Mama’s Hot Tamales
This cozy spot is where both omnivores and vegetarians can join together over their love of tamales. As for the vegetarians, order up Mama’s Caribbean Platanos Fritos (fried plantains), black beans, cream and some nopale (cactus) tamales. 2124 West 7th St.; 213.487.7474
Happy Family #3
Happy Family Monterey Park is a SGV staple and they have a new location just further North on Atlantic (with slightly higher prices). Head to this spot hungry because you’ll probably choose the “All You Can Eat” option. Order a couple plates at a time and they always come out fresh and hot. Musts to try are their minced squab in lettuce cup (you’re only allowed to order it once); the house-fried chicken with sesame; and the stir-fry baby bean leaves. 500 North Atlantic Blvd.; 626.282.8986
Samosa House
This Culver City eatery nestled away in the Bharat Bazaar market was recently featured on the Food Network’s “The Best Thing I Ate”. Follow their tweets @SamosaHouse, to get daily specials like paneer tikka masala, mango curry, or lotus root. The food is always fresh and never heavy. 11510 W Washington Blvd.; 310.398.6766
Sun Café
You might remember this place as SunPower Natural Organic Café. The delectable vegan faire goes unmatched. Order up their lettuce tacos, raw supreme pizza or Portobello sandwich. 3711 Cahuenga Blvd.; 818.308.7420
Native Foods
Located in Westwood Village near UCLA, this cafe has been preparing organic, healthy, and sustainable food before it became trendy. Order up the Oklahoma Bacon Cheeseburger, Baja Surf Tacos, or the Spring Kale Salad. 1110 1/2 Gayley Ave.; 310.209.1055
Wurstküche
Well all know this place has a menu packed with sausages prepared with rabbit, duck, alligator and rattlesnake, but they also offer up some vegetarian options. Wurstküche offers everything you need to get a group of diverse palettes ready to party. Indulge in a Vegetarian Smoked Apple Sage classic sausage paired with the double fried Belgian Fries, and top it off with Lambric Framboise. 800 E 3rd St.; 213.687.4444
