Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the culinary conundrum of "Old Chicago and the Vegan Voyage." Yes, we're talking about the land of pizza, beer, and...well, let's be honest, mostly not plants. But fear not, intrepid herbivore, for we shall explore the leafy depths of their menu with the tenacity of a squirrel hoarding acorns.
The Great Gluten-Free (and Possibly Vegan?) Expedition
First things first, let's address the elephant (or, perhaps, the dairy cow) in the room: Old Chicago is not exactly known for its vegan smorgasbord. It's more of a "meat-lovers' paradise with a side of...well, more meat." However, that doesn't mean we should abandon all hope, like a lone tofu cube adrift in a sea of pepperoni.
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The Pizza Predicament:
- Ah, pizza. The cornerstone of Old Chicago's existence. But can a vegan find solace in this cheesy domain? The answer, as with most things in life, is a resounding "it's complicated."
- The Crust Chronicles: The good news is, their standard crust is generally considered vegan. However, always double-check with your server, because recipes can change faster than a toddler's mood.
- The Cheese Conundrum: Now, here's where things get tricky. Traditional pizza cheese is a no-go. But ask your server if they have a vegan cheese option. Some locations do offer it, but it is not a standard menu item. If not, you will be having a sauce and vegetable pizza.
- The Topping Tango: Thankfully, vegetables are your friends! Load up on onions, peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and anything else that tickles your fancy. Just be sure to avoid any toppings that scream "animal product," like, you know, pepperoni.
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Beyond the Pizza Planet: The Salad Saga
- If pizza isn't your jam, you might be tempted by the siren song of the salad. But beware! Not all salads are created equal.
- The Custom Creation: Your best bet is to build your own salad. Start with a base of leafy greens and then pile on the veggies. Skip the cheese, croutons (often made with dairy), and any dressings that look suspiciously creamy.
- The Dressing Dilemma: Dressings can be sneaky little devils. Opt for a simple vinaigrette or bring your own vegan dressing. (Yes, I've seen people do it. No judgement here!)
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The Side-Dish Shenanigans
- Sometimes, all you need is a good side dish to make your meal complete.
- The French Fry Fiesta: French fries are often vegan, but always confirm with your server about the cooking oil. Sometimes animal fat is used.
- The Veggie Venture: Some locations may offer steamed vegetables or other plant-based sides. Again, it's worth asking!
The Bottom Line: It's a Vegan Gamble
Look, let's be real. Old Chicago isn't going to win any awards for its vegan offerings. But with a little creativity and a lot of questioning, you can probably cobble together a decent meal. Just be prepared to be the "special order" person, and don't be afraid to ask a million questions.
Important Note: Always, and I mean always, inform your server of your dietary restrictions. Restaurant menus and ingredients can change, and you don't want to accidentally ingest something that goes against your vegan principles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - The Vegan Edition
- How to order a vegan pizza at Old Chicago?
- Ask for a standard crust (confirm it's vegan), no cheese (or vegan cheese if available), and load up on vegetable toppings.
- How to make a vegan salad at Old Chicago?
- Build your own salad with leafy greens and vegetables. Use a vinaigrette dressing or bring your own.
- How to find out if the French fries are vegan at Old Chicago?
- Ask your server about the cooking oil used.
- How to know if Old Chicago has vegan cheese?
- Ask your server. This is not a standard menu item, and varies by location.
- How to handle a situation where there are no clear vegan options?
- Be polite but persistent. If possible, review the menu online before going to the restaurant. If you have any serious concerns, you can always choose another restaurant.