'Tis the season... the season of Lent, that is, which means many will be looking for red meat free meals on Fridays between now and Easter Sunday (that's April 9 this year, in case it's not on your radar yet). Whether you're observing Lent, or just looking for some tasty vegetarian or pescatarian friendly dining options, here's our handy list of the best independent, locally owned eateries to find red meat-free meals in Morgan County. 

21 North Eatery & Cellar - Martinsville
Downtown Martinsville's newest eatery offers up vegetarian options every day including some of their yummy soups, a fantastic veggie burger (seriously, everyone likes it) and, our personal favorite, the fish and chips. Keep an eye on dinner specials as well for seafood options like shrimp, scallops and salmon. Don't forget about their salads - you can always get them topped with grilled salmon! 

A1 Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar - Mooresville
Fresh sushi is always a great option when you're trying to avoid red meat, and A1 has some of the tastiest in Indiana! Salads, edamame and a variety of tofu based offerings make this a very happy place for veggie lovers. 

Come N Git It Diner - Martinsville
Yes, they're known for comfort food of the "meat 'n potatoes" variety, however Come N Git It has a few things that will surprise you! Their fish is always good, whether you choose catfish or cod, and their salads are HUGE! Don't miss the cheesy, melty grilled cheese and their multiple breakfast options (yes, even for dinner) - the French toast is scrumptious. 

Dawg House Pizza - Monrovia
Pizza is always a winner for meatless options to please the whole family - pile it high with veggies, go with mushroom or enjoy a classic cheese pizza. Dawg House Pizza always hits the spot! 

Gather Around BBQ - Martinsville
Specially for the Lenten season this year, downtown Martinsville's Gather Around BBQ is adding fish and chips to their menu! Available every day during Lent, this new menu item may or may not stick around, so be sure to check it out while it's available. Let them know if you'd like to see it become a permanent addition to their menu! 

Gray Brothers Cafeteria - Mooresville
Cafeterias are a great place to eat when you have certain types of food to avoid. You can choose whatever you like! Gray's offers a fish option pretty much every day, and you can always go with a veggie focused plate and skip the entree altogether if you'd like!

Green Hill Diner - Morgantown
This relatively new addition to the Morgantown dining scene has a fabulous fish sandwich, a blackened catfish entree and a winter vegetable risotto on the menu. If you love cheese, you've got to try their fresh fried cheese curds! Keep an eye out - the menu changes regularly based on available ingredients!  

Jefferson Junction - Martinsville
Need to grab something on the go? Hit up Jefferson Junction for Lenten-friendly soups, grilled cheese and more! Located on Jefferson Street, just north of Morgan Street in Downtown Martinsville. 

Morgan's Corner Cafe - Mooresville
Now open for dinner as well as lunch, Morgan's Corner Cafe is known for catfish Fridays! (Go early - they've been known to run out!) They also have a shrimp po'boy and a shrimp and calamari basket. 

Trackside - Paragon
This relatively new addition in Paragon serves up great home-cooked meals, including a fish sandwich and a fish and shrimp dinner, making it a Lenten-friendly choice.  

Zydeco's Cajun - Mooresville
Known for their catfish, both fried and blackened, as well as other fun seafood options such as shrimps, crawfish and oysters, Zydeco's is a great option for a special meal during Lent. Thankfully, their amazing bread and house dressing qualifies, too!