Welcome to the culinary paradise where the flavors of compassion, health, and sustainability converge – Los Angeles, the city that’s not just known for its glitz and glamour but also for its vibrant vegan dining scene. “Explore Vegan Los Angeles: Top Spots for Plant-Based Cuisine” is your passport to a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the harmony between taste and conscience. In a city that embraces diversity in all its forms, veganism has found its rightful place, offering a tantalizing array of plant-based dishes that redefine dining satisfaction.
As we journey through the heart of LA, we’ll discover the restaurants, cafes, and eateries that have mastered the art of crafting sumptuous vegan creations. From inventive plant-based twists on classic favorites to globally inspired dishes that transport your taste buds, each spot on our culinary map is a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability, ethics, and wellness. Join us as we navigate the menus that tell a story of flavors that delight, ingredients that nourish, and a city that inspires a compassionate lifestyle.
Los Angeles, with its diverse culinary landscape, proves that vegan cuisine isn’t just a trend; it’s a way of life embraced by locals and visitors alike. So, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about exploring the plant-based world, fasten your seatbelt, and let’s embark on a journey of delectable discovery through the vegan gems of the City of Angels.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- LA is a vegan utopia with a huge variety of plant-based restaurants, events, and pop-ups, offering everything from ethically-sourced gourmet meals to international vegan cuisines.
- Vegan markets, grocery stores, and cafés are abundant in LA, making it easy for anyone to find fresh produce, vegan essentials, or indulge in plant-based treats and specialty coffees.
- The city not only caters to vegan dining but extends the lifestyle into entertainment, accommodations, and activities, emphasizing sustainability and a supportive vegan community.
The LA Vegan Scene: Plant-Based Dining Hotspots
Los Angeles is not just a city, it’s a vegan paradise that boasts an impressive number of plant-based restaurants. From the heart of Hollywood to the serene Santa Monica, LA’s vegan scene is thriving, offering a plethora of diverse and delectable options for vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re craving a slice of vegan pizza, a spoonful of vegan mayo, or some hearty Ethiopian fare from Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine, the city has got you covered.
One of the brightest stars in LA’s vegan constellation is Kreation Organic. It is a family-owned vegan restaurant chain with about 20 spots spread across the city. They’ve made it their mission to provide easy access to plant-based drinks for Angelenos. They serve up a variety of options like:
- Tonic shots
- Cold-pressed juices
- Organic smoothies
- Syringe wellness shots
And if you’re feeling peckish, they also have a selection of grab-and-go vegan items, including vegan cheese and cashew cheese, for all your snacking needs.
LA’s vegan scene is not just about the food, it’s about the community. Vegan-friendly events and pop-ups are a regular occurrence, allowing you to mingle with like-minded individuals while enjoying some scrumptious plant-based fare. The Vegan Exchange, for instance, is a weekly vegan market where you can find an array of plant-based products, from food to clothes. And if you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a food truck or two, dishing out some delightful vegan bites.
Regardless if you’re a seasoned vegan or just a curious foodie, exploring LA’s vegan scene is a worthy adventure. Before we continue, let’s explore the variety of dining experiences the city has to offer, beginning with some of the most creative vegan eateries.
Innovative Vegan Eateries
In the heart of Los Angeles, CA, a culinary revolution is brewing. A wave of innovative vegan restaurants is transforming the food scene, serving up imaginative dishes that push the boundaries of plant-based cuisine. They’re not just serving food; they’re creating gastronomic experiences that blend health, sustainability, and culinary innovation.
Places leading the vegan revolution include:
- Planta Cocina
- Sage Vegan Bistro
- Cafe Gratitude
- Berbere
With their fancy yet relaxed vibe, variety of international cuisines, including a vegan Italian restaurant, and commitment to using ingredients from local farmers who follow sustainable practices, these eateries are redefining what it means to be a vegan restaurant.
Their creativity shines through in their standout dishes. Take, for instance, the savory za’atar vegan croissants at Chaumont Vegan, the Asian-inspired fare at My Vegan, or the carrot lox toast at Jewel. If you’re a sushi lover, don’t miss out on the unagi eggplant nigiri at Gokoku, or the jackfruit ‘crab’ cakes at Sage Vegan Bistro. And if you’re craving something warm and comforting, the crunchy garlicky OG ramen at Ramen Hood or the Italian plant-based cold-cuts at Maciel’s Plant-Based Butcher and Deli are a must-try.
