The Mustard Seed — Restaurant in Cerritos

First Visit (Delivery): A few months ago, I ordered Uber Eats for my partner and decided to surprise him with the loco moco for breakfast. He hadn't had one since going vegan and since his time on the islands, so this was special. Even through delivery, the food arrived hot, flavorful, and comforting. He told me it brought back memories and satisfied him in a way only food made with care can. That was my first introduction to this spot, and already it left a beautiful impression.

Second Visit (Dine-in): Fast forward to just a few days ago--my partner and I were craving something good but didn't want to drive too far. I thought of this place again, and this time we decided to experience it in person. The plaza was busy so we parked behind the buildings, but as soon as we walked in, we were greeted by an atmosphere that felt earthy, calming, and intentional. Even though the plants weren't real, the reclaimed wood furniture and decor gave the space soul. There was jazz softly playing, nature scenes flowing across the TVs, and a sense of peace in the air.

We arrived around 7 p.m. (knowing they closed at 8), and were warmly greeted by Julee--whose kindness set the tone right away. She told us to sit anywhere we felt comfortable. As we looked around, we noticed the story behind the recycled wood pieces displayed in the restaurant. That little detail touched us because it showed respect not only for sustainability but for the stories objects carry.

We ordered loaded cajun fries, a strawberry hibiscus drink, Alfredo pasta, hot chicken strips (made vegan with oyster mushrooms), and extra fries. Every dish came out timely, smelled incredible, and tasted even better. Each bite felt like a blessing--flavors layered with care, textures balanced, portions generous. We couldn't resist finishing with beignets for dessert, and wow...they were the perfect sweet ending. By then, it was already past closing time, but not once did anyone pressure us to leave. Instead, they let us savor the moment. That, to me, is true hospitality--creating space for people to feel at ease.

Third Visit (Take-out): On our third time, we placed a to-go order. Even over the phone, my voice was recognized and welcomed. The ordering process was quick, smooth, and just as efficient as dining in. The food came out consistently delicious, with the same warmth as always.

Final Thoughts: There's something spiritual about consistency, kindness, and care--and this place embodies that. From delivery to dine-in to take-out, every experience has carried the same thread: intention, flavor, and hospitality. And while the food is incredible, I have to take a moment to highlight Julee. She is the kind of team member who makes you feel valued as a guest. She carries the energy of genuine service, and it radiates in the smallest details. She truly deserves recognition--and...

A Few Quick Things:

Parking: easy as it can be in Cerritos

Ambiance: Amazing, so relaxing with some smooth jazz and the sounds of a nearby creek

Now the Meat (wheat, gluten, & soy) and potatoes: On the menu they have in parenthesis what the meat substitute is made out of.

Service: Alexis was amazing and took great care in asking where we were on our Plant Based journey to see what foods we might be more comfortable with.

Food: EVERYTHING on the menu is vegan, which I got confused because while eating we could barely taste the difference.

Loaded Cajun Fries: AMAZING! The dish is well balanced and you really get the feeling of pigging out without the bloated stomach from the normal fats and oils. The dish and food in general had a great clean taste.

Cheesesteak Melt Wrap: This was a 7-8/10 for me. The sauce was good and carried the dish, but it lacked a flavorful punch. I also got it without Ranch which it normally comes with. After putting a little bit of salt it tasted much better as the flavors really shined afterwards. One thing I always check is to see if places cook their veggies independently because most places overlook that step. It looked like they did so kudos and I think just a smidge of salt can really help those wonderful veggies shine. Overall the construction of the item was well done and the tortilla was toasted beautifully. The plate also was a bit big for the wrap so I didn't get that WOW factor when it was delivered as when I think of a cheesesteak anything I'm expecting a hearty looking meal. So perhaps a smaller plate when there is no side dish to accompany it.

Wet Burrito: WOW! Knocked this one out of the park. The whole dish was well balanced and although I had never had a Colorado Chile Sauce with crema the sweetness it brang actually did well with the dish. Absolutely a must eat!

Beignet: Vegan Pastries are rough, but these were good. I would not say life changing but of the beignets I have had (only a few) these were cooked amazing with a nice crunch on the outside and soft on the inside. The caramel sauce was runny which I assume is because of it being Vegan, I think I could do without it but it comes with it so you can try for yourself :)

TL:DR You need to try this place if you want to experiment or get your feet wet with Vegan food and if you already are on that journey then this place will let you feel satisfied without the guilt just as they say on...

Vegan food even carnivores would like!

Free beignets w/ purchase

Note - many menu items contain gluten. Make sure to read the description, in case you're gluten-sensitive.

Occupying the former home of Chronic Tacos & Sauced Up, The Mustard Seed is a vegan restaurant that may surprise carnivores & omnivores, like me. Went during The Mustard Seed's soft opening, as it's always good to see new eateries in the neighborhood.

Cajun crab cakes- Choice of fried or grilled blackened hearts of palm crab cakes w/ aioli. If someone closed their eyes and tried this, they'd think the Cajun crab cakes were made with actual crab! The fried cakes were crispy, and the included sauce was a great pairing for them.

Beignets- With a crusty shell, the beignets were different than what I've had before. I'm used to doughnut-type beignets, but these were more akin to cha quay bread. Plus, caramel sauce is a unique addition, providing some richness to the beignets.

Service was great. The person working the register was friendly & helpful with menu recommendations. The restaurant has an inviting, woodsy, forest interior. I found it very cozy & pleasing to the senses. The Mustard Seed is located in Landmark Square, adjacent to Amazon Fresh.

Impressive! The Mustard Seed is a great new restaurant in Cerritos, which happens to be a vegan eatery. The food & the ambiance made for a welcoming experience, and I'm looking forward to coming back & exploring the rest of the menu. Good luck...