1. HAVE IT YOUR WAY
Wrap or sandwich? You choose. Dine on Panko-breaded eggplant slices with hummus, pesto, feta cheese, lettuce and tomato in the Eggplant Wrap with a tomato basil tortilla and Greek dressing. If you prefer a sandwich, try a Tuscan Panino for the same savory combo served on rosemary picatta bread.
Café 219 • 219 Conti St. • 438-5234
2. VEGGIE DELIGHT
In the Meatless Bolognese, onions, carrots, celery and garlic are cooked in olive oil with eggplant and tomatoes, then bathed in white wine and herbs. They also offer pasta options for vegetarian and vegan diners, with a fresh cream sauce for the former.
Thyme by the Bay • 151 S. Mobile St., Fairhope. 990-5635
3. INCREDIBLE, EDIBLE EGGPLANT
This Italian eatery is known for it’s signature eggplant offering. The Eggplant Emilia features paneed rounds battered with a variety of spices, breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before being fried to crisp perfection. A rich tomato-vodka cream sauce tops it off.
Via Emilia • 5901 Old Shell Road. 342-3677
4. FARE WITH FLAIR
If you’re craving light, Mediterranean fare, try out the Baba Ganouj. Pureed white eggplant is blended with tahini, lemon juice, garlic and a smattering of spices creating a smooth, hummus-like starter. The flavorful mixture is then topped with olive oil and hot sauce and ready for scooping with perennially satisfying pita bread.
Jerusalem Café • 4715 Airport Blvd. 304-1155
FUN FACT Did you know that eggplants aren’t technically vegetables at all?
They’re actually fruits, specifically berries.
Text by Chelsea Wallace
