With the news of Dancing Dog’s permanent closure and the uncertain future of the Red Herring, vegans have fewer choices than ever in C-U.
Fortunately, a cottage enterprise owned by Champaign-based vegan, Lamiea Wilson, has been gaining extra consideration for her vegan takes on American favorites. The Savvy Vegan Doll has been making vegan meals for family and friends since 2019. After beginning her LLC in 2022, she has been steadily selecting up traction on social media and by phrase of mouth.
Picture by Lamiea Wilson.
Smile Politely: May you introduce your self to the readers of Smile Politely?
Lamiea Wilson: My identify is Lamiea Wilson. I’m the proprietor of The Savvy Vegan Doll, LLC. I name myself the Savvy Vegan Doll. To me, savvy means utilizing sensible judgment to make meals that tastes good and appears good — whereas being vegan. The Savvy Vegan Doll is open every day from 11 a.m. to eight p.m. Anybody can order on my Facebook business page, or by calling me 217-574-4404.
SP: What’s it prefer to function Savvy Vegan Doll?
Wilson: Working my enterprise is enjoyable. It retains me on my toes. I do all the things by myself: menu design, cooking, and supply. Folks have been beginning to discover how good my meals seems and sometimes ask if it’s actually vegan. My mother and pa are usually not vegan, however they benefit from the meals. They all the time come by to take a look at what I’m cooking. My household helps me and can often assist out if I’ve an occasion. That makes me really feel good.
SP: What’s your menu like?
Wilson: I’m going off of what individuals like. My loaded vegan fries are very talked-about. I do additionally like to change it as much as maintain it fascinating within the kitchen. I’ve jackfruit fries, tacos, sandwiches, savvy slaw canine, breads, and desserts. A lot of mushroom stuff. Largely widespread meals that I’ve made vegan.
Picture by Lamiea Wilson.
SP: Are you able to speak about your background? Why did you resolve to start out a enterprise? How lengthy have you ever lived in C-U?
Wilson: I wasn’t all the time vegan. In July 2017, I needed a change in my consuming habits, so I started to analysis, and I discovered it extra sustainable and more healthy. Since I already knew how one can cook dinner, I simply made conventional meals and veganized them. I used to be born and raised in Champaign Urbana, so I’ve been right here all my life. I figured why not deliver some savvy to the group — simply within the vegan method.
SP: Your social media has a definite vibe. Are you able to inform me a bit of about your private philosophy?
Wilson: I prefer to maintain my social media constructive with good vibes. I like to make individuals really feel welcome and to see and unfold positivity is the best way to do it.
Picture by Lamiea Wilson.
SP: What’s in retailer for Savvy Vegan Dolls’ future?
Wilson: I hope to proceed to develop my enterprise. I’ve numerous occasions and pop-ups scheduled. My future plan is to open a café, however till then, I’m okay with how issues are going. Good issues take time. I wish to do all the things the proper method. Menu-wise, I’ve been experimenting with a bean burger, but it surely’s been a trial to make one thing that isn’t too mushy. I’m additionally serious about including a poboy out of mushrooms.
Picture by Lamiea Wilson.
SP: When you’re not cooking, do you’ve gotten a favourite restaurant or two on the town that you just like to go to?
Wilson: After I’m not cooking, I really like spending time with my granddaughter, Amiyah, and writing poetry, numerous poetry. I principally cook dinner at house, however I like Neil Avenue Blues. They’ve a small vegan menu, and I get the poboy sandwich with fries!
