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    Cena Vegan

    4.5 (594 reviews)
    Closed 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
    Updated 1 month ago

    Order Cena Vegan Takeout or Delivery

    Cena Vegan Photos

    CENA VEGAN ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for groups
    Good for kids

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    Birria tacos and consommé
    Jocelyn D.

    Cena vegan makes the best vegan Mexican food out there. I've tried a few and none compare to cena vegan. I've been a loyal customer since before 2020. Back when they had their product in Lassens. Hands down the best. I've had a little of all their products and my favorite is their birria and alpastor. If you're hesitant to try Cena Vegan, this is your sign to do it.

    Carne asada nachos
    Kelly D.

    Although this is not a sit down restaurant, I interacted with one of the staff and I really appreciated them. Nice guy. You order there or ahead (best) and you find street parking right outside and text them that you're there and they'll bring out your food. There are so many meat options I didn't know which one to choose. I got carne asada for my nachos and chicken for my burrito. I think chicken was the better option. Nachos honestly wasn't that great. Looked better than it taste. Burrito was good. I didn't get any wow factors but the burrito took care of my hunger and cravings. I'd come back if I was in the area but wouldn't go out of my way.

    Evonna Annove' W.

    Yalll don't listen to the most recent reviews... I just got Cena Vegan today at their reg location and OMG it's the most flavorful I've ever tasted it. Every single bite hits the spot!!! The horchata is HANDS DOWN THE BEST IN CALI FOR VEGAN HORCHATA!!! I'm literally still sitting here writing this review. I'm so glad I made this drive. It'll ALWAYS BE WORTH IT!!! Thank you for being consistent and please never leave; you're so loved!!

    Deidre M.

    Awful! I ordered last night after not having this spot in a year or so, and wow it's gross. 4 taco plate was dry flavorless "meats" and they didn't put the Crema on it nor provide salsas. The beans and rice bland and gummy texture--tortilla being only redeeming quality. Chips were good but healthy, and the "medium" and "mild" salsa (1 small each) tasted weird also--both were weird consistency, the red being peppery and green (bright green) reminiscent of mint chutney you'd get with an Indian samosa. What happened?!

    Menu
    Claudia T.

    My first time trying their food and it did not disappoint. The quality, quantity of the food, drinks and the salsa were excellent! I tried the horchata, Bug Vegan Burrito with the mushroom guisado while my husband tried the Big Vegan Burrito with the carne asada and a side of fries. The red salsa is spicy, it has a kick and sooo good! The green salsa is more on the mild but still delicious. I appreciate that they gave us extra salsa on the side. The horchata was probably one of the best I have had with the flavor being closer to regular horchata but without the dairy. The burrito is massive and super filling. They do not sell you short of ingredients because my burrito had plenty or rice, beans, guacamole, and mushrooms guidado and it was still warm. Our order took about 15 minutes to be ready so the wait wasn't long at around 3pm on a Sunday. Order and pickup: you order ahead (they have a link on here but make sure it's for the correct location). Once you order they will notify you (via text and/or email). You can park right in front of their location to pickup which is across from the park and the sign is posted on the black building with a mural painted on it. They have the phone number posted so you text the that you have arrived and they bring your order to you. The staff was super sweet who brought the order out. Location outside was clean and they have plenty of signs to know it's the location.

    Nachos
    Jessica R.

    This is one of my favorite places to visit during pop ups and I even have been to their old location in Highland Park! Last weekend, I attended the Vegan Street Fair in Westwood and paid them a visit. I had their nachos with Barbacoa "meat" and it was so wonderful. The chips were very crunchy and crisp and fresh tasting. The nachos were fully loaded the savory faux meat, guacamole and the most indulgent crema sauce that really brought everything together. I opted for a medium salsa and it was so perfectly spiced. The tomatoes were also very juicy and balanced out the faux meat well. The staff were so friendly and prompt, ensuring the food came out quickly without sacrificing the quality of the food. It's such a great value, only being $16, which felt like quite a steal considering how much food was given and that they were at a pricy street food festival! Definitely recommend paying them a visit if you see them at any popup!

