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Open kitchen with chef checking plates at Provisional Kitchen, San Diego

A GUIDE TO WHERE TO EAT THE BEST VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY FOOD IN SAN DIEGO

9th May 2024

Last Updated on 28th February 2026 by Bejal

San Diego, located in Southern California, is as vibrant a city as it is a foodie haven, which takes inspiration from a number of countries inspired by its residents. The food reflects the city’s chilled vibes and So Cal lifestyle, think locally brewed beer, wines from surrounding vineyards as well as a plethora of ocean delicacies, fine fruits and Baja flavours. This guide however, aims to highlight the best vegetarian-friendly food in San Diego as well as a few watering holes in the form of bars and breweries. 

In This Article

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  • Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego
    • Osteria Panevino, Gaslamp
    • Puesto at The Headquarters, Seaport Village
    • Bandar Restaurant, Gaslamp
    • Rustic Root, Gaslamp 
    • La Puerta, Gaslamp 
    • Provisional Kitchen, Gaslamp  
    • Herb & Wood, Little Italy 
    • Monello, Little Italy 
    • Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, Little Italy
  • Dessert Spot in San Diego
    • Bobboi Natural Gelato, Little Italy 
  • Bars, Wineries & Breweries In San Diego
    • San Pasqual Winery, Seaport Village
    • Kansas City Barbecue Bar, Near Seaport Village
    • The Moxy Bar, Gaslamp/ East Village
    • Fifth & Rose, Gaslamp
  • Salt & Whiskey, Gaslamp
    • Seek Beer Co, North Park
    • Wolfie’s Carousel Bar, Little Italy
  • What Food is San Diego Known For?
  • FAQ’s Vegetarian-Friendly Food In San Diego 
  • Vegetarian-Friendly Food In San Diego Round-Up
  • Related Articles
  • Travel Planning Resources
  • À bientôt
  • Pin & Save

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A pinterest pin with 4 images overlayed with text reading 'vegetarian-friendly foodie guide to San Diego. Bonus: bars, wineries & breweries'.

The restaurants are not specifically vegetarian or vegan but are ones that accommodate carnivores, pescatarians to so they’re perfect to head to in a group where everyone has different preferences, 

Although there is a big emphasis on seafood and meat, there is so much vegetarian friendly choice in the form of tacos, wood fire pizzas, Korean, BBQ and more that celebrates the humble vegetable to perfection.

San Diegan’s love their breakfast, brunch and coffee to start off the day right. There are some fantastic Breakfast and Coffee places in San Diego, located in the Gaslamp District as well as North Park, Little Italy, along the coast in la Jolla as well as on Coronado island.

Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego

Osteria Panevino, Gaslamp

Dubbed as the best authentic Italian restaurant in the Gaslamp district as well as being the oldest restaurant in the area, Osteria Panevino has won a number of accolades. Awards include,  best family restaurant in San Diego as well as gold award for serving the finest Italian cuisine in the city.

Executive chef and owner Vincenzo Lo Verso, originally from Sicily, has over twenty five years of experience and it shows in the cooking and atmosphere of the restaurant. It’s a family setting inside and they also have a patio area. The fare is traditional Italian with a careful mix of world ingredients and they have a huge wine list to choose from for the aficionados amongst you. 

Vegetarian-friendly food in San Diego: Burrata and tomato salad at Osteria Panevino in San Diego.
Vegetarian-friendly food in San Diego: Margarita Pizzetta at Osteria Panevino in San Diego.
  • Location: 722 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 595 7959 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Yes to avoid disappointment.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range: $$ 

Be-lavie Recommendations: Burrata Caprese to start, Pizza Margherita, washed down with a glass of house special red.

Puesto at The Headquarters, Seaport Village

With a wonderful outdoor and indoor dining concept, La Puesto is a popular Mexican food spot in San Diego with families as well as couples. The founders are Mexican and have immersed the flavours of their childhood and background into the cuisine served here. The cooking is based on family traditions and authentic cooking techniques. 

The atmosphere is beautiful here. Friendly staff who are willing to explain the menu and concept of the dishes to you. Take a seat on the outdoor terrace and tuck into the food with a gentle warm breeze, which is kept at bay with plenty of patio heaters. It’s colourful and vibrant, perfect for al fresco dining.

