Restaurant Review: Veggies finally get their time to shine

118 Degrees is a captivating display of culinary art that pleases the eye as well as the stomach.

This trendy vegan and raw foods restaurant in Costa Mesa stands out from any other typical place because nothing is, surprisingly, cooked over 118 degrees.

“It is about retaining the nutrients in the food all while helping
your digestive system,” said waitress Michelle.

For those unsure about trying live foods, Michelle suggested trying the one of the samplers, or the Florentine Lasagna, although, it’s not your typical Italian lasagna. The famous Italian dish does not include any pasta and instead is layered with zucchini, ricotta cheese, Italian vegetables and then drizzled with a sun-dried tomato sauce. To make the dish stand apart even more from your mother’s lasagna, the ricotta cheese (and all other cheeses) is made from nuts, herbs and spices. 

“I wasn’t scared when I heard this place was a raw vegan restaurant. I was excited.” said customer Chelsea Boudreau, who also was excited about the organic beer and wine list as well as her plate of
Dos Tacos.

Dishes range from $9-68 and there is a wide selection of food including such dishes as the Verde Tacos and CA Seasons Platter. Although this place is a bit on the expensive side, others will argue that it is worth the visit. 

The service was great and the staff was very informative about the live foods mission. Though 118 Degrees is small in size, the customers that come pouring in on the weekends make this place a dining hot spot. So reservations are a must if you want to experience this unique cuisine.

Less than 18 miles from Fullerton College, this place is worth the try. “I liked this place. I plan on coming back,” Boudreau said. “It’s reasonable, and it’s not your typical restaurant.”