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Maciel's Plant-Based Butcher Shop
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Maciel's Plant-Based Butcher Shop
8.7
Maciel’s reimagines the neighborhood deli with fully plant-based meats and cheeses made in-house, turning classics like the Reuben and Italian sub into LA-worthy sandwiches. The compact Highland Park space stays busy with locals and destination diners who come for bold flavors, thoughtful sourcing, and a menu that feels indulgent while still being veggie-forward.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Italian, The Californian, Reuben
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A true vegan butcher shop turning deli classics into plant-based standouts.
Who should go: Vegans, vegetarians, and curious deli lovers.
When to visit: Weekday lunch to dodge weekend sandwich lines.
What to order: Italian, Californian, and Reuben with a side salad.
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu seasonal sandwich specials posted at the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on nearby residential streets but can tighten during peak Highland Park hours.
Dress code: Super casual—tees, jeans, and gym clothes all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to chat even when the small space gets busy.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes, mostly for takeaway during the evening rush.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though the counter can get a short line at peak noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—everything is vegetarian since the entire menu is plant-based.
Vegan options: Yes—100% of the menu is fully vegan, including house-made meats and cheeses.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be made gluten-free with GF bread, though options are limited and there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s better for a casual, low-pressure first date—think walking around Highland Park with great sandwiches rather than a sit-down romantic meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations here. Seating is limited but turnover is fast; most people grab and go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals with older kids; the space is small with limited seating, so stroller setups may feel tight.
Best For
Better for: Bold vegan deli sandwiches that actually satisfy deli traditionalists—especially the house-made plant-based meats and cheeses.
Skip if: You’re looking for a long sit-down meal, large-group seating, or extensive gluten-free options.
Maciel's Plant-Based Butcher Shop
8.3
Maciel’s brings a full plant-based deli counter to York Boulevard, serving breakfast burritos, French toast, and loaded sandwiches built on house-made vegan meats and cheeses. It’s more counter-service deli than sit-down restaurant, but the creativity and execution make it a destination for vegan and flexitarian brunch alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tofu-Skin Chicharrón Breakfast Burrito, Vegan French Toast, Italian Cold Cut Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A true plant-based butcher-deli doing brunch-worthy plates from scratch.
Who should go: Vegans, vegetarians, and deli-sandwich obsessives.
When to visit: Late breakfast or early lunch, especially weekdays before peak rush.
What to order: Chicharrón breakfast burrito, vegan French toast, Italian cold cut.
Insider tip: Grab extra house-made meats or cheeses by the pound for weekend leftovers.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along York Blvd and the surrounding residential streets; usually easy on weekdays but can get competitive during weekend brunch rush.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—athleisure, denim, and weekend-brunch attire all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to hold a conversation, though the counter-service bustle picks up during peak hours.
Weekend wait: They don’t operate as a dinner spot; daytime service only. Expect a 20–30 minute wait during prime weekend brunch hours.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, with quick counter service and plenty of turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—everything is vegetarian by default, with many hearty deli-style sandwiches and breakfast items.
Vegan options: Yes—fully plant-based menu including house-made vegan meats, cheeses, and brunch plates.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be made gluten-free, but options are limited and cross-contamination is possible due to the deli setup.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s great for a low-pressure, daytime first date—casual counter service, bright energy, and creative plant-based plates make it fun without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. It’s entirely walk-in and counter-service, so just grab a seat when available. Arrive earlier on weekends for the best shot at quick seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families often stop by for quick bites. There’s no dedicated kids’ menu, but the comfortable space and fast service make it easy with little ones.
Best For
Better for: Innovative vegan deli meats and cheeses, creative brunch plates, and quick, unfussy service—perfect for casual veg-forward brunching.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service sit-down brunch, cocktails, or a long, lingering meal with lots of table space.