Certainly, we can’t overlook the drinks and desserts that enhance the dining experience. Some highlights include:
- The Grasshopper smoothie at Wild Living Foods that’s reminiscent of a mint chip shake
- The house-made ice cream and tiramisu
- The vegan ‘egg’ in Ramen Hood’s ramen
These innovative eateries are shaking up the vegan dining scene and inviting everyone to dig into some plant-based goodness.
Scrumptious Vegan Comfort Food
But LA’s vegan scene isn’t just about innovative, experimental cuisine. Sometimes, you just want something comforting, familiar, and oh-so-delicious. And that’s where LA’s vegan comfort food scene comes in. These eateries offer satisfying and flavorful dishes that will have you coming back for more, proving that plant-based food can be just as hearty and comforting as its non-vegan counterparts.
Some of the go-to vegan comfort food spots in LA are:
- Doomie’s Home Cookin’
- My Vegan Gold
- Jackfruit Cafe
- Stuff I Eat
They’ve got everything from Asian-fusion dishes to vegan soul food and home-style favorites. And if you’re in the mood for some Italian comfort food, Pura Vita and Julie Goes Green are the places to be.
Burger lovers, rejoice! Nomoo Burger is known for its tasty combo of a brioche bun, special Nomoo sauce, tender impossible patty, and American cheese. And if you’re a fan of diversity, Honeybee Burger’s menu won’t disappoint. From adding dill ranch to hot sauce, there are plenty of ways to jazz up your burger.
We should also consider the other comfort food alternatives available in LA. Some options include:
- Philly cheesesteak sandwiches and peanut butter and bacon burgers at Doomie’s Home Cookin’
- The best-selling Soul Bowl at Jackfruit Cafe
- Buffalo cauliflower and pink sauce pasta at Margo’s and Julie Goes Green
- Filling vegan sub from Ike’s Love & Sandwiches
- The unique black magic lasagna at a local Italian eatery
With these options, you’re in for a real treat.
International Flavors: Vegan Edition
The beauty of LA’s vegan scene lies in its diversity. With an array of international cuisines available, you can travel the world without leaving the city. Whether you’re craving:
- Thai
- Mexican
- Japanese
- Ethiopian
There’s a vegan dish (or several) waiting for you.
Thai food lovers can head over to Thai Vegan for a taste of their:
- green and massaman curries
- pad thai
- vegan orange chicken
- tom yum soups
And with soy-based chicken, beef, or duck substitutes available at Bulan Thai in Silver Lake and Satdha Plant-Based Thai Kitchen, your plate will be a riot of flavors.
For a taste of Mexico, Cena Vegan in Lincoln Heights and El Cocinero are a must-visit. From saucy seitan al pastors to tacos dorados and super nachos, they’ve got all your Mexican cravings covered. And with their spicy cashew cremas and plant-based meats like al pastor, carne asada, and birria, you’re in for a treat.
But the international vegan cuisine scene in LA isn’t just about Thai and Mexican food. Here are some other options:
- The Plant Lab Vegan food truck serves up Japanese vegan dishes like yakisoba noodles, Japanese curry, red bean-stuffed sesame balls, and vegan salmon rolls.
- Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine in Little Ethiopia offers delicious Ethiopian options.
- Berbere in downtown Santa Monica also offers delicious Ethiopian options.
Moreover, we mustn’t overlook the other international vegan cuisine choices in LA. From Vietnamese dishes at Vinh Loi Tofu to Italian dishes at Pura Vita, there’s a world of flavors waiting for you to explore.
Plant-Based Cafés & Bakeries
A visit to LA’s vegan scene would be incomplete without a visit to one of its plant-based cafés and bakeries. Whether you’re looking for a caffeine fix, a sweet treat, or both, these spots have got you covered.
For a sweet start to your day, head over to Gooey Center Bakery, known for their irresistible cinnamon rolls and delicious French toast. And if you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, Just What I Kneaded’s oversized salted chocolate chip cookies are a must-try. They also serve Instagram-ready pop-tarts, perfect for that morning social media post.
