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The Vegan Joint
Master Critic Review
The Vegan Joint
8.3
This Downtown outpost of longtime LA staple The Vegan Joint serves Thai-influenced comfort food, big breakfast plates, and plant-based rice dishes in a casual counter-service space. Regulars come for reliably bold flavors, generous portions, and a fully vegan menu that works for both quick lunches and relaxed daytime hangs in the Fashion District.
Must-Try Dishes:
Impossible Kra Pao Rice Plate, Pumpkin Curry with Brown Rice, Breakfast Burrito with Soy Chorizo
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Long-running, woman-owned vegan spot bringing Thai comfort flavors to the Fashion District.
Who should go: Downtown workers and shoppers craving satisfying plant-based comfort food.
When to visit: Weekday lunch hours for freshest kitchen pace and shorter waits.
What to order: Impossible Kra Pao, pumpkin curry, and a loaded breakfast burrito.
Insider tip: Come early on weekdays and you can usually snag a table and street parking right out front.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly metered street parking in the Fashion District; usually manageable before noon, tougher after 3pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Super casual—tees, jeans, gym clothes, all acceptable.
Noise level: Low to moderate; easy for conversation even during lunch rush.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes, though the space never gets overwhelmingly busy.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even at peak times.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—everything is already plant-based, so vegetarians have full run of the menu.
Vegan options: The entire menu is vegan, from breakfast through curries and stir-fries.
Gluten-free options: Several GF-friendly dishes like curries and salads; ask staff for swaps on noodles and soy sauces when needed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can be if you're going for low-key and unfussy—counter service, bright space, and hearty dishes. Not ideal if you’re aiming for something romantic or atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only, and tables turn quickly. Arrive earlier during weekday lunch for the best shot at snagging a seat immediately.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy bold flavors; portions are large and staff is accommodating. No dedicated kids’ menu or stroller-friendly layout, so families with toddlers may find it a bit tight.
Best For
Better for: Fast, flavorful vegan Thai-influenced comfort food with generous portions at a fair price—great for everyday meals and quick grabs.
Skip if: You’re looking for a polished, date-night setting or a long sit-down meal with ambiance; nearby full-service vegan spots might fit better.