Los Angeles, the city of dreams, is also a haven for vegan enthusiasts. The word “vegan” in L.A. hasn’t raised eyebrows for years, and the city’s culinary scene reflects this acceptance.
With a smörgasbord of vegetarian restaurants, L.A. offers everything from pizza piled high with veggies to upscale Mexican food and even takes on the traditionally egg-laden Italian classic, carbonara.
Whether you’re a dedicated or just a curious foodie, the city’s vegan dining scene is thriving, boasting tasty fare that even meat-eaters will want to order.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the pizza at Nic’s on Beverly. Even the most cheese-loving omnivores think about it more than they’d care to admit!
Fun Fact: Café Gratitude, one of L.A.’s popular vegan spots, has a unique practice of asking diners, “What are you grateful for today?” when taking orders.
Iconic Restaurants in Los Angeles
Nic’s On Beverly: Known for its fluffy-doughed square pizzas, Nic’s On Beverly also serves house-cut fries, Southern-style fried oyster mushrooms, and piled-high burgers. The back patio feels like a secret garden, making it a perfect place for a glass of frosé.
Café Gratitude: With two locations in L.A., Café Gratitude is famous for its bright, beautifully composed food. The menu includes warm almond burrata, loaded nacho fries, and Korean-pulled mushroom slides. Don’t miss the tiramisu, one of the best in town.
Crossroads: A high-end restaurant for omnivores, Crossroads offers flavorful and imaginative dishes like Rockefeller-style baked mushroom “scallops” and spicy maple-glazed Brussels sprouts with shiitake bacon.
Gracias Madre: A beautiful Mexican restaurant, Gracias Madre offers fantastic guacamole and queso fundido with warm house-made cashew cheese. The churros with a cup of creamy horchata latte are a must-try.
Shojin: This eccentric Japanese restaurant offers entirely vegan sushi and tempura using tofu and tempeh. The dynamite roll with quinoa, miso, and vegan mayo is a favorite.
Burgerlords: Unlike other plant-based fast-food operations, Burgerlords makes its veggie patties in-house. The tofu nuggets and crispy fries make it a favorite burger joint in Los Angeles.
Pura Vita: This small West Hollywood wine bar offers traditional Italian classics. The black magic lasagna bursting with cashew ricotta, mushrooms, and black truffle cream is a must-try.
| Restaurant | Signature Dish | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 🍕 Nic’s On Beverly | Vegan Pizza | Beverly |
| 🥗 Café Gratitude | Tiramisu | Larchmont, Venice |
| 🍄 Crossroads | Baked Mushroom “Scallops” | Melrose Avenue |
| 🌮 Gracias Madre | Guacamole & Churros | West Hollywood |
| 🍣 Shojin | Vegan Sushi | Little Tokyo, Culver City |
| 🍔 Burgerlords | Vegan Burgers | Highland Park, Chinatown |
| 🍝 Pura Vita | Black Magic Lasagna | West Hollywood |
The vegan dining scene in Los Angeles is not just a trend; it’s a reflection of a lifestyle embraced by many. From casual eateries to high-end dining, the city offers a diverse range of options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these iconic vegan restaurants is a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss.
Trendy Cafes and Eateries
Los Angeles is not just about the iconic restaurants; it’s also home to some of the trendiest cafes and eateries that offer innovative and delightful plant-based meals. Here’s a look at some of the must-visit spots:
Little Pine: Located in Silver Lake, Little Pine is famous for its Chicken Piccata and unique dishes like Jalapeño Cheddar French Toast. Don’t miss the dog menu if you’re dining with your furry friend!
Margo’s Bar + Kitchen: Now 100% vegan, Margo’s in Santa Monica offers creamy Cacio e Pepe, Mushroom Pizza, and a flavor-bursting Banh Mi Sandwich. The ambiance and moderate pricing make it a hot spot.
Plant Food + Wine: This upscale eatery in Venice offers exquisite meals curated by acclaimed chef Matthew Kenney. (Pro tip: Order the Cheese Plate as an appetizer—it’s a favorite.)
O’cado: A blend of American classics with Mediterranean and Latin-inspired bites, O’cado in Sherman Oaks is known for its Crab Cakes, Brussels Sprouts, and Spicy Nachos.
SunCafe: A staple in Studio City, SunCafe offers nutrient-dense dishes like Super Sun Nachos and Lettuce Leaf Tacos. Try the raw offerings if that’s your jam.
Monty’s Good Burger: With multiple locations, Monty’s is where streetwear culture meets delicious food. The Dog Pile, a tray loaded with Impossible burger patties, cheese, and sauces, is iconic.
Pura Vita: With locations in West Hollywood & Redondo Beach, Pura Vita is the go-to for Italian delights. The overwhelming gluten-free options, including Spaghetti Carbonara and “Nutella” Pizza, are a hit.
| Cafe/Eatery | Signature Dish | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 🌲 Little Pine | Chicken Piccata | Silver Lake |
| 🍽️ Margo’s Bar + Kitchen | Cacio e Pepe | Santa Monica |
| 🌱 Plant Food + Wine | Cheese Plate | Venice |
| 🥑 O’cado | Crab Cakes | Sherman Oaks |
| ☀️ SunCafe | Super Sun Nachos | Studio City |
| 🍔 Monty’s Good Burger | The Dog Pile | Multiple Locations |
| 🍝 Pura Vita | Spaghetti Carbonara | West Hollywood, Redondo Beach |
Fun Fact: Monty’s Good Burger not only serves delicious vegan food but also sells trendy merchandise. Check out their Instagram for special merch and menu collaborations!
