Observing an ongoing trend that reflects choices in favor of the personal and planetary benefits of meat-free eating, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has announced North America’s most vegetarian- and vegan-friendly cities in 2010.

By assessing the number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants in small and large cities, along with feedback received on these dining spots, PETA arrived at a final award ranking, with top honors in the large city category going to Washington, DC.

The nation’s capital boasts such distinguished plant-based eateries as the Sticky Fingers Bakery, also voted Best Bakery by “Washington City Paper” readers; as well as Java Green, featuring all-organic fair trade ingredients and wind power purchased to offset its already small carbon footprint.

Portland, Oregon was ranked a close second with its myriad vegan eateries including Papa G’s Vegan Organic Deli, Red and Black Café, and Blossoming Lotus.

Also among the Top 10 large veg-friendly cities were Albuquerque, New Mexico; Atlanta, Georgia; Seattle, Washington; San Francisco and Los Angeles, California; New York City, New York; and the Canadian cities of Vancouver and Toronto.

PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman described the decision-making process as enjoyably challenging, saying “There are so many delicious and healthy food options available now that are Earth- and animal-friendly - just ranking the vegetarian- and vegan-friendly cities has become a tough call.”

We join People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals in gladness to see the abundance of compassionate and delectable veg eateries flourishing across North America.
May these top notch cities, and many more, herald an era of healthy, sustainable, and kind living for all!

http://www.evana.org/index.php?id=57528
http://www.peta.org/mc/NewsItem.asp?id=14920