TASTE PROFILE

In Columbus, it’s not just the chefs and cocktail artists and writers pushing our palates forward, it’s the everyday folks who via social media are leaving a trail of crumbs for the rest of us to follow. Taste Profile, a new monthly feature in (614) will introduce you to the local handles and give you the low-down on what’s good in the capital city.

What’s the last great dish you had?

I’m torn between Hai Poké’s tofu bowl and Condado’s Vegan Hesher burrito. They are both ridiculously delicious, cheap eats.

What’s the last great dish you cooked?

A vegan, gluten-free coconut cream pie recipe from Minimalist Baker [http://minimalistbaker.com/coconut-cream-pie-vegan-gf/]. It’s topped with whipped coconut cream. To tell the truth, I barely shared that pie.

What drives you to be a tastemaker in Columbus?

I’m driven to find the amazing vegan food that is hidden around Columbus, since there aren’t many dedicated vegan/vegetarian restaurants. I love sharing what’s out there with Columbusites who are interested in veganism or eating a more plant-based diet.

What is the most significant way food and drink has changed in Columbus in the last five years?

I think there is more support and community for food entrepreneurs now. It’s great to see chefs, farmers, and local business owners come together and help each other out, especially in the form of pop-up restaurants. I think both business owners and consumers in Columbus are benefitting from collaborations like these. I’ve also seen food entrepreneurs connecting with their customers in meaningful ways. For example, teaching classes at The Commissary.

Favorite filter:

I am addicted to the VSCO filter A5. Talk about your moody blues.

Least favorite style of Instagram food photo:

There are exceptions, of course, but I’m generally not a fan of hyper-saturated colors in food photography. And I wish I could disable everyone’s on-camera flash. It just makes food look flat or slimy.

Put together your perfect night on the town, from pre-meal cocktail, to dinner, to nightcap:

I’d start with dinner and a drink at Basil in the Short North. I’m absolutely obsessed with their veggie egg rolls and vegan Green Curry with tofu. Next, I’d stop in next door at Barrel on High for a Manhattan, or maybe a scotch, depending on my mood. Then a short walk over to Kingmakers for some board games. In a perfect world, I’d be lucky enough that they’d have a vegan Rogue Bakery cookie, and I’d have it with some coffee. Or maybe a beer. Don’t judge.

One Columbus celebrity you want to break bread with?

Natalie Dee. Once I got past the mortifying awkwardness of meeting someone I find so hilarious, I think she and I would have some pretty fun dinner conversation.

Describe Columbus’s taste in a six-word sentence:

An eclectic use of local ingredients.

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