Julia's, Pacific Grove

We had the pleasure of an excursion to Monterey last weekend.  We soaked up some sand and surf and more fresh air than our lungs knew what to do with, and then we ate!  Out of all the places we dined, one was clearly our favorite:  Julia's.

Only open for dinner on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, reservations are a must, and you'll be glad you made 'em.  This all vegetarian place is the only one around for miles, and with most of the the items being vegan, we were happy to have numerous choices.  Here's what caught my palate's attention last Friday.

This beautiful roasted veggie salad is served up in a gorgeous wooden bowl and is comprised of the freshest organic greens and perfectly roasted veggies.  A lovely start to the meal.  I didn't get a picture of it, but every table gets complimentary flatbread and roasted red pepper hummus too.  Hooray free food!

For my entree, I chose the faux roasted chicken with braised greens and smashed potatoes.  Holy yum.  The mushroom sauce, the fresh herbs, the paprika on the potatoes... I loved everything about this homemade wheat gluten "chicken" dish.   Entrees my tablemates enjoyed included veggie paella and yellow curry, so Julia's really runs the gamut.  They also have a pizza section of the menu.  Guess I'll just have to go back.

Only one vegan option for dessert and it was the chocolate cake.  Not bad, but not WOW.  Still, I look forward to our next trip down the coast, and highly recommend a stop here should you find yourself in the area on a weekend.  It's got a mom and pop vibe, but the food they're putting out is worth a little lacking ambiance, so go and enjoy!

Next up:  We're heading to Maui so stay tuned for some eats with aloha spirit...