Flavor of Life

Sabor a Vida was born out of Mario’s vast experience of working as a chef and Veronica’s savvy business skills as a clothing store owner. Together, they turned their long-awaited dream of owning a restaurant into a reality. In a search for the right place for their cafe, they came across a vacant suite in the plaza near Shadowridge and Sycamore and felt an immediate connection with the business space. The conveniently located corner unit is the perfect spot offering seating inside as well as on the shaded outdoor patio. The cafe was a success from day one. Initially their first customers came from Facebook and Instagram. Soon, new customers turned into loyal ones. Nowadays, most of their business comes from word of mouth and stellar reviews. Even though their dishes and beverages are entirely vegan, they have gained popularity with non-vegan customers too. Mario and Veronica, with the help of their daughter Nathaly, created a flourishing family business. The Cabreras became vegan eight years ago after receiving the unfortunate news of a cancer diagnosis. Following that event, they both desired a lifestyle change. With extensive research, they learned and figured out how to eat better and feel healthier. After discovering a plant-based diet, they noticed they had much more energy. Veronica said, “We work so much because we have the energy.” She explained, “When you eat meat, your body consumes 80% of energy to digest animal products. Only 20% is left to carry you through the day. When you eat plant-based food, your body only uses 25-35% of energy. We get full and sometimes overeat, but after half an hour, it’s back to normal.”

As Veronica pointed out, “Earth is everything for us! That’s how we get our food and all the flavors coming together.” In fact, the name Sabor a Vida means Flavor of Life. Many flavors come from nature. For Veronica, it’s synonymous with the flavors they have experienced in their personal life and its many ups and downs. Honoring their origin and native roots, she enjoys naming some of their menu items in Spanish. As she stated, “All names are chosen very carefully.” Her personal favorite is Tierra Salad (Earth Salad), which as she admitted is so delicious, she can eat it every day. Their customers’ favorites are Chickpea Tuna and Morning Glory Burrito. These delightful dishes are carefully crafted to bring out the many flavors of vegan ingredients. Eggs are made from mung beans, which taste similar to regular eggs and can be scrambled or made as an omelette. Don’t think you can have bacon? Think again! Their fully vegan bacon is popular with vegan as well as non-vegan customers. From a vast offering of hot and cold beverages to delectable wraps, bowls, sandwiches and fresh vegan pastries, their menu is gleaming with tasteful and healthy choices. Veronica’s goal is for more people to try a plant-based diet while changing the way people eat and think about food. As local residents and business owners, they are looking forward to spreading their passion and getting involved in our community. They are excited to welcome you at 735 Shadowridge Drive in Vista every day from 7:00 am - 3:00 pm. You can also learn more at www.saboravidacafeanddeli.com. Blue Lagoon

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