The 2026 Ventura Vegan Chef Challenge has officially concluded! Winners were chosen by Ventura residents who dined at participating restaurants during the January–February Challenge, submitting over 400 ratings and reviews. Diners included vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike, whose feedback helped honor some of the city’s most creative local chefs.
The challenge supports both diners seeking plant-based options and restaurants looking to expand their menus – a true win-win for the community. Former chef Alex Bury noted, “If a group of friends is planning a dinner out and one of them is vegan, the entire group may skip a restaurant without good vegan options.”
10 Weeks to Vegan: Feel Great About What’s on Your Plate!
The Vegan Chef Challenge encourages diners to explore the benefits of a plant-based diet through the free 10 Weeks to Vegan program. Participants receive guidance and resources to start a vegan lifestyle. Learn more at www.10weeks.org.
About the Host – Vegan Outreach
Vegan Outreach is an international nonprofit dedicated to reducing animal suffering by promoting veganism through education and increased accessibility of plant-based options.
2026 Awards:
- First Place Overall: Paradise Pantry
- Second Place Overall: Farmer and the Cook
- Third Place Overall: Aloha Steakhouse
- Taco Triumph Award: Happy Place Eatery
- Standout Pizza Award: Busy Bee Cafe
- Best Comfort Food Classics: La Jenelle Natural Cafe
- Most Creative Dessert Experience: Minns
For more information, visit https://veganchefchallenge.org/Ventura.
