Excellent vegan restaurant and tons of gluten free options as well. The avocado toast for breakfast, the bruschetta as an app, and the Buddha bowl for dinner are my top choices! They have indoor and outdoor seating and you can bring your dogs. Highly recommend!
Julie G.
The ambiance is great, live music, well decorated, and somehow feels secluded in a busy area. The food itself was very small portions for high prices, but that is likely due to the quality of the ingredients. The service is friendly and quick, but because of the portion size I would likely not return when I'm especially hungry
Dan Hong
Lovely outdoor dining environment and pretty good food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Dave Niquelle
this place was so quaint and incredibly delicious! we ordered ramen, penne alfredo, and tiramisu for dessert. scrumptious!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jodi Riis
Great vegan healthy food. It’s nice to go to a cafe where I don’t have to ask if there’s any animal ingredients in it, because there’s not. Everything but a handful of menu items is gluten free as well. The set up is very cute. Plant lined patio on Girard just into La Jolla. Not far from street parking. A few blocks from La Jolla Cove. Casual dining atmosphere, very basic. Cozy booth seating inside. It’s a small space, so if you’re bringing a large party, I’d call ahead to make sure there’s seating room. Everything is made by hand fresh daily by the owner himself. The food tastes great every time I’ve gone. My husband is a huge fan of Green Door because the owner mentioned staying up the night before Christmas Eve to make all the pre ordered Christmas dinners perfect. We called a few days ahead for our Christmas dinner last year which was shepherds pie and Christmas pudding. So so good!!! All we had to do was reheat the oven items, and reheat the Christmas pudding in boiling water. The preparing instructions were put on the lids. Only took about 20 minutes to reheat. Literally the best shepherds pie I’ve had, and my husband thought it was so cool because it tasted amazing without any animal ingredients. If you’re looking for something healthy, Green Door Cafe won’t disappoint. The prices aren’t cheap. The ingredients are bought frequently from local organic growers. A friend of mine has mentioned to me seeing the owner of Green Door Cafe riding his bike back to the restaurant with a basket full of greens. Which I thought was pretty cool.You don’t have to worry if it’s going to give you a heart attack or make you fat because it’s all natural nothing is fried. Definitely worth a try!!Vegetarian options: The whole menu is plant based/vegan/mostly gluten free.Dietary restrictions: The menu is 100% vegan/plant based. Mostly gluten free menu as clearly stated next to each item.Wheelchair accessibility: Nearby street parking. Outdoor seating in front with plenty of space for a walker or wheelchair.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Blueberry Cheesecake, Side Caesar Salad, Tacos, Sambusa Trio, Carrot Chive Sausages Gluten Free with Sideof Mango Chutney Contains Walnuts, Salad, Hawaiian Burger, Soup, Pesto Panini, Bombay Burger, Pancakes and French Toast, Tomato Soup, On a Toasted Wheat Bun with Sauteed, Street Tacos - Gluten Free, 'Bombay Bomb' Burger on Double Savory Pancake Gluten Free, 'Fungus Amungus' Flatbread, Red Velvet Pancakes, The 'Bomb' Vegan Burger
Jodi R.
Highly recommend. This is one of my favorite vegan cafes in San Diego for sure. My husband and I pre ordered the Christmas meal last year. Let me tell you, it was AMAZING!!! The owner is really nice, and makes sure everything is perfect. He hand makes everything from scratch. The Christmas dinner we got was the shepherds pie, and Christmas pudding. Honestly, the best shepherds pie I've ever had, and it's VEGAN! My husband absolutely loved it. The Christmas pudding was so, so good. We're hoping he serves his signature shepherds pie again someday. Everything I've ordered at Green Door has tasted fresh, decent portions, and delicious. If you're dining in at Green Door Cafe, you'll be greeted with a nice shaded front patio, and a long walkway lined plentiful with tropical plants. Inside you walk up, order, and pay. The cafe isn't big, so plan ahead if you're bringing a party more than 4 people. I'd call ahead to make sure there's a table for a big party. There's a small sitting area inside with simple cafe decor. Most of the seating is outside. Parking is on the Girard only. If you come during slower times, you'll surely get a close parking spot. I didn't inquire about child seats, but I'm sure you'll be accommodated. Handicap accessible for seating. If you're looking for a wide variety of healthy, vegan, gluten free comfort foods, search no more. The Green Door Cafe, La Jolla is right off the beaten path, and has something on the menu for everyone.
Monica V.
I went to the green door cafe to sit outside and have a glass of wine? The patio is eclectic and cute. Very inviting. I had Pinot Grigio and enjoyed it. I was impressed with the varied vegan menu. They serve high tea, make expresso drinks, appetizers and make lasagna! The server was very welcoming and nice. I will go back for a meal.
