I live in NYC now, but Cincinnati is my hometown and one of my favorite cities in America. Each time I visit, I go to Melt Eclectic Cafe for lunch or Sunday brunch. It’s a favorite among locals and is located in a cool part of town called Northside. Though it’s very vegan and vegetarian friendly, the cafe also serves meat and dairy cheese, so its versatility makes Melt a wonderful spot to go to with my friends and family who aren’t veggie like me. We can all eat in harmony!

 

There are many reasons to love this café, and Cincinnati knows it; that’s why Melt its always busy and vibrant. I’ve never been there without waiting in line to order. The restaurant feels cozy and relaxed, yet fun and upbeat at the same time.

SUBSTITUTE TOFU, TEMPEH OR SEITAN FOR THE MEAT ON ANY SANDWICH!

What I love about this place is that while they do serve sandwiches with meat and cheese, you can substitute tempeh, tofu, or seitan for the meat on any sandwich, so there are dozens of options available for vegans and vegetarians. Also, you can substitute Vegan Smokey Cheddar or Rinotta (a delicious tofu/cashew/garlic vegan spread) in place of regular cheese for no additional charge.

I’ve had several different sandwiches at Melt, but my favorite is the A.T.L.T. — Avocado, Tempeh, Arugula and Tomato on locally baked Multigrain with Sriracha Vegannaise (Vegan). It hits the spot for lunch every time. I usually get the organic spring mix as my side, but you can also choose chips, kale slaw, roasted herbed potatoes, hummus, soup, chili or buffalo mac n’ cheese.

The Artichoke Melt and Yeehaw BBQ are also great vegetarian choices!

SUSTAINABILITY & CONSCIOUS CHOICES

Even though Melt serves meat and dairy items, they are far more sustainable and conscious than other restaurants. Their sandwiches are served with clean meats, rennet-free cheese and house-made condiments. They also will accommodate gluten-free eaters, so just ask if you need a gluten-free options.

Image: Cincinnati Vegan http://cincinnativegan.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/46.jpg 

ON SUNDAYS, WE BRUNCH

Melt serves a separate Brunch menu on Sunday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., which includes a vegan biscuits and gravy dish. Wow, it is delicious! I didn’t leave a morsel on my plate. It was that good. I brought my cousin with me one Sunday and she agreed that these biscuits and gravy were amazing. 

Picnic & Pantry

Melt has lunch and brunch, and the company also has a market next door called Picnic and Pantry, so stop by after your meal. They offer produce, groceries and catering. On my recent trip, I got this yummy vegan buckeye bar.

Have you ever been to Melt Eclectic Cafe or Picnic and Pantry? What did you think?

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