By: Carlos Hernandez

There are a growing number of vegetarian restaurants in Tampa. Here are some we recommend:

The Bricks of Ybor - Many options on the menu have a "VF" next to them to indicate "Vegetarian Friendly" at this restaurant owned by SPoT, the Skatepark of Tampa, in Ybor City.

Datz - This popular South Tampa deli presents a number of sandwiches and most things on their menu can be made vegetarian upon request.

EVOS - Perhaps one of the healthiest Tampa fast food options available. Burgers, poultry and fries all 'airbaked' with shakes that are also organic. Soy and veggie options are the driving force of this vegetarian restaurant in Tampa.

Grass Root Restaurant - 100% vegan restaurant in Tampa and the first of its kind in the community. Grass Root features a diverse menu with many different cuisines inspiring vegan dishes.

Kaleisia Tea Lounge - Kaleisia's "complete vegan menu" includes noodles, salads, wraps, spring rolls, and more to accompany over 100 loose leaf teas.

Pizza Fusion - Located in Downtown Tampa, Pizza Fusion has vegan soy cheese, casein-free, to accompany their variety of organic vegetarian toppings. The sauce is always vegan and the doughs, except gluten-free, are vegan as well. They also have vegan wraps, sandwiches, salads, bread sticks, and brownies. These options make Pizza Fusion an ideal choice for vegetarian restaurants in Tampa.

Queen of Sheba - Besides having a cool name, Queen of Sheba also has a number of vegetarian choices rooted in Ethiopian cuisine. One of the few African restaurants in town.

Taco Bus - Offers a number of vegetarian Mexican options, including tacos and burritos with fillings, such as grilled tofu, vegan "steak trips" and vegan tempeh, and is conveniently open 24 hours to satisfy your vegetarian food cravings as they come.

Trang Viet Cuisine - A huge Vietnamese vegan menu with a number of imitation meat choices are the highlight here.

Udipi Cafe - Vegetarian Indian choice in Tampa that is packed with locals and has a large selection to choose from.

Vegan Beagle - A healthy hot dog alternative. This cart moves around town and you can find their location using twitter: @veganbeagle

Your adventure into vegetarian restaurants in Tampa begins today.