Christine H.
Very cute vegan cafe in La Jolla, decorated with lots of plants and feels very homey and also gave me old diner vibes. Met up with some friends and we all ordered the pesto panini, it comes with a soup. We also ordered the red velvet pancakes to share and it was yummy! One of my friends can't eat gluten so we were so glad they had some GF options! Always a plus. I had the golden milk latte and it was soothing for the cold day. We stayed for hours just chatting, the place has a very chill ambiance and home-made feel.
Julianne D.
Excellent ambiance and food. The samosas had a kick and were stellar. The service was a bit delayed but allowed you to really enjoy the food and the restaurant. We will be back!
Henry S.
Early in January 2024, three of us walked into the Green Door Cafe. Although my wife is interested in vegetarian/vegan cuisine, my friend and I are avowed omnivores. I know this fact will color the reception of some vegetarians and vegans to this review, but I hope that the review will raise even more eyebrows among my fellow omnivores. In a (vegetarian/vegan) nutshell, the food was superb. We started with the BRUSCHETTA. It was delicious. For the entree, my wife ordered the PENNE ALFREDO, my fellow omnivore ordered the DAHL CURRY, and I had the BOMBAY BOMB BURGER, which came with a salad and a side of roast potatoes. My companions enjoyed their meals very much. I did not taste their food, but I devoured mine, and I can report that the burger was wonderful, though to call it a burger simply does not do it justice. I never tasted a dish that had so many flavors. I followed the advice of several YELP reviewers, and I chose to replace the bun with the savory pancakes; it was a great idea. For dessert, we had the CARROT CAKE and the MACAROONS. They were scrumptious. The ambiance was cozy. On top of that, our server was extremely friendly and attentive, and we were joined at our table for a brief time by Martin, the chef, who also happens to be the owner. Vegetarians and vegans, be prepared to add another jewel to your dining crown. Fellow omnivores, prepare your palates for a delightful assault!
Oh my gosh amazing and healthy food! The golden latte was some of the best! The house salad is no ordinary salad!!!! The Reuben - wow! And Martin the chef was super and awake and lovely!!! Don't leave without the pepita parm to go!
Patrick Pfeiffer
Green door, your food needs some slight adjustments, and it’d be excellent taste wise. Visit Trilogy Sanctuary and take notes, because that place not only makes delicious food but also food that makes you feel - uplifted. Your panini was ok - needed more pesto. Place is usually empty. Upgrade your decor with lush plants and a new modern look. *Make food that is actually worth coming for again.* This is by far the most important point, and will probably remedy your customer flow significantly alone. I won’t be coming back because the food wasn’t noteworthy. Cheers.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 4
Karan Bhansali
Nice vegan restaurant in La Jolla.We visited this place in a Sunday afternoon for lunch while we were in La Jolla.We were one of the first groups there, and were asked to pick any table we liked, and order food at the counter once we were ready (the host/ server handed us a couple of menus).We order the 'Bomb' Burger, the Pesto Panini (which came with a cup of the soup of the day, which was Tomato Basil), a glass of Cranberry Kombucha and a Detoxer juice.Service was fairly slow as there were only 2 folks running the cafe as it was Christmas Eve (service would have been likely better on other days).All the food we ordered was great: (1) the 'Bomb' Burger had a non 'Impossible' burger patty that was made using fresh vegetables and served with a vegan chipotle aioli (2) the Pesto Panini, similarly, had vegan chipotle aioli and vegan pesto sauce. All the ingredients tasted fresh and the food was seasoned well.Would definitely come here again if I was in the area.Vegetarian options: All vegan cafe
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Pesto Panini, The 'Bomb' Vegan Burger
Mark Steffen
Our dining experience was one of the healthiest we've ever had eating out and the food was delicious too. Their desserts are made with healthier sweetening ingredients. The staff was pleasant and answered all our questions. They accept credit cards, but cash works better for this Cafe. The atmosphere is pleasant and calming. Don't hesitate to give this Cafe a try. Enjoy.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Connor Q.
Best vegan food in San Diego without a doubt. Fresh ingredients. Whole foods. Green door Cafe has left an imprint on me because of their deliciously savory dishes that are made with real and healthy ingredients. My personal favorite is the bomb burger. This burger alone is my favorite vegan burger I've ever had (and I've had a lot). There are too many vegan restaurants around that do not focus on the quality of ingredients or are too soy based for me. The cafe is also very vibrant and home feeling. The owner and the staff are very welcoming. If you're ever in San Diego and looking for filling vegan food that not only tastes amazing but will fill you up and that you can feel good about then you must come here. I live 5 minutes away from this place and I am the type of person to drive to Hollywood to eat at one of my favorite vegan restaurants. So leaving this review is not something I would leave lightly (I have not even left a review at the restaurant I'm referring to in Hollywood). They are doing something different and authentic here. Can't wait to keep coming back
Excellent vegan restaurant and tons of gluten free options as well. The avocado toast for breakfast, the bruschetta as an app, and the Buddha bowl for dinner are my top choices! They have indoor and outdoor seating and you can bring your dogs. Highly recommend!
