I am almost two months into giving this vegan lifestyle a try and I think I am falling in love with it. It makes me excited to discover new healthy vegan spots to eat both locally and when traveling. Not only do I love supporting restaurants making yummy and healthy food, I get to go out and experience something new without feeling bloated and blah afterward. It’s a win-win! I am really leaning in and embracing this lifestyle one day at a time. One of the hardest things about embracing a new diet or lifestyle is getting past the thought that it is too hard to do. You can do anything in life with the right mindset and determination. The key is to just start slow and take it one day at a time. Now for a few of my go to spots near the Monterey/Carmel area. Whether you live here or are just visiting – you won’t regret giving these spots a try!
Happy Girl Kitchen Co.
I can’t say enough good things about this restaurant. This cute little gem is tucked right inside Pacific Grove – walking distance from the Aquarium and the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. I am actually obsessed and every time I eat here I am truly such a happy girl. Aptly named if I do say so myself! They always have a soup, bowl and sandwich of the day (vegan) that changes daily. You can ask to get their combo special so you can try a smaller portion of all three! The sandwiches are served on homemade sourdough and they have a sourdough avocado toast that is topped with broccoli sprouts. This and a cup of soup is my go to if I am being indecisive. They always use high quality local organic produce and ingredients when possible. The food is also never super salted which is huge for me. They really know what they are doing. But don’t just take my word for it, definitely give it a try if you are in the area!
Terra Superfoods
This is another go to spot for me. It is located downtown Monterey off Alvarado street. They also have a second location in Santa Cruz. They have wraps, bowls, cold pressed juices, smoothies and acai bowls. All super duper fresh, healthy and tasty. My go to is the cypress grain wrap. Pro tip: get your order to go and go sit in the garden area located behind Alta Bakery just south of Terra Superfoods across Pearl Street. It is open to the public and they also have restrooms! Try out a coffee or tea from Alta Bakery while you are there!
Perfectly Pressed
If you are looking for a fresh pressed juice or cold brew coffee this is the place I definitely recommend. They make all of their juices fresh in house using raw ingredients. They have two locations – one is right next to Terra Superfoods in Old Monterey and the second location is in Carmel-By-The-Sea. The Carmel-By-The-Sea location has a really cute outdoor patio area (photo below). I also recommend taking your drink to go and exploring all the cute shops in Carmel or heading down Ocean Ave to Carmel Beach. If you need a healthy pick-me-up, pop in here for a refreshing juice or coffee and sip on the go as you continue to explore the area and walk around. You also get your drink served in a glass bottle which you get to keep! If you can’t decide on a juice – you can’t go wrong with the green flash. It is sooooo good! Cheers!!
