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Tamales and vegetarian spots in California

Meatless tamales satisfy the hunger for something savory and traditional without the pork or beef.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Guisados image 1
Guisados image 2
Guisados image 3
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Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers small indoor seating and a cute outdoor patio with heating for colder days. Atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming, with a cool vibe inside and a lively outdoor scene. Tacos stand out for their high-quality ingredients and authentic stews, attracting a crowd that appreciates variety and flavor.

Tamales offer a fresh corn scent that feels like home cooking. Mini samplers include tamales that match the quality of grandmother-made versions.

Vegetarian options stand out with variety and flavor. The menu offers several satisfying choices for those avoiding meat.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has great tortillas and fresh ingredients."

"The outdoor patio is super cute and creates a really good vibe."

"I found the vegetarian options to be great."

Good to know

1

Parking at Guisados can be difficult, so arrive early.

2

Expect to spend around $20 for four tacos.

3

The patio can get busy, so grab a table as soon as possible.

02
Shane's Tamales image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining area offers a welcoming, chill vibe with a friendly atmosphere. Menu focuses on authentic vegan Mexican food, especially top-tier tamales that appeal to both vegans and non-vegans. Efficient service and environmentally friendly packaging add to the experience.

Tamales stand out for their rich flavor and come in both vegan and non-vegan options. The chicken, pork, and bean and cheese tamales are especially popular, with many finding them worth long drives to enjoy.

Vegan tamales stand out as a highlight, offering a unique Mexican vegetarian experience. Both vegan and non-vegan options are very tasty and appeal to a wide range of tastes.

People are saying

"These vegan tamales are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"These tamales are generously filled and incredibly delicious."

"The vegetarian tamales here are surprisingly delicious and worth the drive."

Good to know

1

Shane's Tamales offers a special for half and full dozen tamales.

2

The restaurant is all vegan and offers gluten-free options.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other vegan spots.

03
Panaderia y pasteleria la Mexicana image 1

Bakery offers extensive vegan options including soft, flaky pan dulce and vegan tamales that match traditional flavors. Atmosphere feels welcoming with freshly made goods available early and reasonable prices. It stands out for vegan traditional Mexican pastries rarely found elsewhere.

Vegan tamales stand out with savory fillings and a delicious taste. They come alongside other vegan treats like pan dulce and champurrado, making them a popular choice for holidays and weekends.

Plenty of vegan options fill the shelves, including pan dulce, tamales, champurrado, esquites, and birria tacos. The vegan pan dulce and conchas stand out for their fluffiness and flavor, with vegan tamales and savory fillings also available.

People are saying

"The dairy-free pan dulce is so soft and tasty."

"You have to try their vegan Mexican food, especially the tamales."

"You have to try the vegetarian pan dulce; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Vegan options are available starting at 6:30 am.

2

The bakery offers a variety of vegan traditional Mexican foods made fresh daily.

3

Pricing is reasonable compared to regular pan dulce.

04
Little Barn Coffee House image 1
Vegan restaurant

Outdoor patio surrounded by plants offers a cozy, intimate vibe with dog-friendly seating. Atmosphere feels relaxing and inspiring, perfect for quiet moments or casual gatherings. Small space with walk-up ordering creates a casual, tucked-away feel.

Tamales pack a lot of flavor and come in multiple varieties. They serve as a gluten-free and vegan-friendly option that stands out for being satisfying and well-made.

Small vegan cafe offers a good selection of vegan savory breakfast with dishes like the Vegan Reuben and vegan breakfast burrito. Vegan homemade biscuits add a nice touch to the menu.

People are saying

"I loved the vegan breakfast burrito and chicken pesto sandwich."

"The outdoor seating is really cute and atmospheric."

"The tamales here are legit and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The establishment is fully vegan with many plant-based dishes.

2

There are no customer restrooms available at Little Barn Coffee House.

3

They ask that people donโ€™t stay longer than an hour.

