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Dairy-free salads in San Diego

Made for those who prioritize fresh, raw ingredients and strictly avoid dairy in every meal they consume.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
One WorldBeat Cafe image 1
One WorldBeat Cafe image 2
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Space showcases African cultural artifacts and spiritual decor creating a serene, low-key atmosphere. Plant-based menu features carefully crafted vegan dishes with fresh ingredients grown onsite. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Salads come as part of a sampler platter and also appear alongside patties, curry, and burgers. They serve as a fresh, varied option within a diverse menu.

Entire menu is entirely vegan, offering flavorful and creative dishes. Vegan burritos stand out with great texture and appeal to all ages.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food is delicious, creative, and flavorful."

"The dairy-free food here is delicious and seasoned to perfection."

"I loved the salad, it was freshly cut from the garden."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a fully vegan menu with limited but unique options.

2

Parking is available in a small lot at the cultural center above the cafe.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating options are available for guests.

02
WorldBeat Cultural Center image 1

Colorful murals and artwork celebrate African and Indigenous history, creating a visually rich environment. The atmosphere stays serene and welcoming, with live world music and community-focused events. An outdoor garden and vegan cafe add to the cultural and social experience.

Salads here feature micro greens and ethnobotany ingredients. Options include a botanic salad and a micro greens salad with fresh, unique flavors.

A full vegan menu offers casual, savory, plant-based dishes at great prices. Jamaican patties stand out as a delicious option in this vegan cafe setting.

People are saying

"I found the vegan food here to be delicious and savory."

"The vegan food here is amazing, especially the Jamaican patties."

"I loved the ethnobotany salad and the jerk tofu patties."

Good to know

1

The center hosts reggae concerts regularly, check the schedule for upcoming events.

2

Samba dance classes occur every Wednesday night with live drummers.

3

The vegan cafe offers a limited but well-crafted menu at reasonable prices.

03
Sammich House Deli & Juice Bar image 1

Deli with a mom-and-pop vibe and Italian influence offers a warm, family-run atmosphere with fresh, generous sandwiches and healthy options. Music stays at a comfortable level, creating a fun-loving but relaxed environment. Seating is ample, and the place combines a classic NYC deli feel with a diner-style interior.

Salads come with sandwiches and wraps, featuring baby greens and a fresh vinaigrette. They taste fresh and add a light, tasty side to meals.

Menu includes vegan wraps and soups. The tofu bowl special comes with house made vegan aioli.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are huge and packed with flavor."

"The staff here is super helpful and sweet, with great vibes."

"The dairy-free tofu bowl with house-made vegan aioli was amazing."

Good to know

1

The shop is located right next to the trolley for easy access.

2

Parking is available on the street, but there is no dedicated lot.

3

The breakfast plate costs $13, making it an affordable option.

04
Khachapuri image 1
Georgian restaurant

Warm, rustic dining space with colorful walls and traditional music creates a cozy, familial vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Georgian dishes and imported wines in a setting that feels like a welcoming neighborhood gathering. Atmosphere encourages lingering and catching up with friends.

A sample platter offers 7 salads showcasing a variety of flavors. Salads consistently come out delicious and pair well with other dishes like lamb stew and eggplant rolls.

Menu includes lots of vegan and non-vegan options with flexibility for vegetarians. Khachapuri offers delicious vegan and non-vegan dishes suitable for dairy-free diets.

People are saying

"You absolutely have to try the Khachapuri food here."

"The salads here are so fresh and bursting with flavor."

"They offered lots of delicious vegan and non-vegan options."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

2

Khachapuri offers a variety of vegan and non-vegan food options.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

05
Falafel California image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with loungey techno music creating a chill vibe. Seating is limited and simple, with outdoor seating under a tree adding to the relaxed feel. The place stands out for authentic falafel and shawarma, praised for freshness and flavor.

Salads feature fresh, crisp ingredients with a tangy dressing that stands out. Options like the gyro and falafel salads mix vegetables well, though dressings can be heavy and portions tend to be small.

Menu offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian-friendly options including shawarma. Staff clearly identifies vegan sauces to ensure dairy-free choices.

People are saying

"I found their falafel to be crispy and delicious."

"This salad is incredibly fresh with a perfect tangy dressing."

"The falafel here is dairy-free, fresh, and perfectly crunchy."

Good to know

1

They offer both takeout and catering services.

2

The menu mainly focuses on falafel and wraps, offering limited variety.

3

They are open late on weekends and early for catering.

06
Palm Thai Cafe image 1
Thai restaurant

Hip, renovated space with LED string lights creates a calm, cozy energy ideal for relaxing or meeting up. Cafeteria-style seating supports a quiet atmosphere suited for studying or working. Throwback RnB music plays softly, enhancing the warm, inviting vibe.

