Vegetarian food is uncommon in Rhode Island. Many restaurants have vegetarian dishes, and some have extensive vegetarian selections, but there just aren't that many places that specialize in vegetarian foods. One of the few is Spice of Life, in Charlestown's Umbrella Factory.

What, don't know about the Umbrella Factory? Well, it's not a factory, more like a collection of artistic shops, a holdover from happier Bohemian days, with tie-died t-shirts and happy hippies. You'll find primative art, all-natural clothing, jewelry, exotic imports, and creative crafts in little shops scattered around a lushly grown (if not over-grown) garden.

The Umbrella Factory also has a nursery for avid gardeners and a small petting zoo for animal lovers. The Umbrella Factory is an experience, and lunch at the Spice of Life is a great way to top off that experience.

What do you top it off with? How does a black bean burrito with cheese and avacado, served with chips and salsa sound? Or maybe a hummus roll-up with mixed greens and sprouts? My recommendation is the soup of the day and the baby green salad with sprouts carrots and house dressing.

The menu may seem a bit limited compared to non-vegetarian restaurants, but every item is 100% organic.

The smoothies, milkshakes, espresso, and homemade beverages fill half the menu -- even if you're not hungry for a falafel or a quesedilla, you should take the time relax with a juice drink or lemonade during your time at the Fantastic Umbrella Factory.

And while you're there, enjoy the looking at the rustic shop with white Christmas lights and baskets hanging from the rafters, peruse the gently used books, and shop the crafts for that special gift.

Spice of life is recommended for vegetarians, adventurous carnivores like me, and anyone trying to absorb the full experience of the Fantastic Umbrella Factory. You'll find the Spice of Life in the Umbrella Factory, at 4820 Old Post Road near the western edge of Charlestown. Call them at 401-364-2030. Weekends only, year-round. [an error occurred while processing this directive] [an error occurred while processing this directive]