23. White Orchids

I went to high school in the Lehigh Valley, PA, and I can assure you that it was never the happening place back then. I wasn't a vegan at the time, but I was vegetarian living on french fries mostly.

Now that I've moved away, several vegan-friendly spots have popped up. These places aren't vegan-friendly as in they'll hold the cheese, chicken, and ranch on the house salad for you; these places actually use the word "vegan" on their menus.



Vegan Treats is a bit of a given there, but another place that welcomes vegans is White Orchids in Center Valley. This Thai restaurant has become a family favorite. It's beautifully decorated inside and there are vegan and gluten-free menus that offer a variety of dishes to satisfy any taste.



On my most recent trip, I had fragrant Jasmine Tea, spicy Masaman Curry, Cool and Refreshing Summer Rolls, Pineapple Fried Rice, and Som Tum (papaya salad). I shared all of these dishes, or I would have exploded, and had the leftovers for dinner. There are a lot of Thai places in D.C., but honestly not one has come close in taste or vegan access to White Orchids. They get that vegan means no fish sauce. And I never imagined I'd live to see the words "vegan menu" at any restaurant in the Valley.

22. Vegan Treats

Hanging with my parents is always a good time for a vegan, especially since they live in the Lehigh Valley, PA, home to Vegan Treats. This bakery has some of the most beautiful and rich desserts I have ever seen or tasted. I've heard the same from others, both vegans and omnis.

On my most recent trip, I played adviser to a woman who had tasted them at her church and had to have more.

Vegan Treats ships to restaurants in NYC, Philly, and D.C., but there is nothing quite like making the pilgrimage and buying six tiny cakes (two to eat at the shop with coffee and four to take home).



The two varieties that I consider staples are the peanut butter bomb and the brownie-topped cheesecake. Of course, if you're missing soft-serve coated in sprinkles, donuts, sticky buns, or seasonal treats, they can help you out too.




Vegan Treats is one more reminder that veganism is not synonymous with sacrifice.