Eat & Drink

Vegan food has a bit of a “hippie-uber-healthy-rabbit-food” reputation. The biggest concerns about it are: “How can you possibly get full from carrot sticks and alfalfa sprouts?” and “How can any of that possibly taste good?”

The Vegan Joint in Palms might be just the place to dispel those myths. Its menu features an array of sandwiches, salads, soups and breakfast foods, as well as traditional Thai dishes such as Pad Thai and Pad See Ew with a vegan twist. There’s also an array of specialty beverages and vegan desserts. Entrees range in price from $4.95 – $8.95.

While I do like vegetables, I’m not a vegan by any means. In fact, the idea of going meat and dairy-free never seemed particularly appetizing to me. But I’m a big fan of the vegan mushroom burger from The Vegan Joint, made with a lentil loaf or tofu scrambler and topped with grilled mushrooms, romaine lettuce, alfalfa sprouts, tomatoes and vegan mayonnaise. The pineapple curry with brown rice is surprisingly rich, as is the Tom Yum soup, made fragrant with coconut milk, lemongrass and lime leaves.

The Vegan Joint’s distinctive yellow signage welcomes you inside and the cozy interior and friendly staff make you feel right at home. There’s nothing pretentious about this local food establishment. In fact, the food here is just as delicious as how Mom would have made it – if she were vegan.

The Vegan Joint is located at 10438 National Blvd. Palms/Culver City, CA 90034. Phone: (310) 559-1357. You can find more info and the menu at: www.theveganjoint.com.