Vegan Eats in Rochester, New York

Of course if I have to be on the road, I’m going to find vegan eats! Having some unfinished business in Buffalo, I made a strategic layover in Rochester, New York. Leaving Brooklyn after a long day of professional development but not before a long commute to pick up a mini-van at the airport, most of my drive was in the dark. But there was this light show early on. I wanted to stop to get more pictures of the gorgeous colors, but I had so many miles to go…

A must-do for a vegan passing through Rochester is Misfit Doughnuts & Treats, an all-vegan sweet shop with heavenly fried donuts in fancy flavors. And other treats…

Like that apple fritter and cinnamon roll over there. And look! Twix flavor! I mean c’mon.

And look at this banana-y delight! This one I gifted to a colleague at work who appreciates vegan baking.

And this one I devoured in my mini-van and made a bit of a mess. Like a chocolate glaze with a cream layer, cookie crumble, and a caramel drizzle—all upon their terrific fried dough. Crazy good.

Here, I am sharing it with you.

Also Misfit vegan treats… personal pies! What a great stop for decadent vegan delights. And such great and friendly service.

Later, an early lunch at Red Fern. I have been wanting to hit this spot for years! Every instagram post reminded me, “Hey, when are you going to go to Rochester to try this place?” I was happy to doorbust on a gorgeous Fall morning. And I was greeted by this stocked bakery case. Hello there (said seductively).

Alas, a full meal was required… and not just quickie in the car with a Misfit doughnut. I got the Tofu Egg Sandwich: a thick tofu egg patty seasoned well and lightly crusted, roasted tomatoes, a smear of scallion cream cheese, balsamic field greens, and tempeh bacon on a towering tall focaccia. On the side, mashed potatoes and gravy.

This was a fantastic sandwich. Another example of a sandwich being the sum of its parts–each component flavor-packed means flavor compounding. And again, great service! What’s with Rochester?!

I eventually started eating it and it was another blissful mess. Thank you, Red Fern, for exceeding my expectations and making my short stay in Rochester so delicious.

Now, the drive back to Brooklyn in the path of peak foliage. T.T.F.N.