Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Downtown LA | Upscale & Vegan

28 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Downtown LA | Upscale & Vegan

• Honeymee — Korean · rated 4/5: This bright, modern sanctuary celebrates the simple elegance of true milk soft-serve, where velvety swirls are crowned with glistening shards of 100% natural honeycomb. The experience unfolds through a symphony of delicate textures and flavors, from the earthy, vibrant notes of premium matcha to the citrusy brightness of yuzu-infused affogatos. Each treat is a masterclass in natural sweetness, offering a refreshing and whimsical escape that turns a simple dessert into a moment of pure, golden indulgence.
• Tea Master Matcha Cafe and Green Tea Shop — Japanese · rated 4/5: This serene sanctuary immerses guests in the vibrant, emerald world of high-grade matcha, where the rhythmic whisking of ceremonial powders creates a frothy, umami-rich escape from the city bustle. From the delicate floral notes of first-harvest loose leaves to the creamy depth of artisan lattes, every pour honors the ancient traditions of Japanese tea culture within a minimalist, light-filled space.
• Cognoscenti Coffee Roastery — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this minimalist roastery where the rhythmic hum of the roaster and the intoxicating fragrance of freshly ground microlots create a sophisticated sanctuary for the coffee purist. The experience centers on rare, expertly sourced beans—from floral Ethiopian Yirgacheffes to experimental anaerobic ferments bursting with notes of guava and honey—each cup meticulously crafted to reveal the complex, vibrant terroir of the world’s most prestigious high-altitude estates.
• Yamazaki Bakery — Japanese · rated 4/5: The air inside this inviting bakery is thick with the comforting scent of toasted grains and sweet yeast, drawing guests into a world of pillowy, golden-brown delights. Artisanal loaves like the cloud-like Double Soft and the deeply aromatic Raisin Gold showcase a mastery of texture, where every slice offers a delicate balance of airy lightness and rich, buttery flavor. It is a celebration of Japanese baking traditions that transforms the simple act of breaking bread into a moment of pure, soft indulgence.
• Spitz - Little Tokyo — Mediterranean: This vibrant Little Tokyo haunt pulses with urban energy, serving up a bold reimagining of Mediterranean street food that transforms classic doner and gyros into a colorful, modern feast. Succulent, spice-rubbed meats are shaved thin and piled atop "street cart" fries or tucked into warm wraps loaded with zesty feta and bright garnishes, creating a savory kaleidoscope of textures and flavors. It is a lively escape where the spirit of Berlin’s bustling kiosks meets the sun-drenched zest of the Mediterranean, perfect for a high-energy meal in the heart of the city.
• Daikokuya — Japanese: Step into a lively haven where the air is thick with the savory aroma of pan-seared gyoza and the irresistible sizzle of golden-fried tonkatsu. This bustling neighborhood gem invites diners to linger over vibrant plates of crispy chicken karaage and delicate shiso age, each bite celebrating the comforting, soul-warming flavors of traditional Japanese street food and home-style classics.
• Hachioji Craft Ramen — Japanese: Hachioji Craft Ramen invites diners into a vibrant, modern space where the comforting steam of slow-simmered broths mingles with the irresistible aroma of golden, crispy appetizers. The kitchen balances traditional Japanese soul food like savory takoyaki and ginger-scented karaage with playful, crunchy comforts ranging from molten cheese sticks to delicate baked green mussels. It is a destination where artisanal craft meets casual indulgence, offering a soulful dining experience that warms the heart and satisfies every craving for bold, savory flavors.
• Rakkan Ramen — Japanese: This vibrant Japanese destination invites guests into a modern, light-filled space where the enticing aroma of golden chicken karaage and savory takoyaki sets a playful, welcoming tone. The kitchen artfully bridges tradition and contemporary flair, offering everything from delicate sushi flights and fresh salmon to inventive small plates like charred Brussels sprouts and furikake fries that burst with umami flavor. Each visit promises a symphony of textures and tastes, where the crunch of house-made gyoza meets the refreshing snap of spicy cucumbers in a celebration of soulful, elevated comfort food.
• Redbird LA — American: Housed within the historic rectory of a former cathedral, this architectural gem invites diners into a sun-drenched courtyard where a retractable roof reveals the downtown sky above marble accents and lush greenery. The atmosphere hums with a sophisticated energy as guests gather for artfully crafted cocktails and refined snacks that celebrate bold, seasonal flavors. It is a sanctuary of urban elegance where historic grandeur meets a vibrant, modern pulse, perfect for lingering over a crisp glass of wine as the city lights begin to glow.
