This past weekend I was fortunate enough to go to the New York Vegetarian Food Festival. I had a wonderful time connecting with friends of the blog and taking pictures of the vendor tables and capturing some good times. Be on the lookout for a post covering this year’s fest soon. A question I was asked a lot was, all together now people, “What’s your favorite restaurant been on the trip so far?”
Well, first of all, that question is nearly impossible to answer. Listen up crew, we all know vegan food is delicious and as seen on this blog, without a shortage of great establishments providing wonderful meals and atmospheres. I will say this though. Without a doubt, Strong Hearts Cafe in Syracuse, NY is one of my top stops and here is why:
Strong Hearts Cafe – 100% Vegan
719 E Genesee Street
Syracuse, NY 13210
Strong Hearts Cafe appears to be entrenched in the community; buying from local growers whenever they can, banking locally and acting as a resource for locals who want to learn about veganism and busting out of the carnism mindset.
Co-owners Nick and Joel have their roots in compassion. As well as being a part of the Syracuse Animal Rights Organization throughout college, Nick Ryan began his professional career working with high-risk troubled youth, a noble and challenging career. Joel Capolongo has been an animal advocate for a huge portion of his life, dedicating time to the Animal Defense League and Sea Shepherd (a flag can be seen in shop). Strong Hearts brings these ethics to your plate. Here Nick, Joel and crew can care for human and animal needs through delicious food and thoughtful business practices.
The fare offered here is more like that of diner food but the atmosphere is definitely a café vibe. A winning combo. Free Wi-fi keeps people in their seats and a steady stream of people rotate through the lunch tables and take-out is pumping. I hope everyday is like when we were there. The vibe in here is positive and comfortable. The pics you see here are just from our lunchtime visit. We had plans this afternoon to film an episode of The Vegan Zombie. We actually came back for round two after the shoot!
The Reuben and a John Brown Milkshake (Cookies and Cream)
The sandwiches were top notch and made with love by a staff full of men after my own heart. This place is repping hard for the vegan male demographic. No shortage of beards either. “Calm down, Ladies!” 😉
“Egg” Trick Muffin
Seitan Sandwich
More Milkshakes! Left: Earth Crisis (Chocolate Peanut Butter), Right: The West Memphis 3 (Chocolate Mint)!!!
Probably the best shakes of the trip. My mint shake slew any I’ve come across yet.
Cupcakes
Co-Owner Joel delivers an “Egg” Trick Muffin! Nice Shirt!
Oooh! Menus!!!
Kristin: We met up with Megan, an avid WTFVF follower. Had a nice chat, shared some laughs. Good times. Thanks for coming out, Megan! And thanks to the Cohen family for letting us stay in your spare bedroom the night before! 🙂
Thanks for being awesome Strong Hearts!!!
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