© PLANTA Cocina Dining Room

A new wave of gourmet vegan cuisine has reached the shores of Los Angeles with the opening of PLANTA Cocina in Marina Del Rey. As part of the premier plant-based hospitality group PLANTA’s West Coast expansion, this exciting location signifies the arrival of the founders’ Latin-inspired migration to a city renowned for innovation and gastronomy. 

From the sprawling waterfront views to the ingenious menu, PLANTA is a beacon for the wellness enthusiast and culinary explorer alike. 

Sublime Ambiance: The California Spirit

Upon entering 5,000 square feet of newly constructed waterfront real estate, the architectural design is both majestic and inviting. Eleven arches draw patrons toward a spacious dining room, creating a rhythmic flow that feels almost musical. 

An outdoor patio is an alfresco dream, while the private dining room transports to the adobe pueblos of Mexico. Each is decorated with a sophistication that merges elegance with comfort. The view of the marina adds a touch of serenity to the dining experience, setting the stage for Millennial’s review of this captivating new space.

The PLANTA Cocina Menu: A Symphony of Flavors

Cocktails: Art in a Glass

We began the evening with the poetic cocktail menu. A true blend of tradition and imagination, the Herb Your Enthusiasm is a dance of thai chili-infused tequila with pineapple and mint. This drink offers a refreshing zing with an unexpected twist of thai basil. Each sip resonates with an earthy tang, awakening the palate for what’s to come.

Mez-cal Me Maybe quickly became a new favorite. It balances the smokiness of mezcal with a sweet embrace of passion fruit. This concoction celebrates the richness of Oaxacan culture, creating a melodious harmony that both intrigues and delights.

© PLANTA Cocina, Crispy Rice

Appetizers: A Dance of Delights

Each appetizer seems to be an edible masterpiece. From the spicy Ahi watermelon’s clever deception in Crispy Rice to the Torched & Pressed avocado with miso truffle glaze, they lure you into a world of culinary artistry. 

The Crispy Rice uses dehydrated watermelon to mimic spicy ahi tuna. The slight tinge of sweetness pairs up against the crunch of the crisped rice in a well-balanced harmony. 

The Torched and Pressed avocado sushi transforms into a flavor wonder with a truffle miso glaze that adds a sumptuous richness. Every bite is a savory surprise with wasabi and soy sauce enhancing its complexity.

An ultra-fresh blend of cactus, pico de gallo, cilantro, and lime bring the unique flavors of the Pumpkin Seed Guacamole to life. The endive spears pair as “chips,” adding to this pleasantly light bite.

A twist on buffalo cauliflower, the Bang Bang Broccoli is a staple to the PLANTA menu and wows with its decadent peanut sauce.

But the star of the PLANTA Cocina menu, however, is the 1,000 Layer Crispy Potatoes. A masterpiece of potato artistry, this canapé takes simplicity to gourmet heights. Each layer melts into the next, topped with kelp caviar, seasoned to perfection and lightly fried.

Simplicity becomes elegance in this showcase dish, leaving the palate eager for the next course.

© PLANTA Cocina, Japanese Eggplant Robata

Mains: Journey Through Tastes

Venturing into the main course, we chose a few items off PLANTA Cocina’s newly added Robata menu- the Japanese fireside cooking method. 

The Japanese Eggplant and California Artichokes offer a complex interplay of textures and flavors, from creamy and delicate to smoky and savory. 

The Japanese Eggplant pairs hot honey and salsa macha with the creamy flavors of the eggplant. While the wood-grilled California Artichokes offer a nice smoky taste to the delightful pistachio remoulade.

The Udon Noodles in a truffle mushroom cream sauce, might be heavy for some, but is a standalone marvel for those craving something decadent.

© PLANTA Cocina, Chocolate Brownie Dessert

Desserts: A Sweet Conclusion

The dessert menu brought a comforting close to our meal with the classic yet refined Chocolate Brownie and the creatively spiced Horchata Cheesecake. 

The Chocolate Brownie with vanilla ice cream added some pizzazz with a pour-on experience of fudge sauce, balancing sweetness with a touch of home.

The Horchata Cheesecake, on the other hand, is light, fluffy, and topped with an uplifting apricot compote. This cheesecake hints at late summer vibes and whispers seasonal transitions, leaving a lasting impression of finesse.

© PLANTA Cocina, Outdoor Patio

A New Era for Angelenos

PLANTA Cocina in Marina Del Rey is more than just a restaurant; it’s an invitation to experience plant-powered food on a new level. With its West Coast expansion, including upcoming locations in Brentwood and West Hollywood, PLANTA is not only catering to a wider audience but also raising the bar for plant-based hospitality.

Angelenos, prepare to be enchanted by what this restaurant has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you.

Details and Reservations

PLANTA Cocina Marina Del Rey is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, with brunch available on the weekends. Reservations can be made on Resy.com, and further details are available at plantarestaurants.com or by following @planta on social media.