La Finca Bowls - Albuquerque

When it comes to vegan options, I have a special fondness for places like Annapurna, El Cottorro’s Tacos, Farina’s Pizza, and Thai Cuisine II. This spot stands out with its falafel — it's incredibly well-made and features unique, fresh, and flavorful ingredients that set it apart from the average falafel (though I do enjoy classic versions too!). All the dishes are crafted from fresh ingredients, reflecting the pride this locally owned eatery has in its uniqueness. Don't miss the agua frescas, which are definitely worth trying, and there are always tempting vegan dessert options on offer. I must admit I didn’t indulge in these during my lunch visit, as I was too busy enjoying a hearty vegan samosa with my salad bowl. But perhaps you should treat yourself! One thing to note — I’m a health-conscious vegan. This place doesn’t offer fake meat or cheese alternatives, and the only deep-fried item is the falafel, which is done expertly. They provide a wonderful bed of greens and quinoa that keeps me happy. If you're looking for junk food vegan options, this might not be the right spot for you; other places around the city, like Sister Bar, cater more to those preferences (but no judgment here!).

In terms of favorites, I have a soft spot for Annapurna's, El Cottorro's Tacos, Farina's Pizza, and Thai Cuisine II, all of which offer vegan options, of course. When you visit Finca Bowls, make sure to add the falafel. It’s exceptionally well-made with fresh and flavorful ingredients—definitely not your average falafel (though I do love a classic falafel, don’t get me wrong). All the bowls are crafted with fresh ingredients, and you can tell there's a genuine pride in this locally-owned establishment. The agua frescas are definitely worth a try, and there are always tempting vegan dessert options available. I confess I didn’t indulge in dessert during my lunch visit; I can’t quite explain why I wouldn’t want to pair a huge vegan Samoa with my salad bowl. But perhaps you can! One thing to note: I'm a health-conscious vegan. There are no fake meat or cheese alternatives here; the only deep-fried item is the incredibly well-prepared falafel. They also provide plenty of lush greens and quinoa, which is right in my happy zone. If you’re looking for junk food vegan options, this isn’t the place for you. Places like Sister Bar and others around the city cater more to those seeking indulgent vegan fare.