The ambiance is great, live music, well decorated, and somehow feels secluded in a busy area. The food itself was very small portions for high prices, but that is likely due to the quality of the ingredients. The service is friendly and quick, but because of the portion size I would likely not return when I'm especially hungry
Lovely outdoor dining environment and pretty good food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
this place was so quaint and incredibly delicious! we ordered ramen, penne alfredo, and tiramisu for dessert. scrumptious!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great vegan healthy food. It’s nice to go to a cafe where I don’t have to ask if there’s any animal ingredients in it, because there’s not. Everything but a handful of menu items is gluten free as well. The set up is very cute. Plant lined patio on Girard just into La Jolla. Not far from street parking. A few blocks from La Jolla Cove. Casual dining atmosphere, very basic. Cozy booth seating inside. It’s a small space, so if you’re bringing a large party, I’d call ahead to make sure there’s seating room. Everything is made by hand fresh daily by the owner himself. The food tastes great every time I’ve gone. My husband is a huge fan of Green Door because the owner mentioned staying up the night before Christmas Eve to make all the pre ordered Christmas dinners perfect. We called a few days ahead for our Christmas dinner last year which was shepherds pie and Christmas pudding. So so good!!! All we had to do was reheat the oven items, and reheat the Christmas pudding in boiling water. The preparing instructions were put on the lids. Only took about 20 minutes to reheat. Literally the best shepherds pie I’ve had, and my husband thought it was so cool because it tasted amazing without any animal ingredients. If you’re looking for something healthy, Green Door Cafe won’t disappoint. The prices aren’t cheap. The ingredients are bought frequently from local organic growers. A friend of mine has mentioned to me seeing the owner of Green Door Cafe riding his bike back to the restaurant with a basket full of greens. Which I thought was pretty cool.You don’t have to worry if it’s going to give you a heart attack or make you fat because it’s all natural nothing is fried. Definitely worth a try!!Vegetarian options: The whole menu is plant based/vegan/mostly gluten free.Dietary restrictions: The menu is 100% vegan/plant based. Mostly gluten free menu as clearly stated next to each item.Wheelchair accessibility: Nearby street parking. Outdoor seating in front with plenty of space for a walker or wheelchair.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Blueberry Cheesecake, Side Caesar Salad, Tacos, Sambusa Trio, Carrot Chive Sausages Gluten Free with Sideof Mango Chutney Contains Walnuts, Salad, Hawaiian Burger, Soup, Pesto Panini, Bombay Burger, Pancakes and French Toast, Tomato Soup, On a Toasted Wheat Bun with Sauteed, Street Tacos - Gluten Free, 'Bombay Bomb' Burger on Double Savory Pancake Gluten Free, 'Fungus Amungus' Flatbread, Red Velvet Pancakes, The 'Bomb' Vegan Burger
Highly recommend. This is one of my favorite vegan cafes in San Diego for sure. My husband and I pre ordered the Christmas meal last year. Let me tell you, it was AMAZING!!! The owner is really nice, and makes sure everything is perfect. He hand makes everything from scratch. The Christmas dinner we got was the shepherds pie, and Christmas pudding. Honestly, the best shepherds pie I've ever had, and it's VEGAN! My husband absolutely loved it. The Christmas pudding was so, so good. We're hoping he serves his signature shepherds pie again someday. Everything I've ordered at Green Door has tasted fresh, decent portions, and delicious. If you're dining in at Green Door Cafe, you'll be greeted with a nice shaded front patio, and a long walkway lined plentiful with tropical plants. Inside you walk up, order, and pay. The cafe isn't big, so plan ahead if you're bringing a party more than 4 people. I'd call ahead to make sure there's a table for a big party. There's a small sitting area inside with simple cafe decor. Most of the seating is outside. Parking is on the Girard only. If you come during slower times, you'll surely get a close parking spot. I didn't inquire about child seats, but I'm sure you'll be accommodated. Handicap accessible for seating. If you're looking for a wide variety of healthy, vegan, gluten free comfort foods, search no more. The Green Door Cafe, La Jolla is right off the beaten path, and has something on the menu for everyone.
I went to the green door cafe to sit outside and have a glass of wine? The patio is eclectic and cute. Very inviting. I had Pinot Grigio and enjoyed it. I was impressed with the varied vegan menu. They serve high tea, make expresso drinks, appetizers and make lasagna! The server was very welcoming and nice. I will go back for a meal.
