About Me
Hayli Zuccola has served as managing editor at Tampa Magazines since 2023 and has written for a range of publications since 2015. A vegetarian for more than a decade, she’s constantly on the hunt for creative, satisfying meatless dishes while traveling—and credits her vegetarian lifestyle with expanding both her palate and her culinary skills. From walnut cauliflower tacos and pulled barbecue king oyster mushroom sammies to a classic black bean burger, she’s convinced vegetarian food never has to be boring.
When it comes to cuisine, she’s adamant that the top spot is a close tie between Italian and Mexican, though Italian often edges ahead. Few things offer more comfort than a bowl of pasta or a slice of pizza—though she’s a purist when it comes to the latter, preferring to leave ranch, barbecue sauce and other over-the-top additions off her pie.
She’s unapologetically team savory over sweet, choosing bold, salty flavors whenever possible.
She skips coffee as an energy boost, reaching instead for tea. Fruity boba drinks—sans boba—along with green teas are staples, though her gold standard remains a small, unforgettable spot in Victoria, British Columbia’s Chinatown.
Food & Drink
Vegan International Co. Kitchen & Market
Growing up in the country, vegetarian options — aside from a salad — were few and far between. Stumbling across one felt like hitting the jackpot, especially if it wasn’t faux meat or the appropriately named seitan. Thankfully, Tampa Bay has no shortage of veggie-friendly restaurants, and one of my favorite finds was an unexpected surprise.
Vegan International Co. Kitchen & Market, tucked into a small plaza on Nebraska Avenue, is easy to overlook but worth seeking out.The counter-serve spot, with just a few seats, serves one of the best vegan chicken sandwiches I’ve ever had — made with lion’s mane mushrooms, battered and fried to golden perfection.
Keep it classic with lettuce, tomato, pickles and your choice of sauce (the NC Fil A is my go-to). Keep in mind this two-hander is large, but it’s even better when paired with a side of fries.
Looking for the rest of the team? Head over to our Staff Selects homepage.
