PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Vegan bakers and chefs, many of whom don’t yet have their own restaurants, are getting a boost to their business model by being able to sell their wares at the American Vegan Center in Old City.
The American Vegan Center, located at 17 N. Second St., quietly opened its doors nearly a year ago but celebrated an official grand opening earlier this month.
Director Vance Lehmkuhl said the center serves as a hub of information about not using or eating animals or animal products, featuring vegan books, clothing, food and more.
“And if anyone wants to take a vegan step, be able to help them do that,” he said.
It is meant to be a resource center. “And also if there are vegans who come to town, they may want to find vegan food, find out what’s happening if there are vegan events.”
There are also vegan tours and cooking classes.
“Philadelphia is where the vegetarian movement in America started back in 1817. We go through a lot of fascinating history, so there’s plenty that a lot of the tour guides can work with,” said Lehmkuhl.
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Lehmkuhl said the vegan cooking classes are a lot of fun, whether you’re a full vegan or just vegan-curious.
“And frankly, knowing how to make vegan food is one of the things that helps people actually embrace veganism,” he added.
For more on the American Vegan Center, listen to the KYW Newsradio original podcast What’s Cooking on the Audacy app or in the audio player below: