I just returned from my third trip to Los Angeles this year and I’m already craving a return. This visit blended work and pleasure — though the “work” felt a lot like play, since I spent time making videos and meeting creative, inspiring people. The highlight was attending one of my best friend’s weddings on August 1st. The ceremony took place at a beautiful hilltop house and we danced beneath a nearly full moon. It was magical. As always, Los Angeles delivered an abundance of vegan dining options and memorable meals.
My mom flew in for the weekend, so from Friday through Monday afternoon we explored the city together. We ate at many restaurants, discovered neighborhoods, admired houses and cars, and enjoyed time outdoors at the beach and on hikes. My mom is endlessly energetic and loves being active, which makes traveling with her a joy.
We ate very well. My top pick was Satdha in Santa Monica — a 100% vegan Thai restaurant with creative, intensely flavorful dishes. I could easily eat there every week. Other favorites included Real Food Daily, where I loved the Mediterranean bowl, and Café Gratitude, where the “I am Irresistible” Coconut Chocolate Swirl Pie was outstanding. I also fell for Mohawk Bend in Echo Park—I’ll be back for sure.
I tried to capture as much of our adventures as possible. Below the video I describe a few standout restaurants from the trip. If you’ve been to any of these spots, tell me what you think. And please share any LA recommendations for my next visit — I always appreciate new suggestions.
Mohawk Bend
Mohawk Bend, located in Echo Park, sits in a converted old theater and offers a spacious, lively atmosphere. The neighborhood has lots of indie charm and the restaurant reflects that vibe. Rather than highlighting vegan dishes, the menu marks non-vegan items with “NV” — a thoughtful touch that makes ordering easy for vegans. I enjoyed the Bahn Mi Pizza and we shared the Coconut Ice Cream & Brownie Sundae for dessert. The food is inventive and approachable, making it a great spot for groups with varied diets.
Gjelina
Gjelina on Abbott Kinney in Venice is popular for good reason. While not a vegan restaurant, it offers excellent vegetable-forward dishes and wood-fired pizzas. My brother and I were lucky to snag a table without a reservation. I had the mushroom pizza, naturally vegan, and he had the pizza blanco. We also shared roasted cauliflower and za’atar zucchini. It’s a pricier choice, but the quality and flavors justify the splurge.
Satdha Thai
Satdha is my newfound must-visit in Santa Monica. The menu is full of distinctive, crave-worthy dishes — I’ve tried the crispy garlic tempeh with broccoli, green curry, beet-dyed noodles, Tom Kha soup, a seasonal special, and black sticky rice. Their hot teas are delightful and the prices are reasonable. Satdha is the kind of place I find myself missing when I’m 2,000 miles away.
Next time in Los Angeles I plan to try Sage, Flore Bistro, and Make Out. I’m always open to new recommendations, so please share your favorites.
Enjoyed reading about vegan eating in Los Angeles? Leave a comment below and tell me your top LA spots.