Vegetarian-Friendly Chicago Scores Big on Two Just-Released PETA Surveys

City Once Known as ‘Porkopolis’ Now Offers Top-Shelf Vegan Food at Restaurants and Both Major League Ballparks

For Immediate Release:
June 18, 2013

Contact:
Kaitlynn Kelly 202-483-7382

Chicago —Chicago, which in the past “boasted” such nicknames as “Porkopolis,” has become a rising star because of its vegan and vegetarian food. The city has grabbed the number-five spot on PETA’s list of theMost Vegan-Friendly Cities, and both Wrigley Field and U.S. Cellular Field—homes of the Cubs (10^th place) and the White Sox (honorable mention), respectively—have made PETA’s list of the Most Vegetarian-Friendly Major League Ballparks.

“If Chicago has taught us one thing, it’s never to underestimate this shining city on the lake, and that includes leading the charge in the vegetarian revolution,” says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. “Whether it’s a veggie dog at the ballpark or exquisite mock shrimp at a restaurant, you’re in the right town.”

The legendary Chicago Diner figured prominently in the city’s ranking in the Most Vegan-Friendly Cities survey. Proudly displaying the motto “Meat Free Since ’83,” the diner offers the best country-fried seitan steak and biscuits and gravy to be found anywhere. Urban Vegan is a cozy Thai restaurant that serves faux chicken, pepper steak, fish, and shrimp. The beet burgers, Po Boys, and seitan tacos at Ground Control all get rave reviews. Chicago Vegan Foods, which makes and distributes numerous vegan food products, also played a role in the city’s ranking. The mayor will receive a framed certificate from PETA.

For the Vegetarian-Friendly Ballparks survey, the Cubs’ lineup of a veggie burger, a veggie dog, a hearty vegan version of the Sloppy Joe, and much more made it a shoo-in. White Sox fans can feast on delicious Gardenburger veggie burgers; Tex-Mex burritos with black beans, guacamole, and salsa; and good old corn on the cob. The Cubs and the White Sox will also each receive a certificate from PETA.

Austin, Texas, took top honors among the Most Vegan-Friendly Cities. The list was kicked off by Paul McCartney, who presented the mayor with the Most Vegan-Friendly City Award in person. Clinching first place on the list of Most Vegetarian-Friendly Ballparks—for the sixth time in the past seven years—was Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies. Click here to view the complete results for the cities and here for the ballparks.