Dairy-Free Southern California: Best Restaurants & Shops by City

Last Update in May 2023! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in Southern California that are friendly to dairy-free diners. And it’s a big one! It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!) that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And we’ve started a section for specialty dairy-free foods produced in this state.

We Update Continuously! You can ignore the original date on this post going forward. We update the information below whenever we’re alerted to a new recommendation, change, or closure.

Photo from Creamo, an all-vegan ice cream shop in Los Angeles, California

Dairy-Free Southern California: Recommended Restaurants & Shops

If you are looking for San Diego Area options (Ocenside to Chula Vista), see our San Diego Dairy-Free Guide. And we have an exclusive Dairy-Free Disneyland Guide. The guide below covers the rest of SoCal. We’ve listed these recommendations alphabetically by city and then by the restaurant or shop name. For large chains with locations throughout the state, see the Major Restaurant & Grocery Chains section below. We have dedicated posts with dairy-free details for many of the big guys.

⭐️ = Restaurant is either dairy-free, has a dairy-free menu, has dairy-free labels on their menu(s), or lists top allergens with menu items. (At the time of our last review.)

Agoura Hills

Clean Juice – They make their own cold-pressed cashew milks and offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothie bowls, smoothies, toasts, and some other eats. Please note that their flatbread wraps (the bread itself) contain dairy, but all other menu items can be ordered dairy-free by omitting the cheese or substituting vegan protein for the whey protein (in the proteins smoothies).
Sage Vegan Bistro ⭐️ – Before you hit the hustle and bustle of L.A., you can stop at this popular dining spot. It was recommended to us by reader Tiffany. “Sage has a wide variety of foods, some Mexican inspired, and a hearty drink/juice/smoothie menu, too. Their buffalo cauliflower and jackfruit tacos are soo tasty. They also serve a nice brunch.”
Tifa Chocolate and Gelato – They scoop some creamy vegan gelato flavors (like peanut butter, dark chocolate, and chocolate chip), and also offer fruity dairy-free sorbettos. On the chocolate side, they have a selection of vegan truffles.

Aliso Viejo

Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.

Anaheim

Fire + Ice – Janet recommended this restaurant for dairy-free lunch, dinner, and brunch options. It’s a Mongolian BBQ type place, but they offer a global array of flavors. Since you pick your own ingredients, it makes it easy to order without dairy and choose the right sauces. Janet said, “If the grill has already been used or is being used for things that shouldn’t be anywhere near my food, they take mine to the back and cook it in a separate pan and deliver it to my table.”
Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Thuyen Vien Vietnamese ⭐️ – Most Vietnamese food is naturally dairy-free, but this restaurant guarantees it with their all-vegan menu. They specialize in plant-rich dishes and mock meats, but also offer some popular desserts, like dairy-free cheesecake and flan. This is a tofu and soy-heavy restaurant.
True Seasons Organic Kitchen – This fusion restaurant serves Asian-inspired meals that are naturally dairy free, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their produce is always local, their meats are raised without antibiotics and hormones, and their seafood is wild caught. Dairy is used in some of their bubble teas and desserts, but they offer dairy-free smoothies, coconut boba tea, and vegan organic gelato and popsicles. The menu also includes labeled items for gluten-free and vegan diners. The Chef at True Seasons even reached out to us to share this Nopales Cactus Salad Recipe.

See Our Dairy-Free Disneyland Guide for more Anaheim options. It includes Disneyland Park, California Adventure, Downtown Disney, and the Disney on-site hotels.

Arcadia

Din Tai Fung – This is an upscale Taiwanese chain that specializes in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine. They offer a full allergen and special diet chart, and, at last check, all of their savory menu items were dairy-free and all but one of their sweet bao was dairy-free (most are vegan!). They do use milk in some beverage items.
Holy Roly – This rolled ice cream shop has vegan coconut and mango base options, with several fruit and Oreo cookie mix-ins to choose from.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.

Artesia

Pizza Twist – They have an extensive vegan pizza menu with dairy-free cheese, all types of sauces, and a plethora of dairy-free toppings. Almost any pizza on their menu can be ordered without dairy.

Bakersfield

Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.
PizzaRev – This build-your-own pizza joint has four dairy-free pizza crusts (two of which are gluten-free, and three of which are vegan), Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative, and most of their sauces and toppings are dairy-free (skip the alfredo, pesto, and meatballs). They also offer Beyond Meat sausage for vegan guests.
Pizza Twist – They have an extensive vegan pizza menu with dairy-free cheese, all types of sauces, and a plethora of dairy-free toppings. Almost any pizza on their menu can be ordered without dairy.
Shake ‘N Buns ⭐️ – They offer dairy-free ice cream, milkshakes, and floats, and have a full plant-based menu with burgers, “cheesesteaks,” buffalo and “cheese” fries, and more. Most of their classic burgers can be custom ordered dairy free.

Beverly Hills

Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Juice Crafters ⭐️ – There’s no shortage of juice shops in California, but this one is reportedly dairy-free. Their menu includes a big range of pressed juices, hydration drinks, wellness shots, smoothies, and acai bowls. For a creamy finish, they use their own date-sweetened almond nut mylk.
Ladurée – The Beverly Hills location of this French Patisserie chain has partnered with chef Matthew Kenney to create a vegan array of menu items. They offer vegan omelettes, salads, chia pudding, pastries, macarons, and sorbets. A few additional savory menu items can be ordered dairy free.
La Colombe – This coffee chain is known for their oatmilk draft lattes, which they also offer on tap. They also usually have some dairy-free baked goodies (some vegan, some with eggs), like quick bread slices and cookies, and biscotti. The options can vary by location, so ask for allergen information at the shop.
LA Gondola ⭐️ – This fine dining restaurant is kosher glatt and dairy-free. They serve an Italian-style menu, but with many global influences.
Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean ⭐️ – Heather recommended this local kosher, dairy-free restaurant chain to us. “They have shawarmas, grilled meats, or a variety of vegetarian options, that come with a variety of salads and side dishes, in addition to rice or couscous.” They also offer dairy-free desserts.

Blythe

Pizza Studio – They have a vegan pizza, complete with vegan “cheese” and “sausage.” Many other pizzas can be ordered dairy-fee with a cheese swap. They also have build your own salads.

Brea

Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain is very friendly to special diets. They offer Daiya vegan cheese alternative, use vegan dough, offer a vegan, gluten-free pizza crust, and have Beyond Meat crumbles. You can also choose organic tomato sauce, housemade marinara sauce, or housemade roasted garlic sauce, and top it with any non-cheese toppings for “just dairy free.” At last check, everything on their menu was dairy-free, except the dairy cheeses, ranch dressings, caesar dressing, basil pesto sauce, and meatballs. But confirm in store before ordering!

Brentwood

Juice Crafters ⭐️ – There’s no shortage of juice shops in California, but this one is reportedly dairy-free. Their menu includes a big range of pressed juices, hydration drinks, wellness shots, smoothies, and acai bowls. For a creamy finish, they use their own date-sweetened almond nut mylk.

Burbank

Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Pizza Studio – They have a vegan pizza, complete with vegan “cheese” and “sausage.” Many other pizzas can be ordered dairy-fee with a cheese swap. They also have build your own salads.
Sweetfin – This Southern California poke chain serves a menu that’s almost purely dairy-free, and even includes a couple flavors of plant-based Dream Pops for dessert. They also have a few plant-based bowls on the menu and offer a plethora of fresh toppings for building your own.
The Baked Bear – This is an ice cream sandwich shop where you choose the cookies and the ice cream. They offer a daily vegan ice cream flavor (like chocolate chip) and have a couple vegan and gluten-free cookie options.
Tocaya Organica – The base menu at this healthy Mexican chain is vegan, but you then choose your protein and/or cheese of choice. They serve salads, bowls, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, soups, and sides, and have dairy-free meats, plant-based meat alternatives, vegan cremas, and cheese alternatives available.
Western Bagel – Every bagel they make is dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free (at last check), and it’s quite a selection. They’re also egg free (except for the egg bagel), since they don’t use an egg wash. They offer standard schmeers, but do have peanut butter, jelly, and some sandwich options for dairy-free customers.
Yummy Cupcakes – Chelsea commented with this recommendation, “They have many vegan cupcakes options available to pre-order and 6 vegan flavors, 2 gluten free flavors, and two gluten free vegan flavors included in their menus that change monthly. I have loved every flavor I have tried and go back often to try new flavors!!” They also make cupcake jars with vegan varieties.

Cabazon

Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.

Calabasas

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.
Tifa Chocolate and Gelato – They scoop some creamy vegan gelato flavors (like peanut butter, dark chocolate, and chocolate chip), and also offer fruity dairy-free sorbettos. On the chocolate side, they have a selection of vegan truffles.

Camarillo

Tifa Chocolate and Gelato – They scoop some creamy vegan gelato flavors (like peanut butter, dark chocolate, and chocolate chip), and also offer fruity dairy-free sorbettos. On the chocolate side, they have a selection of vegan truffles.

Cerritos

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.

Chino

Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.

Claremont

Le Pain Quotidien – This Belgian bake shop has a plethora of dairy-free fresh baked breads, sandwiches, soups, and breakfast bowls (think oats, chia, and granola options). Almond, coconut, and oat milks are available or coffee drinks and tea lattes. And they often a dairy-free pastry or two – ask at your location.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.

Compton

Pizza Studio – They have a vegan pizza, complete with vegan “cheese” and “sausage.” Many other pizzas can be ordered dairy-fee with a cheese swap. They also have build your own salads.

Corona

Cinnaholic – See our Cinnaholic Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
PizzaRev – This build-your-own pizza joint has four dairy-free pizza crusts (two of which are gluten-free, and three of which are vegan), Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative, and most of their sauces and toppings are dairy-free (skip the alfredo, pesto, and meatballs). They also offer Beyond Meat sausage for vegan guests.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Costa Mesa

Breakfast Republic – This local brunch chain has an inset vegan menu, including omelets, “bennies,” and more. They often have specials, like vegan French toast, too. Their menu also includes gluten-free options and some egg items can also be ordered without dairy.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Confetti Italian Ice – Emily recommended this cool spot. “They have a wide selection of ices (similar to sorbet), and nearly all of them are dairy-free.” Their ice cream, or “custard,” is dairy-based, but they also swirl creamy dairy-free Dole whip.
Din Tai Fung – This is an upscale Taiwanese chain that specializes in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine. They offer a full allergen and special diet chart, and, at last check, all of their savory menu items were dairy-free and all but one of their sweet bao was dairy-free (most are vegan!). They do use milk in some beverage items.
Good Town Doughnuts – They make brioche-style doughnuts and have a whole selection of vegan flavors daily.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Native Foods Cafe ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, dairy-free restaurant chain with extensive collection of burgers, bowls, salads, wraps, and more with regional flavor influences from the U.S., Mexico, and Asia. They also have a sizable dessert menu.
Nourish Wellness Cafe ⭐️ – Their healthy, plant-based, all-vegan menu includes plates, bowls, and wraps with ayurvedic influence.
Seabirds Kitchen ⭐️ – This is a plant-based organic restaurant, specializing in Mexican-inspired dishes. They have small plates, tacos, a range of entrees, and a casual but decadent dessert menu. They’re open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee – Most of their donuts are “traditional,” but they offer a seasonal vegan flavor daily. They also offer oat, almond, and coconut milk for lattes.
VEG’D ⭐️ – Renowned chef, Matthew Kenney founded this vegan drive thru restaurant. They took over an old Del Taco space, and created an elevated fast food menu of “plant-forward clean eats” ranging from veggie burgers to salads and bowls.

Culver City

Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Coolhaus Scoop Shop – They now produce pints that ship all over the U.S., but they still have their original scoop shop. They offer several dairy-free flavors.
Go Get Em Tiger – This Los Angeles coffee shop chain has a location in Culver City, where you can also enjoy their drinks made with dairy-free oat milk or housemade almond-macadamia milk. This location has a nice little breakfast and lunch menu, with vegan options like overnight oats, chickpea frittatas, avocado toast, and caesar salad. Many more items can be made dairy free.
LemonShark Poke – They have an interactive allergen menu online, and it brings good news for dairy-free guests. All of their sauces and poke bowl ingredients are dairy-free. The only items that contained dairy at our time of review were the tempura, coconut shrimp, and katsu.
Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
Make Out ⭐️ – This chic take out spot is a Matthew Kenney creation, with a “broad menu of cold pressed juices, smoothies, superfood coffee elixirs and a wide range of raw dishes and desserts.”
Monty’s Good Burger ⭐️ – This all-vegan burger joint makes a selection of burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, tots, and shakes made with Oatly soft serve.
Rising Hearts Bakery ⭐️ – This is a dedicated gluten-free, dairy-free, and peanut-free bakery, and everything they make is also egg-free and vegan. They do use almond flour and other nuts. Their menu is filled with everything you could hope for at a bakery, from bread loaves and bagels to cookies and cupcakes. They also take custom orders and are happy to bake a cake for your special occasion.
Sage Vegan Bistro ⭐️ – Their brewery might be located at their L.A. restaurant, but you can enjoy those brews in their Culver City beer garden. They have plenty of outdoor seating, a great drink menu, and serve plant-based breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts, with something for everyone.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Van Leeuwen ⭐️ – This popular localized ice cream chain sells their pints in grocery stores, but they also have scoop shops. They churn both classic dairy ice cream and a huge array of dairy-free flavors, which are made with cashew and coconut milk or oat milk. They can also make you a vegan ice cream sandwich with chocolate chip cookies, blend a dairy-free milkshake, or craft a sundae with vegan whipped cream, hot fudge, and various other toppings.

Cypress

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.

Dana Point

Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
Vibe Organic Kitchen & Juice ⭐️ – Their entire menu is 100% organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan. They serve breakfast, toasts all day, bowls, burgers, tacos, smoothies, and smoothie bowls.

Downey

Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.

Duarte

One Veg World ⭐️ – This vegan fast food spot has a sizable selection of breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, salads, burritos, appetizers, and even desserts.

Eastvale

JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.

El Segundo

Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Tocaya Organica – The base menu at this healthy Mexican chain is vegan, but you then choose your protein and/or cheese of choice. They serve salads, bowls, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, soups, and sides, and have dairy-free meats, plant-based meat alternatives, vegan cremas, and cheese alternatives available.
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Van Leeuwen ⭐️ – This popular localized ice cream chain sells their pints in grocery stores, but they also have scoop shops. They churn both classic dairy ice cream and a huge array of dairy-free flavors, which are made with cashew and coconut milk or oat milk. They can also make you a vegan ice cream sandwich with chocolate chip cookies, blend a dairy-free milkshake, or craft a sundae with vegan whipped cream, hot fudge, and various other toppings.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.

Encino

Kale My Name ⭐️ – Despite the very specific, healthy name, this vegan restaurant serves a globally-inspired menu that isn’t all that green. They do serve a range of salads, but also have many comfort foods, ranging from pancakes to burgers.
Juice Crafters ⭐️ – There’s no shortage of juice shops in California, but this one is reportedly dairy-free. Their menu includes a big range of pressed juices, hydration drinks, wellness shots, smoothies, and acai bowls. For a creamy finish, they use their own date-sweetened almond nut mylk.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Tel Aviv Grill ⭐️ – This is a local kosher glatt (meat) restaurant chain, which is dairy-free (by kosher dietary laws). It was recommended to us by Heather, “They serve sandwiches or mix plates with various meats or falafel and an assortment of salads.”

Fontana

Pizza Studio – They have a vegan pizza, complete with vegan “cheese” and “sausage.” Many other pizzas can be ordered dairy-fee with a cheese swap. They also have build your own salads.

Fountain Valley

Plant Power Fast Food ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a plant-based, completely vegan, quick-serve restaurant. The menu has many options for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, small bites, drinks, and even desserts. The latter includes dairy-free soft serve ice cream, milkshakes, flurry copycats, kombucha floats, chocolate chip cookies, and cheesecakes. They also have a full breakfast menu with burritos, sandwiches, and “egg” muffins. All burgers can be ordered with their gluten-free bun (extra charge) or a lettuce wrap (free!). They also have an Allergen Guide to identify items without gluten, soy, peanuts, or tree nuts.
Sensitive Sweets ⭐️ – Everything they bake is free of dairy, gluten, eggs, soy, tree nuts, and sesame. And that includes fresh breads, muffins, donuts, cookies, brownies, cupcakes, and more. They rotate in seasonal items, have unique specialties (like cookie dough truffles and popular organic gummy bears), and also create fun and beautiful custom cakes. If you fall in love with this place on your visit, but don’t live in the area, they ship throughout the U.S.!
Taste of Beauty – The menu is mostly dairy-free at this Asian fusion vegetarian restaurant. They even offer vegan tasting menus and have some interesting dairy-free items, like chickpea milk

Fullerton

Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh – This is a build-your-own pita, rice bowl, wrap, salad, gyro, or plate restaurant. The gyro bread and tzatziki contain dairy, but all other types can be made dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, other sauces, toppings (aside from cheese), and baklava were made without milk. They offer allergen information that is very helpful.
Leche – This dairy-free milk maker doesn’t have a storefront, but you can order their flavors online. They also do pop ups and events. They make oat milks, peanut milks, and other surprising blends.

Garden Grove

Almond Haus – Despite the name, this isn’t a purely dairy-free spot, but they do have almond milk for their coffee, boba, and other drinks. They also have a full juice bar, slushes, acai bowls, and more.
Aunt Yese’s Home Cooking – They offer a rather sizable vegan breakfast and lunch menu, filled with tacos, tortas, scrambles, burritos, French toast, pancakes, and more. Some additional menu items can be ordered without dairy.
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters – They pour very popular coffee, and can serve it with your choice of oat milk, almond milk, or soymilk. They even have kombucha and kefir soda for beverage alternatives. But the really draw here is their alter-ego, Skinny Donuts Vegan Craft Donuts.
Hug Life ⭐️ – This “anti-dairy” ice cream shop is purely plant based! Their amazing dessert selection includes ice cream cones (waffle and gluten-free options available), Cornetto-style cones, decadent milkshakes, floats, sundaes, and more.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Vegan Pizza ⭐️ – You guessed it, this is a 100% vegan pizza restaurant. They also serve calzones, pastas, other finger foods, desserts, and even milk teas.

Glendale

Din Tai Fung – This is an upscale Taiwanese chain that specializes in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine. They offer a full allergen and special diet chart, and, at last check, all of their savory menu items were dairy-free and all but one of their sweet bao was dairy-free (most are vegan!). They do use milk in some beverage items.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Le Pain Quotidien – This Belgian bake shop has a plethora of dairy-free fresh baked breads, sandwiches, soups, and breakfast bowls (think oats, chia, and granola options). Almond, coconut, and oat milks are available or coffee drinks and tea lattes. And they often a dairy-free pastry or two – ask at your location.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
Yoga-urt ⭐️- This purely vegan and organic frozen yogurt shop crafts several flavors with an almond and/or cashew milk base, and cultures them with dairy-free live and active probiotics. They have over 25 rotating soft serve flavors that you can order it in a cup or a gluten-free, vegan waffle cone, with or without toppings. They also serve a full menu of smoothies and shakes, offer ice cream sandwiches made with leftover nut pulp from their frozen yogurt, and serve frozen yogurt pies, banana splits, and popsicles.

Goleta

Backyard Bowls ⭐️ – Their entire menu is dairy-free, and it includes smoothies, bowls, and toasts. They use various mylks, coconut yogurt, plant protein, and cashew cheese. Vegans take note that honey, bee pollen, egg, and collagen are options on the menu.

Hawthorne

MidiCi Pizza – Their signature Neapolitan dough is light, thin, soft, and chewy, with a high crust, and it’s dairy-free. It’s made purely with a special Neapolitan flour, water, sea salt, and yeast. They also offer dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan sausage, and have several custom order salad options.

Hermosa Beach

Paciugo Gelato Caffè – They’re based in Texas, but have one outpost in this state, with lots of dairy-free options. See our Paciugo Gelato Dairy-Free Guide for more details.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
The Baked Bear – This is an ice cream sandwich shop where you choose the cookies and the ice cream. They offer a daily vegan ice cream flavor (like chocolate chip) and have a couple vegan and gluten-free cookie options.
The Source Café – This local bakery and cafe is gluten-free, and most of their menu is dairy-free. They have a full smoothie bar, serve a generous menu of toasts, bowls, paninis and wraps, and of course offer several sweet goodies.

Hollywood

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop – They’ve added dairy-free Coconut Bliss Madagascan Vanilla ice cream to their scoop menu. They also offer floats, and select dairy-free toppings for sundaes. In the chocolate shop, check out their hot cocoa mixes, they have options made without dairy.
Margaritaville – Jimmy Buffett’s signature restaurant chain borrows some allergy-friendly spirit from his younger sister’s restaurant chain, Lulu’s. Their Gulf Coast cuisine includes lots of seafood, some Caribbean flavors, and many American favorites. They don’t have an allergen guide, but their staff is well trained for food allergic guests, and they are able to easily accommodate dairy-free requests.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
M Cafe ⭐️ – The macrobiotic diet is alive and well at this contemporary restaurant. Everything they serve is prepared without red meat, poultry, refined sugars, dairy products, or eggs. Their casual menu is filled with plants and is mostly vegan, but includes seafood options. It offers a little something for everyone with breakfasts, noodle bowls, grain bowls, salads, burgers, sandwiches, sushi, and more. But if your still craving something sweet, just check out their pastry case.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.
Voodoo Doughnut – This unique doughnut chain out of Oregon offers several vegan doughnut flavors daily, which can include maple bars, cream filled, apple fritters, and other creative raised and iced varieties. They also bake a vegan cake doughnut, and can make almost any donut vegan if you order ahead. However, they don’t offer any gluten-free donuts.

