Plumeria: Vegan Friendly
UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS. Plumeria is a vegetarian, Thai restaurant that offers a wide array of vegan appetizers, salads, entrees, curries, noodle dishes, and desserts. I’ve received a number of emails from The Fussy Fork’s readers asking me to blog about Plumeria, so here it is!
Plumeria is committed to using quality ingredients. They pledge to use organic vegetables when available, not to use MSG or products containing MSG, use non-GMO and gluten-free tofu produced locally by San Diego Soy Company, and use organic, gluten-free soy milk! Their quality ingredients and clearly labeled vegan menu items help to eliminate the guesswork when dining out!
We arrived hungry for lunch and decided to start with the Fresh Spring Roll appetizer made with rice noodles, tofu, and lettuce wrapped in rice paper and served with home made peanut and pineapple sauces. The rolls were fresh and light. They took the edge off my hunger without filling me up too much! Don’t miss out on the peanut sauce — it is rich, creamy, and obviously full of fresh ingredients!
Next was the Eggplant entrée made from sautéed eggplant, bell peppers, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, crushed chili, and basil in house sauce. We added fried tofu (you can also add vegetables, steamed tofu, or vegan duck, chicken, beef, or shrimp). This dish is truly special. The eggplant practically melts in your mouth, the veggies are tender, and the sauce flavorful. Definitely worth ordering!
My favorite item on the menu is the Pumpkin Curry entrée made from pumpkin, eggplant, bell peppers, bamboo shoots, and fresh basil in a red curry sauce. I love all things pumpkin, and this dish is no exception. The spicy curry highlights the sweetness of the pumpkin and the eggplant. Add in some fresh vegetables, and you have a winning combination. I really could eat this every day.
Entrees also come with a side of rice (in the shape of a star no less!). Choose from white rice, brown rice, or…
A mix of white and brown rice!
And don’t forget dessert! We ordered the fried banana with vegan coconut ice cream. A crisp, warm exterior with a warm, creamy banana interior. It is then all topped with agave. Heavenly!
Plumeria creates a cozy dining environment with purple seat cushions and a beautiful wall mural with blooming flowers. A great place to settle in for a meal.
There are also a few tables outside if you want to soak up the sun or enjoy a warm night. It’s also perfect for those who want to dine out with their dogs!
Bottom line, if you haven’t eaten at Plumeria, you are missing out!
4661 Park Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92116
619.269.9989