Plant-Based Options At L.A.'s Go-Tos
- howareya3711
- Apr 25
- 9 min read
1. Bavel
Location: Arts District, 500 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Vibe: Modern Middle Eastern hotspot with a chic, open-air feel and a reputation for inventive cuisine.
Vegan Options:
Oyster Mushroom Kebab: Grilled mushrooms with a smoky, savory flavor, a signature dish.
Hummus with Pita: Creamy hummus served with house-made pita (confirm no dairy in preparation).
Cauliflower with Labneh (Veganizable): Can be requested without labneh for a spiced, roasted cauliflower dish.
Seasonal Vegetable Sides: Often include grilled or roasted veggies like zucchini or eggplant (check for vegan prep).
Why It’s a Hotspot: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, celebrity sightings, and a menu that blends Middle Eastern flavors with California flair. Reservations are highly recommended.
2. Yangban Society
Location: Arts District, 712 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Vibe: Trendy, all-day Korean-American eatery with a bright, artsy dining room and a focus on bold flavors.
Vegan Options:
Dotori Guksu: A fully plant-based noodle dish with acorn noodles, greens, and a savory broth.
Garlic “Buchu” Fries: Korean chive fries, crispy and vegan-friendly.
Housemade Banchan: Several vegan side dishes like pickled vegetables and kimchi (confirm no fish sauce).
Griddled Potato (Veganizable): Request without clarified butter for a crispy, savory side.
Why It’s a Hotspot: Praised for its creative take on Korean cuisine and a versatile menu that appeals to diverse diets. It’s a go-to for casual yet upscale dining.
3. Mizlala
Location: Multiple locations, including 6930 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Vibe: Lively Middle Eastern spot with a modern, colorful aesthetic and a focus on shareable plates.
Vegan Options:
Green Falafel: Crispy falafel balls served with tahini (confirm vegan tahini).
Curried Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower with warm spices and a tangy sauce (request no dairy).
Hummus Plate: Served with veggies and pita, a staple vegan option.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Seasonal veggies grilled with herbs (check for vegan seasoning).
Why It’s a Hotspot: Popular for its approachable yet elevated Middle Eastern fare and vibrant Hollywood location, perfect for group dining.
4. Pine & Crane
Location: Multiple locations, including 1521 Griffith Park Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 (Silver Lake) and 1120 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (DTLA)
Vibe: Hip Taiwanese eatery with a minimalist, airy design and a focus on fresh, bold flavors.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Dan Dan Noodles: Spicy peanut noodles with veggies (labeled vegan on the menu).
Mapo Tofu (Vegan Version): Silky tofu in a spicy sauce, available without meat.
Wood Ear Mushrooms: A refreshing cold dish with garlic and vinegar.
Sautéed Greens: Seasonal greens stir-fried with garlic (confirm no fish sauce).
Why It’s a Hotspot: Loved for its affordable, flavorful Taiwanese dishes and a DTLA patio that’s perfect for people-watching. It’s a local favorite for both vegans and non-vegans.
5. Craig’s
Location: West Hollywood, 8826 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Vibe: Old-school Hollywood glam with a celebrity clientele and a cozy, upscale ambiance.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Pizza: Topped with vegan cheese and veggies.
Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms filled with plant-based ingredients.
Vegan Spaghetti: Classic pasta with marinara (confirm no dairy).
Vegan Ice Cream: House-made, creamy vegan ice cream available by the pint.
Why It’s a Hotspot: A celebrity magnet with a luxurious vibe, perfect for special occasions or date nights. The separate vegan menu makes it a standout for mixed groups.
6. Catch LA
Location: West Hollywood, 8715 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Vibe: Swanky rooftop seafood restaurant with lush decor, perfect for a glamorous night out.
Vegan Options:
Crispy Cauliflower: Tossed in a sweet-spicy sauce, a popular shareable dish.
Heirloom Tomato Salad: Fresh tomatoes with herbs (request no dairy).
Grilled Vegetable Plate: Seasonal veggies with a light dressing (confirm vegan prep).
Vegan Sushi Rolls: Avocado or cucumber rolls (check for vegan sauces).
Why It’s a Hotspot: Known for its stunning rooftop views, trendy crowd, and Instagram-worthy presentation. It’s a go-to for upscale dining with vegan accommodations.
7. Genwa Korean BBQ DTLA
Location: Downtown LA, 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Vibe: Contemporary Korean BBQ with smokeless grills and an extensive banchan spread.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Banchan: Several side dishes like pickled radish, seaweed salad, and cucumber (confirm no fish sauce).
Grilled Vegetables: Mushrooms, zucchini, and onions cooked on the table grill.
