While in Carlsbad, I stayed at the Four Seasons Resort Aviara. Living up to the Four Seasons reputation, they had some very good vegan and vegetarian food options.
Over at the pool (pictured above), one can order a Gardenburger, among other things from the Ocean Pool Bar & Grill. Imagine that – a veggie burger with fries poolside, and you can get it “to go” as well. I had it twice and both times the burger was nicely done with fresh tomato, red onion, lettuce and alfalfa sprouts on a fluffy toasted bun.
I also had an opportunity to dine at their signature Italian restaurant, Vivace. I wasn’t sure what to expect as I haven’t had much luck with Italian places besides the typical Angel Hair Capellini something or other pasta dish. Boy, was I in for a surprise.
Vivace serves its food in the Italian style of separate courses; they printed out a whole separate vegan menu for me. It actually says “Vegan Menu” on the printout. That blew me away, that I could actually pick from two different options for each of my courses.
For the insalate course, I chose the spinach with peaches salad. For primi (first course), I had the mushroom risotto that was so good – it’s my favorite dish of the entire trip. For secondi (second course), I had grilled vegetables with farro. And for dessert, a selection of various sorbets.
Sadly, I didn’t bring my camera to dinner so no pictures of the meal. But what a great and delicious surprise to find that they had already planned a vegan menu for anyone who asks (it was a last-minute decision to eat there). I would happily eat here again.
You know, I work less than 5 miles from there, and have never been there! Sounds like I need to try it.
what a gorgeous photo of the pool and palms. And Vegan Menu? How surprising also that they offered vegan risotto. It’s not hard to veganize, but so many restaurants don’t do so. Sounds like some fantastic eating!
How exciting to actually get a menu that stated “Vegan Menu” and to have such delicious items to choose from!
Vicki – I had no idea there was even a Four Seasons there, let alone a fancy restaurant with a vegan menu. It would be a great place to go for a special occasion.
Lisa (Show Me Vegan) – I haven’t tried making risotto at home yet so I don’t know if it’s hard to make or not. Maybe it’s time-consuming for restaurants? Sure was good though.
Jennifer – Yes, it was very exciting and so nice to actually have choices.