The chicken Caesar salad, B.L.T. sandwich and the Rueben at Strong Hearts Cafe all have one thing in common: no meat. The cafe, located at 719 E. Genesee St. in Syracuse, offers a completely vegan menu.
Having a vegan menu means the food items contain no meat, dairy, cholesterol, high-fructose corn syrup, artificial sweetener or trans fat.Â
“All juices and hot teas are organic!” a sign behind the counter proudly announces.
The cafe is known for its daily soups—spinach and artichoke or the spicy chipotle black bean—and vegan milkshakes with amusing names such as the Roberto Clemente, a mix of Oreo and peanut butter.
Tate Chow, a third-year student at Syracuse University studying industrial design, especially likes the soups. He frequents the cafe, a short walk from his downtown apartment.
“I’m not strictly vegan at all,” Chow says. “But I do appreciate food. I love to eat.”Â
Compared to other food establishments near campus, such as Chipotle and Sliders, Chow finds Strong Hearts a much healthier option.
“And all of it’s very delicious,” Chow says.
Chow insists that one of his most interesting experiences has been trying a vegan grilled cheese sandwich.
“It’s weird because it’s a different texture simulating the same taste,” Chow says.
Though the experience can be strange, Chow recommends sampling the menu.
In addition to the soups, salads and sandwiches, Strong Hearts Cafe has pizza, desserts and serves breakfast all day.Â
“Why?” The menu asks. “Cuz’ breakfast rules!”