Huntington Beach

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Frosted Cupcakery – They offer a vegan cupcake flavor daily, but the flavor rotates monthly.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
The Donuttery – This mom and pop donut shop has a big range of vegan yeast-raised, cake, enriched, and gluten-free donuts. They include glazed, jelly filled, apple fritters, maple bars, cinnamon rolls, old-fashioned, various frosted, and much more.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Irvine

Breakfast Republic – This local brunch chain has an inset vegan menu, including omelets, “bennies,” and more. They often have specials, like vegan French toast, too. Their menu also includes gluten-free options and some egg items can also be ordered without dairy.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Crema Artisan Bakers – They are by order/pick-up and weekly local pop-up only. Their baked goods include a few types of vegan croissants and muffins.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh – This is a build-your-own pita, rice bowl, wrap, salad, gyro, or plate restaurant. The gyro bread and tzatziki contain dairy, but all other types can be made dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, other sauces, toppings (aside from cheese), and baklava were made without milk. They offer allergen information that is very helpful.
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes – This expanding franchise makes dairy-free burgers with a range of protein, bun, sauce, and topping options. They have a detailed allergen chart to help you order. They also offer vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options.
Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Pokeworks – All of their signature poke bowls, and pretty much all of their menu is dairy-free, including the Dole Whip for dessert! They offer raw, cooked, and vegan proteins.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
The Blessed Braid ⭐️ – The owner of this kosher bakery reached out to say that “All our baked goods are dairy free, and they are delicious!” Their menu includes various types of challah, cookies, other sweets, and even Belgian street waffles.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.

La Cañada Flintridge

Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.

Ladera Ranch

Lola’s Cafe – Their expansive menu includes some vegan options, like toasts, breakfast burritos, power bowls, and grilled cheese sandwiches with vegan cheese. Many of their sandwiches and some additional menu items can be ordered dairy free.

Laguna Beach

Dolce Gelato ⭐️ – They serve dairy-free and vegan flavors daily, including several sorbettos and up to four creamy almond milk-based gelatos.
The Stand Natural Foods ⭐️ – Erica emailed this vegan restaurant recommendation to us. “My daughter is severely allergic to milk products and this is one of our favorite places to go. They serve sandwiches, salads, burritos, tacos, tamales, baked goods, and our favorite treats — fresh fruit soft serve or smoothies.” Dining is outdoor or take out only, even in normal times, but this is California! You can take your food down to the beach.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Laguna Hills

Giselle’s Vegan Kitchen ⭐️ – This whimsical bakery is a donut heaven with divine cakes (including cheesecakes!), magical bars, galactic pies, and mystical dessert boxes. In addition to vegan, their baked goodies are gluten-free, soy-free, and corn-free, and they shun refined sugars.

Laguna Niguel

Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Pokeworks – All of their signature poke bowls, and pretty much all of their menu is dairy-free, including the Dole Whip for dessert! They offer raw, cooked, and vegan proteins.
Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort ood. They also have a menu of desserts.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Laguna Woods

Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.

La Habra

Panaderia y Pasteleria la Mexicana – They bake a good selection of vegan pan dulce at this sweet Mexican bakery. You can find conchas, flan, and more.

Long Beach

Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Cinnaholic – See our Cinnaholic Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Frosted Cupcakery – They offer a vegan cupcake flavor daily, but the flavor rotates monthly.
Hug Life ⭐️ – This “anti-dairy” ice cream shop is purely plant based! Their amazing dessert selection includes ice cream cones (waffle and gluten-free options available), Cornetto-style cones, decadent milkshakes, floats, sundaes, and more.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Noble Bird Rotisserie ⭐️ – Thanks to Tricia for leaving a comment (see below) about this “allergy aware” restaurant. Their menu is dairy-free, peanut-free, and tree nut-free (they do use coconut), and they clearly label for gluten-free guests, and also have vegan options. If concerned about cross-contamination with any sourced ingredients, customers can speak directly with the chef. Their menu features rotisserie chicken and ribs, with sides, salads, soups, and sandwiches.
O’LaVi ⭐️ – This is a vegan cheesemonger on order and via pop-ups (no storefront yet). They offer hard to find vegan cheese alternatives with options like camembert and brie. From the owner, “We are an emerging vegan cheese retailer in the Long Beach/Signal Hill area. I’ve spent the last year tasting, making and researching plant based cheeses. There are some amazing artisanal vegan cheeses in the world, but unfortunately they are difficult to find in store. We’re here to bridge the gap and help you feed all your cheese cravings without the dairy!”
Plant Power Fast Food ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a plant-based, completely vegan, quick-serve restaurant. The menu has many options for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, small bites, drinks, and even desserts. The latter includes dairy-free soft serve ice cream, milkshakes, kombucha floats, chocolate chip cookies, and cheesecakes. They also have a full breakfast menu with burritos, sandwiches, and “egg” muffins. All burgers can be ordered with their gluten-free bun (extra charge) or a lettuce wrap (free!). They also have an Allergen Guide to identify items without gluten, soy, peanuts, or tree nuts.
Seabirds Kitchen ⭐️ – This is a plant-based organic restaurant, specializing in Mexican-inspired dishes. They have small plates, tacos, a range of entrees, and a casual but decadent dessert menu. They’re open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
Sweetfin – This Southern California poke chain serves a menu that’s almost purely dairy-free, and even includes a couple flavors of plant-based Dream Pops for dessert. They also have a few plant-based bowls on the menu and offer a plethora of fresh toppings for building your own.
The Grain Café ⭐️ – Dianna let us know this is a fantastic plant-based restaurant, “Love the enchiladas!!!” They serve all-vegan breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus with a wide selection. Breakfast includes pancakes, waffles, crepes, and scrambles. Later in the day, they have pizza, soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and more. They also serve baked goodies for dessert, and blend smoothies.
Twice Baked ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free bakery, and most of their goodies are dairy-free, too. They also label vegan, keto, nut-free, and soy-free items. They bake biscotti, cookies, cakes, cupcakes, muffins, and more.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Los Angeles

Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
Amara Kitchen – They have dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and paleo items thoughout their menu, including classic breakfast dishes, healthy lunch bowls, baked goods, smoothies made with their house cashew milk, and some deli items.
American Girl Cafe – These cafes are located inside American Girl stores, and host lunches and parties by reservation. See our Dairy-Free Tips for American Girl Cafe.
Araya’s Place ⭐️ – The Northwest’s original vegan Thai food restaurant was founded in 1987 in Seattle, but they now have a location in Los Angeles too. Their menu includes the whole array of Thai favorites, but made with tofu and mock meats, and without any fish sauce or sneaky dairy. They serve a la carte dishes for lunch and dinner, a lunch buffet, and of course, dairy-free desserts.
Backyard Bowls ⭐️ – Their entire menu is dairy-free, and it includes smoothies, bowls, and toasts. They use various mylks, coconut yogurt, plant protein, and cashew cheese. Vegans take note that honey, bee pollen, egg, and collagen are options on the menu.
Bar Amá – Michelin star chef Josef Centeno has replaced dairy with vegan cheese in a couple at his Tex-Mex eatery. He has partnered with So Delicious, and is using their cheese alternative in Cheddar Almond “Queso” and Chile Relleno. This restaurant also has some additional dairy free options.
Besties Vegan Paradise – This is a vegan grocer with a wide range of specialty products, from breads and baked goods to dairy-free alternatives.
Bibibop – Thank you to Shawn for sending this recommendation, “A build-your-own bowl Asian fusion fast food place. Most of the menu is dairy free. They even have a coconut milk mango pudding that is dairy free!” They also provide full allergen information to make ordering easy, keep their kitchens peanut-free, and source higher quality ingredients.
Blue Star Donuts – Each location has a few vegan cake donut flavors to choose from daily, which can include orange olive oil, Mexican hot chocolate, sugar ‘n spice, or others. They also offer oat milk for lattes.
Bluestone Lane – This Australian-style cafe chain does a great job in labeling top allergens, and they offer a small selection of dairy-free sandwich and bowl options on their menu, along with a couple vegan items. Their full coffee bar has oat milk and almond milk options, and they sometimes have dairy-free specialty drink promotions.
Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Botanica – This farm fresh restaurant doesn’t shy away from cheese or butter, but they use simple, clean ingredients, and have options for both dairy-free and vegan diners. They even make their own cashew-date mylk and have some dessert options.
Brite Spot Diner – This is one of the city’s oldest restaurants, serving classic American favorites for breakfast and lunch, with a few modern spins. They serve a few vegan menu items, but also offer alternatives like vegan ranch dressing and dairy-free cheese, to make even more options accessible. They’re also open late night.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Café Gratitude ⭐️ – This all vegan restaurant takes a farm-to-fork approach and uses purely organic ingredients. Their menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner have a fresh, healthy spin, and use house-made cheeses and other sauces. They have ample raw food options, and of course a good selection of vegan, organic wine and beer. Food allergy menus are also available for garlic, onion, soy, gluten, and tree nuts.
Cake Girl – Everything is vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free at this bakery. They offer donuts, cupcakes, full cakes, and more.
Cena Vegan ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a Mexican dinner spot (also open for lunch on the weekends). They serve a selection of street tacos, nacho boats, tortas, and big burritos with faux meats and cashew crema.
Cinnaholic – See our Cinnaholic Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Classic Le Palais Pastry ⭐️ – This is a kosher pareve bakery, which means everything is dairy-free! They specialize in cakes for all occasions, but also have many pre-made cakes, pastries, and breads available in store. And they scoop a small selection of dairy-free ice cream flavors and sorbets.
Coco Bakes ⭐️ – This gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free bakery doesn’t have a storefront. But they ship and have weekly order pick up at their kitchen. Their selection includes cakes, bars, cookies, and breads.
Creamo – This crossover ice cream shop was created by the founders of Donut Friend, an all-vegan donut shop chain in L.A. Creamo serves a decadent array of dairy-free ice cream flavors, milkshakes, sundaes, and of course, donut ice cream sandwiches.
Crossroads ⭐️ – For an upscale atmosphere with an innovative plant-based menu, make a reservation at this vegan restaurant. They serve brunch, lunch, and dinner, and have a full cocktail and wine bar. Their dishes are made for sharing and change with the seasons, but they’re always creative and distinctly Californian. Gluten-free diners will find many options, which are clearly labeled on the menu.
Cruzer Pizza ⭐️ – There’s no need to worry about stray dairy shreds getting on your dairy-free pizza at Cruzer. This is a purely vegan pizzeria serving pies topped with vegetables, mock meats, and Daiya cheese alternative. They also offer calzones and gluten-free crust as an option.
Dear Bella Creamery ⭐️ – Formerly known as Cocobella Creamery, this is a nut-free, dairy-free ice cream shop that scoops a decadent array of house-made flavors, from NY cheesecake to rocky road. They also make sundaes, floats, shakes, and cakes, and offer soft serve.
Delicias Bakery and Some – This is a Mexican bakery in the Highland Park area that offers an array of vegan pan dulce. They also make many savory dishes, like vegan elotes, chilaquiles, tortas, house queso fresco, and more.
Deluscious Cookies & Milk – They bake a small selection of vegan, gluten-free cookies, including a cookie cake option.
Din Tai Fung – This is an upscale Taiwanese chain that specializes in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine. They offer a full allergen and special diet chart, and, at last check, all of their savory menu items were dairy-free and all but one of their sweet bao was dairy-free (most are vegan!). They do use milk in some beverage items.
Donut Friend ⭐️ – From the Angry Samoa to the Polar Berry Club, every donut at this L.A. chain is vegan. They also serve ice cream, affogato, and have a full coffee bar.
Double Zero ⭐️ – This plant-based pizza restaurant is another creation of famed vegan chef, Matthew Kenney.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Electric Karma ⭐️ – This popular Indian restaurant labels dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options right on their menu, and there are many. They let you “choose your own protein” and have saag aloo, dal, masala, and many other favorites.
Erin McKenna’s Bakery ⭐️ – Craving a sweet treat? This bakery is completely vegan and gluten-free, and they don’t use any soy. Their daily menu includes a pretty selection of cupcakes, muffins, donuts, cookies, crumb cakes, and more. They also swirl dairy-free soft serve. And yes, they take custom cake orders!
Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).
Flore Plant-Based Kitchen ⭐️ – This all-vegan restaurant serves fresh salads, hearty burgers and sandwiches, creative pizzas, brunch favorites, and more.
Follow Your Heart Market & Cafe – Yes, after all these years, and many successful products later, they still run their cafe in the Canoga Park neighborhood. Their menu is now almost fully vegan, with some dairy vegetarian options.
fōnuts – This donut shop offers a selection of vegan donut flavors daily, most of which are gluten-free too. They have some standard flavors and fun rotating options.
Georgetown Cupcake – Their is a lot of dairy at this cupcakery, but they offer Vegan Apple Cinnamon or Carrot Cupcakes with dairy-free cream cheese frosting, depending on the day of the week.
Ginger Bowls – This healthy Asian chain is gluten-free, and their menu is primarily dairy-free, too. They focus on bowls and potstickers, and also have various chia puddings for dessert. Vegan options are available.
Ginger’s Divine Ice Creams – They scoop a good selection of “gold standard” and seasonal vegan ice cream flavors daily, and also have vegan ice cream pops. Most of their dairy-free flavors are made with coconut milk and coconut cream.
Gino’s East – They offer dairy-free cheese alternative for their deep dish and thin crust pizzas.
Glatt Mart – This local kosher market is a great place to find dairy-free pareve and glatt foods that you might not see at the grocery store.
Go Get Em Tiger – Dairy is taken seriously at this modern coffee shop. But they also offer oat milk and housemade dairy-free almond-macadamia milk (sweetened with dates!) for their coffee drinks. The owners also dabble in vegan baking, often making vegan muffins. And they have various breakfast and lunch items at most of their locations. They have several shops in Los Angeles.
Got Kosher Deli & Bakery ⭐️ – This dairy-free, glatt kosher restaurant serves cuisine with North African, French, and Jewish inspired dishes. They use antibiotic-free chicken and grass fed beef, and have many vegan and gluten-free options labeled on their menu. They also bake a big range of challah, pastries, and cakes.
Hart House ⭐️ – This 100% plant-based restaurant was founded by comedian Kevin Hart. They offer vegan burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, a range of dipping sauces, and yes, dairy-free milkshakes.
Holy Grill ⭐️ – They have a physical restaurant and a food truck, both kosher glatt and dairy free. Their menu is a casual blend of Mediterranean and American food, with burgers, salads, sandwiches, plates, and dips.
Holy Roly – This rolled ice cream shop has vegan coconut and mango base options, with several fruit and Oreo cookie mix-ins to choose from.
Honeybee Burger ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant serves fast food favorites, like burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, burritos, tater tots, fries, and shakes. They also make dairy-free mac and cheese, have their own house ranch, and use Violife cheese on their burgers.
Honey Hi – This ia a gluten-free cafe with many vegan options clearly labeled on their menu. Most other items are, or can be ordered, dairy free. They offer coconut whip for pancakes, vegan sprouted protein for smoothies, and more.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
Hugo’s Tacos – Their recipes were passed down through family members or were inspired by times in Mexico. But they only use the freshest ingredients found here in the U.S. and have a wide menu to choose from. It’s clearly labelled for vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free needs, and most items can be made dairy-free. For dessert, they offer Frozato. It’s a dairy-free housemade soft serve ice cream, available in chocolate, vanilla, or swirl!
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Intelligentsia – This U.S. coffee chain offers oat milk and almond milk, and usually has a specialty dairy-free drink right on the menu. They also typically have a couple vegan pastry options (not guaranteed, but most locations have a rotating selection) and some vegan pre-packaged food options.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
Juice Crafters ⭐️ – There’s no shortage of juice shops in California, but this one is reportedly dairy-free. Their menu includes a big range of pressed juices, hydration drinks, wellness shots, smoothies, and acai bowls. For a creamy finish, they use their own date-sweetened almond nut mylk.
Just What I Kneaded ⭐️ – Everything is vegan at this bakery and cafe. They offer a good selection of pastries, bagels (with cheesy options), biscuits, bowls, burritos, and other meals. They also have a full coffee bar and many gluten-free options.
Kitchen Mouse ⭐️ – This cafe and market is vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free, and serves breakfast and lunhc, along with an array of baked goodies. Their menu is also mostly vegan, with vegan options throughout (they serve eggs but offer a vegan alternative).
Kye’s ⭐️ – Their healthy menu focuses on local, organic, and macrobiotic cuisine. It’s clearly labeled with dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free, soy-free, and keto/paleo options. Most items are, or can be ordered, dairy-free. This Venice-area location is for pick up and delivery only.
La Colombe – This coffee chain is known for their oatmilk draft lattes, which they also offer on tap. They also usually have some dairy-free baked goodies (some vegan, some with eggs), like quick bread slices and cookies, and biscotti. The options can vary by location, so ask for allergen information at the shop.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
LaRayia’s Bodega ⭐️ – This charitable little shop serves plant-based food to customers and the masses.
Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.
Lieder’s ⭐️ – This glatt kosher deli is dairy-free, and offers savories, sweets, and meals for shabbos takeout.
Locali – Their menu is filled with vegan comfort food, with burgers, wraps, sandwiches, melts, breakfast sandwiches, and more. They also blend smoothies and swirl dairy-free coconut froyo.
Localita – This is Locali’s “Plant Based Badasserie” location. Everything on the menu starts vegan, but customers can choose to add meat or cheese. They offer breakfast sandwiches, burgers, lunch sandwiches, quinoa bowls, and dairy-free smoothies.
Lov Bakery ⭐️ – This is a vegan bakery without a storefront, but they do have pick-up locations in the city and also sell to local markets. Their treats include cookies, gluten-free cookies, brownies, and muffins.
Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
Magpies Softserve ⭐️ – Their from-scratch soft serve flavors include many vegan options. In fact, more than half of their flavors at each location are typically made with dairy-free oatmilk or almondmilk. They include fun flavors, like Cracker Jack and Orange Creamsicle. And they make vegan ice cream pies!
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams – The 70-year-old, Santa Barbara-based family business churns classic dairy ice cream, but they also make creamy vegan oat milk ice cream flavors. The dairy-free flavors are available by the scoop or pint and include options like Chocolate Fudge & Cookies and Vanilla Bean. See our McConnell’s Dairy-Free Oat Milk Ice Cream page for full ingredient details.
Melrose Burgers ‘N Fries ⭐️ – This is a glatt kosher grill that is dairy-free and serves a simple menu of burgers, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, fries, and onion rings. They offer Follow Your Heart cheese alternative for cheeseburgers.
MidiCi Pizza – Their signature Neapolitan dough is light, thin, soft, and chewy, with a high crust, and it’s dairy-free. It’s made purely with a special Neapolitan flour, water, sea salt, and yeast. They also offer dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan sausage, and have several custom order salad options.
Millie’s Cafe – They offer a huge vegan menu, with various pancakes and waffles, many other breakfast items, lunch entrees, coffee drinks, and more. Several other menu items can be made dairy-free, and they do offer gluten-free options.
Monty’s Good Burger ⭐️ – This all-vegan burger joint makes a selection of burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, tots, and shakes made with Oatly soft serve.
Munchies – This candy shop is Kehilla Kosher certified, and they offer tons of dairy-free kosher parve chocolates, candies, nuts, gift baskets, and even wine – both retail and wholesale. I’ve heard that they also scoop parve ice cream, dish up non-dairy soft serve, and pour dairy-free beverages. They have two shops in L.A.
Native Foods Cafe ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, dairy-free restaurant chain with extensive collection of burgers, bowls, salads, wraps, and more with regional flavor influences from the U.S., Mexico, and Asia. They also have a sizable dessert menu.
New Deli By PlantX ⭐️ – This Matthew Kinney venture is located in Venice. This plant-based store carries various vegan food products and has ready-to-eat foods like chickpea tuna salad and marinated tofu.
NiceCream – Their soft serve includes some vegan options, like dark chocolate sorbet and coconut milk pina-colada yogurt.
Oleada Cocina ⭐️ – This is a Matthew Kenney vegan restaurant serving Latin American inspired cuisine.
Panaderia Cuscatleca – This Mexican bakery bakes several varieties of vegan pan dulce, chocolate cake, and even vegan savory items.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
Pat’s Restaurant ⭐️ – This glatt kosher restaurant offers exclusively dairy-free eats in a fine dining atmosphere. Their menu includes various meat, seafood, pasta, and salad dishes.
Pizza Studio – They have a vegan pizza, complete with vegan “cheese” and “sausage.” Many other pizzas can be ordered dairy-fee with a cheese swap. They also have build your own salads.
Plant Power Fast Food ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a plant-based, completely vegan, quick-serve restaurant. The menu has many options for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, small bites, drinks, and even desserts. The latter includes dairy-free soft serve ice cream, milkshakes, flurry copycats, kombucha floats, chocolate chip cookies, and cheesecakes. They also have a full breakfast menu with burritos, sandwiches, and “egg” muffins. All burgers can be ordered with their gluten-free bun (extra charge) or a lettuce wrap (free!). They also have an Allergen Guide to identify items without gluten, soy, peanuts, or tree nuts.
Pocha LA – This modern Mexican restaurant labels their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. But they actually offer quite a big vegan selection.
Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine ⭐️ – The name says it all. They are a completely vegan restaurant serving authentic vegan cuisine, with one exception – vegan cheesecake for dessert!
Real Food Daily ⭐️ – The menus at their Pasadena location are very similar to their founding location in Los Angeles. Everything is vegan, with a focus on fresh, organic, and diverse flavors for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Remixed Bakery – They don’t have a storefront, but you can order and pick up or get delivery from this gluten-free bakery. They do use dairy in their core line, but they have full lines of paleo cakes and cupcakes and vegan cakes and cupcakes, all of which are dairy-free.
Saffron & Rose Ice Cream – The flavors at this Persian-influenced ice cream shop are divided into floral, fruity, and nutty selections, and each category has vegan options.
Sage Vegan Bistro ⭐️ – This hip restaurant now has four locations, but this is their flagship spot. Located in the Echo Park neighborhood, it houses their brewery and has a lively feel. Their menus are vibrant, plant-rich, enticing, and have a very broad range of options. They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. They also have a boisterous kids menu!
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Schnitzly ⭐️ – This Glatt Kosher restaurant is dairy-free, and serves a big casual menu of burgers, wraps, plates, salads, nuggets, wings, and baguettes.
Shojin ⭐️ – This refined vegan Japanese restaurant has two locations: one near Culver City and one in downtown. Their popular menu covers all of your sushi and ramen favorites, but with vegetables, tofu, and mock meats instead of fish and meat.
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee – Most of their donuts are “traditional,” but they offer a seasonal vegan flavor daily. They also offer oat, almond, and coconut milk for lattes.
Sinners and Saints Desserts – Their daily saints menu (all gluten-free) typically includes a selection of vegan mini pastries and cupcakes.
Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean ⭐️ – Heather recommended this local kosher, dairy-free restaurant chain to us. “They have shawarmas, grilled meats, or a variety of vegetarian options, that come with a variety of salads and side dishes, in addition to rice or couscous.” They also offer dairy-free desserts.
Spitz Mediterranean Street Food – All of their wraps and sandwiches and several other items can be ordered dairy-free and/or vegan, on request. They’re also friendly to gluten-free guests.
Sugar Taco ⭐️ – Build your own tacos, burritos, quesadilla, and nachos at this vegan Mexican restaurant. They also serve conchas, churros, and snow cones for dessert.
Sweetfin – This Southern California poke chain serves a menu that’s almost purely dairy-free, and even includes a couple flavors of plant-based Dream Pops for dessert. They also have a few plant-based bowls on the menu and offer a plethora of fresh toppings for building your own.
SunCafe ⭐️ – This 100% plant-based, dairy-free restaurant makes almost everything from scratch, including their own vegan cheeses, chorizo, mayo, and butter. Their menu covers all of the traditional comfort food for lunch, dinner, and brunch. They also have a full bar, and make decadent gluten-free cheesecakes, cupcakes, and mud pie for dessert.
Tatsu Ramen ⭐️ – Yes, ramen houses often use dairy, but this one is transparent. They label their menu for top allergens and also list which options can be special ordered dairy free. At last check, their dairy-free options included some ramens, their couple of rice dishes, and pork buns.
Tel Aviv Grill ⭐️ – This is a local kosher glatt (meat) restaurant chain, which is dairy-free (by kosher dietary laws). It was recommended to us by Heather, “They serve sandwiches or mix plates with various meats or falafel and an assortment of salads.”
The Bigg Chill – They typically offer a creamy froyo flavor made with almond milk, like dairy-free cookies and cream.
The Butcher’s Daughter – This plant-heavy restaurant and juice bar in Venice bills itself as a “vegetable slaughterhouse.” Their menus (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are completely vegetarian, most items are also vegan, and everything appears to have a dairy-free option. They serve an array of breakfasts, bowls sandwiches, pizzas, and desserts, alond with healthy beverages, ranging from wellness lattes to cold-pressed juices to elixir shots. Gluten-free options are clearly labeled.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
The Kosher Cookie Company ⭐️ – They run a completely dairy-free, kosher pareve kitchen. Their selection includes all types of classic, decorated, and custom order cookies, along with muffins, brownies, and cookie bars.
The Vegan Joint ⭐️ – They claim their focus is Thai food, but their menu includes classic American breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, soups, Mexican food, and various Asian plates. They have three L.A. locations – one near Culver City, one downtown, and one in the Woodland Hills neighborhood.
Tocaya Organica – The base menu at this healthy Mexican chain is vegan, but you then choose your protein and/or cheese of choice. They serve salads, bowls, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, soups, and sides, and have dairy-free meats, plant-based meat alternatives, vegan cremas, and cheese alternatives available.
Uli’s Gelato – Their flavors typically include a couple creamy vegan varieties along with several sorbets. They also offer vegan waffle cones, affogato, and can make dairy-free shakes.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
Van Leeuwen ⭐️ – This popular localized ice cream chain sells their pints in grocery stores, but they also have scoop shops. They churn both classic dairy ice cream and a huge array of dairy-free flavors, which are made with cashew and coconut milk or oat milk. They can also make you a vegan ice cream sandwich with chocolate chip cookies, blend a dairy-free milkshake, or craft a sundae with vegan whipped cream, hot fudge, and various other toppings.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.
Vromage ⭐️ – Leave it to Southern California to produce the first vegan cheese shop. They use various nuts and seeds to craft a range of cheesy products, like Asiago, Brie, Camembert, Goat, Pepperjack, Truffle Cream, and Feta. They also sell dips and other creamy foods to go, and have a small menu of freshly prepared pizzas, sandwiches and salads.
Wanderlust Creamery – Their travel-inspired ice cream flavors always include a few vegan options, which are anything but ordinary. The flavors change monthly.
Western Bagel – Every bagel they make is dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free (at last check), and it’s quite a selection. They’re also egg free (except for the egg bagel), since they don’t use an egg wash. They offer standard schmeers, but do have peanut butter, jelly, and some sandwich options for dairy-free customers. There are a few locations around the city.
Wild Living Foods ⭐️ – Their menu is dairy-free, gluten-free, and mostly vegan (they use honey) at this raw food cafe. And it has a huge selection – with breakfast, burgers, noodles, smoothie bowls, and so much more. They also have a range of house-made cheeses that they use on their dishes.
XMarket ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, sustainably-focused deli and bodega, offering a range of household supplies, frozen foods, pantry staples, snacks, and an extensive selection of organic beer and wine. At the deli counter, you can get made-to-order sandwiches, or get one of their freshly prepared grab-and-go items.
Yoga-urt ⭐️- This purely vegan and organic frozen yogurt shop crafts several flavors with an almond and/or cashew milk base, and cultures them with dairy-free live and active probiotics. They have over 25 rotating soft serve flavors that you can order it in a cup or a gluten-free, vegan waffle cone, with or without toppings. They also serve a full menu of smoothies and shakes, offer ice cream sandwiches made with leftover nut pulp from their frozen yogurt, and serve frozen yogurt pies, banana splits, and popsicles. Their Los Angeles location is in the Echo Park neighborhood.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Real Food Daily ⭐️ – It isn’t cheap, but nothing at LAX is! Like all of there locations, this is a purely vegan spot with a fairly diverse menu.