    Nachos with carnitas
    Renee N.

    If you are looking for a plant based spot, without missing the flavor and texture of meat and dairy- don't sleep on this spot. First, you gotta order ahead with the QR code because this is a pick up location. Once your order is ready they notify you and you text them when you are right out front (no need to get off your car), they take it to you. Curbside delivery for the win! Location is right across from Lincoln Park. Don't blink because you'll miss the door. Building is all black and right next to the Mission. Food was delicious. Red salsa lacked flavor, but the green was on point!! Their dairy free Horchatta is so dang delicious and refreshing.

    100% plant based. Taco Trio - "carne asada", barbacoa, "birria de res"
    Brian V.

    Plant-based/vegan taco spot. It's located out of one of those ghost kitchens (I think that's what they're called). Basically you pull up the menu on a scannable QR code out front and you order. When I went, I was actually greeted by a person because they were bringing out another order so I was able to order from them directly. The vibe is pretty similar to other ghost kitchens if you've ever been to one. After putting my order a few minutes later, the food came out and it's pretty much take out exclusively. I ordered the 100% plant based Taco Trio - "carne asada", barbacoa, "birria de res. Lots of great flavors on freshly made tortillas. Each taco and each bite was super delicious. I'm not vegan, but I could eat these all day. If you are vegan or are trying to cut back a lot on meat (like me) then this is a fantastic spot to get tacos.

    Taco Trio
    Misty E.

    Tried their food truck at Smorgasborg for the 2nd time and it was yummy. You get a lot of food, especially with the nachos. I cannot believe it's vegan. Delicious! The tacos were my favorite because you can choose different taco options for the trio. Freshly made and yummy!

    Quintin E.

    How I have not reviewed one of my favorite spots in SoCal is beyond me... Cena Vegan makes my second favorite Mexican food in Los Angeles (runner up to El Cocinero in Van Nuys). I've had the pleasure of enjoying them at Vegan Exchange, various pop ups and most recently at a Sunday Funday via Smorgasburg with the squad #PartyOfSix (+One) The burritos are something to not just admire, but enjoy. The Big Vegan Burrito is loaded with beans, guac, rice, pico de gallo (so fresh), salsa, cashew based chipotle crema and your choice of their Barbacoa, Carnitas, Birria (these three all gluten free) or Pollo Asado, Carne Asada or Al Pastor. And the the options like the portions do not disappoint! I couldn't even completely finish my order of Big Vegan Nachos... Which after devouring the first few bites I remember my first time enjoying these - definitely better for sharing. At Cena Vegan you can enjoy Tacos, Bowls, Nachos, Burritos, Sides, Drinks (Agua Frescas, Soda, Water), one of the best cookies ever and Platos. Orders are typically fast even when busy, but roughly diez minutos. Fresh hot flavorful street style Mexican eats that happens to be 1000% plant-based. If at Smorgasburg, you'll usually catch them on the far back row of vendors from the entrance - often next to Man Eating Plant Food Bus. Additionally they do catering and have a permanent location via Lincoln Heights that's open all 7 days of the week. Catch them at LA Kitchen - Whittier Brewing and the Hollywood Farmer's market as well. They're everywhere and anywhere the can be serving up great service, casual cool authentic energy and of course amazing food.

    Big Vegan Torta
    Jay S.

    I didn't get to try the tacos last time, so I tried them and I have to say I wasn't very impressed 3/5 for the tacos, but I did like the horchata! It's only a to-go place so there was no real ambiance but the service was friendly as always.

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    6 months ago

    The food is always good and the selection is remarkable for a vegan spot! Love to be able to support small local businesses hustling.

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    2 years ago

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    2 months ago

    Very good food!! A little hard to find pickup spot but the tacos were amazing. The pulled pork was great

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    3 months ago

    Incredible vegan burritos, vegan tacos, flavorful salsa, and fresh chips. Absolutely coming back when I'm in the area.

