Dating a Vegetarian

So you’ve found a potential match.  You like the same music, you get each other’s humor, like the same movies, both like to travel and take long walks on the beach.

Everything looks great and you’re heart jumps a beat as you get ready for that first date.  You make your way to the restaurant to enjoy an intimate dinner when out of nowhere your date drops the big “V” bomb. They’re a vegetarian or worse… a vegan.

So is it a deal breaker?  It’s not like they smoke cigarettes and you have asthma. But let’s face it, you’re a carnivore and that’s simply something you’re not willing to change.  You start to wonder…What’s next? Tree hugging?  Will you be subjected to countless, painful hours of yoga classes?  Your heart drops and the excitement quickly fades…

But don’t give up just yet.  One important thing you need to know is that not all vegans and vegetarians are trying to change the world.  Many of us simply make this a personal lifestyle choice to suit our own personal health goals and don’t try to force dietary restrictions upon those included in our lives.

The good news is this is a pretty low hurdle to jump and compromise is easily attainable.  The first thing to remember is that most restaurants offer vegan and vegetarian options.  Even if you end up at a steak house, there are usually several side dishes one can choose from that when combined, can make a complete and delicious vegetarian (or meat free) meal.

When it comes to selecting restaurants, most of us dine out in a limited circle, meaning we have our favorite spots we like to revisit.  Finding these places together can be a great first step in building a relationship. Take the time to check out menus online together and finding places that suit both of your needs and give them a try.  Once you’ve discovered five or six places, stick to them.  This way you build a circle of places that become special for both of you.  Just remember to be honest.  Make sure you both like the places and make them meaningful for both of you.

What about eating at home?  Don’t let this intimidate you either.  Overall it’s fairly easy and can be another great way to share some quality time. You can learn how to accommodate each other without giving up the foods you love.  If you’re cooking, ask the vegetarian to join you in the kitchen. Uncork a bottle of wine and cook together. Chances are most vegetarians know how to make meat free alternatives to just about any dish you’d want to prepare.  You may be surprised, but nine times out of ten I eat the same thing as my partner, just a vegan variation, and it’s not difficult to do.

So when it comes to dating a vegan or vegetarian, the key is to conquer and not let it divide.  Just go for it!

Every tried Dinner Dating UK? Click Here

Words By: James Hipps, Contributing Writer