Introduction
Welcome to the World Vegan Travel Podcast! Today, we are thrilled to bring you an insightful conversation with Rey Ortega, a long-time resident of Sacramento, California. Rey has been at the forefront of the vegan movement for three decades and is the founder of the renowned Sun Flour Baking Company. In this episode, Rey shares his journey, favorite vegan spots, and the hidden gems of Sacramento.
Meet Rey Ortega
Rey Ortega has devoted 30 years to crafting delicious vegan cookies. His passion for veganism began at a time when options were sparse. Recognizing a gap in the market, Rey embarked on a mission to create tasty vegan cookies, leading to the establishment of companies such as The Alternative Baking Company and Sun Flour Baking Company.
Sacramento’s Vegan Culinary Scene
Sacramento might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of vegan food, but Rey assures us it is a fantastic destination for vegan travelers. Let’s explore some of the best vegan-friendly spots in the city.
Fancy Date Night
Looking for a sophisticated dining experience in Sacramento? Rey recommends Il Fornaio, a fancy Italian restaurant with plenty of vegan options. For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, The Veg Cafe and Bar on J Street is a cozy Thai restaurant perfect for a date night.
Picnic Perfection
For a lovely picnic in the park, Rey suggests Andy Nguyen’s, known for its delicious Banh Mi sandwiches, spring rolls, and vegan egg rolls. It’s the perfect place to grab food to-go.
Coffee and Cookies
When it comes to coffee and cookies, you can’t miss Zest Cafe. They serve excellent coffee and carry Rey’s cookies. For more vegan treats, many local coffee shops feature products from Sugar Plum Bakery.
Comfort Food
Craving comfort food? Sacramento is home to some fantastic Mexican restaurants. Rey highlights El Cantaro Vegan Taqueria, which offers a mouth-watering vegan menu featuring traditional dishes like tamales and nachos.
Sweet Treats
Finding vegan ice cream in Sacramento can be a bit challenging, but Rey recalls Baskin Robbins carrying a couple of vegan options. Although local favorites like Conscious Creamery have closed, you can still find vegan ice cream at whole food stores, perfect for a sunny day in the park.
Beyond the Food – Why Visit Sacramento?
Sacramento is more than just a hub for vegan food; it’s rich in history and culture.
History and Museums
Sacramento played a pivotal role during the Gold Rush. History enthusiasts should visit Sutter’s Fort and the historical town of Coloma, where gold was first discovered. For a mesmerizing experience, check out the Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento, showcasing massive trains and the history of rail transportation.
Cultural Vibe
Sacramento may still be “up and coming” culturally, but it’s brimming with diversity. The city hosts various music scenes, airshows, and local events reflecting the melting pot it represents.
Best Time to Visit
According to Rey, the best time to visit Sacramento is between August and December, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring all that the city has to offer.
Outdoor Activities and Excursions
Sacramento offers several activities just outside the city. From hiking in nearby areas to go-kart racing and indoor skydiving, there’s something for everyone seeking a bit of adventure.
The Green City
Contrary to the assumption that Sacramento is dry and barren, the city is lush with trees. In fact, it’s second only to Paris in terms of the number of trees within a city. This green canopy makes it a beautiful place to enjoy nature right within the urban landscape.
Conclusion
Rey Ortega’s love for Sacramento and its evolving vegan scene is truly inspiring. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a new destination to explore, Sacramento has much to offer.
To support Rey Ortega and try his famous cookies, visit Start a Vegan Business. Here, you can find information about his cookies, place orders, and explore various aspects of starting a vegan business.
Sacramento might just be your next favorite vegan-friendly destination. Happy travels and happy eating!
Other World Vegan Travel content connected with this episode
- Discover the Vegan Oasis: Black Sheep Inn & Spa
- Rancho Vegano: A Gateway to Tucson’s Natural Wonders | Colin Eosom
- Finger Lakes Vegan Tales: Exploring Plant-Powered Adventures with Ginger Cat B&B | Gita Devi | Ep 125
- Tales of Pebble Cove: A Journey to Orcas Island’s Farm Inn and Animal Sanctuary | Lydia Miller | Ep 126
- Travel and Vacationing as a Vegan Entrepreneur | Stephanie Redcross West | Ep 118
- Five Fantastic Cities in Maryland | Rissa Miller | Ep 110
- The Vegan Stay: The NEW Platform Connecting Vegans and Sanctuaries | Faik Bouhrik | Ep 82
