I will be the first to admit it. The very first time I heard the name, Loving Hut, my mind went “there.” Instead of reacting to a friendly suggestion of a Vegan restaurant with an multitudinous menu even the most devoted meat-eater would appreciate, my mind instantly envisioned a hole-in-the wall, adult-novelty shop with 70’s-inspired décor, an endless assortment of naughty toys, and a charming, hippie shop owner that was in their early twenties when I was a mere twinkle in my mother’s eye. I still chuckle at myself for making such a deviated assumption.
Operating on the premise that Veganism is a compassionate and “loving” way to live, I visited this multifaceted “restaurant” and quickly learned that it is much more than just a catchy, yet suggestive name, but also my new lunch spot, at least once or twice a week.
The Loving Hut’s authentic, compassionate-based Vegan cuisine, qualifies it to be the latest EP4L Restaurant High-5 inductee.
The Skinny:
With over 200 locations worldwide, Loving Hut is not new to the restaurant scene. They have already secured many accolades for their creative, savory and reputable menu of meatless fare. You can find Loving Hut Restaurants in Atlanta, LA, NY, San Francisco, Honolulu, Houston, Portland, Chicago, and Cincinnati as well as several countries in Asia, Europe, Australia, etc. To my delight, not all Loving Hut restaurant menus are created equal. Each operation is individually owned, so menu items are exclusive to a particular location. If you’re a traveler, you can visit the Chicago Loving Hut and experience a different but equally delectable variety than that of an Atlanta location.
What I Like:
Despite each brick-and mortar’s singularity, each location does share one commonality. Loving Hut offers, wholesome, exclusively plant-based foods that take the guesswork out of your dining experience. So, there’s no need to ask the waiter if the chef can customize your entrée in order to satisfy your Vegan needs. It’s the Vegan kit and caboodle. My favorites at the Atlanta (Sandy Springs) location are the Spicy Pad Thai, The Falafel Wrap (vegan version of falafels wrapped in a bed of goodness with avocado, veggies and hummus), Wonton Soup (with tofu dumplings), Spring Rolls, Chow Mein, and the infamous Black Bean Burger.
Pad Thai
The Falafel Wrap
Chow Mein
Wonton Soup with Tofu Dumplings and Spring Rolls
What I Love:
With a barrage of time restraints and obligation hurdles in my life, I often feel guilty about not being able to “give back” as often as I should. Giving back (even in the smallest capacity) offers guaranteed self-fulfillment. Loving Hut helps fill my heart through the power of my dollars. Every time I choose to spend my dollars there, I am supporting an establishment that is making strides in promoting the sustainability of our most precious resources. Loving Hut is involved with climate change programs and gives back to the community by supporting and co-sponsoring programs whose purpose is the preservation of our eco-system. How many restaurants can add that to their bottom-line?
So, as your holiday schedule becomes mobbed with shopping, decorating, social engagements, and planning needs… take a break from the kitchen chaos, visit *Loving Hut, and be prepared for a unique dining experience that will not only generously fill your belly, but victoriously fill your heart.
*check your local Loving Hut’s hours of operation, which vary by location.