Tofu Bibimbap: A veganizable rice bowl with veggies and tofu (request no egg or meat).
Kimchi Pancake (Veganizable): Request without egg for a crispy, spicy pancake.
Why It’s a Hotspot: Renowned for its high-quality meats and banchan variety, it’s a fun, interactive dining experience with solid vegan options.
8. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Location: Hollywood, 1534 N McCadden Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Vibe: Rustic Italian pizzeria with a wood-fired oven and a charming, brick-lined patio.
Vegan Options:
Marinara Pizza: Classic tomato sauce and oregano, naturally vegan.
Vegan Margherita (Veganizable): Request vegan cheese or no cheese for a fresh tomato-basil pizza.
Grilled Vegetable Antipasti: Seasonal veggies with olive oil (confirm no dairy).
Arugula Salad: Simple salad with lemon dressing (request no parmesan).
Why It’s a Hotspot: A Hollywood staple for authentic Neapolitan pizza, with a lively atmosphere and a patio perfect for group gatherings.
1. Girl & The Goat
Location: Arts District, 555 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Vibe: Lively, industrial-chic spot with a globally inspired menu and a communal dining feel.
Vegan Options:
Charred Broccoli: Tossed in a sesame-soy glaze with crispy garlic.
Roasted Cauliflower: Spiced with harissa and served with tahini (request no dairy).
Green Chickpea Hummus: Served with crudités and flatbread (confirm vegan bread).
Sautéed Green Beans: Flavored with chili and garlic (check for vegan prep).
Why It’s a Hotspot: A celebrity chef-driven restaurant (Stephanie Izard) with a buzzy atmosphere and inventive small plates, perfect for sharing.
2. Mother Wolf
Location: Hollywood, 1545 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Vibe: Glamorous Italian eatery with ornate decor and a lively, upscale crowd.
Vegan Options:
Marinara Pizza: Classic tomato sauce with herbs, naturally vegan.
Spaghetti Pomodoro: Simple tomato-basil pasta (confirm no cheese).
Grilled Vegetable Antipasto: Seasonal veggies with olive oil (request no dairy).
Arugula Salad: Lemon vinaigrette and shaved fennel (no parmesan).
Why It’s a Hotspot: Chef Evan Funke’s pasta haven draws celebrities and foodies for its bold Italian flavors and chic ambiance.
3. Bestia
Location: Arts District, 2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Vibe: Industrial-hip Italian spot with a bustling, energetic vibe and a focus on house-made pastas.
Vegan Options:
Roasted Vegetable Plate: Seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs.
Marinara Pizza: Wood-fired with tomato sauce and oregano.
Spaghetti al Pomodoro: Fresh pasta with tomato sauce (request no cheese).
Grilled Artichokes: Charred with a citrus vinaigrette (confirm vegan prep).
Why It’s a Hotspot: A long-standing favorite for its bold flavors, craft cocktails, and trendy Arts District location. Reservations are a must.
4. The Front Yard
Location: North Hollywood, 4222 Vineland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 91602
Vibe: Modern American eatery with a sunny patio and a relaxed, upscale vibe.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Chili: Hearty bean-based chili with quinoa.
Harvest Bowl: Mixed greens, roasted veggies, and tahini dressing (request no dairy).
Grilled Vegetable Flatbread: Topped with hummus and veggies (no cheese).
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy with a vegan dipping sauce.
Why It’s a Hotspot: Located at The Garland hotel, it’s a go-to for elevated comfort food and a vibrant outdoor dining scene.
5. GRANVILLE
Location: Multiple locations, including 8701 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90048
Vibe: Cozy yet chic American bistro with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Harvest Bowl: Quinoa, roasted veggies, and avocado with a citrus vinaigrette.
Hummus Plate: Served with veggies and pita (confirm vegan pita).
Vegan Brussels Sprouts: Crispy with a balsamic glaze.
Kale Salad: Lemon dressing with almonds (request no cheese).
Why It’s a Hotspot: Known for its approachable menu and lively locations in West Hollywood, Studio City, and Burbank, it’s a favorite for casual upscale dining.
6. Running Goose
Location: Hollywood, 1620 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Vibe: Eclectic Latin-inspired spot with a colorful patio and a trendy, artsy feel.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Squash Blossom Taco: Tempura squash blossoms with salsa verde.
Grilled Vegetable Tostada: Topped with beans and avocado (no cheese).
Roasted Cauliflower: Spiced with chili and lime.
Guacamole and Chips: Freshly made with house tortilla chips.
Why It’s a Hotspot: Its vibrant Hollywood location and creative Latin dishes make it a go-to for a fun night out.