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    3 months ago

    Ordering and pickup were easy and fast. The food was very good, spicy hot sauce! First time and would come here again

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    Cena Vegan Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Cena Vegan

    Does anyone know how the masa for the tamales is made? Looking for low fat vegan tamales.

    Peace. if anyone can tell me what menu options are soy-free? that would be most helpful. thank you. bless

    Is this Ave 25 place a restaurant? Can I just show up and order? Do you take credit cards? I haven't had this since you stopped coming to York and I'm hungry.

    It's a kitchen... you can order and have it delivered through Postmates. Not a restaurant.

    Do you guys have real meat or just GMO fake meat?

    It's called Cena VEGAN. It's 100% Vegan.

    Are they pet friendly to dine in?

    It's a pickup location so not actually any space to eat at.

    First fine going here tomorrow what is the best choice of meat?

    I think that the carne asada is the best!!

    This is 100% vegan?

    Yes!!! And Amazing!

    Are they open on Saturday's cause it says closed today?

    Hi Brandy - this is their online calendar.https://www.cenavegan.com/event-calendar

    What time are they on York and are they there everyday? Can't find hours/days of operation on their page.

    Tuesdays and Fridays they open at 6pm and will stay until 11pm. they're also in DTLA and Hollywood on Sundays

    Is the food truck there every day?

    No! They post when they'll be there on their Instagram @cenavegan

    Do they take card?

    Yes

    Are they open right now?

    Yes at smorgasbord dtla

    What are the hours?

    Tuesday's and Fridays Highland Park 6-10 or till they sell out and I believe Sunday at Smorgasbord 10-4. I would advice anyone looking for hours to follow their Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/cenavegan

    What are normal operating hours?

    On York they are there Tuesdays and Fridays from 6pm-midnight or while supplies last. They are very good about posting on Instagram when and where they will be places. I would follow them @cenavegan… 

    How's parking? Lot? Street?

    They're a food truck so you just have to park on the street somewhere. They're usually in highland park with others vegan food trucks, or well at least the last time I went, which was in march.

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    Ka'teen

    Ka'teen

    4.1
    (1.1k reviews)
    7.5 mi
    Outdoor seating
    Private events

    Came here for my friend's birthday dinner, and it ended up being such a fun spot for my group. The…read moreatmosphere was probably my favorite part--dim lighting, beautiful decor, and it definitely has that trendy vibe that's perfect for celebrating or catching up with friends. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, and everything was presented really well. The enchiladas were flavorful, the grilled fish was cooked perfectly, and the tortillas with the short rib were a table favorite. Portions were great for sharing, and the sauces really tied everything together. Service was friendly and our server checked in on us throughout the night without making us feel rushed. It did get a little busy, so there were a few waits between courses, but nothing that took away from the experience. Overall Great atmosphere, solid food, and a fun place for birthdays or date nights. I'd definitely come back!!

    Let me start off with this review is long overdue. I went during DineLA week (Jan 2026). The…read moreambiance and space was beautiful. It really felt like I transported to Tulum or some paradise. Service was good, attentive. The food however..my friend and I found it very salty all around. I had to balance the saltiness with water!! I was especially excited for the michelda oysters but all I tasted was tajin. I think the star of the show was the churro. It was fabulous, give me 10 more. I wouldn't return for the food but for the drinks. The space is truly breathtaking and I'd want to surround myself with that typa vibe.

    Photos
    Ka'teen
    Ka'teen
    Ka'teen

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    DAMA

    DAMA

    4.4
    (1.4k reviews)
    3.5 mi
    $$$

    I LOVE DAMA. If I could give this place more than five stars, I absolutely would. I've been coming…read morehere for the past six years, and it has truly become my favorite restaurant. From the exceptional food and drinks to the warm hospitality and beautiful location, every visit is a wonderful experience. the service is always welcoming and attentive. I've recommended DAMA to so many friends over the years, and it has become a favorite for them as well. It's rare to find a restaurant that maintains such a high standard year after year, but DAMA does exactly that. I truly love this place and can't recommend it enough. I have several favorite dishes and celebrated many birthdays here. Thank you for six incredible years--I look forward to many more.

