<p>Hi there! I was just wondering if there were any places on/around campus that offered decent vegetarian or vegan food. I'm slightly worried that I'll end up eating garden salads for the next four years. Also, is there a grocery store anywhere near the campus or have you found that you don't really need one living at UCLA? Any information would be greatly appreciated =)</p>
<p>I am not a vegetarian/vegan, but the dining halls also have a vegetarian option for pretty much any dish that has meat. Also, there is a Ralphs in Westwood. I would say it is about a 15 minute walk each way though, but you will be used to the walk to and from class everyday.</p>
<p>In addition to Ralph’s you have Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s - so you’ll be a-ok. My roommate was vegetarian first year and the dining halls treated him very well. Otherwise, you can go to Novel Cafe among other places in Westwood.</p>
<p>Here are some things that I’ve done as a vegetarian:</p>
<ul>
<li>Get assorted items from Ralphs, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe’s in Westwood</li>
<li>Eat at Native Foods</li>
<li>Get vegetarian options at many of the other Westwood restaurants</li>
<li>Check the menu at the dining halls so that you know what you’re getting into and you can pick the dining hall that’s serving the food you like the most.</li>
</ul>
<p>Personally, I hated the dining halls. While there were vegetarian options for everything, it was obvious that they were given less attention. Sometimes I saw more vegetables added to pasta with meat than to the meatless pasta. I managed though, and I definitely wasn’t eating salad every day.</p>
<p>I had no idea there was a Whole Foods or a Trader Joe’s in Westwood. Thanks you guys so much for the information! That Natives Food place looks delicious, especially the portobello and “sausage” burger. </p>
<p>@grapesoda I was looking at some of the menus at the dining hall facilities and I can see what you mean about the vegetarian options sort of taking a backseat. At most places the only meals are veggie burgers, and most of the other stuff labeled vegetarian is either a side or fries.</p>