Four years after opening its doors, winning locals over with comfort staples like the Cali-Bae Rito Burrito and Loaded Nachos with Asada, Chicana Vegana still gets fans and fresh ones talking. At the same time, regulars return for chicken nuggets and hamburgers. The restaurant is expanding into new areas, including a plant-based breakfast menu from 12 to 5 p.m. Recent menu additions quesabirria tacos, chicken fajitas, hot dogs, taquitos, tortas, esquite (street corn in a cup), a custom veggie patty, and Taco Tuesday deals are available.

The Cali-Rae Burrito is one of Chicana Vegana’s signature dishes, with crispy seasoned fries, guacamole, house-made sour cream, and a plant-based protein of choice, all nicely wrapped in a flour tortilla. On my visit, this classic was on my hit list; the fries were crunchy, and the inside was soft and packed with flavor. Could not believe that this delicious rolled goodness was healthy. Highly recommend this burrito bomb! Another classic that goes toe-to-toe with the Cal-Burrito is the Loaded Nachos with Asada, a mountain of flavor with chips, beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, cashew nachos, and sour cream. You cannot go wrong trying these two customer favorites.

Among the standout newer offerings are the Quabarria Taco Trio, with plant-based carnitas, melted cheese, onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and an optional cup of consumé. The tacos tasted like traditional birria; dipping this handheld delight in consumé, enriched the chile flavor and converted this gooey treat into a memorable tacolicious experience.

The Fajitas Fries were on my radar. This creation comes with Abbot’s chopped soy-free chicken strips, seasoned fries, nacho cheese, sautéed bell peppers, onions, topped off with cilantro-lime cashew crema. Soon after ordering, a mountain of sizzling joy was smoking before my eyes. The chicken was tender, the fries were crunchy, and the crema gave the plate a cool, fresh taste. Savored every bite.

First-time customer Dani Messerschmidt had the chicken Fajita Burrito. She said she enjoyed this flavorful treat, especially the fries; they were well seasoned and crunchy. This guest couldn’t get enough. Messerschmidt considers herself a fry connoisseur, and these savory fries were recommended.

Chicana Vegana has rolled out a morning menu for people looking for their afternoon breakfast fix. Highlights include a savory breakfast burrito and the Abbot’s chorizo option. CV also has a sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese, “The breakfast menu is new this year,” said employee Samantha Juarez. You can get your breakfast boost from noon to 5 p.m.
The latest flavor bombs at Chicana Vegana are the Hot Dogs, all made with impossible meat and with golden brioche buns. The chili cheese dog is layered with rich, homemade chili sauce and melty vegan cheese. The classic dog, with grilled onions, bell peppers and jalapeños for bold, street flavor. Finally, simple and nostalgic, the plain dog, with a brioche bun and impossible protein. These aren’t your average dogs; they’re plant-based game changers.

Chicana Vegana brings the flavor with street-inspired comfort food that’s 100% plant-based. From crispy taquitos to fully stacked tortas filled with al pastor, asada, or jackfruit carnitas, each dish is crafted with care and rooted in culture.

Esquite is rooted in Mexican street food traditions, CV’s Esquite offers a plant-bast take on this cultural classic. Served in a warm cup, the corn is mixed with creamy mayo, chili, and lime. Hernandez’s decision to create the custom-made veggie patty was a direct response to the customer’s feedback.

Guest frequently asked for a heartier, thicker, more flavorful option. In response Chicana Vegana developed a house-made patty, which is being phased into some of their menu options.

“At the customer’s request we created a house-made plant-based pattie,” said Jasmine Hernandez, founder of Chicana Vegana. Don’t miss the Taco Tuesday deals, serving up serious flavor without the meat.

First-time customer Greg Karber mentioned he enjoyed the asada, carnitas, and Mexican tacos. “I recommend these tacos; they taste good!” said Karber.
Regulars Elliot Koenig and Acer visit Chicana Vegana almost weekly from Long Beach and have been coming to CV for over two years.
They deal with the heavy traffic on the 91 freeway every time this dual commutes to their favorite vegan eatery in Fullerton. The plant-based chicken tastes good even though the chicken nuggets are not made of chicken. “We come here all the time, and I’m not vegan and I always get the chicken nuggets,” Koenig said. “The Wild Burger and Fries was delicious. I recommend it.” Acer added. “It’s just good food.”
There is interest in expanding the breakfast menu in the future, and even the idea of a student discount has been floated. Chicana Vegana continues to make its mark as the only fully plant-based restaurant in Fullerton.
For hours, location, and full menu, visit Chicana Vegana’s website or read The Hornet’s original 2021 review.