I've been to Amara Kitchen multiple times, and I keep coming back because the food is genuinely good. The quality of the food is what brings me through the door. Unfortunately, the service has been consistently disappointing. Every time I visit, the staff seems uninterested, bothered, or inconvenienced by customers. There's rarely a warm greeting when you walk in, no welcoming energy, and often it feels like you're interrupting someone's day just by asking a question or placing an order. I understand that everyone has difficult days, and working in the restaurant industry isn't easy. But hospitality is a huge part of the dining experience. A simple smile, eye contact, a "hello," or making customers feel welcome goes a long way. The food deserves praise, but the service does not match the quality of what's coming out of the kitchen. Management may want to spend some time retraining and refocusing staff on customer service and hospitality. Customers should feel appreciated, not like they're a burden. I truly want to see this place succeed because Highland Park needs good local businesses, and the food is excellent. But after several visits with the same experience, I felt it was worth sharing honest feedback. Great food brings people in; great service keeps them coming back. I hope management takes this as constructive criticism and works to create a more welcoming experience for everyone who walks through the door. read more

Amara kitchen is one of my favorite gluten friendly places to go. Their bison breakfast burrito is my go to, but also love grabbing a coffee and sitting outside. The only downside for me is that the customer service is always superficial but if you are from LA that's pretty typical. Other than that i would recommend checking them out! read more

Super popular with a self-consciously hipstery clientele. When I arrived for lunch on a Wednesday, all seats, inside and outside, were taken. Fortunately some opened up by the time I placed my order. I got the Hiho Wrap which was good and healthy and came with a nice salad. I also got the Pearl & Rose drink which looked pretty but tasted surprisingly bland. Make sure to watch out for street cleaning days when parking. read more

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I did not like the coffee :( it felt grainy and lacking in espresso strength. Would like to give another drink a try before making a final decision though. However, the vegan pancakes were YUMMY and I will be back for them!! The vegan butter on top, to DIE FOR. and the JAM, MAGNIFICENT. They have lots of seating available indoors and outdoors. Service is quick and friendly. This place is very popular during the weekends. Plenty of street parking available. read more

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I just ordered their buckwheat pancakes for delivery and they were outstanding! Absolutely delicious, not overly sweet, a rich, almost chocolatey, complex batter, with the most delicious apple compote on top. I'm a gluten free/vegan pancake connoisseur, and these are the best I've ever tried. Also got their pesto veggie bowl which was solid. I'm so glad I decided to try this place out! read more

I hadn't found a place focused on gluten free meals that I'd actually enjoy until I went to Amara Kitchen. The blueberry corn muffin was one of the best pastries I've had! I love anything corn flavored, and they really made the flavor stand out. I couldn't really taste the blueberries, but I didn't mind this at all. I got the rice and veggie bowl too, and the portions of the rice, squash and avocado were very generous. I enjoyed how creamy the fresh avocado and squash were that it made it very easy to mix them with the black rice. The squash was a little sweet and I liked how it added a flavor contrast among the different ingredients. The only thing I didn't enjoy was the matcha latte, mainly because the matcha powder was bland. There's only street parking, but it's free and there's a lot of spaces in the residential area. read more

This restaurant is a vegan's heaven!I went to lunch here.I ordered the vegan breakfast sandwich.I've never had a sandwich have so much flavor!With the sweet potatoe patty,greens,grilled onions and sauces.It was paired with a salad that had a vinaigrette as well.I also ordered their guava cookies.So healthy and good!The hostess there was nice too! read more

Amara Kitchen - Guava cookies... - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Came here for a quick bite before heading to the doctor. Preparation was fast and service was very accommodating. I had the Chicken Sandwich. It was hearty and comforting. The baguette was just right. The place is simple and no fuss. It's come eat and go. read more

Amara Kitchen - Lots of snacks to choose from! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Food was delicious. Cappuccino was OK. Friendly staff. Sitting available indoors and outdoors. read more

Amara Kitchen - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Went here on rainy Sunday morning. Long line. But line moves quick. Very limited seating inside. So if you're a large party it would be difficult. We were a party of 4 and it was challenging. Not a place you can linger too long because every one is looking for a table. I ordered the purple eggs. I don't even know how to describe this dish. It is an explosion of flavors. There's some guac, different sauces, beets and eggs with salad. It's really very good. I ordered the paleo bread which was yummy too. To drink I ordered the vanilla latte. I didn't love it. The taste of the cashew and almond milk takes a little getting used to. My friend had the burrito and said it was very good. read more

