Guest review: Great vegan eats in the YYC U.S. Departures Hall

I am a Calgarian currently residing in the U.S. - and I also eat plant-based.

On my recent flight home from YYC in early July, I was so pleased to see multiple vegan options at the food court in the newish U.S. Departures Hall! Not only was there an option at each restaurant, but vegan options were clearly displayed, if not called out, on menu boards.

I'm not sure how I missed this during my last trip (and incidentally first time to the new terminal). During that trip, I was happy to get a coffee and oatmeal at Starbucks, as well as a smoothie at Jugo Juice!

The morning of my flight, I noticed an article from VegNews Magazine on Burger King and their vegan French Toast Sticks. I considered trying the French toast, but was ultimately craving something savoury. Luckily for me, Netsui Sushi & Japanese Grill was open and offering their full menu!

Vegan French Toast Sticks from Burger King in the U.S. Departures Hall.

I immediately noticed Netsui Sushi's clearly marked vegan rolls (several to choose from). I searched the menu for my favourite roll, a staple I cannot find in Portland where I know live - yam tempura roll. Success! Yam tempura with avocado. I felt the roll was beautifully made. It came with a generous amount of ginger, and when dipped into soy sauce and Wasabi my last meal in Calgary was delicious!

Netsui Sushi's vegan Yam Tempura Rolls.

As I was eating I started to notice all of the vegan options available throughout the terminal.

Spolumbo's offers a veggie sandwich that can be made vegan without cheese, Opa! sells falafel bites and Thai Express had a banner promoting Vegan Cashew Pad See Ew.

Vegan Pad See Ew from Thai Express at YYC.

I am so excited to not only have yummy plant-based meals available when travelling, but to see these options at my hometown airport.

From sweet to savoury, breakfast to dinner, any plant-based eater can satisfy their cravings at YYC.

I am excited to be back for yam tempura rolls at Netsui Sushi and to see what other vegan options pop up.

- Harlow (@harlowismyalias)