Salads feature authentic beef Nam tok and a fresh papaya salad with adjustable spiciness. Some salads focus on meat with minimal greens, and tomatoes come in large Roma chunks.

Plenty of vegan options exist here, covering both vegan and vegetarian needs. The menu includes several dishes free from dairy.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Thai."

"This Thai food is some of the best I've had."

"They offer plentiful dairy-free options."

Good to know

1

You have to order first and take a seat.

2

Palm Thai Cafe operates as a fast food takeout Thai place with the option to eat in.

3

They offer vegan and vegetarian options.

07
Berry Fresh image 1
Juice shop

Ceiling clouds and cute decorations create a light, inviting space. The menu offers nondairy smoothies and Filipino flavors, with fresh ingredients and no added sugars. Shelves stay neatly organized with crisp produce, making it a calm spot for quick, healthy drinks and light meals.

Salads come with a light dressing and taste fresh. Options include kale and other varieties alongside toasts and fresh juices.

Non-dairy options include smoothies without added sugars and drinks sweetened with dates. The non-dairy drinks consistently rate highly for taste and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the smoothies here were delicious and amazing."

"The salads here are so fresh and have a wonderful light dressing."

"I loved the great selection of dairy-free juices and smoothies."

Good to know

1

Berry Fresh offers a variety of smoothies, blended drinks, and juice.

2

Prices are fair for the quality of the drinks and food.

3

The store is comfortable, clean, and has a smooth checkout process.

08
Shawarma House image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small, clean Mediterranean restaurant with an open kitchen and outdoor seating that invites people watching. The atmosphere is cozy and friendly, with a family-owned feel and a welcoming vibe. Draft beers like Pacifico and Modelo complement the relaxed, authentic setting.

Salads feature a superb dressing and a mixture of textures and flavors that stand out. Portions are generous, often paired with gyro or falafel, making them filling and satisfying.

Offers vegan chicken shawarma with generous portions and a vegan chicken plate option. Includes sides like hummus and falafel suitable for dairy free diets.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food, especially the shawarma and falafel, to be incredible."

"I thought this shawarma was the best I've seen in 25 years."

"The dairy-free shawarma here is outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu available with discounted items.

2

Generous portion sizes are served.

3

Vegan options are available on the menu.

09
Thai Joint image 1
Thai restaurant

Large dining area with cozy atmosphere and dog-friendly outdoor seating supports both dine-in and heavy takeout traffic. The menu offers extensive vegan options and spice levels from 1 to 10, catering to diverse tastes. Service is efficient, with food arriving quickly and portions that are generous.

Salads come with thoughtful touches like cardboard separating hot chicken from cold greens. Options include Larb Chicken salad and papaya salad, often paired with dishes like pad thai or sticky rice.

Tons of vegan options fill a separate menu alongside the regular one. Dishes like yellow and panang curry, vegan ka prow with extra crispy mock duck, and vegan pineapple fried rice stand out.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is fresh, perfectly spiced, and packed with flavor."

"The Dairy Free Panang curry is amazing."

"This salad is packed with flavor and piping hot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers a dedicated vegan menu with plenty of options.

3

Expect generous portions that are great for sharing or leftovers.

10
Facing East Noodle & Bar image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a retro-inspired decor and great music. The space feels clean and inviting, attracting a busy crowd. Ordering and payment happen upfront, creating a straightforward dining flow.

Crunchy texture and spicy heat define the cucumber salad. It carries a noticeable saltiness that stands out.

Spicy Garlic Vegan Ramen delivers vibrant, robust flavors that stand out among plant-based dishes. Vegetarian and vegan options consistently offer delicious, spicy profiles.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, savory, and truly the soul of the dish."

"The dairy-free ramen here is rich, savory, and deeply flavorful."

"The food here tasted very good and yummy."

Good to know

1

Customers order themselves through their phones using a QR code on each table.

2

Prepaying for food is common here, which is unusual for sit-down restaurants.

3

Parking is challenging around the area, so plan accordingly.

11
Flor's Farm to Table image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with open market seating and plenty of outdoor patio space creates a chill, cozy atmosphere. Shared seating in a food hall setting offers a casual vibe with some quieter indoor tables. Energy stays relaxed, making it suitable for quick, quiet meals or casual gatherings.

Salads feature fresh and flavorful ingredients with standout options like the salmon salad and the salmon and blue cheese salad. Some salads, like the Tres Hombres, blur lines but still offer good taste.

Vegan options include a standout vegan sope and other vegetarian dishes. The menu offers solid choices for those avoiding dairy.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the red snapper tacos."