05
Nandri Indian Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious cafe-style restaurant with an open roof and board games like checkers and chess available for guests. Atmosphere feels homey and kid-friendly, with cheerful music and a live band adding to the lively vibe. Seating areas are ample and airy, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Curry tamales stand out with Indian spices in the masa and curry both inside and on top. Chicken curry tamales come as part of a flight and pair well with dishes like Tandoori fried chicken and paratha.

Plenty of delicious vegan options fill the menu, including a vegan paratha that invites multiple servings. Vegetarian dishes like the cauliflower taco stand out alongside other flavorful choices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the dosa."

"The vegetarian cauliflower dish is so good, I'd skip meat for it."

"You have to try the curry tamales; they're so tasty."

Good to know

1

You can host events there.

2

There are microphones and speakers, suggesting they might host karaoke nights.

3

The parking lot in the back is a big plus.

06
Barrio Donas image 1
Donut shop

Donut shop offers a modern, bright interior with cozy, warm atmosphere and beautiful decor. It attracts people who enjoy quiet, happy moments while savoring unique, delicious donuts and pastries. Limited seating and early sell-outs create a sense of urgency for early visits.

Tamales here stand out for their exceptional taste and are often rated a perfect 10 out of 10. They set a high standard for flavor and quality among similar dishes.

Offers five types of vegan donuts including original glaze, mazapรกn, and vegan glazed options. Vegan donuts taste delicious and provide a solid variety for plant-based diets.

People are saying

"I found the donuts to be dangerously delicious and insanely tasty."

"Their tortas have the best bread I've ever tasted."

"The vegetarian donuts here are absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

They're sold out of their top flavors by 10am.

2

Visiting early provides the best selection of Donas.

3

You can't expect to have a full selection of donuts after lunchtime.

07
Mystic Mocha image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with cozy indoor space and extensive outdoor seating filled with dogs and picnic tables. Atmosphere feels artistic and inviting, with a pet-friendly vibe and peaceful patio perfect for conversations. Frequented by down-to-earth people, it offers excellent WiFi and outlets for work.

Vegan tamales stand out here, often praised for their flavor and paired with vegan bacon. They heat tamales in a microwave or warmer, but availability is limited since they often run out and restock weekly.

Offers a variety of vegan options including burritos, tamales, and bacon. Custom drinks like the Wonder Woman latte can be made dairy-free with oat milk and Mexican chocolate.

People are saying

"I dreamed of their amazing breakfast burritos."

"Their vegan tamales and burritos are amazing."

"I love their vegan tamales and vegan bacon."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited on the second and fourth Mondays and Tuesdays due to street sweeping.

2

There is no onsite parking; however, plenty of adjacent street parking is available.

3

The cafe offers free alternative milk options, which is rare in coffee shops.

08
Ditroit Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor dining occupies a narrow, hidden space with a chill vibe and lovely atmosphere. The spot feels like a small taco oasis with deliciously spicy salsas at a compact salsa bar. Seating uses plasticware, and the setting offers free parking nearby.

Menu includes elevated Mexican street food with tamales among staples. The pepper and cheese tamale stands out as a notable option.

Vegetarian options include a taco Del dรญa and a taco with eggplant that stands out for its uniqueness. Drinks like palo santo agua fresca complement the meal.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish flauta; it's amazing."

"You have to try the pepper and cheese tamale."

"I enjoyed the vegetarian options and the fish flauta."

Good to know

1

There is free parking at Ditroit Taqueria.

2

They have a parking lot right next to the restaurant, which provides peace of mind.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

09
Califa's Greens image 1
Latin American restaurant

Bright space with earthy decor and colorful, tasteful decorations creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Energy feels warm and welcoming, with kind and helpful people contributing to a great vibe. The setting stands out as a small, beautiful gem known for its friendly ambiance.

Tamales come in vegan, pork, and chili cheese with black beans options. They taste fresh and homemade, with a delicious flavor that stands out.

Offers fresh vegan tamales and flavorful tofu that appeal even to non-vegetarians. Features a variety of true vegan options alongside vegetarian dishes, smoothies, and salads.

People are saying

"Their salads are so fresh and flavorful, I'll be back."

"The vegan options here are amazing and so fresh."

"I had the best tamales of my life here; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for homemade tamales, especially on weekends.

