Preview: Native Foods Santa Monica

Front of the Santa Monica Location

I have been waiting for this for what feels like forever!  On Tuesday, July 3, Native Foods Santa Monica is officially open in the spot that used to belong to Pizza Fusion at 2901 Ocean Park Blvd (map), across from the Santa Monica Business Park. 

I was a huge fan of the vegan pizzas at Pizza Fusion and would request to eat there on a near weekly basis when I'd meet the boyfriend for lunch. Needless to say, I was heartbroken when they closed, but would continue to order the vegan pizzas from the short lived Pour House (same owners as Pizza Fusion, so same pizza menu).  When Pour House shuttered shortly after its opening, it didn't take long for me to read across the wire that Native Foods would be moving into that space. Without an option for fulfillment of my need for a vegan pizza fix, I started to meet with the boy for lunch less often, so the anticipation immediately grew for Native Food's opening.

I began to count down the months... then the opening got pushed back, so I started to count the weeks... then the opening got pushed again.  Finally, my good friend Rachel, who works at the Westwood location, invited me to the employee soft open and I was down to counting the days! On Tuesday evening, I enjoyed my first peak at the new Native Foods, joining Rachel and Quarry Girl for an epic feast that left me full until the public soft open lunch I went to yesterday.

Order at the counter when you enter the restaurant.

The new location is super cute. The seating area is similar to what it looked like when Pizza Fusion was there, but they built out the kitchen. It appeared the old pizza oven is gone, and the order and dessert display counter stands where the bar used to be.  The walls are brightly colored and there is a communal style table in the middle of the restaurant that is great for big groups, or just getting friendly with other diners. Friday afternoon, we were greeted by the cheerful, friendly and helpful (but slightly nervous looking staff) who took great care of us during our visit. We were offered samples of the teas and lemonades while waiting in line to order, and suggestions were made to my friends who are not as well versed in the menu as I am. While we ate, we were consistently checked on and offered refills on drinks, and I felt spoiled to never have to leave my seat for anything. I hope the service stays as attentive once the restaurant is officially open for regular business.

I cannot even express in words how thrilled I am with the arrival of Native Foods in Santa Monica, and I'm sure I'll be getting to know many of the staff members as I start to again have lunch more frequently with the boyfriend.

Now, what I'm sure you are all wondering: What did we eat?! 

Instructions were given on what you may order for your free meal.

Chili Cheese Fries, upgraded to sweet potato fries

Native Nachos, piled high with Native cashew cheese, Native taco meat, black beans, chipotle cream and guacamole

A feast for 20, enjoyed by 4!

Rockin' Moroccan bowl with original seitan. One of my favorite Native Foods dishes. Wonderful flavors of cinnamon and pure deliciousness, with grilled veggies and quinoa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And we must not forget dessert. Cardamon rose cupcake, as described by Rachel: It's like a rose garden in my mouth!