California Vegetarian

When BJ’s opened in Vacaville, George and I immediately wanted to try it because of the sign, which read “Chicago Style Pizza.”

George and I love Chicago style pizza.  Okay, we basically just love pizza, and as vegetarians, we know that we will always be able to find something at a restaurant that serves pizza. In short, eating pizza is no hardship for us, but we also like seeing if the menu would give us other options, as well. We were pleased that there were more options than just the pizza at BJ’s, though not a whole lot more.

On this occasion, we went specifically went to BJ’s for pizza.  We ordered a small spinach and artichoke pie ($14). BJ’s describes it as “A rich, creamy medley of spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese and mozzarella topped with fresh Roma tomatoes, fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.” It is, of course, deep dish. And what might surprise some people is that the tomatoes essentially substitute for saucing.  We really enjoy this, but if you like tons of sauce on your pizza, you may be disappointed. The small was just enough for the two of us.  In fact, if was actually a bit too much, but that’s likely because we ordered an appetizer.

Our starter was BJ’s Avocado Egg Rolls ($9.25). We shared the order. They are scrumptious. This was an adventure.  George and I knew that we liked avocado.  As Californians, how could we not? But I have to admit that I don’t recall ever having cooked avocado before these egg rolls.  And let me tell you, the cooking just made them even better. I suppose I should not have been so surprised. Deep-frying does make almost everything taste better, and these were lick-the-plate good. BJ’s describes them thusly, “Crispy golden wontons wrap a tantalizing blend of avocados, cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, pine nuts, chipotle pepper and spices. Served with a sweet tamarind sauce.” They could almost be a meal themselves.  Okay, not almost.  They could be.

We quenched our thirst with two of BJ’s brews.  George likes the dark variety; I prefer the lighter. Both were worth imbibing again.

In the end, the meal (egg rolls, pizza, and drinks) set up back just under $35 before tip.

You can find BJ’s in 15 states (including all the western states, but ironically you cannot find BJ’s in Illinois—perhaps the competition for Chicago style pizza is just too strong too close to its home).