Mushroom tacos and Tequila at Puesta, San Diego
Grilled vegetables and fried taco shells with guacamole and sauves at Puesta, San Diego
Pineapple meringue tart. at Puesta, San Diego
Mango cake with chocolate and coconut sponge at Puesta, San Diego
  • Location: 789 W Harbor Dr UNIT 155, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 233 8880 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Yes, especially at weekends.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range: $$ 

Be-lavie Recommendations: La Puesto Mojitos and Margarita in different flavours are delicious. The potato taquitos, mushroom tacos, vegetable mole verde, and verduras are wonderful for sharing. End with the mango cake with chocolate and coconut sponge or the pineapple meringue tart.

Bandar Restaurant, Gaslamp

A Persian restaurant located in the heart of the Gaslamp District, Bandar serves, fresh, healthy cuisine which on the whole also happens to be gluten free. Since its opening in 1996, it has been recognised in many publications and amongst critics as easily being the best Persian restaurant in the whole of San Diego.

Behrooz Farahani and his family own this restaurant and the mark of independent eatery runs all the way through it. From its up stylish decor to the fine dining service and presentation of food. Bandar really is a lovely place to spend an evening. 

The cocktail bar area is a lovely addition to sit and enjoy drinks at, Bandar is especially great for dining in a group. When it comes to vegetarian options, there is more on the meze, starters selection than the main course, the portions are large and they are happy to accommodate up sizing the starter course or suggesting options based on your likes.

Interiors at Bandar, Persian Restaurant in San Diego
3 Meze plates containing, feta, hummus and a salad with flat bread at Bandar, San Diego
A flatlay of 3 Meze plates and a stew with rice at Bandar, San Diego
Glass of white wine and local ale at Bandar, San Diego
  • Location: 845 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 238 0101 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Yes, especially at weekends.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range: $$/$$$ 

Be-lavie Recommendations: Opt for a nice chilled glass of white and accompany it with a selection of meze such as the egg plant dip, avocado hummus, salad, feta cheese and warm pitta. For mains, try the eggplant stew (Gheimah Bademjan) in a tomato sauce served with grilled vegetables and plain rice. They also do a nice variety of cocktails in their fancy bar area.

Rustic Root, Gaslamp 

Specialising in New American comfort food, Rustic Roots creates classic dishes rooted in tradition as well as incorporating regional dishes from around the US. Their aim is to use local ingredients that are sourced fresh to prepare classic recipes with a touch of modern flair.

The food menu includes, appetizers, salads and pastas and is quite small but perfectly formed. The decor is pretty cool. We visited during the autumn months and they had decked the placed out in seasonal leaves, pumpkins and lovely changing foliage.

Upstairs is more of a rooftop vibe with views over Fifth Avenue, whereas downstairs its more of a restaurant with booth kind of environment. We sat upstairs for the views. Take note if you do want a table with the rooftop views then there is a minimum spend so it’s a great idea to come with friends. They also have cosy heaters and you can order all the same dishes from the menu whether you decide to be seated downstairs or upstairs. It may be a little more noisier upstairs, especially at weekends.

The Lavender Haze cocktail in front of the fire table at Rustic Root, San Diego
The autumnal decorations of the rooftop at Rustic Root
heirloom tomato Burrata with the Idaho white truffle fries at Rustic Root, San Diego
The 1862 sour cocktail nest to pumpkins at Rustic Root, San Diego
  • Location: 535 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 232 1747 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Strongly advised for the rooftop as it fills up fast.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: The Lavender Haze and 1862 sour are some of their best cocktails and to eat we loved the heirloom tomato Burrata and the Idaho white truffle fries with shaved parmesan for a light evening dinner.

La Puerta, Gaslamp 

Hailed as a brilliant place for tacos, tunes and tequila, La Puerta is a fun tasty night out with delicious authentic Mexican food and a wonderful friendly vibe. They serve great quality Mexican food and drinks with incredible hospitality.  Family recipes are inspired by the Mexican state of Sinaloa with each item on the menu being made fresh on the day minus artificial flavourings or enhancers. 

After hours, La Puerta has a DJ, whilst the signature drinks flow! This is a very good Mexican restaurant and the fact it’s always full speaks volumes. 