Malibu

Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
Real Coconut Kitchen ⭐️ – Their menu is dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, soy-free, and corn-free, and includes a range of healthy dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegan options are clearly labeled. They also serve coconut cream ice cream flavors and other desserts, smoothies, coffee drinks, and have a market on site.

Mammoth Lakes

Dessert’d Bake Shop – This local bakery happily caters to allergies and specialty diets such as vegan, gluten free, egg free, and dairy free. They offer some dairy-free treats daily, including paleo cookies and vegan ice cream. But most items can also be special ordered. They also bake custom order cakes.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Manhattan Beach

Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee – Most of their donuts are “traditional,” but they offer a seasonal vegan flavor daily. They also offer oat, almond, and coconut milk for lattes.
Sweetrise Bakery ⭐️ – Their cakes are by order only, with pick up at Nine24 Kitchen. Their cake recipe is dairy-free and gluten-free, and can be ordered paleo or vegan.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.

Marina del Rey

Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Juice Crafters ⭐️ – There’s no shortage of juice shops in California, but this one is reportedly dairy-free. Their menu includes a big range of pressed juices, hydration drinks, wellness shots, smoothies, and acai bowls. For a creamy finish, they use their own date-sweetened almond nut mylk.
MidiCi Pizza – Their signature Neapolitan dough is light, thin, soft, and chewy, with a high crust, and it’s dairy-free. It’s made purely with a special Neapolitan flour, water, sea salt, and yeast. They also offer dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan sausage, and have several custom order salad options.

Menifee

Barons Market – This grocery store has a big selection of specialty foods, including gluten-free and dairy-free.
Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).

Mission Viejo

Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Monrovia

MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes – This expanding franchise makes dairy-free burgers with a range of protein, bun, sauce, and topping options. They have a detailed allergen chart to help you order. They also offer vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.

Montclair

Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.

Morro Bay

Shine Cafe ⭐️ – This little midday cafe is located inside the Sunshine Health Foods store. It looks like their menu has transitioned to be completely vegan (it used to be vegetarian). They serve healthy breakfast and lunch dishes, along with smoothies.

Murrieta

Barons Market – This grocery store has a big selection of specialty foods, including gluten-free and dairy-free.
Snackin’ Free ⭐️ – This is a paleo restaurant, cafe, and bakery that’s dedicated gluten, grain, dairy, soy and peanut free. They have a complete line of bakery items from breads and tortillas to cookies, cupcakes and even crackers. They also make our own line of dressings and barbecue sauces. Additionally they serve house made soups, salads, sandwiches and pizzas. Everything is made fresh and without any yeast, processed sugars, or artificial dyes.

Newport Beach

Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Flower Child – This healthy restaurant chain serves salads, bowls, and plates with choose your own protein and side options. Their modern “hippie” menu is loaded with organic produce, whole grains (gluten-free, too), and house dressings. Their menu is littered with vegan and paleo options, and most items either are, or can be made dairy-free on request.
Gracias Madre ⭐️ – Unlike their West Hollywood location, this restaurant is only open for dinner. It also has a more “classic” menu of bowls, tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican-inspired dishes. But it’s still completely vegan, with a focus on local, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients. They have allergy menus available for gluten, tree nuts, garlic, onion, cilantro, soy, corn, and avocado (welcome to Southern California!).
Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
Juice Crafters ⭐️ – There’s no shortage of juice shops in California, but this one is reportedly dairy-free. Their menu includes a big range of pressed juices, hydration drinks, wellness shots, smoothies, and acai bowls. For a creamy finish, they use their own date-sweetened almond nut mylk.
Le Pain Quotidien – This Belgian bake shop has a plethora of dairy-free fresh baked breads, sandwiches, soups, and breakfast bowls (think oats, chia, and granola options). Almond, coconut, and oat milks are available or coffee drinks and tea lattes. And they often a dairy-free pastry or two – ask at your location.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Vibe Organic Kitchen & Juice ⭐️ – Their entire menu is 100% organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan. They serve breakfast, toasts all day, bowls, burgers, tacos, smoothies, and smoothie bowls.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Nipomo

Nosh Paleo Cafe ⭐️ – This healthy restaurant shuns dairy and gluten, but offers a nutritious menu of brunch dishes, lunch, smoothies, and even dessert. They also have a full coffee bar.

