By Alec Fernandes
It can be hard for vegetarians to find a quality restaurant that exclusively serves vegetarian cuisine. Those hunting for such a place can find pleasant atmosphere, good service and delicious meat-free dishes at SipZ Vegetarian Fuzion Café.
SipZ is located at 5501 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. in a strip mall next to the 805 freeway. The restaurant’s goal, as stated on their takeout menu, reads, “Our continuing goal at SipZ is to promote the healthy vegetarian lifestyle by providing the healthiest and tastiest vegetarian dining possible.”
The restaurant opened in late 2002 and was originally a small coffee shop that also sold boba teas. It would later double in size and become a hotspot for vegetarians in the Clairemont and Kearny Mesa neighborhoods of San Diego.
One wall of the spacious interior is decorated with a giant nautical mural. The colorful scene shows an octopus reaching out in all directions as if attempting to grab hold of a customer’s irresistible entre.
My personal favorite is the spicy ginger tofu. It’s a good fusion of tangy ginger mixed with the spicy house sauce that really gives the fried tofu a kick. This dish is served with onions and mushrooms, so I would recommend it to those looking for a delicious meal made up of pungent flavors.
Yet not everyone appreciates the strong taste of ginger and the soft texture of fried tofu like I do. Customers craving the texture of meat don’t have to settle for a bland soy substitute, because SipZ has mastered the art of deception. Their faux meat and fish taste like the real thing, which is impressive when considering the variety of textures are all crafted out of tofu.
The Thai curry chicken is a savory blend of coconut curry and peanut sauce cooked with eggplant, bamboo shoots and tofu chicken. It is a must-try item for those skeptical of tofu’s versatility.
Those planning on paying for their entrees in cash can receive a free fruit ice tea. Be sure to remind your server of this refreshing deal when you place your order.
SipZ Vegetarian Fuzion Café can be reached at 858-279-3747. They’re open seven days a week from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