7. Tu Madre - Los Feliz
Location: Los Feliz, 1828 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Vibe: Bright, casual Mexican spot with a modern twist and a lively neighborhood feel.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Jackfruit Tacos: Shredded jackfruit with salsa and guacamole.
Black Bean Burrito: Packed with veggies and rice (no cheese or sour cream).
Grilled Vegetable Fajitas: Served with tortillas and salsa.
Chips and Salsa: House-made with vegan-friendly dips.
Why It’s a Hotspot: A local favorite for its fresh Mexican fare and vibrant patio, perfect for casual dining.
8. Great White
Location: Multiple locations, including 1604 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291
Vibe: Coastal-inspired Australian café with a breezy, beachy vibe and a trendy crowd.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Falafel Bowl: Falafel, hummus, and roasted veggies with tahini.
Avocado Toast: On sourdough with vegan toppings (no dairy).
Grilled Vegetable Salad: Seasonal veggies with a citrus vinaigrette.
Sweet Potato Fries: Served with a vegan aioli.
Why It’s a Hotspot: Its Venice and Larchmont locations draw crowds for their Instagram-worthy decor and healthy, flavorful dishes.
9. The Butcher’s Daughter
Location: West Hollywood, 8755 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Vibe: Airy, plant-filled café with a trendy, all-day dining vibe, though not fully vegetarian due to select meat options.
Vegan Options:
Avocado Tartine: Smashed avocado on toast with vegan toppings.
Cauliflower Tacos: Roasted cauliflower with vegan crema.
Kale Salad: With tahini dressing and chickpeas (no dairy).
Vegan Smoothie Bowls: Made with plant-based milk and fruit.
Why It’s a Hotspot: A Melrose staple for its chic ambiance and health-focused menu, popular among influencers and foodies.
10. A.O.C.
Location: West Hollywood, 8700 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Vibe: Elegant wine bar and bistro with a lush patio and a focus on seasonal small plates.
Vegan Options:
Roasted Vegetable Plate: Seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs.
Chickpea Fritters: Served with tahini and pickled veggies.
Grilled Zucchini: With salsa verde (confirm no dairy).
Farro Salad: Mixed with greens and vinaigrette (request no cheese).
Why It’s a Hotspot: A Suzanne Goin classic, known for its sophisticated yet approachable vibe and extensive wine list.
11. Elephante
Location: Santa Monica, 1332 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Vibe: Rooftop coastal Italian spot with ocean views and a glamorous, party-like atmosphere.
Vegan Options:
Marinara Pizza: Wood-fired with tomato sauce and herbs.
Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal veggies with olive oil.
Hummus and Crudités: Served with pita (confirm vegan pita).
Arugula Salad: With lemon vinaigrette (no parmesan).
Why It’s a Hotspot: Its stunning rooftop and lively Santa Monica vibe make it a go-to for upscale dining and cocktails.
12. Saltie Girl
Location: West Hollywood, 8615 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Vibe: Seafood-focused spot with a chic, nautical vibe and a trendy Sunset Strip location.
Vegan Options:
Grilled Asparagus: With a citrus vinaigrette.
Heirloom Tomato Salad: With herbs and olive oil (no dairy).
Roasted Beets: Served with a vegan dressing.
Cucumber Avocado Roll: Vegan sushi roll with soy dipping sauce.
Why It’s a Hotspot: Known for its seafood towers and glamorous decor, it’s a celebrity favorite with solid vegan sides.
13. Jon & Vinny’s
Location: Multiple locations, including 412 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Vibe: Casual-cool Italian-American spot with a retro diner feel and a loyal following.
Vegan Options:
Marinara Pizza: Tomato sauce and herbs, naturally vegan.
Spaghetti Pomodoro: Classic pasta with tomato sauce (no cheese).
Grilled Vegetable Salad: Seasonal veggies with vinaigrette.
Sorbet: Vegan-friendly dessert option.
Why It’s a Hotspot: A go-to for pizza and pasta lovers, with multiple locations and a fun, approachable vibe.
14. Nobu Los Angeles
Location: West Hollywood, 903 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Vibe: Sleek, upscale Japanese-Peruvian fusion with a celebrity-heavy clientele.
Vegan Options:
Vegan Sushi Rolls: Cucumber, avocado, or vegetable rolls.
Grilled Shishito Peppers: Blistered with soy sauce.
Edamame: Steamed with sea salt.
Hearts of Palm Salad: With jalapeño dressing (confirm no dairy).
Why It’s a Hotspot: A global brand with a glamorous L.A. outpost, known for its sushi and high-energy atmosphere.
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