The Modern Vegan, and Plant Power Fast Food.

https://vegoutmag.com/travel/top-vegan-cities-in-the-us/

New centre will highlight Philadelphia’s vegan roots

From whyy.org

Twenty years ago, before Vance Lehmkuhl started chronicling veganism in Philadelphia as a journalist, he was a sceptic.

“I had been vegetarian for 10 years and was like, ‘I can never go vegan because those people are crazy,’’’ he said.

Then he started meeting people who lived a vegan lifestyle, not just to eliminate meat and dairy from their diets but also to avoid, as much as possible, any product or activity derived from animal products and their exploitation. Lehmkuhl learned veganism is not a set of ironclad rules, but a mindset that can be individualized.

“I don’t have to be vegan the way I’ve heard the stereotype. I could be myself as a vegan and eat the things that I like, avoiding animal products to whatever extent possible and practicable,” he said.

Then Lehmkuhl started writing about veganism, eventually as a regular columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer. He discovered Philadelphia history is rife with veganism, even before that term was coined.

Now, Lehmkuhl works for the American Vegan Society and will manage its new American Vegan Centre on Second Street in Old City, the society’s first public space since it was founded in 1960 in Malaga, New Jersey. After construction delays, it’s hoped the centre will open around Labour Day.

Vance Lehmkuhl will run the American Vegan Society’s first public Centre. Until the public space on 2nd Street opens in September, he is leading walking tours about Philly’s vegan history. (Peter Crimmins/WHYY)

In the meantime, Lehmkuhl has created a walking tour around Old City introducing people to dozens of historical figures who espoused what might now be considered a vegan lifestyle.

And, yes, some of them were considered crazy.

Benjamin Lay, who was born in England in 1682 and settled in Philadelphia in 1731, was one of the first and most outspoken Quaker abolitionists. His antislavery advocacy was just as strident as his belief in animal welfare: He neither ate nor wore anything derived from animals or slave labour. Lay made his own clothes from only plant-based textiles and refused to ever ride a horse, instead walking anywhere he needed to go.

His radical-at-the-time ideas and the drama he used in espousing them (Lay would splash fake blood while speaking at a podium to make a point), among other things, were too much for fellow Quakers, many of whom owned slaves. Lay was ostracized.

Other historical figures who embraced what we might now call veganism were much more mainstream. The first person to attempt to introduce tofu to the American colonies was — who else? — Benjamin Franklin.

He discovered the pressed bean curd in Europe and enthusiastically sent soybean seeds back to Philadelphia to John Bartram — the New World’s most prominent botanist at the time — with instruction on how to grow, harvest, and process the beans into tofu. However, there is no evidence to show Bartram ever did.

“[Franklin] tried vegetarianism a few times and, suiting the Franklin character, it was more like a scientific experiment for him rather than something that was coming from a deep moral conviction,” said Lehmkuhl.

Lehmkuhl’s walking tours start at the Vegan Centre’s future home at 17 N. Second St. and loop through Old City for about 75 minutes. There are very few existing landmarks on the cityscape that tell the story of American veganism, so Lehmkuhl relies on the walkers’ imaginations and a portfolio of his own illustrations of, for example, the Loganian Library that used to be on Sixth Street, where Lehmkuhl is convinced transcendentalist Amos Branson Alcott, father of Louisa May Alcott (author of “Little Women”), was converted to vegetarianism.

There is at least one physical artefact representing early vegan thinking in Philadelphia: On the south edge of Washington Square Park is a stone-carved watering trough dating to the 19th century. It was one of many troughs Caroline Earle White had installed around the city, out of concern for the health of horses and dogs.

A lifelong animal welfare activist and suffragist, White co-founded the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, but could not serve on its board because she was a woman. She later formed the American Anti-Vivisection Society.

Though White lived a life oriented around animal welfare, she was not a “vegan,” per se, as the term did not exist until the 1940s. Philadelphia played a major role in the modern vegan movement: It was the place where H. Jay Dinshah toured the Cross Bros. slaughterhouse in Kensington in 1957. He was so repulsed by what he saw there, he immediately set about to create the American Vegan Society.

Once the American Vegan Centre opens in the fall, Lehmkuhl said, it will have a bookstore, an event space, a kitchen for cooking demonstrations, and a gift shop, and will be an information resource to help tourists with their immediate needs, such as: “Where can I go for lunch?” Lehmkuhl is developing a brochure of area restaurants that offer vegan options, for both his centre and the Visitors Centre in Independence Mall.

“One of the things that I’m hoping for as we go forward is to have [vegan] history be integrated into the overall historical tourism industry in Philadelphia,” he said. “Including the tour guides. I would love to get across the concept that, maybe this could be part of your tour. Because everybody’s looking for interesting little things.”

https://whyy.org/articles/new-center-will-highlight-philadelphias-vegan-roots/