Courtesy photo.

Eating foreign foods and bumbling over the basics of another language may sound like components of an unforgettable trip abroad, but we’re actually referring to international dining around the Valley. Much like traveling, food is best when shared with loved ones and good friends. Here are four international suggestions guaranteed to please the vegetarians and the carnivores in every group.

Mijana in Scottsdale is a Lebanese restaurant that has it all; flavor and class, more vegetarian options than you could possibly consume and live music and entertainment. Catch the buffet Wednesday through Sunday from 6 to 10 p.m. After 2 a.m. the place transforms into Hoookahmania lounge and offers a wide variety of Hookah flavors.

Haus Murphy’s of Glendale has earned quite a bit of positive attention over the years and rightfully so. With beer and cheese offerings that could turn anyone into a fanatic, this German restaurant comes complete with an over abundance of lederhosen and even more schnitzel. But the vegetarians have not been forgotten here. While the “Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms” is about it for entrees, the sides, appetizers and salads make this place a savory vegetarian adventure. So choose a beer, order the Spätzle and and catch the Haus Band every Friday and Saturday evening.

Udupi Cafe in Tempe is a vegetarian Indian restaurant that also offers vegan options. With more than 50 menu items (not to mention the desserts) we recommend avoiding any serious decisions and hitting the daily buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Disclaimer: some items can be spicier than they appear and your carnivores may find yourselves actually enjoying tofu. We believe that everyone will leave pleasantly surprised, not to mention stuffed. For more information, click here.

We wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t include a vegetarian sushi hotspot. That said, Hiro Sushi in Scottsdale has our vote. Choose between a veggie, avocado or cucumber rolls, not to mention the salads and vegetarian appetizers. With the fresh seafood and quite an extensive menu for a sushi joint, we think your meat-of-the-sea-loving counterparts will be pleased as well. What more could you ask for?

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