    Was brought here by a friend as they knew I was a foodie and wanted to show me their favorite tapas…read morespot Downtown in the Fashion Distric for an early birthday celebration. Cute building with lovely patio seating: from the trailing hanging pothos plants, Spanish tiles, to relaxing latin-house music the vibes were welcoming. I'm not much of a drinker though, when asked if I wanted to make my pina colada a "float" I thought incorrectly about ice cream. It was graciously explained that you take an additional shot of rum and float it on top of the drink or mix in to make it extra boozy. The pina colada is top notch they hollow out a real pineapple to make the drink and it's the size of your face! The watermelon cocktail was delicious and there is also a mezcal option. Tasted like if a watermelon aqua Fresca was combined with a margarita, there is a hint of salt that brings out the fruit sweetness. We special ordered a bunch of different proteins and vegetables at half portions to make a feast: Aguachile- Light refreshing starter, kanpachi perfectly marinated and great for the summer heat. Crispy potato- Phenomenally done fingerling potatoes. Whipped beans- Carnitas on top made this dish. Fried chicken tacos- Found the chicken slightly on the dry side, if there was a creamy/thicker sauce would be even better... nothing wrong with flavor, good mild heat. I did enjoy the fresh shredded cabbage and carrots, reminded me of bahn mi. Empanadas- Loved the acidity of the sauce that cut through the fattiness of the ground meat. Light shell. Crispy Squash flower- Delicate crunch, like an angelic version of a jalapeno popper. Lamb chops- Definition of "treat-yourself" luxurious meat lollipops. Celery salad- Simple dish but the lemon flavor and tartness really helped break up the richness of other dishes. Churros- Light crunch and small, petite dessert. The thin caramel sauce is addicting. Fine dining, for those special occasions or if you just want to splurge for a morale boost highly recommend this restaurant. Valet parking or park across the street or around the corner in a lot for $5-10.

    Photos
    Lovely interior and decor -- summer getaway
    Lovely interior and decor -- summer getaway
    Calamari
    Calamari
    Whole Organic Rotisserie Chicken Dinner (serves 3-4)

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    Whole Organic Rotisserie Chicken Dinner (serves 3-4)
    Guelaguetza Restaurante

    Guelaguetza Restaurante

    3.9
    (3.2k reviews)
    5.5 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated

    Came here to watch the World Cup game and it was a VIBBBBBBE…read more Great accommodating staff, they really were on top of cleaning up the tables and filling up our drinks The food was AMAZING! I recently visited Oaxaca & this is exactly like their mole. So. Good. Can't recommend this place MORE. Take your friends, family, coworkers they have large party friendly seating Definitely will be coming here again!

    If you're looking for authentic Oaxacan cuisine in Los Angeles, Guelaguetza Oaxacan Restaurant is a…read moremust-visit. Located between Koreatown and Pico-Union, this restaurant delivers an outstanding dining experience from the moment you're seated. My wife and I both ordered the Mole Coloradito with chicken, and it was absolutely delicious. One detail we really appreciated was being able to choose between white meat or dark meat--a thoughtful touch that lets you customize your meal to your preference. The mole was rich, complex, and full of flavor, exactly what you would hope for from a restaurant known for its Oaxacan specialties. As a welcome appetizer, they bring fresh chips and salsa to the table, but what really impressed us was when they replaced the salsa with their incredible mole sauce. It was so good we found ourselves dipping everything into it. Both meals were served with rice that was perfectly cooked with a great consistency and flavor. For those feeling adventurous, give the Chapulines (grasshoppers) a try. They may sound intimidating, but they were surprisingly enjoyable and added to the authentic experience. The staff was exceptionally friendly, attentive, and patient with those of us who are not fluent in Spanish. Their hospitality made us feel comfortable and welcomed throughout our visit. Great food, authentic flavors, and wonderful service make Guelaguetza a restaurant we'll definitely be returning to. Highly recommended!

    Photos
    Beautifully painted mural outside of Guelaguetza Restaurante
    Beautifully painted mural outside of Guelaguetza Restaurante
    Chapulines
    Chapulines
    Delicious chocolate cake.