Food Trucks and Street Food
Los Angeles is equally famous for its thriving food truck culture. The city’s streets are filled with food trucks that offer a variety of delights. Here are some popular ones:
Word of Mouth Truck: Known for its comfort food, this truck offers vegan mac ‘n’ cheese, fried chicken sandwiches, and shakes.
Plant Food for People: Specializing in vegan tacos, this truck is a favorite for those craving Mexican street food.
Cena Vegan: Offering authentic Latin flavors, Cena Vegan’s burritos, nachos, and tacos are a must-try.
The Vegan Hooligans: This pop-up food truck offers everything from breakfast burritos to Philly cheesesteaks, all vegan.
Donut Friend: A donut truck that lets you customize your vegan donuts with various fillings and toppings.
| Food Truck | Specialty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 🚚 Word of Mouth Truck | Comfort Food | Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Fried Chicken |
| 🌮 Plant Food for People | Vegan Tacos | Mexican Street Food |
| 🌯 Cena Vegan | Latin Flavors | Burritos, Nachos |
| 🥪 The Vegan Hooligans | Various Dishes | Breakfast to Dinner |
| 🍩 Donut Friend | Customizable Donuts | Vegan Options |
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on social media for the locations and schedules of these food trucks. They often participate in local events and festivals, offering a chance to explore a variety of vegan delights.
The trendy cafes and thriving food truck culture in Los Angeles adds to the city’s vibrant vegan scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner or a quick bite on the street, L.A.’s plant-based options are endless, innovative, and absolutely delicious.
Ethnic Cuisine
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in its vegan-friendly ethnic cuisine. From Thai to Ethiopian, Mexican to Italian, the city offers a rich array of flavors that cater to your palate. Here’s a glimpse into some of the best places to explore:
Bulan Thai: Located in Silver Lake, Bulan offers vegan Thai food, including pad Thai, satay, and tom yum soup made with soy-based chicken, beef, or duck. The deep-fried orange chicken is a must-try.
Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine: The only all-vegan restaurant in Little Ethiopia, Rahel specializes in dishes like tender mushroom tibs and a meat-free diet. Don’t miss the daily all-you-can-eat buffet.
Hijo De Su Madre: A casual vegan Mexican spot in Westwood, offering creative tacos like bahn mi-style with seared tofu and deep-fried avocado taco called the “Phat Ass.”
Pura Vita: An all-vegan Italian restaurant in West Hollywood, known for shiitake bacon-filled carbonara and “Black Magic Lasagna” with cashew ricotta and black truffle cream.
BeeWali’s Vegan AF: A pop-up turned brick-and-mortar spot in Eagle Rock, offering Indian dishes like curry fries, kabob plates, and tikka masala.
Baba’s Vegan Cafe: A Jamaican-style powerhouse in the Historic Crenshaw District, known for BBQ tofu, lentil fritters, and veggie patties.
Maciel’s Tortas & Tacos: A Highland Park spot blending Mexican ingredients with deli classics, offering vegan sandwiches with in-house plant-based meats like bacon, pastrami, and chorizo.
| Cuisine | Restaurant | Signature Dish |
|---|---|---|
| 🍜 Thai | Bulan Thai | Deep-Fried Orange Chicken |
| 🇪🇹 Ethiopian | Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine | Mushroom Tibs |
| 🌮 Mexican | Hijo De Su Madre | “Phat Ass” Taco |
| 🍝 Italian | Pura Vita | Black Magic Lasagna |
| 🍛 Indian | BeeWali’s Vegan AF | Curry Fries |
| 🇯🇲 Jamaican | Baba’s Vegan Cafe | BBQ Tofu |
| 🌯 Mexican-Deli | Maciel’s Tortas & Tacos | Vegan Chorizo Sandwich |
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a unique vegan date night, try Olivia in Koreatown. With leather banquettes, bistro tables, and a menu of shareable upscale vegan dishes, it’s a perfect spot for a romantic evening.
Dessert Destinations
Los Angeles’s dessert scene is as vibrant and innovative as its savory counterparts. Whether you have a sweet tooth or just want to indulge occasionally, here are some destinations to satisfy your cravings:
Donut Friend: A customizable donut truck that lets you choose various fillings and toppings. Their signature Pop-Tarts decorated with horoscope designs are a hit.
Just What I Kneaded: A bakery in Frogtown offering dairy-free scones, cookies, turnovers, and galettes. The giant cinnamon rolls with a pound of icing are a must-try.