North Hollywood

Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.

Northridge

Leo’s Superfood Vegan Cafe ⭐️ – Everything on their menu is vegan and gluten-free, and they have some paleo and keto options. Their selection is broad, with comfort food like burgers, burritos, quesadillas, tacos, mac and cheese, salads, and toasts, plus a whole range of sweet treats.

Orange

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Grabbagreen – This healthy gluten-free chain serves bowls, salads, juices, smoothies, wraps, and breakfasts, and they are quite transparent on ingredients. They have many vegan options labeled, and most menu items can be custom ordered without dairy.
Green Tomato Grill – This healthy restaurant focuses on bowls, but also offers breakfast items, wraps, and salads. Their menu is liberally dotted with vegan selections, they have a paleo section of options, and several more dishes are, or can be ordered, dairy-free.
Hug Life ⭐️ – This “anti-dairy” ice cream shop is purely plant based! Their amazing dessert selection includes ice cream cones (waffle and gluten-free options available), Cornetto-style cones, decadent milkshakes, floats, sundaes, and more.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
Veganixima ⭐️ – Enjoy Tex-Mex at this all-vegan restaurant. They serve loaded fries, nachos, burritos, tacos, and more, and have raw cheesecakes for dessert.

Oxnard

Friendly Donuts – Whether it’s 2pm or 2am, this shop is ready to greet you with a smile and a donut. Their selection includes vegan options daily, including donut holes.
Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
The Blend Superfood Bar ⭐️ – Everything is dairy-free at this acai bowl, smoothie, and juice shop. Their healthy array is made with “clean” ingredients, and most items are vegan-friendly (they do offer honey and bee pollen).

Pacific Palisades

Sweet Laurel Bakery ⭐️ – This purely paleo bake shop uses only the best organic, whole ingredients to create their grain-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free baked goods. Their specialties include cakes and vegan cookies, but they offer muffins and other treats, too. They also have keto and raw options, and make everything without gums or stabilizers.

Palmdale

Nadia Cakes – This popular cupcakery offers two gluten-free and vegan flavors daily: vanilla and chocolate.
PizzaRev – This build-your-own pizza joint has four dairy-free pizza crusts (two of which are gluten-free, and three of which are vegan), Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative, and most of their sauces and toppings are dairy-free (skip the alfredo, pesto, and meatballs). They also offer Beyond Meat sausage for vegan guests.

Palm Desert

Chef Tanya’s Kitchen ⭐️ – This unassuming spot is a true find for vegan eats. They have grab and go items, but also make various sandwiches, burgers, salads, soups, and more.
Chef Tanya’s Kreamery ⭐️ – Tanya has also opened a vegan soft serve shop and espresso store at her Palm Desert location.
Lappert’s Ice Cream – Dairy-Free guests won’t feel left out. They offer dairy-free Dole Whip soft serve and floats, sorbets, a whole range of fruit and sorbet smoothies, acai and pitaya bowls, and they also make shakes with Coconut Bliss ice cream and Silk milk alternative.

Palm Springs

Chef Tanya’s Kitchen ⭐️ – This unassuming spot is easy to miss, but it’s a true find for vegan eats. They have grab and go items, but also make various sandwiches, burgers, salads, soups, and more.
El Patron – Many items on the menu at this Mexican restaurant can be ordered dairy-free, since they offer dairy-free cheese alternative. They actually have vegan nachos, quesadillas, and burritos on the menu, too.
I Heart Mac & Cheese – This is a build-your-own mac and cheese bowl or grilled cheese sandwich chain. They offer vegan cheese, various meats and vegan meats, and several other toppings. They have several pasta, base, and bread choices. Gluten-free options are available.
Jus Chillin – This cool shop offers a couple creamy dairy-free soft serve flavors (made with almond, cashew, or coconut milk), some sorbets, and Italian ice.
Kreem – This small-batch creamery offers a handful of vegan ice cream flavors daily. When we looked, they had ube, coconut latte, chocolate cookie, and turmeric ginger.
Mid Mod Café – This health-forward cafe is by the same owners as Palm Greens Cafe, with very similar menus, but Mid Mod is just a little smaller. They have a full breakfast and lunch menu of American comfort food with vegan options littered throughout. They have vegan biscuits and gravy, nachos, patty melts, and more. Many additional menu items are dairy-free (including meat and seafood dishes), or can be ordered dairy free.
Monster Shakes – They swirl a range of dairy-free Dole Whip flavors, offer creamy Coconut Bliss ice cream, make dairy-free pina colada shakes (complete with whip topping), and more.
Native Foods Cafe ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, dairy-free restaurant chain with extensive collection of burgers, bowls, salads, wraps, and more with regional flavor influences from the U.S., Mexico, and Asia. They also have a sizable dessert menu.
Nature’s Health Food & Cafe – The store is filled with special diet foods (including refrigerated and frozen), and it’s attached to a counter-serve vegetarian cafe. They have a separate vegan breakfast menu, and offer vegan options throughout their lunch and dinner menus. And they have eight different types of milk alternatives at their espresso bar!
Palm Greens Cafe – This health-forward cafe has a full breakfast and lunch menu of American comfort food with vegan options littered throughout. They have vegan biscuits and gravy, lasagna, nachos, patty melts, and more. Many additional menu items are dairy-free (including meat and seafood dishes), or can be ordered dairy free.

Pasadena

Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
Bloomfield Creamery – This ice cream shop offers a unique selection of oatmilk-based vegan flavors, like strawberry shortcake and chocolate honeycomb. By the scoop, they usually have about 4 or 5 vegan ice cream flavors and 3 vegan cookie doughs. And they swirl two flavors of dairy-free Dole Whip.
Intelligentsia – This U.S. coffee chain offers oat milk and almond milk, and usually has a specialty dairy-free drink right on the menu. They also typically have a couple vegan pastry options (not guaranteed, but most locations have a rotating selection) and some vegan pre-packaged food options.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Millie’s Cafe – They offer a huge vegan menu, with various pancakes and waffles, many other breakfast items, lunch entrees, coffee drinks, and more. Several other menu items can be made dairy-free, and they do offer gluten-free options.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
Real Food Daily ⭐️ – This organic, plant-based restaurant made headlines when it emerged in 1993. At that time, it wasn’t common to serve exclusively vegan cuisine. But they helped make it stick with their popular brunch, lunch, and dinner menus. Their food is fresh, local, and healthy, but it isn’t without indulgence. They serve everything from Asian bowls to alfredo, veggie burgers to grilled cheese, and smoothies to milkshakes.
Sage Vegan Bistro ⭐️ – Like all of their locations, this old town spot serves their craft beer, has a great bar, shaded outdoor seating, and a broad menu for all day dining. They offer a great vegan brunch, and serve tacos, burritos, pizzas, and more from midday into the night.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Tatsu Ramen ⭐️ – Yes, ramen houses often use dairy, but this one is transparent. They label their menu for top allergens and also list which options can be special ordered dairy free. At last check, their dairy-free options included some ramens, their couple of rice dishes, and pork buns.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
The Pizza Plant ⭐️ – This all-vegan pizzeria is so good, they now ship nationwide and have their own pizzas in Whole Foods regionally. But you can still go to their restaurant in Pasadena where it all started. Their pizzas are on the pricey side, and aren’t huge, but the consensus is “so worth it.” They offer artisan thin crust, pan-style thick crust, and gluten-free crust, along with various sauces, plant-based house “meats,” and other toppings that range from roasted eggplant to avocado to hemp seeds. They make their own cheese alternatives, which include cashew mozzarella, ricotta, and nacho cheese, along with pecan parmesan and a nut-free sunflower mozzarella.
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.
Wanderlust Creamery – Their travel-inspired ice cream flavors always include a few vegan options, which are anything but ordinary. The flavors change monthly.

Rancho Cucamonga

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.

Rancho Santa Margarita

Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).

Redlands

LemonShark Poke – They have an interactive allergen menu online, and it brings good news for dairy-free guests. All of their sauces and poke bowl ingredients are dairy-free. The only items that contained dairy at our time of review were the tempura, coconut shrimp, and katsu.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Plant Power Fast Food ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a plant-based, completely vegan, quick-serve restaurant. The menu has many options for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, small bites, drinks, and even desserts. The latter includes dairy-free soft serve ice cream, milkshakes, kombucha floats, chocolate chip cookies, and cheesecakes. They also have a full breakfast menu with burritos, sandwiches, and “egg” muffins. All burgers can be ordered with their gluten-free bun (extra charge) or a lettuce wrap (free!). They also have an Allergen Guide to identify items without gluten, soy, peanuts, or tree nuts.

Redondo Beach

Kirari West Bake Shop – This gluten-free bake shop uses rice flour to make their sweet and savory breads. They also serve sandwiches and bake whole cakes and tarts (including vegan cheesecake). They have vegan items daily, and additional dairy-free options.
Locali – Their menu is filled with vegan comfort food, with burgers, wraps, sandwiches, melts, breakfast sandwiches, and more. They also blend smoothies and swirl dairy-free coconut froyo.

Riverside

Monty’s Good Burger ⭐️ – This all-vegan burger joint makes a selection of burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, tots, and shakes made with Oatly soft serve.
Plant Power Fast Food ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a plant-based, completely vegan, quick-serve restaurant. The menu has many options for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, small bites, drinks, and even desserts. The latter includes dairy-free soft serve ice cream, milkshakes, kombucha floats, chocolate chip cookies, and cheesecakes. They also have a full breakfast menu with burritos, sandwiches, and “egg” muffins. All burgers can be ordered with their gluten-free bun (extra charge) or a lettuce wrap (free!). They also have an Allergen Guide to identify items without gluten, soy, peanuts, or tree nuts.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.

Rowland Heights

PizzaRev – This build-your-own pizza joint has four dairy-free pizza crusts (two of which are gluten-free, and three of which are vegan), Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative, and most of their sauces and toppings are dairy-free (skip the alfredo, pesto, and meatballs). They also offer Beyond Meat sausage for vegan guests.

San Bernadino

Cafe Organix ⭐️ – This all-vegan counter-serve restaurant serves salads, burgers, and tacos, with a selection of juices, coffee drinks, and desserts, too.
LemonShark Poke – They have an interactive allergen menu online, and it brings good news for dairy-free guests. All of their sauces and poke bowl ingredients are dairy-free. The only items that contained dairy at our time of review were the tempura, coconut shrimp, and katsu.

