Unfortunately sometimes it's a game where you gotta just give up on the unhelpful phone rep, hang up, and call until you get someone that'll give you the deal.

Happy birthday! I assume you already went out, but for the future: Cookhouse in Bolton Hill often features at least one plant-based ~fancy~ dining option. The restaurant itself is small and would be a great birthday spot! Good drinks if you drink, too. Current plant based (and gluten free!) option is risotto (arborio rice, wild mushrooms, wine, mushroom stock, plant-based parmesan).

My best buddy is vegetarian. When they wanna take me out for dinner they always have me decide on the location so I try to look at the menus and straight up ask "which item sounds best" and go from there, hahaha.

I haven't been myself, but Le Comptoir du Vin in Station North could potentially be a lot of fun! It's a small restaurant with a rotating menu (however, they're kind of inflexible for dietary substitutions). My friends did enjoy the food and experience a lot!

On the other hand, I was treated to a great dinner at Cookhouse earlier this year. We went late in the evening, but the restaurant was comfortably dark and not too noisy. Their current menu seems to have a number of gluten free entrees! Pricy, but a nice flex for an anniversary dinner.

You may have heard this already, but most companies look for 3-times the monthly rent for "income verification," and they base it off your gross (pre-tax/deductions).

Some companies can accept other forms of verification-- you typically have to ask and see if the manager/owner approves. Some companies accept bank statements, loan documentation, grants/stipends, etc.

There's also the possibility of a co-signer, if you're comfortable and able to ask anyone.

IDK of any companies, but a few private landlords don't ask for any of that. You typically get what you "pay" for in those situations though...

Hope this helps!

This article talks about the beginning of the removal process.

I'd like to see figures or art commissioned by the city from local bipoc artists as reparations.