2

The menu features a variety of healthy options, including vegan dishes.

3

Expect a mix of Central American cuisine, including burritos and plantains.

10
Cruz Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with self-serve salsa bar offering six options including super hot salsas and a large vegan menu. Atmosphere is family-friendly with authentic cuisine and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks. Seating and parking are ample, with pick-up service after evening hours.

Offers pork and vegan tamales with solid flavor. Tamales come alongside other Mexican dishes like flautas and tacos, all noted for being good.

Offers a large vegan menu with well-seasoned grilled vegetables, flavorful tofu, and plant-based meats. Vegan dishes like the carnitas combo plate and carne asada burrito stand out and pair well with hot salsas.

People are saying

"You have to try the burritos; they're the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I found tons of amazing vegan options here."

"I found the tamales to be amazing."

Good to know

1

On Taco Tuesday, the street tacos cost about $2.25 each.

2

After 7:30 PM, Cruz Tacos only offers pick-up service.

3

The Tuesday special is only available before a certain time.

11
VegainzLA image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small space with tropical dining area and free arcade machine creates a unique setting. Atmosphere blends modern-day hippie vibe with loud live DJ energy and friendly faces. Regulars enjoy vegan-focused menu praised for flavorful, healthy options.

Jackfruit tamales stand out as a popular choice here. The tamales are well-liked and come alongside other options like wraps and sushi burritos.

Offers a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options with alkaline food choices. The vegan dishes are consistently fantastic and well-loved.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is beyond delicious and flavorful."

"I found the shicken wrap to be very good and filling."

"I love the crispy oyster mushrooms spread on nachos."

Good to know

1

Expect long waits during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The menu features a variety of options like wraps, sushi burritos, and tamales.

3

Orders are generally prepared quickly, ensuring a smooth dining experience.

12
Tacoz image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot with only three tightly packed tables offers a lively and energetic atmosphere. Interior features well-decorated, neat design that creates a welcoming, homey vibe. Music plays loudly, adding to the high-energy environment despite the compact space.

Tamales de corundas and elote tamales stand out with strong corn flavors. Tamales come fresh from the pot, ready to eat without fuss.

Menu includes plenty of options with vegan choices. Vegan tacos stand out as a really good option.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I loved their corundas with the sauce."

"These elote tamales taste just like eating corn."

Good to know

1

Carnitas sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

2

Street parking is available, but can be limited during busy hours.

3

The menu includes vegan options alongside traditional dishes.

13
Tamales Veracruz MRV image 1
Mexican restaurant

Simple, cozy interior creates a friendly, casual atmosphere that suits quick meals or relaxed dining. Regulars enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with standout dishes like tamales and chilaquiles. The spot feels like a neighborhood gem with a clean, comfortable vibe.

Tamales come fresh with a good chicken to masa ratio and savory, sweet, nutty chicken mole flavor. Options include banana leaf tamales and portions are generous and satisfying.

Menu offers a huge variety of vegetarian options. It leans toward meat eaters but still provides plenty of choices for plant-based diners.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is packed with authentic, homemade flavor."

"I found the tamales here to be great and second to none."

"I loved their huge menu with so many vegetarian options."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Street parking is available off Wilton for easy access.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian options alongside meat dishes.

14
Las Guerreras image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant inside a lively market with open seating and a cute patio area. Atmosphere feels relaxed and happy, welcoming dogs and featuring live music. The place fills up at lunchtime and offers a self-service style in a spacious setting.

Two tamales come with perfect salsas and include options like Chicken - Chili Verde and pork. Some tamales have too much masa and less meat or flavor, but overall they are filling and tasty.

Vegetarian and vegan options include tacos and seasonal dishes. Catering features a taqueria with choices like barbacoa, pollo, or seasonal vegetarian selections.

People are saying

"This is my new favorite lunch spot for delicious tamales."

"I got two different tamales and they were delicious."

"I loved the vegetarian tacos; they had great options."

Good to know

1

Las Guerreras is located inside Swanโ€™s Market in uptown Oakland.

2

The area gets packed at lunchtime, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is street parking, so watch out for restrictions.

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