Any local Los Angeleno knows that living in Los Angeles means having access to the best of the best when it comes to vegan and vegetarian food. Referred to as a “mecca for plant-based dining” by Eater and the “center of the universe” for vegans by VegNews — there’s no settling for a plate of limp vegetables or bland salads here.
So whether you are looking for a stellar #meatlessmonday, or just want to enjoy some fresh, flavorful food (that happens to be meat-free), we’ve got you covered. Here are seven must-try vegetarian dishes in Los Angeles.
1. Fala Bar’s Kale Burger
What’s in it: A kale falafel patty with house-made Thousand Island dressing, lemony kale, pickled purple cabbage, grilled onion, and generous avocado.
Vegans and meat-eaters alike go crazy for this hidden joint that can be found in West Hollywood and Venice. Among their variety of falafel flavors, sandwiches, and salads is their famous Kale Burger, which has been known to convert even the biggest kale-haters.
Address: 7751 1/2 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
2. The Butcher’s Daughter’s Pad Thai
What’s in it: Handmade rice noodles with Thai basil, pea shoots, peanuts, tamarind Thai, scrambled eggs, cucumber-carrot sala, and mint.
The Butcher’s Daughter is a self-proclaimed “Vegetable Slaughterhouse.” Located in Venice and established in New York, they’ve accumulated a cult-like following from vegans and carnivores alike thanks to their beautiful patio, tasty veggie dishes, and healthy juices.
Address: 1205 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
3. Lodge Bread Co.’s Veggie Sandwich
What’s in it: Lodge Bread Co. in Culver City was founded when two friends working as chefs began baking for fun on the weekends. They became enamored with the baking process and started their own restaurant in 2015, quickly becoming well-known thanks to their habit of cranking up the reggae tunes in the dining room and serving some of the tastiest sourdough around town.
Address: 11918 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066
4. Zinc Cafe & Market’s Avocado Toast
What’s in it: Smashed avocado on toast with lemon dressed radish salad, butter, chives, onion, and lemon zest. And the option to add a perfectly poached egg.
Zinc is known for providing beautiful food in a beautiful environment. Their menu is French-inspired and the dishes are fresh, creative, and health-conscious. You can find them in their original the Los Angeles DTLA Art District location, or in Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach.
Address: 580 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
5. The Harvest Bar’s Italian Zoodles
What’s in it: Your choice of truffle alfredo or creamy pesto on zucchini noodle pasta with sauteed broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onions and vegan parmesan.
The Harvest Bar is a small outpost that serves up healthy, flavor forward bowls. Try one of their Superfood bowls and you’ll find natural exotic and local ingredients, as well as plenty of options for vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian and other diets.
Address: 15030 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
6. Malibu Farm’s Cauliflower Pizza
What’s in it: Their famous cauliflower crust pizza with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and house-made pesto.
Malibu Farm is a farm-to-table restaurant located on the picturesque Malibu Pier with views of the ocean. They feature dishes prepared with locally sourced produce and fresh ingredients at both their restaurant and cafe locations.
Address: 15030 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
7. The Grain Lab’s Traditional Bowl w/ Tofu
(Photo taken by @archlenzphotography)
What’s in it: Your choice of protein (Tofu makes it vegetarian) with brown rice, quinoa, couscous or kale as a base. Topped with grilled vegetables marinated with balsamic vinaigrette and garnished with greek herbs.
Grain Lab is a family-owned healthy eatery located in Burbank. Their menu items typically consist of fresh grains, veggies, and proteins designed to satisfy your palate and provide healthy choices for a busy lifestyle.
Address: 15030 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Feeling inspired to try one of these vegetarian dishes? Order here! Don’t know where to have date night when your partner is a vegetarian? Read our post about the best date night restaurants in Los Angeles for meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.