Honeybee Burger: Known for their burgers, Honeybee also offers dairy-free chocolate milkshakes that pair perfectly with sweet potato fries and tots.
| Dessert Spot | Specialty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 🍩 Donut Friend | Customizable Donuts | Pop-Tarts |
| 🥐 Just What I Kneaded | Dairy-Free Pastries | Giant Cinnamon Rolls |
| 🍦 Honeybee Burger | Dairy-Free Milkshakes | Chocolate Flavor |
Fun Fact: Just What I Kneaded not only serves excellent pastries but also wins hearts with its punny name. Their bright and airy shop is a delightful place to enjoy a sweet treat.
Los Angeles’s vegan-friendly ethnic cuisine and dessert destinations offer a culinary journey that transcends borders and satisfies all taste buds. From spicy Thai curries to creamy Italian carbonara, and tangy Ethiopian stews to sweet customizable donuts, the city’s vegan scene is a celebration of flavors and creativity.
Farmers’ Markets
Los Angeles is not just about glitz and glamour; it’s also home to some of the most vibrant farmers’ markets that cater to the vegan community. These markets are a haven for those seeking fresh, organic, and cruelty-free produce and products.
Santa Monica Farmers’ Market: Known for its wide array of vegan options, this market offers everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to cheeses and baked goods. Don’t miss the artisanal nut butter and plant-based milk.
Downtown LA Artisanal Market: A hub for creativity, this market showcases innovative plant-based products. From vegan sausages to cruelty-free cosmetics, it’s a one-stop destination for all things plant-based.
Silver Lake Farmers’ Market: This market is famous for its organic produce and vegan-friendly vendors. Explore the aisles filled with fresh herbs, vegan pastries, and even plant-based dog treats.
Pro Tip: Always ask for samples! Many vendors offer tasting options, allowing you to discover new favorites.
Fun Fact: The Downtown LA Artisanal Market hosts monthly vegan festivals, featuring cooking demonstrations and live music.
| Market Name | Location | Specialties |
| Santa Monica Farmers’ Market | Santa Monica | Vegan cheeses, fresh produce |
| Downtown LA Artisanal Market | Downtown Los Angeles | Vegan sausages, cosmetics |
| Silver Lake Farmers’ Market | Silver Lake | Organic produce, vegan pastries |
Food Events and Festivals
Los Angeles is a city that celebrates diversity, and this includes its culinary scene. The city hosts numerous food events and festivals that provide a platform for chefs, food enthusiasts, and curious foodies to come together.
LA Vegan Food & Drink Festival: An annual event that gathers the best chefs and restaurants under one roof. Enjoy a day filled with delicious food, craft beers, and live entertainment.
Vegan Street Fair: This street fair is a culinary adventure that takes you through various cuisines. From tacos to dairy-free ice cream, it’s a feast for the senses.
Plant-Based Food Summit: A must-attend for those interested in the business of vegan food. This summit offers workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
Pro Tip: Buy tickets in advance for major festivals to avoid long lines and ensure entry.
Fun Fact: The Vegan Street Fair hosts an eating competition where participants compete to devour as many vegan treats as possible in a set time.
| Event Name | Location | Highlights |
| 📸LA Vegan Food & Drink Festival | Various Locations | Food, craft beers, entertainment |
| 👩🍳 Vegan Street Fair | North Hollywood | Street food, eating competition |
| 🍝Plant-Based Food Summit | Downtown Los Angeles | Workshops, networking |
Los Angeles’s vegan scene is not just confined to restaurants and cafes. The city’s farmers’ markets and food festivals are a testament to the growing popularity and acceptance of veganism. Whether you’re a committed vegan or just exploring plant-based options, these events offer a delightful culinary experience.
FAQ
What are some must-try vegan dishes in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles offers a wide variety of dishes. Some must-tries include the Pizza at Nic’s On Beverly, Deep-Fried Orange Chicken at Bulan Thai, and the Black Magic Lasagna at Pura Vita.
Are there options in traditional non-vegan restaurants?
Yes, many traditional restaurants in Los Angeles offer vegan-friendly options on their menus. It’s always a good idea to ask the server for choices or check the menu online in advance.
How can I find vegan food trucks and pop-up events?
Social media is a great way to keep track of food trucks and pop-up events in Los Angeles. Following local influencers and food truck accounts will keep you updated on locations, schedules, and special events.
Can I find vegan desserts and pastries in Los Angeles
Absolutely! Los Angeles has several bakeries and dessert spots like Donut Friend and Just What I Kneaded, offering everything from customizable donuts to dairy-free pastries.
Is vegan food expensive in Los Angeles?
Food in general in Los Angeles ranges from affordable street food and casual eateries to upscale dining experiences. There are options to suit various budgets, and many restaurants offer reasonably priced dishes.
Last Words
Los Angeles’s vegan food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry that reflects the city’s cultural richness and commitment to sustainable living. From iconic restaurants and trendy cafes to bustling farmers’ markets and lively food festivals, the city offers a plethora of plant-based delights that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply curious about plant-based cuisine, Los Angeles invites you to embark on a culinary adventure that’s not only delicious but also compassionate and environmentally friendly.
So go ahead, explore the city’s offerings, and indulge in the flavors that make Los Angeles a vegan food paradise.