So it’s a couple days into my adventures in veganism, and I have found such great support from my co-workers, friends and family, all of whom I expected to be super skeptical about my embrace of the challenge (ok, not my co-workers, I knew they’d all be stoked). Across the board, most everyone I’ve encountered has acknowledged that it’s a big undertaking, and that they can’t wait to hear how it goes. (I wouldn’t be surprised, however, to discover that they have a pool going behind the scenes on how long before I cave to the power of parmesan on my pasta…)

And, in the spirit of full disclosure, I must confess that the first couple of days, I took the easy route, and relied on eating at RFD for lunch and dinner. I love the food, and when you’re eating things like the RFD Club or the Not-chos, let’s be honest– there’s nothing to miss. I was feel cool, confident, and secure in my ability to sustain my commitment to a plant-based diet. 

Until dinner last night. 

I have a standing weekly date with a friend, where we find a new restaurant, get some wine and snacks at the bar, and play catch up for the week. This week, we decided to check out The Tasting Kitchen, on Abbot Kinney. A gorgeous space, a great cocktail and wine list, and then I saw it: they have a brief and wonderful cheese list. This was it. My moment of truth.

We ordered, and I managed to pass on the cheese, “Just bread and olive oil for me, thanks.” To which he replied, “Actually, I think the bread might have eggs in it…” WHAT? I have to be careful about bread, too?? Thankfully, the baker assured me: Just flour, yeast, salt, and water. Phew.

While there aren’t many options for strictly vegan items on the regular menu at The Tasting Kitchen, I have to commend them on their willingness to accommodate specific dietary needs. The restaurant features a daily fixe prix menu for $40, and if you order that, the chef will make you a fully vegan plate. (Caveat emptor: they will not modify menu items that are on the regular daily menu.)

This dinner fully impressed upon me the “challenge” element of the “21-day Challenge”, and I would love some feedback from any vegans out there reading this blog on how you handle the challenge of eating vegan in a carnivorous world. Do you stick to restaurants that cater to the vegan set? Do you ask if you can order off-menu? As a girl who loves almost nothing more than dinner out on the town, I’d love some advice from those of you out there who know the ropes and have recommendations for a newb like me. Post a comment or find us on Twitter @realfooddaily. I’d love to start a dialogue!