For an otherworldly vegetarian dining experience, Jyoti Bihanga in Normal Heights is your best bet. Owned and run by students of spiritual master Sri Chinmoy, Jyoti Bihanga aspires to "create a small corner of the world that is inundated with the spirituality and philosophy" of their teacher in meditation. The calming ambience and simplicity of the nutritional menu will definitely help you mellow you out in time to truly enjoy your meal.
Popular dishes at this vegetarian Mecca include the NeatLoaf and the Thai Stir Fry with fresh veggies, peanuts, and tofu on top of brown rice. Try the Buddha Burger for a reliable favorite or the faux Club Sandwich for a filling option. Other great choices include the crisp Enchanted Garden Salad, delicious hummus dip, and the surprisingly satisfying Carrot Ginger Soup.
Take some time to look around the restaurant while you're waiting for your meal. A plethora of Sri Chinmoy pictures are hung along the walls and there are pamphlets at the door explaining their meditation practices.
Insider Tip: This restaurant often has bizarre hours due to their meditation schedules and impromptu visits to Sri Chinmoy's hometown in New York. Call ahead to make sure they'll be open when you'll be stopping in after a show at Lestat's across the street.
Also: Just east of the restaurant is a parking lot - use it! Otherwise, parking in the neighborhood is practically impossible during the evenings.
Discover San Diego Hotels