Tuesday, February 22, 2011

America's Most Vegan/Veggie-Friendly Airport

Anyone with dietary limitations knows that travel presents a serious challenge. If the airline messes up your special meal request or you find yourself stuck a little longer than can be desired at the airport, things can get a bit sticky.

My vote for most Vegan-Friendly Airport goes to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), believe it or not. Why? Not only do they have several of your run of the mill options available, from Starbucks to Einstein Bros. Bagels to California Pizza Kitchen but they have the shining beacon of Veggie Airport Nosh: The French Meadow Bakery Cafe.

You might recognize this name if you shop at Whole Foods. They provide WF with some of their gluten-free product. But, in Minneapolis, they also have restaurants that serve several amazing vegan and vegetarian options. Seriously, when's the last time you dined on a fully vegan ruben while your flight was delayed? Vegan chicken thai soup anyone? Prices are reasonable considering it's airport fare.

Even for the carnivores, they have free range organic meals. They also serve organic wines and alcohol at their bar. Enough said!

Also available is The Harvest Market, which carries some of the French Meadow's items in stock. If Starbucks gets you down, try Midwest favorite Caribou Coffee, which was been striving to meet ethical standards for some time, and brags about it quite a bit (click the link to find out more). They work with Rainforest Alliance to make sure that they're not destroying Java to give you a cup of java.

Since MSP is a hub for some airlines like Delta/Northwest, Sun Country and Iceland Air, you might just find yourself stuck there in a MN snowstorm. You'll be slightly more comfortable knowing you can get some decent eats.

Got another airport you'd like to nominate? I'd love to hear about it in the comments. I'm still “in the air” regarding European airports (har de har har)...so lend me your ideas!

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