Hey Sunshine Kitchen Shines Light on Vegan Dining at Regency’s Culver Center

Shining a light on plant-based dining, sister-owned Hey Sunshine Kitchen has launched its first-ever restaurant at Regency’s Culver Center in Culver City, CA. The fast-casual concept is redefining the culinary landscape with an innovative approach to vegan cooking. Whether you’re a committed vegan or simply looking to explore a more sustainable and nutritious dining experience, Hey Sunshine Kitchen inspires guests to “dine brightly.”

Hey Sunshine Kitchen serves a selection of warm bowls and salads, hot sandwiches, tacos, and sides — all made with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients and local produce. With dishes like the Chicken Caesar Salad, made with grilled plant-based chicken, and Kids Crispy Nuggets, made with chickpeas, the menu appeals to a wide variety of palates, furthering the company’s mission of making vegan cuisine more mainstream.

Signage and storefront to Hey Sunshine KitchenPhoto by James Michael Juarez / Courtesy of Hey Sunshine Kitchen

Before Hey Sunshine Kitchen opened its doors, owners Heather Golden Ray and Jenny Engel had already made their mark on Los Angeles. Although they’re first-time restaurateurs, they’re no strangers to the culinary world; the two sisters are accomplished chefs who have been refining their craft for decades. After attending vegan culinary school, they launched a vegan cooking school, Spork Foods, in West Hollywood to help educate home cooks and professional chefs alike about plant-based eating. They also authored two cookbooks, Spork-Fed and Vegan 101.

Their influence has been so widespread that even actresses Emily and Zooey Deschanel, stars of “Bones” and “New Girl,” respectively, and music legend Moby, have sung Heather and Jenny’s praises.

We loved cooking with these girls, who seemed more like vegan fairies than human beings,” said Emily and Zooey Deschanel, actresses.
I am in this for the animals, and I love that Heather and Jenny have been helping save animals’ lives for decades," said Moby, musician and songwriter. "Oh, and their food is really, really delicious!

Hey Sunshine Kitchen employees smile at the checkout counter, large menus are hanging on an orange wallPhoto by James Michael Juarez / Courtesy of Hey Sunshine Kitchen

When dining at Hey Sunshine Kitchen, guests also have the opportunity to give back to the planet. On Mondays, complimentary, pollinator-friendly plants are available to take home with the purchase of any entrée. Each plant is curated by the experts at Friends of Ballona Wetlands and will help grow the local pollinator population, which has numerous benefits for the environment.

Headshot of Sophia ShaheenWe're excited to welcome Hey Sunshine Kitchen to Culver Center,” said Sophia Shaheen, Leasing Representative. “A delicious addition to LA’s food scene, Hey Sunshine Kitchen is paving the way toward a greener future. Their innovative vegan menu invites individuals from all walks of life to embrace a healthier and more sustainable approach to food. We're thrilled to bring their first-ever location to life.

Culver Center is a 216,647 SF shopping center situated within one mile of freeways I-405 and I-10, across the street from Sony’s production facility. Its merchandising lineup includes key retailers such as Ralphs, LA Fitness, and Best Buy. 

For additional leasing information, contact ErinSaltzman@RegencyCenters.com.