Irish Heather embraces Meatless Monday at Long Table Series

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      I’ve often heard complaints that Vancouver isn’t a friendly city—that people would rather keep to themselves, headphones or earphones on, and eyeballs fixated on digital screens than talk to strangers. After experiencing a 30-person, communal dinner at the Irish Heather Gastropub (212 Carrall Street), however, I’m convinced that maybe all Vancouverites need is a pint in one hand and a fork in the other to start connecting.

      I attended the Irish Heather’s Long Table Series’ first “Meatless Monday” dinner last night (August 12) as a media guest. Meatless Monday is a growing movement that encourages omnivores to consume meat in moderation by reserving Mondays for plant-based foods only. Vancouver became the first Canadian city to undertake the controversial weekly event, with city council declaring June 10 the first Meatless Monday.

      Several local restaurants have embraced Meatless Monday, offering vegetarian specials at the start of the week, and the Irish Heather is the latest business to jump on board. For Monday’s supper, diners feasted on hearty white bean and mushroom croquettes, pickled mushrooms, and lettuce from local urban farm, Sole Food. At the bottom of each plate was a delicious, sweet red pepper coulis that tied the vegan-friendly dish together. For $16, diners receive dinner and a pint of beer, and the vegetarian dish pairs well with the light and citrusy Kronenburg Blanc offered.

      Joining diners at the Irish Heather’s inaugural Meatless Monday dinner was Eleanor Boyle, author of High Steaks: Why and How to Eat Less Meat. Boyle, who is a vegetarian, worked with the Vancouver Food Policy Council to initiate Meatless Monday in the city. Boyle noted that the purpose of Meatless Monday was not to discourage people from eating animals, but to encourage awareness about meat that can be sourced sustainably and ethically.

      The next Meatless Monday Long Table Series dinner is on August 19. The Irish Heather’s Long Table Series also includes Sunday roast dinners, Pit for Your Supper, and Wild Cards featuring whiskey and wine. Reservations for a seat at the 40-foot communal table are recommended.

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