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    Delicious chocolate cake.
    Mirate

    Mirate

    4.2
    (1.2k reviews)
    5.5 mi
    Private events
    Outdoor seating

    Instructions: 1. Somehow find parking. I guess…read more 2. Enter the restaurant. From the back or from the front - who knows! 3. Marvel at the massive, architectural wonder of the restaurant. 4. Sit down, look at the small but fancy menu, confused. 5. Just order things. 6. Smile. Notable Mentions: 1. The restaurant really is that massive. It's pretty, I'm pretty sure it has multiple bars, and it's multi-storied. Well-designed. Well-done. I didn't think you could just have something like this in LA. 2. The drinks, oh, the drinks. I know a lot of people come here just for this, but they really are tasty, inventive, unique. And the garnishes might just surprise you! (look carefully at the pictures) 3. The food is also just great. This was for dinner. 10/10 would return.

    I was really hoping to leave a positive review, but unfortunately that wasn't the case…read more I've been to Mirate before on June 20, and my experience then was nothing like my visit on July 10, 2026. One of the reasons I recommended Mirate is because it's known for being a highly rated modern Mexican restaurant with exceptional service and knowledgeable staff, especially when it comes to tequila and mezcal. Unfortunately, that was not my experience at all. Before ordering food, I asked our server about the differences between the mezcals and which flight they would recommend. The only explanation I received was, "It's just different families, so I'd go with the higher quality one." There was no real information or guidance, and it was obvious they didn't know much about the mezcal selection. I ended up choosing one based solely on what sounded best. We were then informed that the menu had recently changed and is now mostly tapas. That's perfectly fine, but I noticed several items from my previous visit were still available, so I figured I'd order a few favorites along with some new dishes. Most of the food was actually great. The ribeye tacos, tostada, and buñuelitos were all delicious. However, the carne asada was extremely disappointing. We only sent back one plate because I felt bad sending both, and that's when a manager (the gentleman with the man bun) came over. He explained that they have a new chef from Oaxaca, but what confused me was that they were serving Argentinian-style steaks as their carne asada. Instead of a traditional Mexican-style cut, it was thin, flat, and honestly looked like a breakfast steak. For a restaurant that prides itself on being a modern Mexican restaurant, serving Argentinian steak as carne asada just didn't make sense to me. To his credit, he removed both carne asada plates from our bill, which I genuinely appreciated. After that, he asked if there was anything else we'd like. I personally said no, but someone else at the table asked for one more ribeye taco. The manager replied, "You know what? I'll bring you one, and I'll bring them another too." Naturally, I assumed he was offering the extra taco as a goodwill gesture since I hadn't ordered anything else. Imagine my surprise when I looked at the bill and realized both tacos had been added to our tab. I wasn't going to argue over the price of a taco, but it was frustrating because I never asked for it. In fact, I ended up giving that taco away to my friends. If it wasn't complimentary, it shouldn't have been presented as if it were. Another thing worth mentioning is that while the carne asada portion has clearly gotten much smaller, the price remains exactly the same, which doesn't seem justified. Overall, my biggest disappointment is that there was no indication when making the reservation that this was essentially an experimental period with a new chef introducing major menu changes. Had I known beforehand, I never would have recommended Mirate for our dinner, and to be completely honest, I probably wouldn't have made a reservation at all. I only get two days off each month, so this was supposed to be something I could really enjoy. Instead, it honestly felt like a waste of my time and money. I'm sorry to say that while there were a few good moments, they faded very quickly. Unfortunately, the negative parts are what have stayed with me, and that's what I'll remember most about the experience. It's disappointing because I know how great Mirate can be since I experienced it just a few weeks ago. I truly hope they can regain the quality of food, service, and overall experience that made me recommend it in the first place . ( for the picture of the flat carne asada the full steak has 2 more strips added but we had tried it before taking a picture however that's MOST of the "carne asada" portion in the picture )

    Photos
    Brunch
    Brunch
    Mirate
    Brunch

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    Brunch

    Cena Vegan - mexican - Updated August 2026

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