Original: February 22, 2011 Issue 11
By: David DeLaRosa
Staff Writer
Lack of Meat Makes Good Eats
In a world where many of us do not think twice about what we eat, it is nice to see a restaurant catering against the odds, and supplying a healthier choice of food. Located off Rockville Pike, The Vegetable Garden has become one of the most popular vegetarian restaurants in Maryland. Towards the end of lunch, the place was fairly deserted, but the service was a tad sluggish to begin with.
The waiter brought out a very dry sesame bread with water that complemented each other. The bread had sort of a plain taste to begin, but it’s subtle aftertaste had me wanting more. After ordering the meal, the service began to pay more attention, and within five to 10 minutes our soup and steamed dumplings arrived.
Both dishes introduced the main course very well. The dumplings had a mixture of carrots, tofu, rice, and green chard, making them look like spinach, and gave a brittle texture to them. After a few minutes of eating appetizers, the main courses arrived.
The good thing about lunch at Vegetable Garden is the lunch combo specials they offer (there are over 25 of them) and they all come with a cilantro roll, brown rice and choice of soup, most no more than $10.
The sesame veggie chicken was very filling, although tofu based it still tasted like chicken. I tried a bite of the orange beef with pineapple and encountered the same (if not better) results. The main course made up for the slightly abrasive service.
The meal ended with a soy coffee ice cream for dessert, which was remarkable and makes one wonder how they create such great food from organic products. The Vegetable Garden has a fantastic menu selection and is well worth it.
The food is nothing short of what it is supposed to be, and may even be healthier. If you ever find yourself stumped on where to eat for lunch, give The Vegetable Garden a try.