"I loved the salmon salad, it was so flavorful."

"I loved the vegan sope and potato tacos here."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $5 each, making them an affordable option.

2

The restaurant is located one block off Old Town Avenue.

3

Free public parking is available across the street.

12
Yalla Habibi image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Small dining area creates an intimate setting with simple decor focused on food. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features Middle Eastern music that adds to a cozy, family-oriented vibe. Noise levels rise during busy times, but the space remains inviting and safe.

Chicken Shawarma Salad stands out as a hearty and flavorful option. Fresh salads come alongside dishes like shawarma plates, paired with creamy hummus and warm pita.

Various vegan options are available and clearly labeled. All the vegan dishes are delicious and fulfilling.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is so delicious, especially the baba ganoush."

"The dairy-free Middle Eastern dishes are delicious and authentic."

"I loved the hearty and tasty chicken shawarma salad."

Good to know

1

Yalla Habibi does not have a restroom.

2

The restaurant can get very busy, so I recommend making reservations.

3

There are various vegan options at Yalla Habibi.

13
Pop Pie Co. image 1
Pie shop

Pie shop offers cozy outdoor seating with heated lamps and a charming storefront featuring window counters. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, attracting groups and casual meetups with a positive vibe. Location on a busy street provides good people watching and a snug, inviting environment.

Kale salad stands out with its freshness and delicious taste. It offers a crisp, vibrant option among the salads.

Vegan pies come in several flavors like yellow pie, pumpkin, and curry pot pie. The crust on the yellow pie is delicious and it pairs well with vegan ice cream options like strawberry crumble.

People are saying

"The key lime pie's flavor and texture were truly exceptional."

"I thought the kale salad was fresh and delicious."

"The dairy-free yellow pie was delicious and worth trying."

Good to know

1

Pop Pie Co. does not accept cash; they only take card payments.

2

Parking is challenging with only street parking available.

3

There are few tables inside, but plenty of outdoor seating.

14
HiroNori Craft Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space with wood style design feels cozy but can get crowded quickly. Atmosphere stays calming and intimate, attracting those who appreciate quiet dining. Seating is limited and uncomfortable, contributing to a packed yet popular vibe.

Vegan ramen stands out with rich, flavorful broth and fresh ingredients. It offers a solid dairy free option that satisfies ramen cravings.

People are saying

"The Tonkotsu Ramen broth is rich, silky, and well-balanced."

"The dairy-free ramen here is so flavorful and rich."

"I loved the rich and creamy broth."

Good to know

1

The place fills up quickly, and they do not take reservations.

2

Expect wait times of over an hour on Friday evenings.

3

Parking can be inconvenient due to nearby construction.

15
The Girls Deli image 1

Hole-in-the-wall deli inside a convenience store offers cozy bodega vibes with a quiet atmosphere and East Coast energy. Sandwiches feature high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors, making it a standout spot despite no seating and a simple setup.

Any sandwich can be made into a salad here. The spicy macaroni salad and potato salad both stand out for their flavor.

The menu features a Vegan Not So Vegan sub that stands out for its flavor. Many attendees, including vegans and vegetarians, find the options delightful and satisfying.

People are saying

"I had some of the best tasting sandwiches I've ever had."

"I got the amazing not so vegan sub."

"I found the deli sandwich here to be the best in San Diego."

Good to know

1

The deli is located inside a liquor store, so seating is not available.

2

Expect to pay around $17 for a sandwich, which may be considered pricey.

3

The deli offers delivery options that are cheaper than in-store prices.

16
CinKuni (Italian & Japanese Cuisine) image 1

Spacious restaurant blends Japanese and Italian culture with art-filled walls and a visible brick pizza oven. Atmosphere feels upscale and casual with loud 80s-90s music and a lively vibe. Features include a big screen TV lounge and a dog-friendly patio.

Strawberry salad stands out with its fresh fruit and flavor. Burrata salad includes arugula, though some leaves show yellowing.

Expansive vegan and plant-based selection stands out here. The vegan sushi options at CinKuni offer a solid dairy-free choice.

People are saying

"The Gnocchi Urbino was delicious and tender."

"They have so many delicious vegan options, especially the rolls."

"The ramen here is delicious, with good noodles."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 p.m. on industry Mondays with great drink selections.

2

Every Wednesday, there are free comedy shows starting at 8 p.m.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10 p.m. with a two-drink minimum.

17
Mendocino Farms image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers open outdoor seating and a modern, clean environment with a hipster farm vibe. The atmosphere is comfortable and bright, attracting a casual crowd seeking fresh, healthy options. Busy periods showcase efficient sandwich preparation and a variety of unique menu choices.

