By Administrator A Haven for Plant-Based Cuisine Vegan Restaurants in Redlands
Redlands, California, with its charming downtown, historic architecture, and vibrant community, might not immediately spring to mind as a vegan mecca. However, beneath its classic Californian facade lies a burgeoning plant-based scene just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a committed vegan motivated by health, ethics, or environmental concerns, or simply curious about exploring the world of plant-based cuisine, Redlands offers a surprising array of delicious and diverse options. From dedicated vegan establishments to restaurants offering creative and satisfying vegan alternatives, this guide unveils the best of Redlands’ vegan food scene, proving that compassionate eating can be both exciting and accessible.
Plant-based eating is more than just a trend; it’s a movement towards a more sustainable and healthy lifestyle. And Redlands is stepping up to the plate, offering innovative and delectable ways to enjoy vegan cuisine. So, get ready to explore the delightful world of vegan food in Redlands, where flavor and compassion meet.
Happy Carrot
Nestled in the heart of downtown Redlands, Happy Carrot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its bright and welcoming atmosphere, Happy Carrot offers a comforting and casual dining experience. The restaurant’s focus is on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create wholesome and flavorful vegan meals.
Vegan Highlights: The menu at Happy Carrot is entirely plant-based and features a wide variety of options, from hearty burgers and sandwiches to flavorful bowls and salads. The “Happy Burger,” made with a house-made lentil patty and topped with vegan cheese, lettuce, tomato, and special sauce, is a must-try. The “Buddha Bowl,” packed with quinoa, roasted vegetables, avocado, and a tahini dressing, is another popular choice. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the vegan chocolate chip cookies. Prices range from approximately ten to fifteen dollars per entree.
What Makes it Special: Happy Carrot stands out for its commitment to using organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to enjoy a casual vegan meal. They also pride themselves on being eco-conscious in all areas of operations.
Location and Hours: Located on State Street, Redlands. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Check their website for specific hours.
Green Goddess Cafe
The Green Goddess Cafe provides a more upscale vegan dining experience with an emphasis on seasonal menus. The atmosphere is more elegant and the presentation is carefully constructed to reflect the high-quality meals provided.
Vegan Highlights: The menu at Green Goddess Cafe features a wide selection of salads, appetizers, and vegan entrees. The “Goddess Bowl” is a fan favorite, consisting of a hearty combination of seasoned quinoa, avocado, and a variety of vegetables. The entrees provide a wider variety of options, with each dish carefully crafted and flavorful.
What Makes it Special: Green Goddess Cafe boasts exceptional service and a lovely ambiance. It’s the perfect destination for a date night or special occasion.
Location and Hours: The Green Goddess Cafe is located on Orange Street, Redlands. Open evenings on weekdays and daily during the weekend.
Vegan Paradise
Bringing the taste of the tropics to Redlands, Vegan Paradise offers delicious, vibrant dishes with a Caribbean flair. The restaurant’s bright and colorful decor reflects the energy of the food, creating a joyful and immersive dining experience.
Vegan Highlights: Be sure to try the “Jerk Tofu,” marinated in a spicy Jamaican jerk seasoning and served with rice and peas and plantains. It’s a flavorful explosion that will transport you to the islands. Other popular options include the “Curry Chickpea Bowl” and the “Vegan Rasta Pasta.” Most entrees are priced between twelve and eighteen dollars.
What Makes it Special: Vegan Paradise is a unique gem in Redlands, offering a taste of the Caribbean that’s both delicious and vegan. The friendly atmosphere and authentic flavors make it a must-visit. The owner also has a personal touch, ensuring the quality of the food and a good time for everyone that visits the restaurant.
Location and Hours: Conveniently located on Brookside Avenue, Redlands. Open for lunch and dinner on most days; check their website for the most up-to-date hours.
The Best of Both Worlds Vegan-Friendly Restaurants
While dedicated vegan restaurants offer a pure plant-based experience, many restaurants in Redlands are embracing the growing demand for vegan options by incorporating delicious and creative plant-based dishes into their menus.
Rosa Maria’s Mexican Food
A Redlands institution, Rosa Maria’s offers a surprising number of vegan-friendly options within its extensive Mexican menu.
Vegan Options: While not exclusively vegan, Rosa Maria’s allows you to customize many dishes to create plant-based versions. Requesting fillings of beans (refried beans without cheese), rice, lettuce, tomato, and guacamole will make many items vegan. Ask your server about modifications to existing dishes to create a satisfying vegan meal.
