Laguna Beach, a small coastal city in Orange County, is known not only for its stunning beaches but also for its incredible food scene. If you’re a vegetarian, you don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat in this beautiful coastal town. Laguna Beach is home to some of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Southern California. Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or just looking to try something new, there’s something for everyone in Laguna Beach.
Top Vegetarian Spots in Laguna Beach
Here are some of the best vegetarian restaurants in Laguna Beach that offer delicious veggie meals.
The Stand Natural Foods
The Stand Natural Foods is a family-owned vegetarian restaurant that has been serving the Laguna Beach community since 1975. The restaurant is located in a charming bungalow-style building and has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Its menu features a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including sandwiches, salads, bowls, and wraps. The restaurant also has a juice bar that serves fresh juices and smoothies.
Zinc Cafe & Market
Zinc Cafe & Market is a vegan and vegetarian restaurant that has been serving Laguna Beach for over 30 years. It has a cozy, rustic atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to grab a bite. Its menu includes everything from vegan and vegetarian sandwiches to salads and soups. One of its standout meals is the Zinc Granola, which is homemade granola with nuts, sesame, orange, berries, and your choice of milk. The cafe also has a market that sells a variety of organic and natural products as well as an extensive bakery that serves fresh pastries and desserts.
True Food Kitchen
True Food Kitchen is a seasonal restaurant and scratch bar that offers a variety of dishes made with fresh and nutritious ingredients. True Food Kitchen is located in Newport Beach, just a short drive from Laguna Beach and the Fashion Island shopping center. You can enjoy their brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert menus that feature creative and crave-worthy classics as well as seasonal offerings that take advantage of naturally ripe fruits and vegetables.
One of the restaurant’s most popular vegetarian dishes is the Edamame Dumplings, which are made with vegan edamame filling, dashi broth, white truffle oil, and herbs. They are soft, savory, and satisfying, and pair well with any of their refreshing beverages or craft cocktails. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or just looking for a balanced meal, True Food Kitchen has something for everyone.
Active Culture
Located along the South Coast Highway, Active Culture is a casual restaurant that offers healthy vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant has a laid-back, beachy vibe and a menu that features salads, wraps, sandwiches, and bowls. One of the standout dishes is the Wholesome Bowl, which is loaded with veggies, avocado, cilantro, and a tasty dressing. The restaurant also serves fresh juices and smoothies.
Driftwood Kitchen
Located at 619 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Driftwood Kitchen is an upscale restaurant that offers a variety of vegetarian options. The restaurant has a beautiful oceanfront location and a menu that features fresh, seasonal cuisine. One of its standout vegetarian dishes is the pan-fried Brussels sprouts with cranberries, which is served with orange, balsamic, parmesan, and lebni. It is hearty, satisfying and full of flavor, and goes well with any of their craft cocktails or wines. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a relaxing meal, Driftwood Kitchen has something for everyone.
Alessa
Alessa by Chef Pirozzi is an Italian restaurant that offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant has a chic, modern atmosphere and a menu that is inspired by traditional Italian cuisine. The vegetarian dishes are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and include options such as eggplant parmigiana. One of its standout dishes is pesto gnocchi, which are soft and pillowy potato dumplings tossed with a creamy and aromatic basil pesto sauce. It is a simple but satisfying dish that showcases the quality and freshness of the ingredients.
Mozambique
Mozambique is a vegan-friendly restaurant that is located on South Coast Highway. It offers plush interior dining options, a serene garden patio, ocean panoramic rooftop dining, and a piano lounge in its Durban Room on weekends. Its menu includes a variety of vegan options inspired by the bold spices, flavorful food, and spirit of South Africa’s vibrant seaside restaurants.
Many of the restaurant’s signature dishes use peri-peri, a little-known South African pepper discovered by Portuguese sailors. Mozambique also has an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Broadway by Amar Santana
Located in Glenneyre Street, Broadway by Amar Santana evokes the ambiance and culinary venture of New York City within one block of the Pacific Ocean. Its menu offers a variety of vegan options and features progressive, American cuisine with a foundation in French culinary techniques, highlighting seasonal flavors and ingredients. The restaurant also has beverage offerings that emphasize innovative cocktails and boasts one of the area’s exceptional wine programs.
Nick’s Laguna Beach
Nick’s indoor/outdoor Laguna Beach venue offers a variety of vegan options, classic American comfort food, crave-able bar snacks, plus an extensive wine list and unique cocktails. Located at 440 South Coast Highway, the restaurant’s intimate 80-seat location features a beautiful outdoor patio and a chic bar. Its décor highlights various artistic touches, from inlaid oyster-shell and abalone accents to artistic mosaic tile floors. Some of its popular vegan options include asparagus fries, garlic cheese toast, kale and quinoa, and a house-made veggie burger.
Ready to Try One of the Best Vegetarian Spots in Laguna Beach?
Laguna Beach is home to some of the best vegetarian restaurants in Southern California. These vegetarian restaurants are dedicated to creating delicious and healthy meals that are good for you and the planet. So, next time you’re in Laguna Beach, be sure to visit one of these amazing restaurants. If you know of other great vegetarian spots in and around Laguna Beach, please don’t hesitate to contact our team at California Detox, and let us know. We love having local recommendations for our customers when they’re looking for vegan dining options.
Image by Bryc42013 is licensed with Pixabay License
