Plant-Based Fast-Food Concept Launching in San Diego

San Diego's plant-based food options are growing and becoming increasingly varied, from the affirmation-giving Cafe Gratitude to the vegan drinking den KINDRED. This month, a new plant-based concept is due to put down roots in San Diego, with a first location opening in Ocean Beach.

PlantPower Fast Food will launch later this month with a GMO-free, mostly organic menu that's loaded with healthier alternatives to 'traditional' fast-food favorites. There are burgers based on tempeh, black bean or faux 'beef', plus wraps, street tacos, crispy 'fish' and 'chicken' sandwiches and shakes blended from housemade ice cream. On the lighter side are raw dishes, smoothies and juices.

Zach Vouga and Mitch Wallis are among the new company's partners; Wallis founded Evolution Fast Food in Bankers Hill and is PlantPower's CEO. He says, "Giving birth to this new brand has really been a team effort. The PlantPower Fast Food team is made up of the three partners, a family of supportive investors and a group of wonderful enthusiastic employees. We know that so many people have been waiting for healthier options for traditional fast food and we're really excited to bring something new to the table".

The team intends to eventually grow PlantPower Fast Food into a national chain, but for now is focused on expanding regionally in Southern California. A second eatery is in the works in Encinitas, which should open by mid-to-late 2016.