A friend’s recommendation is a powerful thing.

One person tells you a place is great, you nod politely and file it away. Three people tell you, and it’s not if but when you will make the trip.

That was us with Earth Bistro Cafe on Clifton Boulevard.

For years, I’ve passed that quiet little awning without thinking twice. Turns out, half the Westside has been enjoying a hidden gem while I drove by unaware.

Owners Carlos and Luis Castro have been running Earth Bistro for nearly 13 years, and it has all the good neighborhood spot ingredients: warm welcome, big flavor, dry humor, and one of the most vegan-friendly menus in the city.

Luis had us cracking up immediately, and there’s something about a restaurant owner who can make you smile before the food even arrives that makes you want to come back again and again…

Earth Bistro is known for vegan options, and almost anything on the menu can be made vegan. Our vegan friends tell us that is extremely rare.

The Menu

They’re famous for their Cuban-style guacamole with grilled pineapple and plantains.

I ordered the crispy chicken sandwich, and it was fantastic. The chicken tasted ridiculously fresh, juicy, and hand breaded. It was also not hurting for ingredients.

I had to unhinge my jaw like a snake to get a full bite. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the unique coleslaw on top gave it the perfect cool, crunchy finish.

Luis and his brother are very humble. But staying in business for 13 years is no accident. They are also known for their weekend brunch, which means we’ll be back very soon. This breakfast grilled cheese has my name on it.

So yes, we finally get it.

Earth Bistro Cafe is warm, quirky, delicious, and absolutely worth pulling over for.

Check out the Google reviews

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