Hot Doug's

3324 North California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618 
Phone: (773) 279-9550
www.hotdougs.com

   This place needs no introduction. If you like food, you know Hot Doug's and if you're from Chicago, then you definitely know Hot Doug's. HD is exactly what the name implies, a hot dog haven. And while there are only dogs and fries to choose from, their menu is far from limited.
   So how does a vegan end up at a place who's slogan is "There are no two finer words in the English language than Encased Meats"? Well I don't really know but I'm glad I did. And although The Joe Strummer is the only vegan dog on their menu, it is encouraging to have a meatless option in a "sausage superstore." Furthermore, it is a great place to share a meal with friends that insist they never know where to take you.
   Back to the dog. The Joe Stummer is a non-complicated, delicious hot dog. Some days all you need is classic. But don't worry, if you're in the mood to spice things up, ask for sport peppers, sauerkraut or giardiniera.. Or all three if you're really looking to go nuts. This is your hot dog, your way. 
   Oh and did I forget to mention the fries? Amazing.

Total cost:  $4.50

The Joe Stummer 
(formerly Pete Shelley. Steve Diggle & Howard Devoto)
Vegetarian Dog: Meatless... and delicious!

Condiments- The  Basics 
Mustard, Caramelized Onions, Relish, Tomatoes, Pickles, Celery Salt
Also- 
Ketchup, Raw Onions, Sport Peppers, Sauerkraut, Spicy Giardiniera

Quesadilla La Reina del Sur

2235 North Western Avenue

Chicago, IL 60647 

Phone: (773) 235-8807
www.quesadillalareinadelsur.com

   It seems only appropriate that the first restaurant I would visit is Quesadilla La Reina Del Sur, or simply Quesadilla for short. This place is absolutely amazing. I don't know that words (or pictures) can actually do this place justice.

   I'll let you guys in on a little secret. I am Mexican, like born in Mexico Mexican.. and since food can be so nostalgic, I will admit there are days that I think about my mom's cooking and long for her delicious creations. It wasn't until I discovered Quesadilla that I thought I would never get to taste those things again. I don't mean to sound so dramatic but Mexican dishes are heavily meat driven and we do not discriminate which means there are a LOT of things I can not eat at family gatherings.

   Enough about me. This place is a gem. It took me far too long to discover it but don't worry, I've been making up for lost time. They are 100% vegetarian but make everything vegan and although this will sound like an oxymoron, this is the most authentic Mexican restaurant I have been to. 

   Conclusion: Eat here. Eat here often.

Pictured: The boyfriend.. I realize that burritos are pretty common, however, this monstrosity is composed of Barbacoa (roasted lamb) and Chicharron (pork skin). Yes, it is the size of grown man's torso AND you get to pick two flavors. Their menu warns "beware, this is a beast of a burrito." Noted. 

Sunday special, Pozole Verde.. I have never seen this as a vegan option. This is perfect for hangovers; commonly made with hominy, chicken and a delicious spicy broth.

Total cost: $16.