If you and your non-vegetarian friends are looking for a good place to dine together, check out Rutabegorz (264 N. Glassell, Orange; 211 N. Pomona, Fullerton; 158 W. Main, Tustin; 714-633-3260 for Orange; rutabegorz.com).
The Munchies section of the menu includes appetizers like Hummus with Pita Wedges ($4.75), Black Bean Nachos ($6.95) and Shrimp N' Avocado Quesadilla ($8.25). The menu also includes soups and chilis, salads, bagels, wraps, sandwiches and house favorites like Veggie "Twocos" ($7.50) and Black Bean Tostada ($8.25).
The Spicy Artichoke Dip ($5.50) comes with tortilla chips that you just want to keep dipping. The Veggie Lasagna ($8.50) are cheesy, filling, and quite good. Make sure to come hungry. Check each location for hours.
HAPPY CUSTOMERS
Craig Wheeler
Age: 62
Lives in: Silverado Canyon
Rutabegorz regular? At Orange location, since it opened four years ago. Visits two to three times a week.
Vegetarian? "(No), but I do appreciate healthy food."
Favorite dish here: Black Bean Chili
The place's appeal: "I'm on a low-fat diet. Food's good, too. That menu is like a small encyclopeida. I have it so they have my iced tea ready when they see me walking up the sidewalk."
Other favorite eateries: "My own dining room because I love to cook." Also Barolo Italian Cafe and Peppino's in Tustin and Souplantation.