5 Great Vegetarian Restaurants in Los Angeles

A while back my husband Don Diamont and I attended the Humane Society’s “To The Rescue!” gala and were quite moved by some of the information presented. In particular, certain practices that are less than humane when it comes to processing some of the food that arrives in our stores. While a diet that is strictly plant based is not something that we can commit to, we do like to participate in the occasional #MeatlessMonday.

I’ve found that really satisfying vegetarian cuisine can sometimes be hard to come by, but these 5 restaurants are doing it right.

Crossroads Kitchen on Melrose

Opened in 2013, Crossroads Kitchen was the first plant-based restaurant in town to have a full bar with an inspired cocktail program. There is nothing overtly “vegan” about the restaurant or the menu of inventive and intelligent meat-free dishes. Claiming that their fare is defined not by what’s missing but by what it is, Crossroads Kitchen is a place where vegan and gluten free food never tasted so good.

Sage Organic Vegan Bistro in Culver City

While this organic, plant based eatery has a few locations throughout the Los Angeles area, the Culver City location has a large, accommodating patio. They are open for brunch, lunch and dinner. They also feature 25 beers on tap and a house specialty: KindKreme, their small batch dairy free ice cream.

Plant Food and Wine in Venice

This stunning Abbot Kinney eatery has a gorgeous back patio and an impressive menu. Designed as a communal gathering place, Plant Food and Wine offers a unique experience centered around delicious, health-conscious food and a setting reminiscent of friendly backyard dinner parties. The seasonally crafted menu, features locally sourced fare and an extensive wine list of organic and biodynamic varietals.

Mohawk Bend in Echo Park

This restaurant and bar promises that their fresh, locally-sourced fare and drink will appeal to vegans, vegetarians, and meat-lovers alike. Only California ingredients are used to create their brick oven pizzas, seasonal salads, elevated pub food, and delicious desserts. Keep up with their seasonal cocktails and menu items by following their blog.

Little Pine in Silver Lake

When musician, animal activist and long time vegan, Moby decided to open an all-vegan restaurant on Rowena Ave Silver Lake, he actually attended neighborhood council meetings and worked with locals to determine what’s best for the area. The result is an all day restaurant with a beautiful design and a thoughtful menu, with all proceeds going to various animal rescue causes. While critics haven’t been in love with the cuisine, the reviews from the regulars have been glowing.

Satisfying vegetarian cuisine can be hard to come by, but these 5 restaurants are doing it right.Click To Tweet

Moby was also the emcee of the To The Rescue! gala… part of what inspired us to branch out and go meatless at least once a week.