Many people already know that Los Angeles is a land of fit people who religiously exercise. All sorts of fitness crazes started here and every few months there seems to be another one.
But, eating healthy is just as popular in the city of angels as having a toned physique. In fact, knowing where to find a delicious kale salad or quinoa is very important when you’re in LA, because restaurants move, get renamed, open, and close all the time.
So, I’ve listed some of the best and newest restaurants serving healthy cuisine that will surely whet the appetite of not only vegetarians and vegans, but might just convert longtime meat eaters as well. Here are six eateries not to miss in LA.
KALI
This Larchmont Village restaurant has only been open for several months, but it’s already created lots of buzz. Mainly because of the two people who own it. Both restauranteurs came from famous local eateries and brought a certain gold standard to this new place. Their á la carte menu reads like a Michelin-starred restaurant, but it’s much less pricey. Lunch favorites include Beet tartar, Wheat Berry Risotto, and Cream Chèvre. Some dinner options include Charred Avocado, squab, cod and bass. Menu prices are between $10 and $35. The food is very Instagram-worthy.
TRUE FOOD KITCHEN IN EL SEGUNDO
This national chain has been around for years, but recently opened a location in the city of El Segundo in the South Bay. Ask any vegetarian or strict vegan about True Food Kitchen and they’ll smile. It’s truly a staple for the cleanest eaters in LA. With lots to choose from, True Food has Shiitake & Organic Tofu Lettuce Cups, Wild Caught Albacore Tataki, and sustainable sea bass. That’s just a small sampling of their menu. There is lots to choose from, but don’t leave before tasting their delicious Kale-Aid. Items are also reasonably priced from $10 to $25.
GREENLEAF GOURMET CHOPSHOP IN VENICE
Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop’s Venice location has only been open one month. But, you already you know the restaurant is healthy because it’s right in the heart of Venice’s historic Abbot Kinney Boulevard, where clean eating is a sport. And, as if offering 13 different salads was enough, this eatery also gives customers the choice to build their own salads as well. But, don’t let the salads heavy-fare throw you off. It also has traditional staples including burgers, tacos, pizza, and protein shakes. Most dishes are under $15.
BIOBAR
At BioBar, look for sandwiches, juices, smoothies, wraps, and salads. This Wilshire Boulevard staple serves gluten-free and vegan dishes that are inexpensive. All menu items are under $15. Make sure to try their Quinoa Earth Bowl Salad with white organic quinoa, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, sprouts, and green onions. You can also order ahead of time online or have your lunch delivered.
SWEETGREEN
This is another healthy food chain that lives up to its billing. With 39 locations, it now has three locations in Southern California including Santa Monica and Los Angeles. Recently, it moved its headquarters from Washington, D.C. to LA. If you want to know the secret to its success, all you have to do is order these dishes and you’ll know why: Hummus tahini, Kale Caesar Salad, and Hibiscus Lime Fresca. The great thing about this menu is that it displays the total calorie count of each dish for the waist-conscious customer. This is one you don’t want to miss.
HERRINGBONE SANTA MONICA
Santa Monica’s Herringbone restaurant has been open a little less than a year. It was one of the most anticipated restaurant openings in LA and was once situated inside the Mondrian Hotel in West Hollywood before relocating to this beach city. This dining establishment epitomizes California coastal cuisine and is heaven for seafood lovers. Look for crab, tuna, salmon, ceviche, halibut, clam, prawn, oysters, and lobster on the menu. Prices range from $7 to $45.
