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A convention can be a vegetarian's worst nightmare. Aside from fruit and
breakfast cereals, even liberal conventions fall short in offering diverse dining options for vegetarians. While the amount of vegetarians in the modern workplace are re-defining acceptable meeting fare, vegetarians can get the short end of the stick when it comes to catering considerations. For instance, most conventions will now ask if you have dietary restrictions, but you may then be given a standard hotel dish instead of something special that is created and served to most of the convention attendants.
In order to avoid standing and mingling awkwardly empty-handed (and faced with subsequent focus of why with every new business connection you make), make sure to speak with the dining room manager. Ask about vegetarian fare ahead of time. If none is to be offered, you may even ask if you can provide something yourself. Although a more extreme choice, this can command attention and respect for your diet. It can also mean that you have something to casually eat alongside everybody else.
For down time, you may consider bringing along your own snacks so that you aren't dependant on a convention's food in case all of it fails to meet your dietary needs and expectations. Luna bars and fruit are always safe bets.
