For the other percent, this guide will make you reconsider. “Healthy” and “delicious” do not have to be considered enemies, in fact, here in Laguna, they come together in a beautiful harmony that will simultaneously spoil and inspire you. So, whether you resolved to be healthier this year or not, Laguna Beach is crawling with fantastic, health-conscious and vegetarian-focused culinary options that you can order to-go or try to recreate in the comfort of your own home.
1. JAN’S HEALTH BAR
A local favorite in town, Jan’s Health Bar is a great go to for a healthy and hardy meal! Jan’s thoughtfully sources every ingredient, serving customers the freshest and highest quality meals to make sure that every item on the menu contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Because the majority of the menu has been the same for over 45 years, it shows that fresh food prepared simply never goes out of style.
2. URTH CAFFÉ
You may already know of Urth Caffé, which has garnered great admiration and a loyal following in Southern California. What you may not know, however, is that owners, Hilla and Shallom Berkman, were originally invested solely in producing coffee and tea. When visiting this ever-popular spot, do not miss out on their organic, creative, and excellent drinks. The Honey Vanilla Latte is wonderfully luscious and can be made even healthier when you substitute regular milk for almond milk. Their Rising Sun Boba will taste like an indulgent dessert, but this matcha green tea, espresso and dark chocolate based drink is a healthy energy drink, packed with three powerful antioxidants. The food menu is extensive, ensuring you will find what your heart and stomach desire. When ordering from here, feel confident knowing they use 100% natural ingredients and locally source sustainable products.
3. STARFISH LAGUNA
Tired of eating the same stereotypical “health foods”? Starfish Laguna breaks the mold, delivering unique Asian-Fusion dishes, highlighting ingredients and flavors from various Asian cultures. From vegetarian dishes like the light and refreshing Singapore Bamboo Roll and the tangy and savory Sichuan Japanese Eggplant, to pescatarian dishes like their tropical Lobster Macadamia Roll and near perfect Chilean Seabass with Thai Green Curry, you will 100% keep coming back for more. Furthermore, Starfish has a truly impressive and sizeable Opium Happy Hour Menu (3-6PM daily), making it an ideal spot for a date or group gathering.
Pro Tip: Order their Wok Fried Edamame. Not only is edamame packed with protein and good for you, but Starfish takes theirs to the next level with an addictive togarashi, garlic, and sesame seasoning.
4. ACTIVE CULTURE
As both a natural foods café and frozen yogurt bar, Active Culture is another great grab and go spot. This family-owned spot truly has the local community in mind by serving conscious, affordable food. The portions are generous and filling, and all the options are creative. Active Culture is also the ideal spot when you have a sweet craving needing to be satisfied. With delicious frozen yogurt flavors that change each month and a myriad of options at their toppings bar, you can always try something new.
5. ZINC CAFÉ & MARKET
Zinc’s Café & Market is a favorite neighborhood gem, housing various options for people in need of quality and healthy food. You can walk into their café, order from their all-vegetarian menu, and feel at ease. You can also head straight to their market and grab gourmet food to-go. In addition, the Market houses specialty goods and various items that Zinc vets and supports, making it easy to stay healthy at home.
What are some of your favorite healthy and delicious foods when you visit Laguna Beach? Tell us below in the comments or tell us on our INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK or TWITTER accounts.
