The Cleveland Veg Gala, held Sunday October 14, 2012 was one of the best food events we've ever been to. Sure there were a few snags, but in its first year, this event exceeded expectations. And we LOVE that a vegan event in Cleveland SOLD OUT!
Over 28 restaurants, bakeries, and other food vendors showcased their finest vegan cuisine (usually two items at each station), and the results were just delicious. Really, if you didn't think about, you might not have even noticed that everything was meat and dairy free. Some highlights were Deagan's Kitchen's mushroom-potato "Meatballs" with spicy Marinara, Root Cafe's Raw Lasagna (zucchini layered with marinara, hazelnut-walnut pesto and cashew-based 'ricotta'), Pura Vida's Chili with such an intricate level of spices and seasoning, Lion On Lorain's Cubano Vegano with steamed seitan, vegan ham, and vegan cheese, Luxe's Chick Pea Patties, Orale Kitchen's Potato Empandas and Enchiladas, and Grovewood Tavern & Wine Bar's Ohio Black Bean Ragoût served over polenta cakes.
And then the desserts! Decadent creations from so many sweeteries. Tremont Scoops' buckeyes, Vegan Sweet Tooth's moist cake pops covered in dark chocolate, and those amazing deep dark chocolate truffles covered in toasted coconut from Grovewood were stand-outs. But seriously, the selections were abundant and overwhelming.
There were some outstanding beverages as well. Muddy Paw Wines were fabulous. This local winery in Grand River Valley donates proceeds to the Geauga Humane Society. Love it!! Dandy Blend Herbal Coffee Substitute, a tasty caffeine-free herbal coffee substitute served with rice milk was perfect with dessert. And E-3 Live, such a healthy concoction that aids with digestion, was a great idea after indulging all night on plentiful vegan fare!
We applaud the effort of many participants who went the distance to show off really creative vegan fare that surprised and delighted. We overheard a few people saying "And the best part is, we can eat everything here. We don't even have to ask about the ingredients!" Indeed.
The Veg Gala was rounded out with a wonderful cruelty-free silent auction, and live music throughout the evening. Proceeds are going toward the upcoming Cleveland Veg Fest this summer. Surely an event not to be missed!
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