• Shabu-Shabu House — Japanese: Steam rises from bubbling pots at the center of every table, inviting guests into a communal ritual where marbled ribbons of Wagyu and Prime Angus beef are swirled through savory, aromatic broths. The experience balances the delicate art of shabu-shabu with the bold, comforting heat of spicy chicken and rich beef curry, creating a lively atmosphere where every dip and simmer celebrates the joy of shared dining.
• Yuko Kitchen — Japanese: Yuko Kitchen unfolds as a vibrant, eclectic retreat where playful fusion and bold textures take center stage in every bite. The kitchen transforms familiar ingredients into inventive treasures, from the irresistible crunch of spicy salmon rice cakes and wonton nachos to the savory, golden warmth of chicken karaage and gooey cheese mochi sticks. It is a space designed for discovery, where a casual meal feels like a celebration of creative comfort food and shared, flavorful moments.
• Prime Pizza — Italian: The irresistible aroma of toasted crust and bubbling mozzarella draws guests into this lively neighborhood hub, where the art of the classic round pie is elevated through premium toppings and a perfectly charred finish. Whether savoring the spicy heat of an Arrabbiata or the earthy comfort of sausage and kale, diners experience a masterclass in balance and texture that turns a simple slice into a soulful, hand-crafted feast.
• Vitacane — Vietnamese: Vitacane serves as a vibrant, sun-drenched sanctuary where the crisp, natural sweetness of freshly pressed sugarcane is transformed into an array of revitalizing elixirs and nutrient-dense bowls. From the zesty, mint-infused spark of a Limojito to the lush, tropical fusion of the Coco Melon Cane, every chilled creation offers a kaleidoscope of bold colors and bright, botanical flavors. This modern oasis invites guests to recharge with an icy, earth-to-cup experience that feels like a refreshing tropical escape in every sip.
• Oomasa — Japanese: Stepping into Oomasa feels like entering a bustling haven of Japanese comfort, where the air is perfumed with the savory aroma of golden-fried delicacies and sizzling small plates. Guests linger over shared treasures like crispy soft shell crab and tender chicken karaage, each bite offering a masterful play of textures from the delicate crunch of tempura to the silken, umami-rich warmth of agedashi tofu.
• TOT Little Tokyo — Japanese: Nestled in the heart of Little Tokyo, this vibrant eatery hums with the energy of a classic Japanese izakaya, where the savory steam of golden takoyaki and the irresistible aroma of frying ginger-soy karaage fill the air. The kitchen masters the art of the crunch, serving up premium black pork katsu and delicate millefeuille cheese cutlets that shatter into tender, succulent bites alongside creamy crab croquettes and zesty chicken nanban. Every dish offers a comforting journey through the soul-satisfying flavors of Tokyo’s bustling backstreets, creating an inviting space where traditional comfort food meets modern urban charm.
• BROKEN MOUTH — Korean: Broken Mouth serves as a vibrant gateway to the islands, where the comforting aromas of sizzling meat jun and sweet teriyaki chicken drift through a space filled with the warmth of aloha spirit. Each plate is a masterclass in balance, pairing savory staples like hand-pressed spam musubi with the creamy, nostalgic indulgence of potato-mac salad and the bright, spicy snap of cucumber kimchi. It is a soulful destination where traditional flavors are elevated into a heartfelt dining experience that feels like a home-cooked embrace.
• sandcouch cafe — American: This sun-drenched morning haunt offers a relaxed refuge where the comforting aroma of griddled bagels and savory proteins invites guests to linger over a leisurely start to the day. The kitchen elevates breakfast staples into handheld masterpieces, layering buttery croissants with tangy tomato jam and stuffing toasted everything bagels with heaps of ripe avocado, smoky bacon, and perfectly folded eggs. It is a neighborhood gem that transforms the first meal of the day into a soulful ritual of bold flavors and cozy, laid-back charm.
• Terroni — Italian: Terroni captures the spirited essence of Southern Italy, inviting guests into a lively atmosphere where the aroma of warm bread and briny olives sets the stage for an authentic culinary journey. From the delicate crunch of golden zucchini blossoms to the melt-in-your-mouth richness of beef carpaccio and creamy buffalo mozzarella, each dish celebrates bold, sun-kissed flavors with rustic elegance. It is a place where tradition meets a vibrant urban pulse, turning every meal into a soulful celebration of Mediterranean heritage.
