Animal lovers, vegetarians, vegans and “foodies” in general celebrated International Vegetarian Day at the 5th annual Compassionate Cuisine last Friday at the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden at Cal State Long Beach. The event is a benefit for Animal Acres farmed-animal sanctuary to support its animal care and public education programs. Melissa Witul created and developed Compassionate Cuisine to raise funds for Animal Acres’ direct rescue efforts and to inspire people to adopt a vegan diet. “This was our most successful Compassionate Cuisine,” Witul said. “We had probably close to 500 attendees. We’re thrilled with the turnout.”
Attendees strolled the illuminated Japanese garden as they sampled gourmet vegan food from a wide variety of local restaurants and foodservice companies. “We’re very grateful to all the people who buy tickets and attend, and many do each year. The vendors really outdid themselves this year, and it was presented just beautifully.”