Why it’s a good option: Rosa Maria’s provides a familiar and comforting option for those seeking vegan Mexican food. The ability to customize dishes ensures a satisfying meal.
Location and Hours: Multiple locations throughout Redlands. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Check their website for hours and locations.
Olive Avenue Market
This locally-owned market and deli is a hidden gem for vegan options. While they aren’t solely a vegan restaurant, their deli counter offers a surprising selection of plant-based dishes.
Vegan Options: The market offers a daily selection of vegan salads, wraps, and entrees, all freshly made. The staff is also knowledgeable about vegan ingredients and can help you identify plant-based options.
Why it’s a good option: Olive Avenue Market is a great place to grab a quick and healthy vegan lunch or dinner on the go. The friendly staff and local vibe add to the charm.
Location and Hours: Located on Olive Avenue, Redlands. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Check their website for specifics.
Starbucks
While Starbucks is a chain, it provides consistent vegan options to suit anyone on the go.
Vegan Options: Starbucks has a range of vegan options, from their plant-based milk options like soy and almond milk to their various vegan-friendly drinks. Customers can also get a quick vegan breakfast with the oatmeal and lunch with their wraps.
Why it’s a good option: Starbucks is perfect for a quick coffee and meal on the go. Its consistency means that it’s a reliable place to stop when you need to find a good meal.
Location and Hours: Multiple locations throughout Redlands. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Check their website for specifics.
Beyond Restaurants Other Ways to Find Vegan Food
The vegan food scene in Redlands extends beyond restaurants, offering a variety of options for those looking to prepare their own plant-based meals or find vegan snacks and treats.
Grocery Stores: Redlands is home to several grocery stores that offer a wide selection of vegan products. Trader Joe’s and Sprouts Farmers Market are excellent options for finding plant-based alternatives, such as tofu, tempeh, vegan cheese, and plant-based milk. Local markets also carry organic fruits and vegetables that can be used in vegan meals.
Farmers Markets: Redlands hosts several farmers markets throughout the year, offering a fantastic opportunity to purchase fresh, locally sourced produce. Stock up on seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs to create delicious and healthy vegan meals. Some farmers markets may also feature vendors selling vegan baked goods or prepared foods.
Coffee Shops and Juice Bars: Many coffee shops and juice bars in Redlands offer vegan pastries, snacks, and drinks. Look for options like vegan muffins, cookies, smoothies made with plant-based milk, and fresh juices.
Navigating the Plant-Based World Tips for Eating Vegan in Redlands
Navigating the dining scene as a vegan can sometimes be tricky, but with a little knowledge and preparation, it can be a breeze.
Become a Menu Detective: When dining out, carefully read the menu descriptions and look for symbols that indicate vegan options. Don’t hesitate to ask your server about the ingredients in a dish and whether it can be modified to be vegan. Be aware of common non-vegan ingredients, such as dairy, eggs, honey, and animal-based broths.
Know Your Substitutions: Familiarize yourself with common vegan substitutions, such as tofu for meat, plant-based milk for dairy milk, and nutritional yeast for cheese. This knowledge will empower you to customize dishes and create vegan versions of your favorite meals.
Speak Up: If you’re dining at a restaurant that doesn’t have many vegan options, politely suggest that they add some to the menu. Your feedback can help them cater to the growing demand for plant-based cuisine.
Utilize Online Resources: Take advantage of websites and apps like HappyCow and Veg Visits to find vegan restaurants, cafes, and stores in Redlands and beyond. These resources provide valuable information, such as menus, reviews, and locations.
A Green Future The Growing Vegan Scene in Redlands
Redlands has truly become a destination for vegan cuisine, providing something for every palate. From the comforting classics at Happy Carrot to the delicious jerk tofu at Vegan Paradise, Redlands has many options for the vegan community. The vegan scene is growing constantly as more of the community embraces plant-based eating, so be sure to come back and enjoy more options.
The thriving vegan food scene in Redlands is a testament to the growing awareness of the benefits of plant-based eating. As more people embrace veganism for health, ethical, or environmental reasons, the demand for vegan options will continue to grow, leading to even more innovative and delicious offerings in Redlands.
So, whether you’re a longtime vegan or simply curious about exploring the world of plant-based cuisine, Redlands has something to offer you. Come and discover the delicious and compassionate side of Redlands, and experience the joy of vegan food.
Now, we want to hear from you! What are your favorite vegan spots in Redlands? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
