Looking to celebrate Great American Meatout Day on March 20 with a plant-based feast? Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring the idea of ditching meat for a day, Temecula has some fantastic vegan-friendly spots that will make your taste buds sing. Here’s a guide to the best vegan restaurants in and around Temecula to help you savor the day.
Gentle Grill: Seitan Sizzle and More
Address: 43053 Margarita Rd, Temecula, California 92592
Gentle Grill is the go-to spot for those who love hearty, flavorful vegan dishes. Their housemade seitan is the star of the show—whether it’s served as a gyro with tzatziki sauce or smothered in barbecue sauce on ciabatta bread. For something lighter, try their crispy cauliflower bites or a fresh quinoa Caesar salad. Feeling indulgent? The loaded nachos with seasoned “beef” and cashew cheese will leave you happily stuffed. Bonus: Most dishes can be made gluten-free upon request.
E.A.T Marketplace: Local Love on a Plate
Address: 28410 Old Town Front St #107, Temecula, CA 92590
E.A.T Marketplace is where farm-to-table meets plant-based creativity. This artisan eatery offers an array of vegan options that are as fresh as they are delicious. Their menu changes seasonally, but you can always count on nutrient-dense dishes highlighting local ingredients. Pair your meal with one of their housemade smoothies or craft teas for a refreshing treat. Open from 8 AM to 3 PM daily, it’s perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Earth Bistro: Pizza Night Goes Vegan
Address: Trader Joe’s Shopping Center, 40695 Winchester Rd, Temecula, CA 92591
Craving pizza? Earth Bistro has you covered with their vegan-friendly pies made from organic ingredients. The Greek Pizza with olives, artichokes, and dairy-free cheese is a fan favorite. Not in the mood for pizza? Their veggie-packed sandwiches and salads are equally satisfying. Earth Bistro is a great spot for a casual dinner with its cozy atmosphere and commitment to organic food.
Bushfire Kitchen: Bowls of Goodness
Address: 40665 Winchester Rd Suite B2, Temecula, CA 92591
Bushfire Kitchen might be known for its hearty meat dishes, but don’t overlook their vegan delights. The Mixed Veggie Bowl is packed with roasted seasonal vegetables and served over your choice of jasmine rice or quinoa. Their Vegan Avocado Hummus Sandwich is another standout—creamy hummus and fresh avocado layered with pickled red onions and arugula on artisan ciabatta bread. Pro tip: Add a side of sesame garlic broccoli for an extra burst of flavor.
Why Celebrate Great American Meatout Day?
This annual event encourages people to explore plant-based eating for health, animal welfare, and environmental benefits. It’s not just about skipping meat—it’s about discovering how delicious and satisfying vegan cuisine can be. Whether you’re diving into jackfruit tacos or savoring creamy cashew-based pasta sauces at home (check out Love & Lemons’ website for recipe ideas), there’s never been a better time to embrace plants.
Temecula’s vegan scene proves that you don’t need meat to have an unforgettable meal. So mark your calendar for March 20 and treat yourself to some of the best plant-based eats in town!
Sources: google.com, loveandlemons.com, nationaltoday.com
Header Image Source: The Matter of Food on Unsplash