Mezcal Cocktail at La Puerta in San Diego
  • Location: 425 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 7387 300 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Advised especially at weekends.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range:$$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Try one of their Mezcal cocktails with grilled vegetable quesadillas and a side of grilled onion, poblano of Papas Fritas La Puerta

Provisional Kitchen, Gaslamp  

One of the most beautiful restaurants you will eat in in San Diego. Designed as a collaboration with Raan and Lindsay Parton from LA’s innovative retail concept, Alchemy Works, Provisional is a restaurant marketplace hybrid featuring seasonal fare and gourmet takeaway options.

The evening menu features a selection of Italian specialities and courses with an open kitchen, The checkered floors are beautiful as are the high ceilings. The dining area features a Vittoria Coffee espresso bar. The open kitchen adds to the atmosphere and is a real feature of the restaurant.

The service is excellent here and the food is beautiful and fancy. Not just your usual Italian, very refined looking and beautifully plated. It’s a feast for the eyes just as much for the belly!

Provisional Kitchen interiors, San Diego
Meyer Lemon Ricotta with California Honey, Chili Oil, Lemon Oil, Fennel Pollen, House-Made Focaccia at Provisiobal Kitchen. San Diego
Margarita Pizza at Provisional Kitchen, San Diego
Open kitchen with chef preparing dishes at Provisional Kitchen, San Diego
  • Location: 560 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 696 3466 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Advised as it does get pretty busy. 
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range: $$$

Be-lavie Recommendations: For a chilled evening, sip on a bottle of Chianti with Meyer Lemon Ricotta with California Honey, Chili Oil, Lemon Oil, Fennel Pollen, House-Made Focaccia. For mains order the Margherita Pizzetta made from a six year aged house made starter topped with Mozzarella, Fresh Basil, Bianco DiNapoli Tomato Sauce. End with a Tiramisu or Affogato. 

Herb & Wood, Little Italy 

By far, one of our favourite, San Diego restaurants, Herb & Wood, is a total elevation in terms of service decor, creativity and Mediterranean food that has been notched up and lightly flavoured to perfection. It even has a Cali-twist that just hits!

The creation of celebrity chef Brian Malarkey, the decor is very different from the exterior. Its open and airy with an immense amount of details, like the black horse statue the detailing around the bar, the little accents and the grand central bar right in the middle resting under a barrel vaulted ceiling. The restaurants has different seating areas as well as a secret courtyard garden.

It is no wonder why Herb & Wood gets filled each night, it’s  popular and we’d highly recommend making a reservation to avoid disappointment. 

The servers are particularly well versed in the menu and there is a good range of vegetarian to non-vegetarian offerings.

Interiors at Herb & Wood, San Diego
seven spice caulilini at Herb & Wood, San Diego
Scarpinocc with brown butter, feta, caramelised onion, 50 year old aged whiskey. at Herb & Wood, San Diego
Raspberry Souffle at Her & Wood, San Diego
  • Location: 2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 955 8495 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Strongly advised as it’s busy daily.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price:$$$ 

Be-lavie Recommendations: Try two of the refreshing cocktails; Bourbon & cherry and Mezcal & peach. Order a medley of dishes to share, our favourites are the seven spice caulilini, Baba Ganoush, focaccia with whipped ricotta, Scarpinocc with brown butter, feta, caramelised onion, 50 year old aged whiskey. Stay for dessert and indulge in the lightest, raspberry souffle and date cake.

Monello, Little Italy 

Located in Little Italy, Monello makes twenty five kind of pasta a day, handcrafted to perfection. They serve traditional Milanese street, pasta in a cheese wheel as well as having an Italian happy hour plus weekend brunch. 

The dishes are simple and made right before you in the open kitchen. Take a seat at the counter for a casual dining experience where you can see the food being served and drinks being made up. You have to end with a housemade Tiramisu and espresso.

penne with a simple arrabbiata tomato sauce is delicious as is the Gnocchi with pesto. Just add black pepper and some Parmiggiano at Monello, San Diego
Tiramisu in a cup at Monello in San Diego
  • Location: 750 W Fir St, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 501 0030 I Menu IFind on Map
  • Reservations: Not essential.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range:$$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Start with a bottle or glass of Montepulciano D’abruzzo 2020 followed by a plate of pasta for a quick dinner. The pasta is made fresh and the penne with a simple arrabbiata tomato sauce is delicious as is the Gnocchi with pesto. Just add black pepper and some Parmiggiano for a perfect dish of pasta. 

Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, Little Italy

Situated on the main India Street in Little Italy, Filipi’s comes with a great history and is as authentic as it comes with the food. 

They do a variety of Italian favourites in generous portions. Take a seat outside on the patio or inside which has a traditional trattoria feel.

  • Location: 1747 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 232 5094 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Not essential.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range: $$
Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, San Diego external view in Little Italy
Pizza slice at Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, San Diego

Be-lavie Recommendations: Simplicity is key here, we’d go for a glass of red and a Margherita. 

Dessert Spot in San Diego

Bobboi Natural Gelato, Little Italy 

Bobboi specialises in making a natural healthier gelato by using only fresh, real ingredients.. They pick the best local farms, producers and suppliers, which has been a testament to their success over the past ten years. They use traditional Italian gelato making techniques which are headed by Monica Maccioni, the mastermind behind the gelato flavours at Bobboi.

Monica was raised in Sardinia and became a gelato expert after completing her studies at the Università del Gelato in Bologna, Italy.

The store in Little Italy is fun and bright. The staff here are super friendly and give you tastings of the gelato before you commit to a number of scoops. Note the red Vespa in the corner and the window seats with huge windows that let you spot the planes coming into San Diego airport.

The interior back wall at Bobboi Natural Gelato, San Diego
Bejal eating natural gelato at Bobboi Natural Gelato, San Diego
Th ered Vespa at Bobboi Natural Gelato, San Diego
Scoop of the Dragon lemon and berry lavender.gelato at Bobboi Natural Gelato, San Diego
  •  Location: 2175 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 858 2148 240 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Not required.
  • Reviews: What fellow diners are saying
  • Price range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Try a scoop each of the Dragon lemon and berry lavender.gelato.

Bars, Wineries & Breweries In San Diego

San Pasqual Winery, Seaport Village

San Pasqual Winery is a small, family-owned winery located in La Mesa, California – about 15 miles East of San Diego.  Although the name sake dates to the 1970’s when it was located in the San Pasqual Valley, the winery was later “reinvented” as San Diego’s first urban winery, 

 The winery is now located in the industrial area of La Mesa, with off site tasting rooms nearby in the Village of La Mesa and downtown San Diego at Seaport Village.  With annual production ranging from three to four thousand cases, most of the wine is sold directly from the winery and tasting room locations, allowing a more personal connection with the people who enjoy their wines. 

The tasting rooms at Seaport Village are ideal to sit back relax and taste different flights of red and white wines that are produced at the family winery. The staff are very knowledgeable and the location is fantastic, patrons can sit outside the winery with a harbour view in the evenings and watch the sun go down.

Exterior of the San Pasqual Winery, in Seaport Village San Diego
Red wine flights to taste overlooking the harbour at San Pasqual Winery, in Seaport Village San Diego
  • Location: 805 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 544 9463 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Not required.
  • Reviews: What fellow drinkers are saying
  • Price range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: We tasted a flight of three Delta, known to be cooled by the Delta breeze, Clarksburg grapes make great, interesting red wines. These are not found on many wine lists and consist of a glass of 2017 Barbera. 2016, Teroldego and 2017 Petit Verdot.

Kansas City Barbecue Bar, Near Seaport Village

This diner style bar and restaurant is located in the harbour district of San Diego. It is famously known for being the ‘Top Gun Bar’ as many of the bar scenes in the original 1986 movie were filmed here. 

Kansas City BBQ Bar was opened around 40 years ago by Kansas natives, Martin and Cindy Blair and as the name suggest specialise in BBQ items as well as lots of other items such as lunch platters, sandwich plates, beers, wines and drinks to go as well as some great desserts like sweet potato pie.

Top gun memorabilia inside the Kansas City Barbecue Bar, San Diego
Bejal sat at piano in the Kansas City Barbecue Bar, San Diego
Interiors of the Kansas City Barbecue Bar, San Diego
  • Location: 600 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 231 9680 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Not required.
  • Reviews: What fellow drinkers are saying
  • Price range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Although there is a big focus on burgers and meats at the diner-style bar, we just went in for a drink mid-sightseeing. It’s quite nostalgic and lets face it, you are here if you’re a Top Gun fan!

