Being vegetarians (allowed to consume greens; fruits; dairy products; eggs) for all our lives, we have to be grateful for who we are. I must say it is really fortunate to live in Singapore where vegetarian food is readily available. Of course, not all places are vegetarian-friendly and there are many times that my peers and colleagues have to choose the lunch/dinner places in accordance to my dietary requirements. This is a common issue among my vegetarian friends.

I stepped into the working world almost five years ago. I first thought that colleagues are potentially less considerate than my own friends. I was worried. Furthermore, my job requires me to meet clients or partners or attend events. My diet will seem to some as an inconvenience. However, I have grown to know how to deal with this by widening my options through special orders. Veggie friends, here’s a post for you.

Some tips for special order:

Step 1: Be proud that you are a vegetarian.
Step 2: Before you give an instruction, always start by saying you  are a vegetarian. This helps the service crew to listen to your requests and not see you as a difficult customer!
Step 3: Give clear and simple instructions. For me, I can’t take onions and garlic. I will specifically request no onions and garlic to be included in my dish.
Step 4: Ask questions if necessary. For instance, is the sauce or broth or soup vegetarian-friendly?
Step 5: Thank the service crew after taking your order and after serving you the right order. It’s always important to be grateful!

Remember, should you be given the wrong order such as dish served with onions/garlic even though clear instructions were given previously, you have the right to reject the dish served. Don’t be shy or embarrassed for this is your right. There are many other customers who requests for special orders too, due to their preference for certain ingredients or taste. However, be polite at all times. See my other post for more tips on Ordering Vegetarian Food in non-vegetarian restaurant!

As a strict vegetarian, I will try my best to eat at pure vegetarian food serving places. However, due to work circumstances and sometimes convenience when out socialising, it’s also good for us to special order and enjoy a meal with our business partners and friends.

It is important to not only let others understand your dietary requirements but also respect your choice. Also, let them know that being a vegetarian doesn’t necessarily mean causing inconvenience to the people around you. After mastering the ‘art of ordering’ veggie food, non-vegetarian friends grow to realise that we are flexible too. There’s not a need to exclude us or be restricted to a few places where veggie food is available. However, remember that when entering a new environment, gaining understanding requires time. Should you be patient and flexible yet careful in your choices,  you’ll be delighted at your food choices and service you get at the end of your order!

100% vegetarian. We are proud of it.

Feel free to comment below, share you experience and tips in ordering vegetarian food in non-vegetarian restaurant

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