Rev. Danny Fisher

It occurred to me recently that as a resident of San Gabriel Valley, I live around and patronize quite a few wonderful Buddhist temples, centers, shops, restaurants, etc.–establishments that readers of a Buddhist blog might like to know about.  So, from time to time, I’d like to highlight some of these spots in a new feature we’ll dopily call “Mr. Fisher’s Neighborhood.”

Today’s site:  Veggie Life Restaurant in South El Monte.  A Vietnamese Buddhist-owned vegetarian restaurant, Veggie Life can be found at the southwest corner of East Garvey Avenue and Rosemead Boulevard on the first floor of a small shopping complex.  If you use the Los Angeles Metro system, the 70 bus handily makes a stop right in front of it.  Fortunately for me, though, Veggie Life is just a short walk from where I live, making me a frequent visitor.  In fact, it’s probably my favorite place to grab a bite in the neighborhood:  between the cosmically good food, lovely atmosphere, and sweet nature of the managment, I always look forward to going in.  Here’s a look from the outside:

Though the Veggie Life Restaurant very much wears its Buddhist heritage on its sleeve with statues, literature, and other accessories, the aspect I appreciate the most would have to be the fact that Avalokiteśvara graces the cover of every menu:

Speaking of the menu, I think I’m beginning to amuse the owner and staff by looking at it when I come in because I always end up ordering the same thing, no matter how many times I mull over the options.  That item:  the Spicy “Beef” Soup with Vermicelli Noodles.  Feast your eyes on my precious:

Yes, dear readers, it is as good as it looks:  delicious broth, a sampling of different veggie “meats,” mushrooms, and just the right amount of spice.  I’ve tried a few other things on the menu, but once I had this…well, there has been no going back (yet).

In short, Veggie Life Restaurant is awesome.  If you’re an Angelino, come support this local Buddhist business, where the food is fantastic, the people couldn’t be nicer, and the vibe is lovely.  Here’s all the pertinent information:

Veggie Life Restaurant
9324 Garvey Ave., Ste. B
South El Monte, CA 91733

(626) 443-8687