The Moxy Bar, Gaslamp/ East Village

This fun and cool brand brought to us by the Marriot group, have also have a fab bar. You can pop in for a drink  even if you’re not a guest. The cocktail menu is pretty small but they do beers, lagers and the like as well as a signature cocktail list.

At weekends you can sip with the DJ playing in the background. It’s a great spot to hangout with friends. 

Be-lavie Tip: Room 56 is the Moxy’s eclectic cocktail bar concealed behind a mystery bookcase just off the main lobby. It’s described as an intimate world of curated cocktails, with a dimly lit ambiance, and an air of secrecy. It’s a haven for those who seek the extraordinary, You must book a table heere well in advance and it’s only open on certain nights so check before heading over.

  • Location: 831 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 239 6699 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Not required, walk-ins welcome.
  • Reviews: What fellow drinkers are saying
  • Price: $$
Bar Moxy from Mezzanine view, San Diego
GOT Moxy Cocktail at Moxy, San Diego

Be-lavie Recommendations: Moxy has a list of signature cocktails, we loved the GOT Moxy, which is a cherry Rum infused with fresh lime juice, simple syrup and Bordeaux cherry syrup.

Fifth & Rose, Gaslamp

This beautiful classic cocktail bar is elegant and chic. The decor enhances the rich stone which stands out amidst a black and white palette with crimson details, while candles and fresh roses accent the tables.

Fifth & Rose is the perfect atmosphere for date nights and special evenings out, they also do some bar snacks to complement your carefully crafted drinks.

Espresso Martini and Amaretto Sour being made at Fifth & Rose, San Diego
Espresso Martini and Amaretoo Sour next to Fifth & Rose menu, San Diego
  • Location: 550 J St, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 738 7123 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Advisable as weekends and certain nights can be busy.
  • Reviews: What fellow drinkers are saying
  • Price range: $$$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Fifth & Rose has a great drinks selection including classics, beers and wines as well as signature cocktails. We opted for two pre-dinner classic, an Espresso Martini and Amaretto Sour.

Salt & Whiskey, Gaslamp

This restaurant and bar is located on the ground floor of the historical, Horton Grand Hotel. We didn’t eat here however the menu does look very inviting. If you love whiskeys and hard-to-find scotch, then you have to have a drink at their uber sophisticated bar. The service is impeccable and you can accompany your tipple with some fancy bar snacks

Dark wood interiors of the Whiskey & Salt bar at The Horton Grand Hotel, San Diego
Bejal sitting in the Whiskey & Salt bar at The Horton Grand Hotel, San Diego
  • Location: 311 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 5441 886 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Advisable as weekends and certain nights can get busy.
  • Price range: $$/$$$

Be-lavie Recommendations: A whiskey cocktail, Amaretto Sour or an Espresso Martini

Seek Beer Co, North Park

Tucked down a little road in North Park, Seek Beer Company aims to seek out the things that you love. It’s a small family owned business that came to fruition in the area. 

They are all about seeking to craft the next great beer, to build a community of beer lovers, and to quench the thirst of adventure. Seek Beer Co hosts a variety of local food vendors and food trucks weekly. 

Patrons can enjoy all seasons on the Brewery’s large patio, or inside its inviting taproom. Seek Beer Co. is a family and dog friendly establishment. We can vouch it’s a fab chilled place to hangout for the afternoon and support a small local business. 

Be-lavie Tip: Just outside their taproom, they usually have a food truck so if all the beer is making you peckish, you can support two local businesses at once.

The interiors with plants and a colourful chevron wall at Seek Beer Company, San Diego
Th ebrewert at Seek Beer Company, San Diego
Strawberry and banana canned beer and a pale ale at Seek Beer Company, San Diego
The beer taps at Seek Beer Company, San Diego
  • Location: 3052 El Cajon Blvd suite C, San Diego, CA 92104 I Tel. +1 619 7016 421 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: No Required, very casual.
  • Price range:$$

Be-lavie Recommendations: If you love IPA and dark ales as well as pale, there is a huge variety to choose from. If you don’t love your ales so much but want to dabble a little, or are very new to beers, the strawberry and banana canned beer is delicious.