San Clemente

Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
Vedder’s Sweets ⭐️ – This little dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan ice cream shop is in San Clemente’s old town. They use a base of coconut cream, and natural sweeteners, like dates or maple syrup, to make several classic ice cream flavors. They offers scoops, cones, and ice cream sandwiches.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

San Diego – See our San Diego Dairy-Free Guide for listings.

San Juan Capistrano

Frutta Bowls – This smoothie and smoothie bowl chain offers dairy-free acai, pitaya, greens, and oatmeal bases. Their granola, fruits, and many of their toppings are dairy-free, and they offer dairy-free options for their toasts and protein bites.

San Luis Obispo

Bliss Cafe ⭐️ – Lisa emailed this recommendation to us. “This is a casual vegan food, juice, and smoothie bar, serving up veggie- and bean-based entrees (they seem to stay away from meat “alternatives”) and raw desserts.” Their cuisine leans toward Mexican and American with burgers, burritos, scrambles, and tacos. But they also serve desserts and have a small store of foods.
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams – The 70-year-old, Santa Barbara-based family business churns classic dairy ice cream, but they also make creamy vegan oat milk ice cream flavors. The dairy-free flavors are available by the scoop or pint and include options like Chocolate Fudge & Cookies and Vanilla Bean. See our McConnell’s Dairy-Free Oat Milk Ice Cream page for full ingredient details.

Santa Ana

Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.
Poki One N Half ⭐️ – This fresh, clean local chain is known for quality, and they confirmed that everything on their poke bowl and burrito menu is dairy-free (they occasionally offer a dessert that contains dairy). They also offer tofu for a vegan alternative.
Soy Concha Bakery ⭐️ – Everything is vegan at this Mexican-style bakery. They offer an array of pan dulce, including conchas and pastelitos, and the do bake cakes.

Santa Barbara

Backyard Bowls ⭐️ – Their entire menu is dairy-free, and it includes smoothies, bowls, and toasts. They use various mylks, coconut yogurt, plant protein, and cashew cheese. Vegans take note that honey, bee pollen, egg, and collagen are options on the menu.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Fala Bar ⭐️ – Their entire menu is vegan, nut-free, and soy-free, and they offer many gluten-free options. All of their beans and grains are sprouted, too. They serve an array of falafel flavors in burgers, sandwiches, and plates, and also have a casual selection of other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Green Table – Their smoothie and matcha latte menus are completely dairy-free, and they offer a full menu of raw vegan desserts. Their savory dishes are vegetarian, and include vegan options.
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.
Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams – The 70-year-old, Santa Barbara-based family business churns classic dairy ice cream, but they also make creamy vegan oat milk ice cream flavors. The dairy-free flavors are available by the scoop or pint and include options like Chocolate Fudge & Cookies and Vanilla Bean. See our McConnell’s Dairy-Free Oat Milk Ice Cream page for full ingredient details.
Savoy Cafe & Deli – On their cafe menu, they offer a few dairy-free entrees (like wild salmon and coconut curry chicken) and a couple vegan options. They also have a full bakery with gluten-free, vegan options, including cookies, brownies, cupcakes, and bread. They have gluten-free, dairy-free pumpkin pie.

Santa Clarita

Pei Wei – See our Pei Wei Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Plate Therapy ⭐️ – This is a dairy-free, gluten-free, refined sugar-free meal service. They offer full breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, along with snacks and sides, and have many paleo options.

Santa Maria

Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.

Santa Monica

Backyard Bowls ⭐️ – Their entire menu is dairy-free, and it includes smoothies, bowls, and toasts. They use various mylks, coconut yogurt, plant protein, and cashew cheese. Vegans take note that honey, bee pollen, egg, and collagen are options on the menu.
Bibibop – Thank you to Shawn for sending this recommendation, “A build-your-own bowl Asian fusion fast food place. Most of the menu is dairy free. They even have a coconut milk mango pudding that is dairy free!” They also provide full allergen information to make ordering easy, keep their kitchens peanut-free, and source higher quality ingredients.
Bluestone Lane – This Australian-style cafe chain does a great job in labeling top allergens, and they offer a small selection of dairy-free sandwich and bowl options on their menu, along with a couple vegan items. Their full coffee bar has oat milk and almond milk options, and they sometimes have dairy-free specialty drink promotions.
BreadBlok – This orderly gluten-free bakery labels dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, grain-free, and vegan options. Their dairy-free bakery options includes some breads, teacakes, cookies, scones, muffins, shortbread, and crackers. But they also have full breakfast and lunch menus with some additional options.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Erin McKenna’s Bakery ⭐️ – This sweet bakery is completely vegan and gluten-free, and they don’t use any soy. Their daily menu includes a pretty selection of cupcakes, muffins, donuts, cookies, crumb cakes, and more. They also swirl dairy-free soft serve. And yes, they take custom cake orders!
Flower Child – This healthy restaurant chain serves salads, bowls, and plates with choose your own protein and side options. Their modern “hippie” menu is loaded with organic produce, whole grains (gluten-free, too), and house dressings. Their menu is littered with vegan and paleo options, and most items either are, or can be made dairy-free on request.
Frozen Fruit Co ⭐️ – Every flavor at this frozen dessert shop is plant based, sweetened solely with fruit, and contains minimal ingredients. For example, their chocolate is made with just coconut milk, cocoa, and dates. They also serve specialty flavors during the week and have a menu of healthy fruit soft serve bowls.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
Juice Crafters ⭐️ – There’s no shortage of juice shops in California, but this one is reportedly dairy-free. Their menu includes a big range of pressed juices, hydration drinks, wellness shots, smoothies, and acai bowls. For a creamy finish, they use their own date-sweetened almond nut mylk.
Kye’s ⭐️ – Their healthy menu focuses on local, organic, and macrobiotic cuisine. It’s clearly labeled with dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free, soy-free, and keto/paleo options. Most items are, or can be ordered, dairy-free.
Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Samosa House – This is a popular vegetarian Indian restaurant, which also serves many vegan options, like roti, samosas, dosas, and plates (they offer a dairy-free soup in lieu of yogurt). They even have a vegan mango lassi on their drink menu.
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee – Most of their donuts are “traditional,” but they offer a seasonal vegan flavor daily. They also offer oat, almond, and coconut milk for lattes.
Sweetfin – This Southern California poke chain serves a menu that’s almost purely dairy-free, and even includes a couple flavors of plant-based Dream Pops for dessert. They also have a few plant-based bowls on the menu and offer a plethora of fresh toppings for building your own.
Sweet Rose Creamery – Their flavors change monthly, but typically include a handful of dairy-free flavors, like dark chocolate, caffe luxxe coffee, and strawberry coconut.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
Tocaya Organica – The base menu at this healthy Mexican chain is vegan, but you then choose your protein and/or cheese of choice. They serve salads, bowls, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, soups, and sides, and have dairy-free meats, plant-based meat alternatives, vegan cremas, and cheese alternatives available.
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.
Yoga-urt ⭐️- This purely vegan and organic frozen yogurt shop crafts several flavors with an almond and/or cashew milk base, and cultures them with dairy-free live and active probiotics. They have over 25 rotating soft serve flavors that you can order it in a cup or a gluten-free, vegan waffle cone, with or without toppings. They also serve a full menu of smoothies and shakes, offer ice cream sandwiches made with leftover nut pulp from their frozen yogurt, and serve frozen yogurt pies, banana splits, and popsicles.

Seal Beach

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
Peachwave – If you’re craving something cool and creamy, pop into this froyo chain for some dairy-free Dole Whip or sorbet soft serve! They usually have a few flavors each day.

Signal Hill

Mother’s Market & Kitchen – This local natural food store chain sells many local and national dairy-free products. They also have a to-go cafe on site, with an extensive vegan menu, and even more dairy-free possibilities, like burgers and seafood entrees. They also blend dairy-free smoothies and shakes, with some vegan ice cream options.

Simi Valley

Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.

Tarzana

Tel Aviv Grill ⭐️ – This is a local kosher glatt (meat) restaurant chain, which is dairy-free (by kosher dietary laws). It was recommended to us by Heather, “They serve sandwiches or mix plates with various meats or falafel and an assortment of salads.”
Wanderlust Creamery – Their travel-inspired ice cream flavors always include a few vegan options, which are anything but ordinary. The flavors change monthly.

Temecula

Barons Market – This grocery store has a big selection of specialty foods, including gluten-free and dairy-free.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Phil’s BBQ – They have a full allergy menu with lots of dairy-free options. In fact, most of their menu is, or can be ordered dairy-free (no cheese), nut-free, and peanut-free, including their burger and sandwich buns. They also have gluten-free options.

Thousand Oaks

Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).
Grabbagreen – This healthy gluten-free chain serves bowls, salads, juices, smoothies, wraps, and breakfasts, and they are quite transparent on ingredients. They have many vegan options labeled, and most menu items can be custom ordered without dairy.
Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean ⭐️ – Heather recommended this local kosher, dairy-free restaurant chain to us. “They have shawarmas, grilled meats, or a variety of vegetarian options, that come with a variety of salads and side dishes, in addition to rice or couscous.” They also offer dairy-free desserts.
Tifa Chocolate and Gelato – They scoop some creamy vegan gelato flavors (like peanut butter, dark chocolate, and chocolate chip), and also offer fruity dairy-free sorbettos. On the chocolate side, they have a selection of vegan truffles.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.

Torrance

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Din Tai Fung – This is an upscale Taiwanese chain that specializes in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine. They offer a full allergen and special diet chart, and, at last check, all of their savory menu items were dairy-free and all but one of their sweet bao was dairy-free (most are vegan!). They do use milk in some beverage items.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee – Most of their donuts are “traditional,” but they offer a seasonal vegan flavor daily. They also offer oat, almond, and coconut milk for lattes.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.

Tustin

Dolce Gelato – They make innovative, dairy-free, almond milk flavors, like Smoke on the Water (burnt sugar caramel and smoked sea salt) and Elvis Presley (bananas and peanut butter swirl), along with classic and unique sorbet flavors. They also bake a vegan apple crisp.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Nosh House ⭐️ – This dairy-free spot is billed as “Orange County’s first glatt kosher restaurant.” That means they serve meat, but no milk. Their menu includes appetizers, sandwiches, salads, burgers, and shawarma.
Pei Wei – See our Pei Wei Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Upland

MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes – This expanding franchise makes dairy-free burgers with a range of protein, bun, sauce, and topping options. They have a detailed allergen chart to help you order. They also offer vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Valencia

Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.

