Are you wondering how to celebrate World Vegetarian Day on Oct. 1?When I decided to become vegetarian, I had a paranoid sensation that I was transitioning toward a lifestyle with a very limited diet.

It is a common misconception that in giving up meat, one is sacrificing variety. Poppycock. Setting aside the massive selection of vegetarian-friendly food throughout the world, Johnson City is home to four of my favorite dishes.

China Garden beside Blockbuster, on 2111 North Roan Street, has a minimalist environment ideal for study sessions and casual dates.

With several dishes offering tofu and vegetable medleys, China Garden is near to my heart for its Tofu Szechaun. A spicy mass of deliciousness for nearly five dollars, the Tofu Szechaun is best enjoyed with a pair of chopsticks. Forks are provided for those who fail or disagree, and of course there is the irresistible fortune cookie when you’ve finished.

On 2929 North Roan Street, Mellow Mushroom has a variety of phenomenal pizzas that make certain competitors look like they use an Easy-Bake Oven.

With indoor and outdoor seating, along with a bar, Mellow Mushroom attracts every demographic. They play music that isn’t too loud (outdated) or auto-tuned (recent). While they are a bit pricey for a medium-sized pizza – a little over $20, with a small being $14 – Mellow Mushroom offers two in particular that justify the cost.

The Mega Veggie comes with tofu, broccoli, feta, green peppers, banana peppers, mushrooms, onions, black olives, artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a work of art.

The Magical Mystery Tour is a pizza not only with a great name but a dazzling display of jalapenos, pesto, mushrooms and spinach with feta. Cited as “Ringo Starr’s favorite,” you don’t have to be a Beatles fan to enjoy it. I would prefer if you were a Beatles fan, but that’s a separate matter of taste.

Mid City Grill is my favorite restaurant that doesn’t sell a Bellini (but you can bring your own beer or wine). Want to experience the state of nirvana? For eight dollars, the Mid City Tofu will get you there.

Located at 106 South Commerce Street near Capone’s, Mid City Grill’s tofu burger, as the menu describes, is “marinated tofu served with lettuce, tomato, red onion, fresh avocado and sprouts on a tomato-basil focaccia bun.” It comes with a “saucy sauce” with which I demand you completely pour onto the tofu. You will definitely need napkins.

Ordered with a side of original-style fries, the Mid City Tofu is a fantastic nightcap. Many a time, I’ve had it delivered (delivery is 11:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday) to get through a cram session or an attack of indulgence.

Even if you are not vegetarian, you are required by your taste buds to try it. The Tofu Salad is fantastic as well, but there can be no comparison to the Mid City Tofu.

If you still feel dissatisfied with the vegetarian scene in town, Asheville is barely an hour away. The Laughing Seed’s Harmony Bowl is calling you, and so are the variety of shops where you can buy me a thank-you gift for the life-changing recommendations.

Happy Vegetarian Awareness Month!

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