Amara Kitchen - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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My opinion varies on a couple different aspects of this place. The food is good! I got the Amara breakfast plate - it's like something I could make at home, and I mean that in a good way! I could tell the seasonal fruit and compote were fresh, the toast was good, the bison patties were well cooked and the eggs were poached nicely. It is also pretty pricey - although it's good, it's not something I'd return to eat regularly at this price point. My matcha was just okay - it was really grainy at the bottom which tells me they didn't whisk it very well. The ambiance and service are subpar. It was boiling hot inside on a sunny afternoon! It would be nice if they had a fan or AC. Also, I find it odd that you have to get your own silverware and bus your table after. This place is pricey, I came alone and spent almost $40 on my breakfast plate, matcha, and tip. I'd expect that of a more budget friendly spot, but this is not that. Overall, the food is good, my drink was okay at best, ambiance and service could be a lot better. read more

This place is small but mighty. They have a nice menu with lots of healthy options, along with a variety of baked goods. The place is clean and simple and has good coffee. A great neighborhood brunch place with low key service. read more

This is such a cute little hidden gem. Very trendy and I can see why. I was looking up alternative healthier food options that I can go to and actually sit down and enjoy. I just needed something to add to my list of good quality food restaurants. Parking is a little tough but I was able to get a parking space nearby up the street. There was a line as soon as I walked in didn't know but you can grab a menu on the side right in the front when you walk in. I was a little lost and confused at first but was able to grab a menu right in time to order. The have indoor and outdoor eating. It was such a beautiful day that we had to sit outside. The staff was very welcoming and friendly. I didn't really know what to order but I ordered my mom the tuna on sourdough and I had the chicken burrito. Mind you everything is fresh and organic. I also ordered a half size of the market fruit basil salad, the rose tea and black tea for my mom and a hot chi tea latte for myself. Let me tell you everything was so flavorful and delicious. My mom said this was some of the best tuna she's had in awhile, and after I tried it, I wanted one for myself. I wanted the chicken burrito and tuna. The burrito was so flavorful with the grilled chesse on the outside of the tortilla and the sauce on the side added a nice little touch. The salad was so good. Fresh fruit and the beets. Yum. I want to come back just to try their breakfast. I missed out on the brownie and cookie from what I heard is absolutely delicious. I will definitely be back. Fresh food, farmers market fruit on the salad and in-house made desserts, I'm all in. read more

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Stopped here for a quick to-go pickup for lunch earlier this week. I was in the area, and the menu looked good. When I got there, there was still an hour before they closed, but the employees were already starting to clean up and get ready to close. The cashier wasn't very friendly, but she took my order and then went back to cleaning. The inside was pretty cute, but there was only like one other table occupied while I was there. And then one outside on the sidewalk. I'm sure it gets busy earlier in the day though because I was there around 3ish. It only took maybe 10 minutes to get my food, which wasn't a bad wait time. And luckily, the food was good! I got the spicy chicken quinoa bowl. So flavorful and the chicken was perfect. I thought it was going to be warm though and it was more like a cold salad. But honestly, I was fine with that because it was kind of a hot day. It could have been a bit spicier though. It wasn't really spicy by my standards. Overall a pretty good experience. I would def come back to try other items and drinks if I'm in the area again. read more

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amazing high quality food! i got the tuna roast on sourdough.. chefs kiss!! Such high quality meal served so quickly, beautiful clean place and food made with high quality ingredients!! read more

Amara Kitchen - Tuna toast - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Food is decent, but this experience picking up was horrible. Came in to pick up and waited 15 minutes with my order sitting right there. Asked about it and was told it's not ready. Why? Because a group of people had just walked in and taking all their orders I guess was a priority . I asked again after a few minutes and I was told she would ask the back. After 15 minutes of watching her just continue to take peoples orders I ask again. She replies sorry I forgot, we must just not have it and walks away. I asked again another employee abut it and they literally turn around and grab the bag sitting there the entire time and say oh is this it? Granted they were very happy to help and I didn't want to take out my frustration on them because it wasn't their fault. They were busy the entire time making orders. Either way. Won't be back. read more

A very solid breakfast cafe. I got the breakfast burrito and the buckwheat pancake. I did not realize that the burrito was going to be meatless, but it was still quite good. The aïoli or whatever sauce it came with, was very good as well. To me, the buckwheat pancake was a stand out between the two. I love the texture of the pancake, and the raspberry compote that came on top was quite delicious. The ambiance was nothing exceptional, but clean. The service was efficient, and the bathroom was really nice and clean as well. read more