Valley Village

Continental Kosher Bakery ⭐️ – Everything is pareve (dairy-free) at this certified kosher bakery. They’re well known for hand crafted rugulach and hamentashen, but also have cakes and other pastries in store.
Hugo’s Restaurant ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests AND they have a separate allergen chart with ingredient information. And there is quite a bit for everyone. Dairy-free options include breakfast dishes (like french toast, eggs, and pancakes), plus an array of lunch and dinner entrees. They even have vegan sticky buns, churros, pastries, sundaes, and milkshakes (with whip!) for dessert.
Tel Aviv Grill ⭐️ – This is a local kosher glatt (meat) restaurant chain, which is dairy-free (by kosher dietary laws). It was recommended to us by Heather, “They serve sandwiches or mix plates with various meats or falafel and an assortment of salads.”

Ventura

Channel Islands Juice Co. – In addition to house-pressed juices, this vegan shop offers nut mylks, kombucha and cold brew on tap, wellness shots, and some plant-based eats for on the go.
Lassens – This regional natural food store chain sells many special diet products, including various dairy alternatives. They also have a full deli onsite that’s filled with dairy-free options. They have many vegan sandwiches and wraps, and most can be made dairy-free (they even offer Daiya cheese). Their deli also boasts a smoothie bar that is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey protein) and even scoops non-dairy ice cream.
Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
MidiCi Pizza – Their signature Neapolitan dough is light, thin, soft, and chewy, with a high crust, and it’s dairy-free. It’s made purely with a special Neapolitan flour, water, sea salt, and yeast. They also offer dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan sausage, and have several custom order salad options.

Visalia

Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.

Vista

LemonShark Poke – They have an interactive allergen menu online, and it brings good news for dairy-free guests. All of their sauces and poke bowl ingredients are dairy-free. The only items that contained dairy at our time of review were the tempura, coconut shrimp, and katsu.

West Covina

Green Green Trees Your Vegan Kitchen ⭐️ – This all-vegan restaurant focuses on Asian food, but has a rather eclectic menu ranging from porridges to burritos to bentos.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
One Veg World ⭐️ – Their sign says “vegetarian,” but this is a vegan restaurant serving a menu of burgers, tacos, burritos, and a small global assortment of other entrees. They also have a vegan mini-mart on site.

West Hollywood

Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
Breakfast Republic – This local brunch chain has an inset vegan menu, including omelets, “bennies,” and more. They often have specials, like vegan French toast, too. Their menu also includes gluten-free options and some egg items can also be ordered without dairy.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Go Get Em Tiger – This Los Angeles coffee shop chain has a location in West Hollywood, where they don’t mess around. Their housemade almond macadamia nut latte and vegan strawberry muffins are standards on the menu. And all of their other classic vegan dishes and coffee drinks are available. Sandwiches can also be made dairy-free.
Gracias Madre ⭐️ – The founders of Cafe Gratitude chose to honor traditional Mexican cuisine with this vegan, organic restaurant. Local and sustainable are a theme – in fact, they even grow their own produce! They serve lunch, happy hour, dinner, and brunch at this location, and offer many unique bowls and other Mexican-inspired dishes. They also craft their own cocktails and make decadent desserts, like tres leches cake. For additional food concerns, they have allergy menus available for gluten, tree nuts, garlic, onion, cilantro, soy, corn, and avocado.
Hugo’s Restaurant ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests AND they have a separate allergen chart with ingredient information. And there is quite a bit for everyone. Dairy-free options include breakfast dishes (like french toast, eggs, and pancakes), plus an array of lunch and dinner entrees. They even have vegan sticky buns, churros, pastries, sundaes, and milkshakes (with whip!) for dessert.
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Paradis Icecream – Their scoops always include at least a couple dairy-free flavors, which rotate often. Some are sorbets, but they also make a big range of creamy plant-based flavors made with almond milk or coconut cream. You can enjoy them in a cup or a cake cone, and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They can also make you a vegan milkshake or coffee drink with almond milk.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Tocaya Organica – The base menu at this healthy Mexican chain is vegan, but you then choose your protein and/or cheese of choice. They serve salads, bowls, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, soups, and sides, and have dairy-free meats, plant-based meat alternatives, vegan cremas, and cheese alternatives available.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese, vegan and gluten-free pizza crusts, several vegan housemade sauces, and more. See our Brea Listing above for more specific details.

Westlake Village

Karma Baker ⭐️ – Everything at this local bakery is gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. They have a storefront that is open to the public, but they also take online orders, fulfill custom orders, offer catering, and supply local stores and restaurants with goodies. They make every sweet baked good imageinable, including cupcake jars, Hostess-style cupcakes, donuts, cookie sandwiches, muffins, scones, quick breads, and that special cake.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Tifa Chocolate and Gelato – They scoop some creamy vegan gelato flavors (like peanut butter, dark chocolate, and chocolate chip), and also offer fruity dairy-free sorbettos. On the chocolate side, they have a selection of vegan truffles.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.
Western Bagel – Every bagel they make is dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free (at last check), and it’s quite a selection. They’re also egg free (except for the egg bagel), since they don’t use an egg wash. They offer standard schmeers, but do have peanut butter, jelly, and some sandwich options for dairy-free customers.

Westminster

Dong Hung Vien Bakery – This Asian bakery and banh mi shop caters heavily to special diets. You’ll find a good selection of dairy-free sandwiches, along with vegan options. Thy also usually have some breads and/or sweets.

Westwood

Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.

Wildomar

Barons Market – This grocery store has a big selection of specialty foods, including gluten-free and dairy-free.
Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).

Yorba Linda

Clean Juice – They make their own cold-pressed cashew milks and offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothie bowls, smoothies, toasts, and some other eats. Please note that their flatbread wraps (the bread itself) contain dairy, but all other menu items can be ordered dairy-free by omitting the cheese or substituting vegan protein for the whey protein (in the proteins smoothies).

Yucaipa

LemonShark Poke – They have an interactive allergen menu online, and it brings good news for dairy-free guests. All of their sauces and poke bowl ingredients are dairy-free. The only items that contained dairy at our time of review were the tempura, coconut shrimp, and katsu.

Photo from Sugar Taco in Los Angeles, California

Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Southern California

Some recommended restaurant and store chains are getting too big for our city listing britches. They have many locations, or are rapidly growing, and you might stumble across them in a number of towns in this state. Click on them for more dairy-free details.

Benihana – See our Benihana Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Blaze Pizza – See our Blaze Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
Fresh Brothers – This pizza, salad, and wing chain has locations dotted around L.A and Orange County. They offer a vegan menu with dairy-free cheese (and meat alternatives), so almost any pizza or salad can be made dairy-free. They also offer vegan wings, vegan dessert nots, and vegan and gluten-free brownies.
Handel’s Ice Cream – This is a growing chain that offers vegan chocolate almond milk ice cream, coconut milk ice cream, sorbets, and some of their locations have dairy-free ices. They usually have at least one dairy-free flavor daily, but it’s best to call ahead or check online to ensure availability at your location.
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt – See our Menchie’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Philz Coffee – See our Philz Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pick Up Stix – This quick-serve Asian restaurants has dozens of outposts in the greater Los Angeles and San Diego areas. Use caution when ordering, as some surprising dishes contain dairy, like the lettuce wraps, won ton soup, fried rice, beef and broccoli, garlick chicken, and a handful of other dishes. But they offer a complete allergen chart and dozens of dairy-free appetizers and entrees to choose from.
Pieology Pizzeria – See our Pieology Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pressed Juicery – See our Pressed Juicery Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options. They have locations dotted all over the great Los Angeles area, and a couple spots in Orange County.
The Flame Broiler ⭐️ – They contacted us to announce they run a completely dairy-free restaurant chain. It’s a counter-serve spot that makes healthy Asian-style rice bowls free of MSG, high fructose corn syrup, and trans fats. Their menu is actually quite simple, with your choices of proteins and bases. Your order is served without sauce, but they have various sauces included that you can add to taste. They have vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options and a kid’s size.
The Habit Burger – See our Habit Burger Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Which Wich – Jennifer wrote in to recommend this sandwich chain that she visits with her dairy allergic daughter. Their breads, most of their meats (skip the corned beef and meatballs), all non-cheese toppings, and even their house “Wich sauce” are made without dairy. Skip the cheese, pesto, and ranch when you build your own. They also have a vegan black bean patty, but the wheat bread does contain honey. Guests can order a “bowlwich” (no bun) for gluten-free. They do have an allergen chart available.

Photo from Donut Friend in Los Angeles, California

Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in Southern California

These dairy-free friendly companies don’t have their own retail location, but are in Southern California. So you have a good chance of finding their products at grocery stores, restaurants, and/or other shops in this state. Keep an eye out!

Califia Farms – You can easily find a range of Califia products in their home region of Los Angeles. This dairy-free company makes all types of milk alternatives, creamers, butter alternative, and more.
Coolhaus – Their pints are shipped across the U.S. (including their dairy-free line), but they call L.A. home and do have a food truck available for events.
Craig’s Vegan Ice Cream – They make cashew-based vegan ice cream that is reportedly Kevin O’Leary’s favorite. And with flavors like Melrose Mint Chip and Sunset & Strawberry, this is a quintessential Southern California company.
Elive Food – This local vegan company makes cashew cheesecakes, cheese sauces, dressings, and more. They deliver locally and sell via some cafes in the area.
Follow Your Heart – This vegan alternative brand has actually been around for decades – it all started with their cafe in Los Angeles. Now they offer a big range of vegan cheeses, vegenaise, and more.
Halo Top – This ice cream company revolutionized low sugar ice cream, and they have a full line of dairy-free flavors.
Misha’s Kind Foods – They make spreadable dairy-free, paleo, and vegan cheeses with an almond and cashew milk base.

Photo from Backyard Bowls – a Southern California dairy-free favorite in Goleta, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Santa Monica

This Guide is Continuously Updated with Recommendations

We welcome you to recommend other dairy-free friendly restaurants. Leave a comment or contact us and tell us why you like a certain restaurant. Restaurant owners and employees are also invited to reach out and let us know how you welcome dairy-free customers.

Please kindly let us know in the comments if any of these restaurants close. We want to keep this list current for you, but aren’t always notified when a restaurant closes. Let us know and we will quickly update!

This Guide is for Informational Purposes Only

Menus, ingredients, kitchen procedures, management, and restaurants are subject to change at any time. Always read the menu and discuss your dietary needs with the staff before ordering. Make sure that they can accommodate your situation.

There is always a risk for potential cross-contamination of allergens in any commercial kitchen. If cross-contamination is an issue for you, always speak with the manager to ensure that your meal can be safely prepared. Listings here do not guarantee that a restaurant is safe enough for your individual needs. Only you can make that decision.

For More Dairy-Free Guidance, Get Go Dairy Free!

3 Comments

Tricia Handza on July 21, 2021 6:18 am
Don’t forget Noble Bird in Long Beach! They are dairy-free. The owner is the mother of children with severe food allergies and the restaurant is EXTREMELY allergy aware. They will bend over backwards to make it a safe experience for allergy families. Plus the food is delicious!
- Alisa Fleming on July 21, 2021 3:05 pm
  Thank you Tricia!
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