Wolfie’s Carousel Bar, Little Italy

Originally built in 1881 by German carousel master carver and builder, Charles I.D. Looff — nicknamed “Wolfie” by friends — the revolving centerpiece is now the centre point of Wolfie’s Carousel Bar.

It’s a really interesting classy circus themed space with booths, tables and of course patrons can take a seat at the carousel bar and sip their drinks. 

We’d recommend booking on weekends as things do get pretty busy here. The bar also serves a selection of lite bites to accompany drinks such as classic cocktails, wines, beers, non alcoholic options as well as signature cocktails. 

The carousel cocktail bar and stall seating at Wolfie's Carousel Bar, San Diego
  • Location: 2401 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 I Tel. +1 619 255 7533 I Menu I Find on Map
  • Reservations: Not essential but advised. 
  • Reviews: What fellow drinkers are saying
  • Price range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: They have a small entrees menu so you can choose to accompany your beverage of choice or glass of fizz with a lite bite such as a heirloom tomato salad, baguettes or pomme frites. They also have more elaborate choices for the non-veggies like escargot!

What Food is San Diego Known For?

There are a number of famous dishes that are associated with San Diego and Southern California, Although many of the dishes are not vegetarian, most restaurants, do serve a vegetarian or vegan alternative.

Tacos

Traditionally the fish tacos are not a surprise as San Diego is a coastal city after all. The city’s Mexican migrant community has played a huge part in the food in San Diego and everyone has their own preference on where to get the best taco. There are fried and grilled varieties topped with pico de gallo (a salsa fresca) and a squeeze of lime. The vegetarian version often has the fish replaced with courgettes, tomatoes, green chilles, cheese, avocado, black beans and so many more tasty ingredients.

Check out this San Diego Old Town Tequila and Tacos Walking Food Tour, which lasts for 2.5 hours

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Pizza – California Style

Traditionally in California Pizza is wood-fired, has a  thin crust and not too loaded with a selection of healthy toppings such as artichokes, avocado and anything else you may fancy of your choice.

It’s possible to try Californian-style pizza by taking a walking tour around Little Italy. Here you can sample some of the best pizza in San Diego. This tours lasts around 2.5 hours.

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Guacamole

As the county produces around 90% of the USA’s avocado stocks, it’s no wonder San Diego is well known for its guacamole. Guacamole is served, in burritos, as a pizza garnish as well as in the form of a dip with chips (crisps). I’ve seen locals literally eat guacamole with everything!!

A food tour of course, is a great way to see how the locals eat their guacamole. East Village in San Diego borders the Gaslamp District and is a fab up and coming spot for foodies, and this three hour East Village tour is highly recommended for an authentic experience.

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Burritos (Californian

Burritos are quite simple in San Diego. The filling generally consist of cheese, meat, salsa, guacamole and sour cream. After all, less is more!

If you’re after a true taste of the real San Diego burrito, head to the Barrio Logan Food District to experience the three hour Barrio Logan food tour and Art Guided Walking Tour.

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Craft Beer 

Locally brewed beer is a big thing in San Diego and is known as the Craf Beer Capital of America. The city produces a style known as, Double IPA which is a strong hopped India Pale Ale. It has a pretty high alcohol content and a very distinct flavour.

North Park, is quite the hub for craft breweries, one of our favourites, is Seek Brewery and even has some surprising offerings for those who aren’t beer fans!

For a fun beer tasting experience, try out the three hour San Diego Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings. This is a great half day tour for those wanting to learn more about the city’s brewery scene.

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Californian Wine

California as a state has over six thousand vineyards, and is most well known for its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grape varieties. 

You may well come across tasting rooms around the city but our personal favourite is San Pasqual Winery which is located at Seaport Village, where they have some great tasting bundles. Sip on their delicious vintages on the harbour front whilst watching the sun go down.

If you do have more time in San Diego, you can indugle in this San Diego: two day Wine Tasting Trip in Valle de Guadalupe.

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Where is The Best Place to Stay For Foodies in San Diego?

