Better than the Real Thing
Nestled in the heart of Gastown, Vancouver, MeeT truly raises the bar for comfort food. From unique sides and delectable bowls, to tangy cocktails and sweet treats, MeeT provides a casual setting, perfect for winding down with friends.
From “rawmesan” to “cashew gravy”, it was difficult to imagine the impersonations of some of my favourite foods would taste like. I have to say that I was somewhat skeptical of what they would have to offer.
Walking into the restaurant, we were greeted with a bustle of activity. It was packed full, both patrons and staff energetic as they chatted amongst each other. Instantly, we were immersed in a charismatic environment full of life.
Seated at the corner of a long wooden table, we eyed our menus apprehensively. Though I pay the occasional visit to the Whole Foods prepared food section, I had never tasted, nor have I ever seen ingredients such as coconut bacon or dairy-free feta cheese on a menu before.
The “Beet” Salad, The Lovely, and The Mac’n’Cheese bowl arrived at our table promptly. The portions were large, colourful and fresh. As well as being visually stunning, MeeT’s harmony of flavours excited our palates and left us feeling healthily full, satisfied, and eager to return.
MeeT turns a simple base of organic kale and romaine greens into a flavourful dish by incorporating a variety of bright ingredients. Tossed with lightly marinated chickpeas, bits of corn, and slivers of carrot, crumbled house-made feta and crunchy pumpkin seeds were the perfect addition to each bite. Tied together in a pea-pesto dressing, the “Beet” Salad is the merging of different flavours and textures for artful take on salad.
Their version of a typical rice bowl is executed perfectly. The Lovely includes rich tofu, subtly-sweet coconut bacon, kale, red peppers, and broccoli, built upon a bed of brown rice in a silky almond sauce.
My friend would definitely argue that the Mac’n’Cheese bowl was definitely the star of the table. Creamy, smooth, and delicious, the “cashew cheez” gluten-free noodles were devoured down to the very last bite. The slightly nutty flavour made for unique, scrumptious forkfulls.
As a baker, I was immediately drawn to the lemon tart for dessert, something I make often myself. However MeeT uses a coconut crust for the pastry and makes the filling using coconut milk. I can honestly say that I have never had such a rich, lemony, and decadent tart that could compare. The sweet and zesty combination of the crust and creamy lemon filling can be described as nothing but delicious.
The afternoon we spent at MeeT was an unforgettable dining experience. From the friendly atmosphere to the fresh plates, MeeT takes vegan food to new heights. They are elevating natural, organic flavours into the kind of food you want to eat everyday, and can feel good about eating. My experience at MeeT has confirmed that vegan food can look, taste, and could even be more enjoyable to eat than the real thing.