Very cute vegan cafe in La Jolla, decorated with lots of plants and feels very homey and also gave me old diner vibes. Met up with some friends and we all ordered the pesto panini, it comes with a soup. We also ordered the red velvet pancakes to share and it was yummy! One of my friends can't eat gluten so we were so glad they had some GF options! Always a plus. I had the golden milk latte and it was soothing for the cold day. We stayed for hours just chatting, the place has a very chill ambiance and home-made feel.
Excellent ambiance and food. The samosas had a kick and were stellar. The service was a bit delayed but allowed you to really enjoy the food and the restaurant. We will be back!
Early in January 2024, three of us walked into the Green Door Cafe. Although my wife is interested in vegetarian/vegan cuisine, my friend and I are avowed omnivores. I know this fact will color the reception of some vegetarians and vegans to this review, but I hope that the review will raise even more eyebrows among my fellow omnivores. In a (vegetarian/vegan) nutshell, the food was superb. We started with the BRUSCHETTA. It was delicious. For the entree, my wife ordered the PENNE ALFREDO, my fellow omnivore ordered the DAHL CURRY, and I had the BOMBAY BOMB BURGER, which came with a salad and a side of roast potatoes. My companions enjoyed their meals very much. I did not taste their food, but I devoured mine, and I can report that the burger was wonderful, though to call it a burger simply does not do it justice. I never tasted a dish that had so many flavors. I followed the advice of several YELP reviewers, and I chose to replace the bun with the savory pancakes; it was a great idea. For dessert, we had the CARROT CAKE and the MACAROONS. They were scrumptious. The ambiance was cozy. On top of that, our server was extremely friendly and attentive, and we were joined at our table for a brief time by Martin, the chef, who also happens to be the owner. Vegetarians and vegans, be prepared to add another jewel to your dining crown. Fellow omnivores, prepare your palates for a delightful assault!
Restaurantji Recommends
Oh my gosh amazing and healthy food! The golden latte was some of the best! The house salad is no ordinary salad!!!! The Reuben - wow! And Martin the chef was super and awake and lovely!!! Don't leave without the pepita parm to go!
Green door, your food needs some slight adjustments, and it’d be excellent taste wise. Visit Trilogy Sanctuary and take notes, because that place not only makes delicious food but also food that makes you feel - uplifted. Your panini was ok - needed more pesto. Place is usually empty. Upgrade your decor with lush plants and a new modern look. *Make food that is actually worth coming for again.* This is by far the most important point, and will probably remedy your customer flow significantly alone. I won’t be coming back because the food wasn’t noteworthy. Cheers.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 4
Nice vegan restaurant in La Jolla.We visited this place in a Sunday afternoon for lunch while we were in La Jolla.We were one of the first groups there, and were asked to pick any table we liked, and order food at the counter once we were ready (the host/ server handed us a couple of menus).We order the 'Bomb' Burger, the Pesto Panini (which came with a cup of the soup of the day, which was Tomato Basil), a glass of Cranberry Kombucha and a Detoxer juice.Service was fairly slow as there were only 2 folks running the cafe as it was Christmas Eve (service would have been likely better on other days).All the food we ordered was great: (1) the 'Bomb' Burger had a non 'Impossible' burger patty that was made using fresh vegetables and served with a vegan chipotle aioli (2) the Pesto Panini, similarly, had vegan chipotle aioli and vegan pesto sauce. All the ingredients tasted fresh and the food was seasoned well.Would definitely come here again if I was in the area.Vegetarian options: All vegan cafe
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Pesto Panini, The 'Bomb' Vegan Burger
Our dining experience was one of the healthiest we've ever had eating out and the food was delicious too. Their desserts are made with healthier sweetening ingredients. The staff was pleasant and answered all our questions. They accept credit cards, but cash works better for this Cafe. The atmosphere is pleasant and calming. Don't hesitate to give this Cafe a try. Enjoy.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Best vegan food in San Diego without a doubt. Fresh ingredients. Whole foods. Green door Cafe has left an imprint on me because of their deliciously savory dishes that are made with real and healthy ingredients. My personal favorite is the bomb burger. This burger alone is my favorite vegan burger I've ever had (and I've had a lot). There are too many vegan restaurants around that do not focus on the quality of ingredients or are too soy based for me. The cafe is also very vibrant and home feeling. The owner and the staff are very welcoming. If you're ever in San Diego and looking for filling vegan food that not only tastes amazing but will fill you up and that you can feel good about then you must come here. I live 5 minutes away from this place and I am the type of person to drive to Hollywood to eat at one of my favorite vegan restaurants. So leaving this review is not something I would leave lightly (I have not even left a review at the restaurant I'm referring to in Hollywood). They are doing something different and authentic here. Can't wait to keep coming back