Enjoying the many benefits of plant-based meals is becoming easier in the city of Hà Nội, according to journalist Mike Ives of the US-based The Boston Globe.

In his recently published article, “Vegetarian fare served with a Buddhist flare,” he explains that while vegetarianism is generally associated only with eastern religions such as Buddhism, more people are turning to the cruelty-free lifestyle for reasons that include health and animal welfare, among others. In turn, more restaurants are opening in the city to accommodate veg diners.

Mr. Ives writes:Times have changed in the capital, where the number of Vietnamese-owned vegetarian restaurants has grown to at least 15. Resident foodies attribute the change to rising standards of living and a growing health consciousness … A big part of the experience of a Hà Nội vegetarian restaurant,
or cơm chay, is arriving on a motorbike and soaking up the Buddhist-influenced atmosphere.

They tend to serve similar fare — veggie stir fries and spring rolls — but each offers a unique vibe. (Some) promote environmental awareness. A Hà Nội branch of the …chain Loving Hut… encourages veganism as a strategy for combating global warming.

VOICE: Elsewhere in the country, the An Lạc Loving Vegetarian House is also a welcome eatery in Phú Tân Ward, Bến Tre City, as emphasized by an article published in Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications (VNPT) network. The article, “An Lạc Loving Vegetarian House serves 350-450 free portions every day,” describes how at this locale, compassion extends beyond the vegetarian meals to the benevolent service provided at the eatery.

Those who are served are poor students, pupils, poor workers, benighted travelers. Notably, An Lạc Loving Vegetarian House not only serves free lunch on the premises, but also has a volunteer team that brings food to houses and hospitals to serve the helpless elderly, the handicapped, and less fortunate patients every day.

Although An Lạc Loving Vegetarian House has no main sponsor,it always receives the support of kind-hearted persons, far and nearby. Specifically, the Vegetarian House not only receives material contributions, but also the services of abundant volunteers who go there to cook, and bring food to disadvantaged people and… patients.

VOICE: Our appreciation, Mr. Mike Ives, The Boston Globe, and Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications, for sharing such uplifting insights on the rising popularity of the wholesome and kind diet in Âu Lạc.
May more and more people adopt the vegan lifestyle and experience firsthand its multifold benefits to the body, mind, spirit, and the planet.

http://www.boston.com/travel/getaways/asia/articles/2011/01/23/
vegetarian_fare_served_with_a_buddhist_flare/