But it’s not just about the sweet stuff. Coffee and Plants, a café in Pasadena, is all about coffee and houseplants, creating a chill vibe for people who love plant-based stuff and nature. After a hike at Los Leones or a visit to Malibu Creek State Park, you can swing by Juicy Ladies on Sunset Blvd. for some refreshments.
And if you’re an early bird, you might want to make a beeline for Just What I Kneaded. Their breakfast sandwiches and breakfast burritos with housemade bagels are super popular and usually sell out fast, so get there early to avoid disappointment.
Cheers to Vegan Bars & Breweries
After a day of exploring LA’s vegan scene, what better way to unwind than with a refreshing drink at one of the city’s vegan bars or breweries? Here are some options to consider:
- Bar Amá
- Beelman’s
- Gracias Madre
- Link N Hops – Atwater Village
- Tony’s Darts Away
- Trejo’s Cantina
LA’s vegan bars and breweries offer an extensive menu of vegan dishes and drinks. Whether you prefer a classic beer or a creative vegan cocktail, you’ll find something to quench your thirst.
Speaking of cocktails, Nic’s on Beverly is known for its bold and creative offerings. With their floral adornments, frothy aquafaba toppings, and image-printed beverages, they’re taking vegan cocktails to a whole new level.
But it’s not just about the cocktails. If you’re a beer lover, Sage Vegan Bistro and Brewery and Golden Road Brewing’s Downtown LA Brewpub have vegan beer selections that are sure to impress. And if you’re feeling peckish, places like Bar Amá, Beelman’s, Gracias Madre, Link N Hops – Atwater Village, Tony’s Darts Away, Trejo’s Cantina, Sixth St. Tavern, Tu Madre – Los Feliz, Stache – West Hollywood, Niku Nashi Plant Based Kitchen, Suehiro DTLA, and Junkyard Dog offer a selection of plant-based bites to accompany your drinks.
Vegan Markets & Grocery Stores
If you’re planning to cook up a vegan storm in your kitchen or simply want to stock up on some vegan essentials, LA’s vegan markets and grocery stores have got you covered.
BESTIES Vegan Paradise and Erewhon are fully vegan markets where you can get all your vegan stuff. They have everything you need to whip up a delicious vegan meal, including:
- Fresh produce
- Vegan cheese
- Vegan mayo
- Vegan shrimp
However, it’s not solely about the fresh produce. You can find a wide range of plant-based products at grocery stores like:
- Grow
- Organix
- Vege Wholesale
- Erewhon Market
- BESTIES Vegan Paradise
Whether you’re looking for vegan cheese, vegan eggs, or gluten-free options, these stores have got you covered.
And if you’re on the hunt for some specialty vegan items, places like:
- BESTIES Vegan Paradise
- Mother’s Market & Kitchen
- Erewhon
- Vromage
- Lassens Natural Foods & Vitamins
- Glowing Plant Based Eatery & Market
- Sprouts
- Grow
- Organix
- Vege Wholesale
Offer a selection of unique vegan products at our vegan grocery store, including black truffle cream, that are sure to delight your taste buds.
Veg-Friendly Events & Pop-Ups
The vegan scene in LA is not just about the food; it’s about the community. And what better way to experience this vibrant community than at one of the city’s veg-friendly events and pop-ups?
The Vegan Exchange, for instance, is a weekly vegan market where you can find an array of plant-based food, clothes, and other stuff from over 30 pop-ups and food trucks. Whether you’re looking for some vegan cheese, vegan eggs, or a slice of vegan pizza, you’ll find it here.
However, it’s not exclusively about the food. The Vegan Exchange is also a great place to mingle with like-minded individuals, learn more about the vegan lifestyle, and support local vegan businesses. So, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or a curious foodie, the Vegan Exchange is a must-visit.
But the Vegan Exchange isn’t the only vegan event in town. Vegan Playground, a weekly night market, and the Vegan Street Fair, a big celebration of vegan food with lots of vendors, are also worth checking out. With so many delicious plant-based dishes to try and friendly faces to meet, these events are a testament to the vibrant and welcoming vegan community in LA.
And if you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a food truck or two, dishing out some delightful vegan bites. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to check out these events for a taste of LA’s vibrant vegan community.