Amara Kitchen - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I have had Amara Kitchen twice. Once as a pick-up order and today we ate in. The food is good not great. I can't say it is anything spectacular, but they have healthier options that leave you feeling good after eating them and not weighed down. We've come here multiple times because of the restaurant's ability to accommodate gluten free and dairy free restrictions. The service is literally nonexistent. Apathetic tends to be their stance towards their customers. If service is important to you, this is not the place. But if you just want to get some healthier bites and bounce, it is decent! read more

If you're in the area and need to find a breakfast/lunch spot with a "healthy" or veggie/vegan friendly menu, Amara is a solid choice. It's a little yuppie for my taste, personally. Very "LA." The standard breakfast burrito just seemed a bit more avant-garde than I normally like (give me classic bacon, eggs, potatoes and cheese please) but everybody I've brought here seems to enjoy it. read more

Grace and staff were terrific. Very friendly and accommodating. The food was authentic and fresh. Can't wait to be back!

we had catering by Amara Kitchen and the food was so wonderful and the staff member onsite, Frankie, was an absolute gem! I will definitely go in for a meal and request Amara Kitchen for catering again! read more

I came here because I learned there are no seed oils on premises and they use mostly organic produce. Very happy with my visit and hope to come back soon. Service was brilliant as they happily accommodated my requests and the quality of food was high. Loved the ambience very much. The only thing was the toilet needs to be fixed ASAP. That is unacceptable for customers. Overall , great find read more

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Amazing food. I had the breakfast burrito and almond pancakes. Bus your own tables. Street parking, not to busy on the Fourth of July. They close at 1pm. Ambiance is very friendly neighborhood style. Lots of locals eat here. Service very friendly. read more

Amara Kitchen - Breakfast burrito - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Tucked away on a quiet little street in Highland Park is this little gem of a restaurant. We ordered the chicken salad and spicy chicken guinoa bowl, and both were delicious. We also took one of their scrumptious almond butter fudge brownie home with us ... since the salad and bowl were very filling. There are several tables inside as well as outdoor seating to bring your pet. Street parking only. We'll be back again! read more

Amara Kitchen - Spicy chicken quinoa bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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This place is soooo good. I'm definitely coming back! Note the street parking only and it gets fairly crowded on a weekend brunch hour. You order at the front. HIHO Falafel was fantastic. If you love Falafel as much as I love Falafel, this is a must try. Very flavorful and I liked that it came with a side spring salad. Purple Eggs were tasty. Unfortunately the poached eggs had settled to a hard boil once it arrived but this is also a solid option and was flavorful. The edible flower isn't that good so avoid eating that. I wouldn't recommend the Matcha Rose Palmer as a drink as the matcha didn't mix well with the Arnold Palmer. Tasted more like a "green drink" if that makes sense. Not as sweet as I would've liked. Can't wait to try other options here especially that bison ragu! read more

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The presentation was appealing and the food was very Delicious. I would definitely go back and recommend it.

I was meeting some friends to tour JPL and we decided to grab food beforehand. One of them recommended going to Amara Kitchen. We found street parking nearby as there is no dedicated lot. The interior is small but there are also a few tables outside. Service was fine but interaction is minimal as you order and pay at the counter first (fast casual style). You will get a number if you dine in and they will bring your food to your table (caution that there can be quite a wait when it's busy). Get your own utensils and napkins on the rack, and bus your own dishes after you finish eating. I ordered the Green Eggs, Asparagus Frittata, and Matcha Rose Palmer. The matcha drink was unsweetened and I couldn't really taste the rose or the lemonade part of the palmer. The frittata was cold. The green eggs were beautifully presented, and the paleo bread very seedy/nutty. Overall, the food was very pricey and I think I personally prefer more hot and savory foods. The online menu listed several soups but they showed as out of stock and only bone broth was on the menu in the restaurant. I don't think Amara is the place for me, but it definitely suits those with specific dietary restrictions and is clearly a very popular restaurant (not that busy at 11AM on Sunday when we arrived, but was packed with a line out the door by the time we left at noon). read more

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I'm sorry this place is insane. $7.25 for a mediocre matcha !? $17 for a breakfast sandwich? Ambiance is totally lackluster so it's not like you're paying for a vibe... they gotta figure their shiz out read more

If I could give them 10 stars I would! I love a good fresh tasty and hearty salad and Amara delivers. I know they are known for their green and purple eggs but I'm here for their CHICKE SALAD! LARGE CHUNKS OF ORGANIC CHICKEN BREAST, fresh mix greens and herbs, pickled cabbage and onions (I ordered extra bc it's that good) and homemade pesto dressing. I can't say enough about how much I crave this salad after a hike or when im on my health kick but don't wanna compromise taste. The workers here are all so friendly and the ambience is like a nice friendly huge welcoming a newbie into town. Come on a weekday when it's slower to take advantage of the vibes. I'm sure it gets packed. Only strike I can see is parking. It's in a neighborhood and street parking can be tight. I'll see you at Amara!! read more

