This fall, Vogue declared the small city of Ojai, CA “America’s new culinary hotspot.” Naturally, that caught our attention. After all, we’re passionate foodies, always searching for the next great plant-based bite. After digging in, we were thrilled to find that several of Ojai’s most popular eateries offer plenty of vegan options (and one is even entirely plant-based).
Beyond the food scene, Ojai also checks every box for natural beauty and unique activities—we’re especially intrigued by the olive oil tasting. Weekend getaway? Don’t mind if we do. And here’s why you should also plan your Ojai vacay, as told through some of the city’s best vegan-friendly places to eat.
Ojai’s best vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants
Don’t miss these must-try restaurants on your next trip to Ojai.
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Hip Vgn
1 Hip Vgn
Located downtown, Hip Vgn is the place to go if you’re looking for a 100-percent vegan menu with plenty of options. It’s basically a plant-based dream. Choose from dishes like tofu banh mi, jackfruit burritos, khao san noodles, gunpowder fries, and so much more. Wash it all down with a chu-hi lemon ginger cocktail, a Momenpop spritz, or a classic margarita.
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Farmer and the Cook Cafe
2Farmer and the Cook Cafe
If you’re after organic, fresh, locally sourced, ethically produced Mexican-inspired cuisine, Ojai’s Farmer and the Cook Cafe has it in spades. Plant-based options include a breakfast burrito with tofu scramble, cauliflower tostadas, and vegan mushroom “fish” tacos. Want something lighter? Any of the organic smoothies—many made with cashew milk—can be turned into a smoothie bowl for an additional $5.
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The Nest of Ojai
3 The Nest of Ojai
The Nest of Ojai is popular with locals and tourists alike thanks to its pretty outdoor seating, welcoming vibe, and great-quality food. The menu includes several vegan options, such as the vegan Caesar salad (complete with crispy chickpeas and cashew parmesan), cauliflower tacos, and classic margherita pizza.
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The Dutchess
4 The Dutchess
This family-run spot will make you feel at home right away. It’s a café, bakery, and restaurant all in one, so you can stop by during the day for a dairy-free oat latte and return at night for mind-blowingly good Burmese-Californian food. It truly ticks all the boxes. Menu standouts include the chickpea fritters, the crispy rice salad, and the coconut chickpea curry. And for dessert, don’t miss the mango sticky rice sundae.
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Ojai Pub
5 Ojai Pub
If you thought pubs were just for the UK, good news—you don’t have to cross the Atlantic. You’ll find one right in the heart of Ojai. With craft beer and plenty of delicious vegan options, you’ll probably end up staying all evening. Start by sharing some white bean hummus with cauliflower wings, then move on to the Turkish Impossible sausage with a side of curry fries.
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
