Pura Vita
The potato edge appetizer and a Caprese built on cashew mozzarella are the entry points into Pura Vita's case that vegan Italian cooking can hold its own against the traditional version. The storefront gives little away from the street, but the kitchen treats plant-based substitutions as a starting point rather than a compromise. At this price tier, it reads as a legitimate weeknight option rather than a novelty for vegans only.
What to orderTruffle Mushroom PastaWood-Fired Margherita FlatbreadCrispy Cashew Arancini Call DirectionsFull review & visiting detailsRead the full review & visiting details
Vegan Italian That Skips the Apology
The mushroom ragu leans on truffle for weight, a plant-based pasta rich enough to skip the usual cream crutch.
A blistered, wood-fired crust carries the simple tomato-basil combination without needing the usual dairy mozzarella to make its case.
Cashew stands in for ricotta here, and the fried shell gives the plant-based filling the crunch the name promises.
Tucked along the bustling stretch of Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, Pura Vita has carved out a distinctive niche as one of the city's most beloved fully vegan Italian restaurants and wine bars. What began as a passion project has grown into a destination where plant-based dining meets classic Italian comfort, proving that indulgent, flavor-packed Italian food doesn't require a single animal product. The restaurant's approachable price point and unpretentious energy make it a favorite for both dedicated vegans and curious omnivores looking to experience Italian cuisine reimagined.
The menu reads like a love letter to traditional Italian trattoria fare, entirely reworked with plant-based ingredients that don't skimp on richness or depth. Housemade pastas arrive in generous portions, often dressed in creamy cashew-based sauces or bright tomato reductions, while the wood-fired flatbreads showcase melty vegan cheeses and seasonal vegetables. Small plates like crispy arancini and marinated olives pair beautifully with the well-curated wine list, which leans into organic and biodynamic selections that complement the kitchen's Mediterranean sensibilities.
Inside, Pura Vita balances rustic charm with modern polish. Exposed wood accents, warm lighting, and a lively bar area create an inviting backdrop for both quick bites and lingering dinners. The dining room hums with conversation, and an outdoor patio offers a pleasant option for enjoying the West Hollywood evening air. Seating arrangements accommodate everything from solo diners perched at the bar to larger groups gathered around communal tables, giving the space a versatile, easygoing feel.
Whether celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends over a bottle of natural wine, or simply craving Italian comfort food without the guilt, Pura Vita delivers a satisfying and memorable experience. Its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere have earned it a loyal following, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring West Hollywood's dining scene, vegan or not.
© OpenStreetMap
West Hollywood, CA 90046
Reservations are recommended on weekends since the patio seats fill up fast, especially during golden hour.




















