The Oinkster is a great place to grab a burger and fries- even for vegetarians! My boyfriend and I are vegetarians always on the lookout for food that is more than your typical salad. Sometimes a greasy burger is what we’re craving, so we were eager to try Oinkster. The first time we went, we ordered veggie burgers as a combo, which included fries and a drink, for a reasonable price. The food was satisfying, though there was something about the fries that we just couldn’t pinpoint. The next time we came, we ordered the same during Happy Hour (combos are discounted!); this time, a different server took our order and asked if wanted veggie fries as well. Confused, we asked if there was a difference between those and regular fries. We were surprised and a bit disgruntled to hear that vegetarian fries were supposed to be ordered separately. I did not like that we were not informed about this before and on visits, we usually have to bring this up. Oinkster’s relaxed attitude, hip atmosphere and old-fashioned diner setting is what attracts customers and I would definitely recommend giving it a try.

Taco Spot never misses a beat! This spotless Mexican restaurant in Eagle Rock consistently provides great service and delicious food served promptly. As a vegetarian, I love to see the little red hearts representing veggie dishes all over the menu; my favorite dish to eat here is the guacamole fries, served with perfectly crispy fries topped with melted cheese and cool guacamole. For a more filling plate, I turn to the tostada salad or the potato tacos. Taco Spot serves dishes that are familiar and wholesome, delicious and usually on the healthy side. The décor is festive, as is the animated singing and laughter heard from the staff making it an overall enjoyable experience.

Fresh & Easy is a grocery store that likes to emphasize simplicity. This means no cashiers to check your groceries and not a large variety with most products. On the bright side, the samples are always something to look forward to as is the section of discounted products. While there is usually an abundance of people in bright green shirts walking about, ask any one of them a question and you will be met with confusion. It can be a pleasant experience but if you go during a busy time, expect long lines and much confusion.

Eagle Rock is a town proud to call itself hip. With this being the case, you’d think there would be a better library! The Eagle Rock library is old and in dire need of being updated, especially if it wants to keep up with the neighboring (and much newer) Arroyo Seco, Cypress Park and Silver Lake libraries. The employees here have been working the counter for ages and it shows: they are mostly impatient and rude. It is not the most welcoming of places, mostly useful for grabbing a sip of water from the fountain. The entire library leaves much to be desired! If you have a choice, go elsewhere.

Spitz is a restaurant that deserves its spot on Colorado Boulevard alongside all the other enticing eateries but has yet to move there. Though the location is a bit odd- next door to a Sizzlers and a neighboring Target- the food is not! I love the interesting music choices they exhibit over the speakers (you never know what to expect) and the friendly employees. This is a great place to grab anything from gelato to savory fries or pita strips with hummus; it can be made into a combo with a veggie sandwich that is always filling and stuffed with vegetables. I love how they make it a point to cut my sandwich when they suspect my boyfriend and I plan on splitting it.

Troy’s is an ordinary burger and fries drive thru, not too uncommon in Los Angeles. Though I wouldn’t suggest it for your health, it is certainly the place to indulge yourself in a plate of greasy fries and a cool milkshake every once in a while. For a quick picnic, I’d suggest grabbing fries and a shake and walking up the street to eat on the lawn at Occidental College, a much lovelier setting than the inside of this (or any) fast food joint.

Foster’s Freeze is nice place to drop by to grab a quick ice cream or shake. The service is always fast and efficient and the servings generous. The area is not the best- it is often littered with trash and has an overall dirty look- but this is an okay place to give in to your sweet tooth. Price-wise, it may be wiser to drop by Baskin-Robbins but those who prefer things old-fashioned may enjoy this more.