La Semilla

"When white tablecloths feel too formal but a burger joint seems too casual, La Semilla in Reynoldstown provides a nice middle ground. And while your steak-loving significant other may balk at the idea of a plant-based dinner, they’ll change their mind after a bite of the incredible vegan Crunchwrap—a hexagonal-shaped, grilled tortilla wrap that’s stuffed to the brim with seitan beef. But there is more to this relaxed, foliage-heavy oasis than just fast food plays. Share some chips and queso (this is a must) and chochoyotes doused in a creamy coconut-corn broth (another standout on this exciting Latin menu). Just prepare for your previously stable relationship to be tested as y’all fight over the last bite." - nina reeder, juli horsford, jacinta howard

"La Semilla flexes the flavors of Cuban and Mexican dishes on a menu rooted in veganism and family recipes. Owned by Sophia Marchese and Reid Trapani, La Semilla (or the seed) was forged from a pop-up launched just before the pandemic. This is a flavor-packed triumph of vegan dishes, like meatless versions of vegan chicken tamals steamed in banana leaves served with a punchy ancho sauce, croquetas de jamon stuffed with seitan ham Tranpani makes himself, and bistec de palomilla made with Lion’s Mane mushrooms. Start off with sikil pak (spicy pumpkin seed and tomato dip) served with fresh tortilla chips. And don’t skip the chochoyotes (masa dumplings filled with corn puree) served atop a thin layer of coconut-corn broth topped with a poblano-corn sofrito and matcha oil and fried tortillas for scooping. Reservations highly encouraged." - Beth McKibben, Henna Bakshi

"At La Semilla, you’re in good hands with world-ranked bartender Orestes Cruz. While the cocktail menu includes two non-alcoholic options, don’t hesitate to ask for an off-menu mocktail inspired by one of the expertly crafted cocktails. Of the non-alcoholic options, the Pearl Island Iced Tea stands out with non-alcoholic Gnista Wormwood, barrel-aged cola syrup, orange rosemary aperitif, citrus juice, and soda. It’s a citrus-forward and slightly bitter drink that pairs perfectly with the fresh flavors of the vegan dishes." - Laura Scholz, Molly Harris

"Forged from a pop-up launched by owners Sophia Marchese and Reid Trapani just before the pandemic, La Semilla is a triumph of vegan dishes with Latin flavors, like the jackfruit Cubano, croquetas de jamon stuffed with vegan ham, and al pastor tacos made with mushrooms. Start off with sikil pak (spicy pumpkin seed and tomato dip) served with fresh tortilla chips. A zero food waste policy means unused ingredients are incorporated back into sauces and salsas for dishes at La Semilla or made into tinctures or syrups for riffs on classic cocktails. The couple doesn’t see La Semilla as a vegan restaurant, they see it as a restaurant that happens to serve vegan food that unless you were told, you might not suspect otherwise." - Eater Staff

"It’s easier than it used to be to find plant-based treats in Atlanta, but the desserts at La Semilla, a plant-based Latin restaurant, are exceptional. The small dessert menu allows each item to shine, but none more so than the seasonal offering. Examples you might see depending on the time of year include the rich, creamy strawberry tres leches or peach-stuffed empanadas served alongside lemon verbena syrup and house-made ice cream." - Lia Picard, Eater Staff