Salads feature unique combinations like sweet peach with goat cheese and a floral vinaigrette, or mango paired with chicken. Options include a variety of fresh greens and creative dressings, with choices like the Impossible Salad and Pink Beet salad offering distinct flavors.

Menu includes several vegan options like the Vegan Banh Mi with tofu and the Impossible Salad. These choices cater well to dairy-free diets.

People are saying

"I found all their salads to be a big hit."

"I loved the vegan Banh Mi and the Impossible Salad."

"I was pleased to find a few dairy-free options on the menu."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in downtown, making it difficult to find a spot.

2

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially between 11am and 1:30pm.

3

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid stress during busy times.

18
Blind Lady Ale House image 1

Brick and wood interiors combine with vintage decor and an impressive beer can collection to create a unique setting. Live jazz and DJs spinning vinyl add live music energy, though sound levels can rise on event nights. The place draws a family-friendly crowd enjoying hard-to-find beers and thin crust pizza.

Large enough to share, the salads include a Caesar salad with real anchovies that stands out as a delicious staple. Salads come alongside specials like desserts and pie, complementing meals like pizza and fries.

Vegan options include a pizza with house-made cheese and pesto fries that are both dairy free. Several other vegan dishes are available as well.

People are saying

"Their wood-fired pizza is creative and delicious."

"I loved starting with the awesome Caesar salad."

"The dairy-free pizza with house-made cheese is the best."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $6 beers on Fridays from 12pm to 6pm.

2

Vinyl Slice Fridays feature local DJs for a lively atmosphere.

3

Meatless Mondays provide a great option for vegetarian visitors.

19
VULTURE image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with unique, otherworldly decor and a red curtain entrance creates an intimate, elegant atmosphere. The vibe blends 80's music with a warm, inviting energy that suits a night out. Fully vegan menu offers plant-based fine dining with standout cocktails and memorable dishes.

Table side preparation brings a classic touch to the Caesar salad. A vegan Caesar option exists without anchovies.

Everything on the menu is fully vegan with superb versions of classic steakhouse meals. The food and drinks are consistently amazing and prove vegan options can be just plain good without qualifiers.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return for the amazing vegan options."

"The desserts, like tableside Bananas Foster, are a showstopper."

"The Lilโ€™ Gem Caesar salad dressing is creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed to dine at VULTURE.

2

VULTURE adds an automatic 20% gratuity on all checks.

3

Many items on the menu were unavailable during my visit.

20
Whole Foods Market image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store combines tight aisles with a warm, cozy atmosphere and soothing music. It features a rooftop parking and seating area, plus an Amazon pick-up station for convenience. Crowds gather here regularly, drawn by fresh produce and ready-made meals.

A large selection of freshly-prepared salads and a salad bar make it easy to grab healthy food quickly. An area lets customers prepare their own salads or ready-made meals.

Many vegan and vegetarian options fill the shelves, including a strong selection of vegan meat and organic products. Vegan pizza and jerky stand out as popular choices.

People are saying

"I found so many fresh, organic, and healthy food options here."

"I loved their fresh salad bar and hot food options."

"I found so many great vegan options, especially the meat and salads."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely difficult, especially during peak hours.

2

Whole Foods Market offers special deals on Tuesdays and Fridays.

3

The hot food bar may not be ready by 11 AM.

21
The Vibe image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with modern decor and vibrant colors. Music and clean lines create an energetic vibe that suits brunch well. Spacious seating and a full bar add to the inviting experience.

Salads feature superb croutons that stay crunchy and fresh. The flavorful dressing comes on the side, and grilled chicken is available, served promptly when requested.

Menu offers abundant vegan and vegetarian options. Tomatillo chilaquiles come with vegan chorizo and scrambled eggs in generous portions.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The dairy-free drinks here are amazing, especially the espresso martinis."

"The salad dressing was really flavorful and the croutons were superb."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait on weekends during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider taking an Uber.

3

Happy hour runs from 8am to 10am on weekdays with special pricing.

22
Shawarma Guys image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant with impeccably clean and well-organized small space featuring cramped tables. Atmosphere carries great vibes and reflects strong passion and attention to detail. Known for high-quality, flavorful shawarma and quick service.

Salads here come with super fresh ingredients and delicious dressings. The Greek salad stands out with a perfect rating, alongside tasty options like Fattoush and Tabouleh.

Several vegan options appear on the menu, including vegan egg rolls and a vegan cream chop. Plenty of choices cater to dairy-free needs.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is delicious, especially the tender wagyu beef shawarma."

"The falafel bowl was delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"Their Falafel salad is so crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $16 for a take-out meal.

2

The menu offers a huge variety of Middle Eastern dishes.

3

The restaurant is clean with ample seating available.

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