Best Vegeterian: Green Temple
The entrance to Green Temple is one of visual delights of the South Bay. You enter from either a nondescript courtyard on Avenue I or a side alley off Catalina, neither of which looks particularly impressive. Pass that door and you are in another world, a secluded courtyard next to a comfortable dining room, both decorated in the style of Southeast Asia. Serene Buddhas sit by fountains and exotic plants, thoughtful company for diners who are meditating over what to order for lunch. The décor may be Asian-inspired, but the menu is more Californian – hearty soups, salads, sandwiches, quesadillas, and Mexican-inspired dishes, all vegetarian and most vegan. Whether you seek out vegetarian dining for health or ethical reasons or just enjoy the flavors of organic and natural ingredients, this is the place to come for a tasty meal is stunningly beautiful surroundings.
1700 S Catalina Ave, RB (310) 944-4525, www.greentemple.net
Runner-up: The Spot, 110 2nd St., Hermosa Beach,(310) 376-2355, www.worldfamousspot.com