There’s no denying that plant-based eating is on the rise, and Los Angeles is at the forefront of this trend. With a wide range of vegan options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine in this sprawling city. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the top vegan spots in Los Angeles that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
1. Gracias Madre: Authentic Mexican Cuisine with a Vegan Twist
Located in West Hollywood, Gracias Madre is a vegan Mexican restaurant known for its colorful and flavorful dishes. The menu offers a variety of dishes made from locally sourced organic ingredients, including tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. Their signature dishes, such as sweet potato and cashew cheese flautas and coconut ceviche, are a must-try.
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To fully experience Gracias Madre, make sure to try their signature cocktails, such as the spicy margarita or the lavender-infused Paloma. They also offer a weekend brunch menu featuring vegan versions of classic breakfast dishes, like chilaquiles and French toast. Don’t forget to save room for their house-made vegan desserts, including their famous coconut cream pie.
Examples:
One of the most popular dishes at Gracias Madre is their elote, a traditional Mexican street corn dish served with chipotle aioli and cashew cotija cheese. This vegan twist on a classic dish is a perfect example of how the restaurant incorporates traditional flavors into their plant-based menu.
Comparisons:
Compared to other vegan Mexican restaurants in the city, Gracias Madre stands out for its use of fresh and organic ingredients, as well as their creative and flavorful dishes. While some may argue that the prices are on the higher end, the quality of the food and the dining experience make it worth the splurge.
Advice:
Make sure to make a reservation in advance, especially for dinner and weekend brunch, as this popular spot tends to get crowded. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, the staff at Gracias Madre are more than willing to accommodate your needs.
2. Crossroads Kitchen: Upscale Vegan Dining in Beverly Grove
Located in the heart of Beverly Grove, Crossroads Kitchen is an upscale vegan restaurant known for its refined and innovative dishes. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Their dishes are not only visually appealing but also bursting with unique flavors and textures.
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Crossroads Kitchen is perfect for special occasions or date nights, as the atmosphere and service are top-notch. Make sure to try their famous Impossible Burger, a plant-based burger that tastes just like the real thing. For dessert, don’t miss out on their chocolate hazelnut terrine, a decadent and rich treat.
Examples:
One of the standout dishes at Crossroads Kitchen is their eggplant caviar, served with crispy chickpea flatbread. This dish perfectly showcases how the restaurant elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet masterpiece. Other must-try items include their truffle mac and cheese and their house-made charcuterie board.
Comparisons:
Compared to other upscale vegan restaurants in the city, Crossroads Kitchen offers a wider range of options and takes a more creative approach to plant-based cuisine. While the prices are on the higher end, the quality and presentation of the dishes make it worth every penny.
Advice:
Crossroads Kitchen is a popular spot, so make sure to make a reservation in advance. They also offer a Sunday brunch menu featuring vegan twists on classic breakfast dishes, such as French toast and eggs benedict. For a truly indulgent experience, opt for their five-course tasting menu.
3. Café Gratitude: A Plant-Based Café with a Focus on Wellness
With multiple locations throughout the city, Café Gratitude is a well-known chain of vegan restaurants that focuses on promoting health and wellness through plant-based eating. Their menu features a variety of dishes made with organic, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is named with a positive affirmation, such as “I Am Fortified” or “I Am Magical.”
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Café Gratitude offers a wide range of options, from salads and bowls to sandwiches and burgers. They also have an extensive list of fresh juices, smoothies, and elixirs to choose from. Make sure to try their “I Am Glorious” bowl, featuring quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a creamy cashew sauce.
Examples:
One of the most popular items at Café Gratitude is their “I Am Grateful” burger, made with a house-made black bean and mushroom patty. This hearty and flavorful burger is a perfect example of how the restaurant incorporates healthy and delicious ingredients into their dishes.
Comparisons:
Compared to other vegan cafes in the city, Café Gratitude stands out for its focus on wellness and using only organic and locally sourced ingredients. While some may find the names of the dishes corny, others appreciate the positive and uplifting atmosphere created by the restaurant.
Advice:
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy meal, Café Gratitude is the perfect spot. They also offer a grab-and-go section with pre-packaged snacks and meals, making it easy to maintain a plant-based diet on the go.
4. Sage Vegan Bistro: Comfort Food with a Twist
Sage Vegan Bistro has several locations throughout Los Angeles, each offering a unique dining experience. The menu features classic comfort food dishes, such as burgers, tacos, and pasta, with a plant-based twist. They also offer a variety of gluten-free and soy-free options for those with dietary restrictions.
