‘Tis the season…the season of love, that is. Valentine’s Day is approaching, and it’s time to plan! You might be celebrating a significant other, your friends, or your dog (or all three)…but don’t forget to celebrate YOU!
Whatever type of love you are celebrating this Valentine’s Day, be sure to celebrate with really good food.
To my friends in Los Angeles, this one’s for you! Here is a roundup of the best vegan options for you and those you love this Valentine’s Day. Below you will find 8 restaurants sure to bring the wow factor. There is something for everyone!
1. Something Juicy
If you’re craving something juicy and mouthwatering, head over to the Honeybee Burger. This is NOT your average burger joint. With a vegan menu that will blow your mind, they offer the best vegan cuisine around that is even better than the real thing! I recommend the Happy Bee Box which includes one of their delicious sliders, FROTS (tots and fries mixed together), a mini shake, and sauce! This lighter version will ensure you still have room for dessert and that you aren’t overstuffed.
2. Something Spicy
Some like it hot and some don’t. Whatever your spice preference may be, head to Shojin for some organic, vegan sushi! Shojin excels in flavor and creativity and will be sure to impress your Valentine. The only thing they seem to be lacking is the fish! I recommend the Green Forest Roll with a Spicy Yuzu Margarita. To finish it off, order their molten lava cake with coconut cream. What’s not to love?
3. Something Colorful
Founded on the mission to bring tasty, vegan Thai food to Los Angeles, LA Vegan is a plant-based restaurant inspired by culture and tradition. Taste the colors of the cuisine with menu items like the Sate or the Papaya Salad. Read some of their outstanding reviews here, and then go try it for yourself!
4. Something Adventurous
Perfect for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, Café Gratitude is a plant-based café full of adventurous flavors, which can be found in its colorful menu. With items like their Humble Indian Curry Bowl or their Enchanting Warm Broccolini and Edamame Salad, your date will not be disappointed here! If you celebrate several loved ones this Valentine’s Day, consider ordering their family-style meals for the whole household. They offer salad, soup, enchiladas, and much more.
5. Something Local
Love on the local farmers of the region and eat at Sage Vegan Bistro. 90% of their produce comes from local, organic farmers who are committed to regenerative agriculture. Produce is delivered daily (Our Farmers). I recommend trying the butternut squash ravioli with cashew alfredo sauce. They also operate Echo Park Brewery, which is temporarily closed for in-house dining BUT….fear not, they sell growlers and to-go cocktails, which will pair perfectly with their exquisite menu.
6. Something Fancy
If you’re feeling fancy, head over to Crossroads Kitchen. Located at the corner of Melrose and Sweetzer, this upscale vegan spot features brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Not to mention they have a full bar with inspired cocktails. Crossroads is an intersection where vegans, flexitarians, omnivores, and meat eaters can cross paths to share a delicious meal and a good time. They believe great food should be enjoyed by everyone (About Crossroads Kitchen). I would recommend going out for brunch and ordering the Gluten Free Stuffed French Toast.
7. Something Soulful
Nestled in Inglewood, Stuff I Eat is an eco-friendly vegan cuisine for newbies and seasoned vegans. Chef Babette Davis cooks to spread positivity toward healthy eating. The menus are designed to help those seeking to transition from animal-based to plant-based. She does this by crafting plates with two goals: healthy and delicious, a killer combo! I recommend the Soul Food Platter, which includes yams, mac n’ cheese, BBQ Tofu, kale greens, black-eyed peas, potato salad, coleslaw, and a cornbread muffin…YUM! Another tasty option is the Kilimanjaro Quesadilla which is filled with “cheese”, wild rice, seasoned tofu, black beans, Mack “chicken” salad, carrot untuna salad, salsa, guacamole, sautéed Crimini mushrooms, and broccoli.
8. Something Traditional
Azla Vegan is all about tradition. This company was born from Ethiopian traditions of eating Sunday dinners and having Ethiopian coffee ceremonies. Chef Azla brings passion and tradition to every meal.
“With art and storytelling at our core, we exist to nourish our community on every level. As we say in Ethiopia, Enebla!”
Their menu offers a unique display of remastered Ethiopian food. I recommend trying the Gomen, garlicky kale and collard greens simmered to perfection paired with Sorrel, a hibiscus, and cinnamon iced tea.
However you are celebrating Valentine’s Day this year, eat a good meal. Good food brings good vibes, which bring good memories, and I think we all could use more of that in 2021.
Please let me know which restaurants you have tried, and please give menu recommendations!
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