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I had the hiho falafel and chicken burrito/wrap, so damn good! Very filling, makes you feel good after eating. I also had the Matcha iced latte with housemade Almond cashew. milk, bomb.com. read more

Delicious and fresh food served fast! Service is always great and welcoming. Outside and inside seating area and never too packed! read more

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Delicious simple colorful food. Their paleo bread is so worth it!! Nice area to sit inside and outside. The portions were decently sized and the service was awesome. read more

Amara Kitchen - Chicken salad - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I've only tried the matcha latte's & vanilla latte's here. the matcha latte was enjoyable - it had the perfect sweetness and creaminess level! the vanilla latte did not taste good at all on both occasions that I ordered it. limited seating. this is a place you go by yourself or to meet a friend. not ideal for groups. also, staff isn't that friendly for being right in the barrio. i've never been welcomed or acknowledged until staff was ready to take my money. nice to stop by if you're by the park and want something convenient. read more

I have loved eating here for years but unfortunately I the service has gone to complete shit. I ordered online with DoorDash and whoever was working this day waited an hour to tell me they were out of what I ordered. When I tried to talk to them about this, they hung up on me and told the Dasher that they refused to speak to me... Just why?? It would have been so easy to have a conversation and try to make it better, but they were so disrespectful and hung up the phone. They also refused to help me cancel my order and forced me to take time out of my work day to call DoorDash myself. Your front of house employees are extremely rude and are losing you business. I won't be eating here again and will make sure to let my friends know how horrible the service is now. read more

If you happen to live in the Pasadena area or road trippin' thru like I was, this is a great little neighborhood place to stop at. What it lacks in space it makes up for it with the food. I had the Amara burrito and it was delicious! The potatoes were cooked perfectly, the avocado was perfect, and everything just melted together beautifully. There are a few tables outside and a few more inside. You order at the counter and grab a seat, someone brings the food out to you. After you are done you have to bus your own table. Parking is on the street, but there was plenty of space. Highly recommend and I look forward to going there again when I'm back. read more

Amara Kitchen - Amara burrito - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Such clean tasty food - love the people who work here. Always grateful when it is not too crowded. Bison sausage breakfast burrito? yum - almond pancakes - fire. read more

Oof, always sad when you experience a 2-star experience with food. I came here on a weekday after running errands, and was craving some American breakfast/brunch food. Decided to order the Buckwheat Pancakes because I had it once at another restaurant, and missed the special texture of buckwheat pancakes. However, the buckwheat pancakes at Amara Kitchen left MUCH to be desired. The pancakes were soggy and wet, what more is there to say? Paid $14 pre-tax/tip for something I couldn't even finish half of due to how terrible it tasted... (also, on the website it's showing the buckwheat pancake to cost $9, while I paid $14 - either update the website or charge what you say you will). Sad to say, their buckwheat pancakes tasted terrible compared to other restaurants I've had it at. No good, will not be returning. PS. Even for dine-in, possibly due to covid, they're only providing disposable plates/utensils. So if you wanted to take nice pictures of your food, this isn't going to be it. read more

Amara Kitchen - IG: @lindathefoodie - buckwheat pancakes SKIP - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This quaint little spot in Highland Park never disappoints. I've been coming here from time to time since they first opened their doors ~. I just had breakfast here this morning which prompted me to write a long overdue 5 star review! The food is always on point ~ My favorite is their Paleo Pancakes .. OMG they are seriously delicious.... This morning I tried their "purple eggs". Two poached eggs over purple potatoe "patties" pesto and mixed greens (I eliminated the beets). So good So healthy. You always feel great leaving this place ~. Anytime I'm in the area I love coming here for breakfast ... I'll be seeing you real soon!! read more

Amara Kitchen - "Purple Eggs" - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

We love going to Amara Kitchen in Highland Park. It is our favorite healthy food restaurant that has an excellent blend of vegetables and vegetarian options for anyone to try. We have been visiting the place multiple times each year for 10 years since it is so close to Alhambra and the San Gabriel Valley. They are dog friendly and carry non-dairy options for healthy eating. I highly recommend the restaurant for anyone in the SGV or Glendale area or locally in Eagle Rock/Highland Park area. read more

Stopped by for a quick bite. Ordered the bison ragú bowl- nice clean meal , excellent portion as well as 1 buckwheat pancake for dessert. Great atmosphere to connect with friends. read more

Amara Kitchen - bison ragu bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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