How to Use:
Sage Vegan Bistro is perfect for those craving a hearty and satisfying meal. Make sure to try their “chicken” and waffles, made with seitan and served with a delicious maple mustard sauce. For dessert, don’t miss out on their house-made vegan ice cream, available in a variety of flavors.
Examples:
One of the standout dishes at Sage Vegan Bistro is their jackfruit carnitas tacos, made with marinated jackfruit and topped with avocado crema and pico de gallo. This dish perfectly showcases how the restaurant uses alternative ingredients to create familiar and tasty dishes.
Comparisons:
Compared to other vegan restaurants in the city, Sage Vegan Bistro offers a wider range of comfort food options, making it a go-to spot for those looking for a more indulgent meal. While some may argue that the portion sizes are on the smaller side, the quality and taste of the food make up for it.
Advice:
If you’re new to plant-based eating, Sage Vegan Bistro is a great place to start. Their menu features familiar dishes with a vegan twist, making it easier to transition to a plant-based diet. Also, make sure to check out their weekend brunch menu for delicious options like breakfast burritos and French toast.
5. Shojin: High-Quality Vegan Sushi
Located in Little Tokyo, Shojin is a vegan sushi restaurant that focuses on using high-quality and sustainable ingredients. The menu offers a variety of rolls, including classic options as well as creative and unique combinations. They also have a selection of appetizers and desserts that are equally delicious.
How to Use:
Shojin is perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike who want to experience high-quality sushi without the use of fish or other animal products. Make sure to try their “Crunchy Tiger” roll, made with tempura sweet potato and avocado, topped with a spicy mayo and eel sauce.
Examples:
One of the standout dishes at Shojin is their “Unagi” donburi, made with grilled eggplant and served over sushi rice. This dish perfectly showcases how the restaurant uses alternative ingredients to recreate traditional sushi flavors. They also offer a selection of vegan sakes to pair with your meal.
Comparisons:
Compared to other vegan sushi restaurants in the city, Shojin stands out for its focus on using sustainable and high-quality ingredients. While some may argue that the prices are on the higher end, the taste and quality of the sushi make it worth it.
Advice:
If you’re new to vegan sushi, make sure to ask the staff for recommendations. They are knowledgeable and helpful when it comes to explaining the ingredients and flavors of each dish. Also, make sure to save room for their house-made vegan desserts, such as matcha cheesecake or chocolate lava cake.
6. Veggie Grill: Fast-Casual Plant-Based Dining
With multiple locations throughout Los Angeles, Veggie Grill is a popular fast-casual chain that specializes in plant-based comfort food. The menu offers a variety of options, including burgers, bowls, salads, and sandwiches. They also have a range of sides and appetizers, making it easy to create a satisfying and balanced meal.
How to Use:
Veggie Grill is perfect for those looking for a quick and convenient plant-based meal on the go. Their menu offers something for everyone, from hearty burgers and sandwiches to lighter options like salads and bowls. Make sure to try their “Santa Fe Crispy Chickin'” sandwich, made with crispy plant-based chicken, avocado, and chipotle ranch.
Examples:
One of the most popular items at Veggie Grill is their “Beyond Burger,” which tastes just like a traditional beef burger but is made entirely from plants. This dish perfectly showcases how the restaurant uses alternative ingredients to create familiar and tasty dishes.
Comparisons:
Compared to other fast-casual vegan restaurants in the city, Veggie Grill offers a wider range of options and has a more extensive menu. While some may find the prices on the higher side for fast food, the quality and taste of the food make it worth it.
Advice:
Make sure to try their seasonal specials, as they often feature creative and unique dishes not found on the regular menu. They also offer a rewards program that allows you to earn points for each purchase and redeem them for free items.
FAQs
Q: Is Los Angeles a vegan-friendly city?
A: Yes, Los Angeles has a large and diverse plant-based dining scene, making it easy to find vegan options almost everywhere you go.
Q: Are all of these restaurants 100% vegan?
A: Yes, all of the mentioned restaurants are completely vegan, meaning they do not use any animal products in their dishes.
Q: Can I bring non-vegan friends or family to these restaurants?
A: Absolutely! These restaurants offer delicious and satisfying options for both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Q: Do these restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions?
A: Yes, all of the mentioned restaurants have options for gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free diets. Make sure to inform your server of any allergies or restrictions before ordering.
Q: Are reservations necessary?
A: It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for dinner and weekend brunch. However, some restaurants may accept walk-ins depending on availability.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a vegan paradise, with an abundance of high-quality and delicious plant-based options available. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these top vegan spots in Los Angeles are sure to impress. From upscale dining to fast-casual options, there’s something for every taste and occasion. So next time you’re in the city, make sure to check out one of these top vegan eateries and experience the best of plant-based cuisine in Los Angeles.