• Wild Living Foods — American: A sun-drenched sanctuary of vitality where the air is sweet with the scent of ripe berries and tropical fruits, this vibrant space invites guests to nourish themselves in a bright, high-energy atmosphere. The kitchen celebrates the raw beauty of the earth, crafting everything from jewel-toned acai bowls and delicate sweet crepes to savory, spice-kissed bites like jalapeño poppers and zesty guacamole. Every plate arrives as a colorful celebration of pure, unadulterated flavor, making each meal feel like a refreshing journey through nature’s bounty.
• Orochon Ramen — Japanese: Steaming bowls of rich, umami-laden broth take center stage at this vibrant ramen destination, where the air is thick with the savory scent of simmering miso and sea salt. The kitchen invites a daring exploration of flavor through its signature spice scale, allowing guests to tailor their experience from a mild, soul-warming simmer to a bold, volcanic intensity. Each bowl arrives as a masterpiece of texture and depth, balancing chewy noodles within a complex broth that captures the heart of traditional Japanese comfort.
• Hana lchimonme — Japanese: Hana Ichimonme invites diners into a vibrant space where the refreshing chill of hiyashi ramen—adorned with colorful, crisp toppings—offers a bright contrast to the savory depth of golden, crispy katsu and aromatic curry. Velvety omelettes and hearty rice bowl combos create a satisfying harmony of textures and flavors, delivering a soul-warming experience that celebrates the comforting essence of Japanese casual dining.
• Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen — Japanese: Step into a high-energy haven where the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen and the savory steam of simmering tonkotsu broth create an atmosphere of vibrant communal dining. Slender, al dente noodles swim in velvety bowls of Hakata-style soup topped with an abundance of savory treasures, while golden-crisp gyoza and succulent karaage provide the perfect crunch to this soul-warming experience.
• Guisados — Mexican: The morning air at Guisados is thick with the savory perfume of sizzling chorizo and charred green chiles, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the day begins with a celebration of homestyle Mexican comfort. Thick, handmade tortillas cradle hearty fillings like tender pork chops smothered in piquant salsa or smoky bacon and potatoes, offering a soulful breakfast experience that feels both nostalgic and deeply satisfying.
• Gong Cha — Chinese: Step into a vibrant oasis where the art of the brew meets a kaleidoscope of fruit-forward flavors, from the velvety richness of taro-strawberry swirls to the sun-drenched brightness of Thailand mango smoothies. Each hand-shaken creation offers a playful dance of textures, layering creamy milk teas with chewy coconut jellies and delicate almond infusions for a refreshing, customizable escape in every sip.
• Cole's P.E. Buffet — American: Step into a storied piece of Los Angeles history where dim lighting and polished mahogany evoke the timeless, moody charm of a classic downtown saloon. The air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-braised meats, from tender lamb to salt-cured pastrami, each tucked into crusty rolls and served alongside bowls of rich, steaming jus for the ultimate dip. A signature neon-pink spicy pickled egg provides a sharp, tangy snap that perfectly rounds out this quintessential, soul-warming dining experience.
• Sunright Tea Studio — Chinese: Bathed in a bright, contemporary glow, this vibrant studio transforms the traditional tea break into a sensory celebration of hand-crafted infusions and chewy, honey-kissed boba. Velvety swirls of decadent Oreo brûlée and rich Hokkaido milk meet the crisp, sun-drenched clarity of fresh grapefruit jasmine tea, creating a refreshing sanctuary where every sip bursts with artisanal flair.
• Dave's Hot Chicken — American: Vibrant street-art murals and a high-energy pulse set the stage for a fiery Nashville-style experience where hand-breaded chicken is transformed by a spectrum of bold, signature spices. Each bite balances the intense heat of spice-dusted tenders and sliders with the cooling crunch of kale slaw, creating a sensory explosion that is perfectly tempered by velvety milkshakes and creamy mac and cheese. Salty crinkle-cut fries and ice-cold sodas complete this unapologetically bold feast, offering a satisfyingly crunchy journey through the world of hot chicken.
• Two Hands — Korean: This vibrant eatery reimagines the humble street snack as a gourmet spectacle, where the air is thick with the scent of sizzling dough and the playful energy of a modern snack bar. Hand-crafted corn dogs emerge from the fryer with a satisfying crunch, cloaked in everything from crispy potato cubes and toasted rice to sweet injeolmi powder for a perfect harmony of sweet and savory. Loaded fries topped with spicy kimchi and charred elote round out the experience, offering a bold, textural adventure that captures the spirited essence of contemporary Korean-inspired street food.