Whether you are a devoted vegetarian in need of new food spots, or just want to try something new, I have the perfect guide to the best vegetarian options in San Diego. Various restaurants can accommodate vegetarians, however, this list is for the people who need a little more than an accommodation. We may be vegetarian, but we like choices too.
1. PurpleMint Vegetarian Bistro
If you are looking for a veggie restaurant close to campus, this is the one for you. Within five minutes of SDSU on Mission Gorge Road, PurpleMint gives you a quiet and nicely decorated ambiance to enjoy some delicious vegetarian cuisine. When starting off with drinks and an appetizer, I highly recommend the kiwi lemonade and the egg-less eggrolls. Once you are ready for an entrée, my recommendation would be the House Combination Fried Rice. One time at this place and it will be your absolute go-to when looking for food close to campus.
2. Plumeria
Located in University Heights just steps away from the intersection of Adams Avenue and Park Boulevard, this restaurant takes the cake for the best Thai vegetarian food I have ever had. Since they close at 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends, this can easily be an excellent option for a late-night dinner. Their menu includes the essential entrees that are available at a majority of Thai restaurants. If this is your first time eating Thai food, I would suggest starting off with the Pad Thai or the See Ew noodles. Once you fall in love (and you will certainly fall in love), then you can start to dive into and explore the menu.
3. Ike’s Place
For starters, this place is not primarily vegetarian. Nonetheless, it does have a whole veggie menu, providing a substantial variety of choices. This means you can bring your carnivorous friends who are a little hesitant to try the other vegetarian places listed. This sandwich shop is located on University Avenue in Hillcrest, inside of The Hub shopping center. With a whole vegetarian menu, it is hard to choose which sandwich to try first. Do not worry, because I am here to inform you that “The Murph” is my absolute favorite. If the fact that is has vegan fried chicken in it does not convince, then I do not know what will.
4. Pokez
Are you craving Mexican food, but tired of the same ole’ bean and cheese burrito or the sofritas from Chipotle. Well, Pokez Mexican Restaurant also offers a hefty amount of veggie options. Their food is amazing, regardless if you are vegetarian or not. This is another spot that will allow you and your meat-eating friends to coexist. How does a tofu burrito sound? Yeah, I thought so. Located Downtown on E St, this is a super hip place that offers outstanding Mexican food.
5. Evolution Fast Food
Is this even real? I am sorry, but this sounds too good to be true. The idea of vegan fast food is revolutionary, and I have not even finished telling you the best part. They have a drive-thru. That is right, you do not even have to put real pants on to enjoy this vegan fast food joint. If you want to dine there, they have the nicest outdoor patio. The South of the Border Burger and the California Burrito are some of my favorites, and their fries are seasoned perfectly. Out of all the vegetarian places I have tried in San Diego, this one is definitely at the top of my list. This gem is located on 5th Avenue, walking distance from Balboa Park for a stroll after your meal.
6. Native Foods Café
This chain of completely-vegan cafes proves to be one of the best places to get your vegetarian grub on. With a location in Clairemont Mesa, they have a great selection of choices for anyone’s preference. In terms of appetizers, the Native Nachos are phenomenal and a must for me every time I eat there. Other extremely delectable items are the Native Chicken Run Ranch and the Twister Wrap and do not forget about the sweet potato fries.
7. Loving Hut
For my last vegetarian restaurant, I would love to point you to Loving Hut. This is also a chain of vegan cuisine, located in San Diego on El Cajon Boulevard. They have a wide range of food options from pho to burgers.
All of these vegetarian and vegan restaurants are enjoyable for carnivores and herbivores alike. But are you going to take my word for it? Go and try them!
