Carnivores Anonymous

by Gail Johnson (Originally appeared in the January 2nd, 2003 edition of the Georgia Straight; reprinted with permission)

As if fear of campylobacteriosis weren't enough, all it would take for most meat-eaters who are considering vegetarianism to make the switch is watching a single episode of the ludicrous TV show Fear Factor. Animal parts that contestants have had to eat (in just one of several stupid stunts in the competition for a mere US$50,000) include water-buffalo penis and reindeer testicles.

Granted, more realistic carnivorous diets—at least in North America-consist of such dishes as steak or chicken, items that meat lovers might find hard to give up. They might want to turn to EarthSave Canada for guidance. The Vancouver branch of the nonprofit organization—which raises awareness of the health, environmental, and ethical consequences of food choices and advocates plant-based diets—holds regular Dine-outs that introduce vegetarian selections to foodies of all types.

Dave Way, EarthSave Canada vice-president, Dine-outs coordinator, and "near" vegan, told the Straight that response to the biweekly soirees, which have been going on for years, has been overwhelming. "We found these evenings were selling out or would have a waiting list every time," Way said in a phone interview. "These evenings help show the pleasures of vegetarian food. There's a perception that if you're cutting off a big segment of food options, you must be depriving yourself. In fact, plant-based diets are very flavourful."

Way, who's also a high-school math teacher, stressed that the events aren't about converting people to vegetarianism. Rather, they aim to help food lovers who aren't overly familiar with the world of plant-based diets explore new dishes. Although many who attend are either vegetarian or vegan—but not anti-nonvegetarian, Way said—others are simply curious about what kind of plates exist for those who don't want to have bacon-wrapped scallops or hamburgers every time they eat out. About half of attendees aren't members of EarthSave. Of course, there's a social aspect as well; the dining experiences allow people to get to know each other in a casual setting.

The group doesn't just go to strict vegetarian restaurants, either. "We're really trying to take us to nonvegetarian places that are vegetarian-friendly," Way noted. "I'd encourage restaurants to put vegan dishes on their menus and to have more vegetarian options; when they see a crowd of vegetarians they realize there is a market for this."

So far, Dine-outs have been held in such diverse joints as the Sugar Refinery, Raw, Indonesian Restaurant Tak Sangka, and the Reef. The next gathering takes place on January 13 (2003) at Clove Café and Record Bar (2054 Commercial Drive). That's followed by a visit to Tan's Restaurant (1016 Commercial Drive) on January 23 (2003). (For details, call Way at 604-879-3993 or check out the EarthSave Web site at www.earthsave.bc.ca. Don't call the restaurants directly. RSVPs must be received at least two days in advance.) Usually about 15 to 20 people attend, and cost is around $15 for dinner, dessert, and tip. Nights of the week vary, but start time is 7 p.m.

Order anything but the water-buffalo penis.