Newly released vegan dishes you need to check out — pronto!

Discovering that your favorite local restaurant is debuting a new vegan dish is like finding a hidden, unopened present underneath the Christmas tree — exciting, suspenseful, and just waiting to be enjoyed.

From crispy tofu to juicy tacos chock full of goodness, here’s a list of fresh new vegan options for you to fall in love with.

The Blacktop Grill

8300 N. Thornydale Rd. Suite 120

The Blacktop Grill recently released a new vegan menu full of creamy vegan sauces and alternative protein options. From Vegan Vampiro Tacos to Mexican Street Corn, Chili Fries, and Taco Salad, there’s no doubting the confidence and the passion behind every dish that leaves the kitchen.

The Blacktop Grill prepares their Soyrizo and Impossible meat with creative, rich flavors that you’ll find almost impossible to share. Drizzle their fresh salsa and chipotle lime and avocado cream all over everything.

Also, the restaurant has a food truck (you’ve likely seen it parked around town). As of right now, the Mexican Street Corn is available on the truck, while some of the other vegan dishes will make an appearance on the menu from time to time.

For more information, visit theblacktopgrill.com. 

Gallery of Food Bodega

2522 E. Fort Lowell Rd.

Gallery of Food recently added to their beautiful and locally grown menu: a stuffed squash filled with tepary beans, currants, corn, pistachio, red onion, and a bright tomatillo drizzle. Add the vegan as-is Pan-Seared Desert Pearl Mushroom Torta or the Curried Cauliflower Torta to your meal for a savory handheld.

Gallery of Food also has a new beet and grapefruit salad that’s vegan when you omit the feta cheese. Or ask for “no egg” on the chickpea salad and enjoy a hearty helping of goodness.

And as always, Gallery of Food’s “Bodega Bowl of the Day” is a rotating selection of house-made soups that are regularly vegan.

For more information, visit galleryoffood.com.

Taqueria La Esquina

4876 S. Sixth Ave.

Taqueria La Esquina went from offering a couple of great vegan options to adding a complete vegan side to their menu. So, enjoy your old favorites along with a bunch of delicious new vegan dishes.

One example would be to start your meal with a beautiful appetizer like the Nopal Montado or Elote Street Ribs. Taco lovers can decide between Mushroom Adobada, Papa, Jamaica, Jackfruit Quesa Birria, or all of the above. They’ve also got three different stuffed burritos to choose from. All that’s left is to quench your thirst with a cocktail, beer, or Agua Fresca.

For more information, visit taquerialaesquinatucson.com.

Go Dim Sum

3504 E. Grant Rd.

Pour tangy chili oil and sweet and spicy sauce all over Go Dim Sum’s newest, soft opening vegan option: the crisp and savory Salt & Pepper Fried Tofu.

Or, bite into crunchy-coated squishy sesame balls for a satisfying experience. Enjoy these delightful dishes inside or out on the outdoor seating. The drinks listed on the menu without milk are vegan.

For more information, visit godimsum.com. 

4th Avenue Delicatessen

425 N. Fourth Ave.

4th Avenue Delicatessen recently added a wide variety of vegan hot dogs and sandwiches with traditional tastes and looks sure to surprise you.

Choose from a list of seven “V-Dogs” and four different Vegan Sandwiches. From vegan chili dogs with plant-based cheddar cheese to well-thought-out stacked sandwiches, you can’t go wrong with whatever your heart decides to order.

For more information, visit 4thavedeli.com.