Mark’s Kitchen (Takoma Park, MD)

Here’s an interesting concept.  Korean Seaweed Soup, Tofu Club Sandwich, Teriyaki on Focaccia, Banana Pancakes, and Hot-Fudge Sundae all listed in one menu.  Is this restaurant Asian, American, or vegetarian?   When Mark Choe first opened his eatery, he decided he would offer all three cuisines to meet the demands of his eclectic mix of local Takoma Park residents.  Word spread, as more and more people from other areas visited his eatery to see what all the fuss was about.  Many vegetarians flock to Mark’s Kitchen for his healthy creations such as the Honey Soybeans, Grilled Tofu, Shiitake Mushrooms, Green Beans, Mung Bean Pancake and Brown Rice, all served in one beautiful black lacquer box.  There are many other healthy choices to try including fresh fruits and vegetables, and don’t forget to sample their delicious selection of all natural fruit drinks.  We’re not your mom, but she’d be happy if you ate healthy for once.

The Vegetable Garden (Rockville, MD)

If you are a vegetarian, you probably already know about this restaurant, that serves Chinese food without meat, oil, MSG, dairy and eggs.  The menu doesn’t even include garlic and onion.  The menu is made up of vegan and vegetarian dishes that imitate dishes such as Hunan Beef and Chicken with Cashew Nuts, without the use of beef or chicken.  You may also choose from hot pot entrees such as the Tofu Hot Pot, Curry Pond, or Eggplant Hot Pot, or Deep-fried Triple Delight made with Eggplant, Black Mushroom, and Lotus Root, or Stir-fried French Beans Deluxe, Moo Shi Vegetables, or Veggie-Duck with Asparagus.