This really depends upon personal choice and if you like an island setting or beachside spot or a downtown city location. We love to stay in Downtown/Gaslamp district as it’s easy to get to most places from here. It also has a huge concentration of restaurants and eateries for all tastes and occasions. Many of the beautiful and quirky boutique hotels are also located in the Gaslamp district. 

FAQ’s Vegetarian-Friendly Food In San Diego 

#1 Is San Diego Vegetarian-friendly as well as Vegan-friendly?

San Diego is truly one of the most vegetarian friendly as well as vegan friendly places in the USA. All the restaurants, cafes and bars we went to had options to  accommodate, Additionally many restaurants can also rustle something up using local fresh ingredients should you need some adjustments. 

Be-lavie Tip: When booking a restaurant, always contact them prior to ask about what options they have for vegetarian and vegan foods to ensure the chefs have enough time to prepare something on par with other food. It will mean you have a nicer experience and won’t go hungry.

#2 What are the must try traditional vegetarian dishes in San Diego?

This would have to be guacamole, baja style tacos, quesadillas, Californian wines and beers. 

#3 Which food tours should we take in San Diego?

We would recommend the food tours that concentrate more on neighbourhoods within San Diego. If you love craft beer, take the North Park brewery tastings tour. Fans of Italian food, head to Little Italy, opt for the classic Italian food tours. If you want to learn about the tasty delights of the avocado, hit up East Village with all it’s cool eateries. There is a food tour for every kind of foodie in San Diego.

#4 What food markets are good to visit in San Diego?

Little Italy Mercato 

// Details I Every Saturday 600 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101. 09:30-13:30

Our top recommendation is the Little Italy Mercato Farmer’s Market which is on every Saturday and best for all kinds of Italian ingredients. The streets are closed off and it’s a real vibrant affair. 

Little Italy Market stalls in San Diego
North Park Market

// Details I Every Thursday. Located on North Park Way between Ray St. and Granada Ave. + the NEW Mini Park. 15:30-19:00

North Park has a Market every Thursday. Farm fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, cheese, fresh fish, dips & sauces, yogurts, baked goods, bread, fresh flowers, hot foods, local crafts, and everything you need to stock a healthy home that also supports local businesses.

Hillcrest Market

// Details I Every Sunday. 3960 Normal St #3960, San Diego, CA 92103. 09:00-14:00

Fresh fruit, vegetables and organic produce can be bought at Hillcrest Market every sunday. 

The Bilbao International Market

// Details I 5915 Balboa Ave. San Diego, California 92111. Daily 08:00-21:00

Bilbao International Market if you want to take part in the Slow Food 0 km movement that only sells locally grown produce. There are also lots of international food stalls here.

 #5 Is food expensive in San Diego?

For the best value for money food, it’s best to get local recommendations to hit up all the small hidden local gems. 

If you plan to eat at fine dining establishments and many spots in the Gaslamp District or even more touristy places, prices can be quite steep and your budget will run out pretty fast. It’s best to mix things up.

We loved getting lunch items from local markets and enjoying a little picnic in the parks and along the coast. This way you can opt for more fancy places in the evening or even head to some great watering holes.

#6 When is the best time to visit San Diego for those who love food?

San Diego has food festivals happening throughout the year, so it’s best to consult the tourist board calender. Every season brings in new produce but one of the most fun events is the Grape Stomp Fiesta, where everyone can partake and enjoy the fun.

Vegetarian-Friendly Food In San Diego Round-Up

San Diego truly is a melting pot of flavours which incorporates the American regional foods as well as the international influences of settlers to the area. Although at first we thought it may be a little difficult to hunt down vegetarian friendly food places, due to its coastal location and the abundance of seafood, we were disproven. Every single cafe, restaurant, food truck and coffee shop we hit, always had great options.

As a top tip if you’re apprehensive, just email or call ahead the particular restaurant you have in mind and check the menu and what they offer. Many will accommodate you for sure if they know in advance and can have their chefs rustle up something from fresh ingredients. We hope this guide is helpful in aiding you with scoping out some of the best vegetarian friendly food in San Diego. The best part is that these are restaurants that not just specialise in veggie friendly cuisine but that you can dine in as part of a group where everyone is catered for and the vegetarians or vegans have food that is on par with the others.

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Bejal

I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! My travel style places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! I places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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