If there’s anything Californians know a thing or two about, it’s how to look after themselves, whether it’s being mindful of their diet or living a well-balanced lifestyle, and when the local produce is this fresh and tasty it’s no wonder. The California vegan scene is one of the hottest in the world and with "Veganuary" in full swing, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite restaurants serving the tastiest plant-based cuisine.
Café Gratitude, Los Angeles
With two locations in Los Angeles, Café Gratitude is the hangout for plant-based foodies. With hit dishes such as buffalo cauliflower and cashew cheese nachos, there’s no denying that this place really helped to put veganism on the L.A. foodie map. One of the joys of eating there is the ordering experience itself; you choose the dish you want and are encouraged to preface it with phrases like "I am" or "I feel," so with food names like Nourished, Bountiful, and Humble, there’s no end to the positive vibes here.
Millennium Restaurant, Oakland
For vegans who live for fine dining, Millennium Restaurant in Oakland, the Bay Area’s coolest hangout, offers diners something a little special. There’ll be no chili cheese fries found here, and the only ketchup in the kitchen is that of the pear variety. This long-standing vegan paradise has had even the most devoted meat-eaters queuing up for the past 20 years. Those looking to up their dinner-party game can take advantage of the chefs’ masterclass in plating, with each dish being a stunningly photogenic creation.
Kindred, San Diego
California is known for being a little bit out there at times, but did you ever think things could get weirder than a cauliflower-steak at a death-metal-themed restaurant? Try a night at Kindred, nestled in the San Diego neighborhood of South Park, and you’ll understand what we mean! This local favorite is a draw for the wacky decor alone—think light pink wallpaper emblazoned with fighting plants and a large wolf head adorning the back wall, all the while heavy metal music blasts out of the speakers. The food is as loud as the surroundings; dishes pack a punch and options such as Memphis BBQ jackfruit sandwich and green garbanzo chilli prove worthy alternatives to meat entrées.
Birba, Palm Springs and Cabazon
Birba, with locations in Palm Springs and Cabazon, goes a long way to dispel the myth that vegan food means carb-free—this cool hangout serves pizzas to die for. Gluten free? No problem! Order your pizza with a cauliflower or a gluten free crust and let the tasty toppings do the rest. But don’t just stop with the pizza—the inventive craft cocktails are a must too, so take a seat at the garden patio bar and try the Birba Bramble or the Italian Greyhound.
The Nest Ojai, Ojai
Ojai is fast becoming a firm favorite with Los Angelinos, who often return from a weekend in this hillside retreat raving about the abundance of quality chefs and restaurants. Fairly new to Ojai’s culinary scene is The Nest, created by Ojai native Kiona Wachter. After the previous incarnation closed in the 1980s, Wachter reopened the doors to offer classic comfort food that is both sustainable and locally grown. Her take on her old family recipes have been reinvented and given a new life, which adds to the homey atmosphere.
La Vegana Mexicana, Santa Ana
Growing up in Mexico City with a father who was vegan “before it was a thing,” Loreta Ruiz didn’t try giving up animal products until her own daughter did at 18. Now she and that same daughter and her son run La Vegana Mexicana in the Orange County town, where traditional Mexican ingredients—no mock meats allowed here—and recipes for such staples as their black bean and mole tamale have gotten raves. Another hit? Their take on the pambazo, a traditional sandwich from Mexico City, that is stuffed with a garbanzo-bean-based substitute for the usual chorizo and potatoes.
Blossom & Root Kitchen, Danville
Blossom & Root Kitchen in Danville is a cozy, family-owned restaurant offering fresh, 100 percent plant-based dishes that highlight seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Known for its creative take on smash burgers, chili, and “crab” cakes, the restaurant provides a menu that appeals to both plant-based eaters and those simply looking for healthy, flavorful options. An extensive list of cocktails and mocktails is on offer as well. Blossom & Root Kitchen executes it all with a commitment to sustainability and mindful consumption, too.
Little Saint, Healdsburg
Little Saint is a vibrant, multi-faceted destination that blends art, music, and culinary experiences, making is as much a cultural hub as a restaurant. This plant-based restaurant in Healdsburg offers seasonal, locally sourced dishes in high-ceilinged, light-filled setting. Beyond the dining experience (a four-course prix fixe is offered), Little Saint features a coffee shop, perfect for a casual meet-up or just a caffeinated break, as well as a wine bar and bottle shop. Live music performances add to atmosphere, making it a great spot to enjoy local talent. The sprawling space also includes an art gallery, showcasing works from contemporary artists.
The Plot, Oceanside
Known for using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, this Oceanside vegan mecca offers creative alternatives to traditional meat dishes by incorporating a variety of flavorful veggies. Instead of meats, they use ingredients like mushrooms, cauliflower, and jackfruit to mimic the texture and heartiness of dishes such as burgers, steaks, and tacos. They feature house-made vegan cheeses and plant-based proteins and have a commitment to zero-waste—produce is used entirely whenever possible, from root to shoot.
Twelvemonth, Burlingame
Known almost as much for its stunning interior dining room— housed in a custom-built, Platinum Leed–rated building—as it is for its exquisite food, this San Mateo County standout pleases all the senses. Whether experiencing the five-course chef’s tasting menu or ordering à la cart, the restaurant’s plant-based take on dishes such as ceviche, tamales, paella, and barbecue are memorable. The onsite bakery offers croissants, muffins, and various bread loaves (try the sourdough) as well as treats such as cake slices and cookies, including a celebrated salted sourdough chocolate chip variety. The extensive selection of wines, craft cocktails, local beers, and nonalcoholic beverage options ensure that an evening here will lack nothing.
Ferro, Idylwild
Ferro Restaurant in Idyllwild offers an authentic, plant-based Italian dining experience in a cozy, rustic setting, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and seasonal dishes, the menu also showcases items like branzino con limone and mezze porzione di bistecca, all with a modern twist. The ambience is enhanced by a working fireplace, frequent live music, and a patio area for alfresco dining.