Plant-Powered Hotels & Accommodations
If you’re planning a trip to LA and want your stay to be as vegan-friendly as your meals, there are plenty of options to choose from. From hotels that offer plant-based dining options to accommodations that embrace sustainable practices, LA has got you covered.
Some vegan-friendly accommodations in Los Angeles include:
- Freehand Los Angeles
- The Treehouse, Bel Air
- A Vegan Villa
- Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Not only do they offer vegan dining options for guests, but they also embrace sustainable practices, making your stay guilt-free. However, it’s not exclusively about the food. These accommodations go above and beyond to provide a comfortable stay for their guests.
Whether it’s the use of local produce at Freehand Los Angeles or the responsible cleaning practices at Four Seasons Beverly Hills, these accommodations are committed to sustainability. And if you’re looking for a completely vegan hotel in Los Angeles, The Treehouse in the Bel-Air neighborhood is the place to be. Here, you can enjoy a vegan lifestyle during your stay, from the food to the amenities.
Exploring LA: Vegan-Friendly Activities
The vegan lifestyle in LA is not just about the food; it’s about the lifestyle. And with a plethora of vegan-friendly activities available, you can make the most of your time in the City of Angels.
Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast or a museum lover, LA has got you covered. Vegan-friendly entertainment options like Comedy For The Animals featuring Tig Notaro, and the Los Angeles Vegan Comedy Festival at UCB Franklin, are sure to keep you entertained.
And if you’re into outdoor activities, why not hit up one of LA’s hiking trails? Places like Malibu Creek State Park and Los Leones Canyon Trail offer stunning views and a great workout. And after a tough hike, you can swing by Juicy Ladies on Sunset Blvd. for some refreshments.
Furthermore, we mustn’t forget about the city’s museums. Places like:
- LACMA
- Skirball Cultural Center
- The Getty
- The Natural History Museum
offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. The icing on the cake? They’ve got vegan food in their cafeterias or nearby, allowing you to satisfy your curiosity with some tasty plant-based fare.
Tips for Navigating LA's Vegan Scene
Navigating LA’s vegan scene can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the city or the vegan lifestyle. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some insider tips.
First things first, transportation. LA’s metro, light rail, and buses are a convenient way to get around the city and check out all the vegan spots. And with a TAP Card, which you can grab online or at TAP vending machines in the metro rail silver and orange line stations, getting around is a breeze. And at $1.75 for a one-way metro ride, it’s also an affordable option.
The most crucial tip to remember is to embrace the adventure! The vegan scene in LA is diverse and dynamic, and the best way to experience it is to dive right in. So, whether you’re exploring the city’s vegan:
- restaurants
- cafés
- bars
- markets
- events
Remember to enjoy the journey. After all, being vegan in LA is not just about the food; it’s about the lifestyle.
A Culinary Sojourn to Remember: Embracing Vegan Los Angeles
From innovative eateries and comfort food havens to international cuisine and plant-based cafés and bakeries, LA is a vegan’s dream come true. With its vibrant vegan community, plethora of plant-based dining options, and vegan-friendly activities, the City of Angels is a beacon of the vegan lifestyle. So, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or a curious foodie, we invite you to embark on this mouthwatering journey and discover the plant-based paradise that is Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top-rated vegan restaurants in Los Angeles?
Check out Planta Cocina, Sage Vegan Bistro, Cafe Gratitude, Berbere, and Kreation Organic for some of the top-rated vegan restaurants in Los Angeles!
Where can I find vegan comfort food in LA?
You can find vegan comfort food at Doomie’s Home Cookin’, My Vegan Gold, Jackfruit Cafe, Stuff I Eat, Pura Vita, and Julie Goes Green in LA. Enjoy your plant-based comfort food adventure!
Are there any vegan-friendly events in LA?
Yes, LA hosts several vegan-friendly events such as the Vegan Exchange, Vegan Playground, and the Vegan Street Fair. Check them out if you’re looking for vegan-friendly activities!
Where can I find vegan products in LA?
You can find vegan products at grocery stores like BESTIES Vegan Paradise, Erewhon, Grow, Organix, and Vege Wholesale. Enjoy your search for vegan goodies!
How can I get around LA to check out all the vegan spots?
You can use LA’s metro, light rail, and buses to explore all the vegan spots in the city. Enjoy your food adventure!
