Quick Look: Vegan And Vegetarian Options Abound At Meztisoy

By Staff in Food on Jun 2, 2014 3:00PM

Photo by Carrie Laski

Meztisoy, a small grocery store and café in Pilsen, has evolved many times over the past year and has finally found its footing as a neighborhood grocer that carries not only traditional products from Mexico, but also locally-sourced produce and vegan/vegetarian items.

One of the most notable parts of the store is the charming taqueria in the back that boasts an impressive selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. One of the best is the Chipotle Soyrizo Tacos, made with Soyrizo crumbles, a soy-based alternative to chorizo sausage that retains all the spice and flavor of the original. Another great taco option is the Roasted Veggie which is packed with delicately roasted broccoli, zucchini, peppers and tons of greens, all seasoned to perfection and loaded into warm corn tortillas.

If vegan tacos aren’t what you’re looking for, the menu also offers vegetarian fajitas, burritos and plenty of options for meat-eaters such as the oft-praised cochinitas or the tasty shrimp tacos. There is even a fresh juice bar in the back if you have a taste for a carrot ginger orange juice on a hot day.

Each entree at Meztisoy’s taqueria is made-to-order and relies on fresh ingredients and spices rather than grease for its flavor. Warm corn tortillas, fresh cilantro, homemade salsa verde and a basket of chips are served with all dishes, but if you’re still hungry don’t miss out on a-la-carte options like the spicy black bean soup and a hearty serving of rice and beans. Luckily, the accessible prices make it easy to taste several different menu items without emptying your wallet.

Be sure to check out the vegan buffet held every Friday afternoon at Meztisoy from 12-5. The menu rotates, but some past offerings have been the cilantro kale fideo, portobello pozole, and organic herbed pasta. If breakfast is all you have time for, stop in for a to-go cup of fair trade Mexican Chiapas coffee and a moist vegan blueberry muffin. You’ll come for the food, but the DIY atmosphere, friendly staff and abundance of fresh produce at Meztisoy will make it a regular stop.

Meztisoy is located at 1757 W. 18th St.

By Carrie Laski