4. Restaurants

Casa De Luz

1701 Toomey Rd, Austin, TX, 78704
  • (512) 476-2535
  • Store is closed

Casa De Luz Menu

  • Soup
  • Salad
  • Entree
  • Soup
  • Salad
  • Entree

Healthy Meal suggestions for Casa De Luz

  • Soup
  • Salad
  • Entree
  • Soup
  • Salad
  • Entree

Visit below restaurant in Austin for healthy meals suggestion.

Pizza Hut ( 12636 Research Blvd )

Visit below restaurant in Austin for healthy meals suggestion.

Pizza Hut ( 12636 Research Blvd )

  • Mike S.

    I first ate at Casa in the early 90s. I eat here regularly when I am with vegetarian friends or just in the mood. The atmosphere is beyond awesome. Set in a very beautifully landscaped slice of S. Austin, the food is truly amazing. I have eaten lunch, dinner and weekend brunch here and all are excellent. It's an all inclusive price and always includes salad, soup, drink(tea yum!) and several different types of veggies for the main course. I have difficulty finding words to describe the greatness of the food. Suffice it to say that I have never had the same meal twice, have enjoyed every single thing I have ever eaten here, have discovered tons of new veggies and new tastes, have enjoyed the amazing energy here and have never had a bad experience. I gotta chuckle at the idea of a bad experience at casa!!! It has the best energy of any "restaurant" in the known universe!!!

    (5)

  • Amy C.

    My husband and I have lived in Austin for only 2 months and I'd never have guessed our most-visited restaurant so far would be a vegan one. We love Casa de Luz, and will keep returning often. We had our best food the first night we went--a rare Indian night--but each time as been delicious, healthy, interesting, and wholisticly wholesome. I agree with all of the positive reviews--it's beautiful walking down the long outdoor hallway, like entering an oasis and health and nature. It kind of reminds me of the beautiful courtyards my sister and I encountered all over Antigua, Guatemala. Anyway, you smell the interesting foods as you near the end of your walk and you feel calmer already. Inside everyone's friendly and interesting... yet overall not too wacky and hippy. :) I like the setup with the self-serve soups and teas and staff-delivered main dish, but the food itself is the highlight. The heaping plate of food actually reminds me a lot of the hari krishna meals I used to attend in college, and now I realize that was probably macrobiotic food back then--they just didn't teach you about it. Anyway, beautiful, wholesome, filling, tasty, interesting and entirely guilt-free. Try it!

    (5)

  • Gary K.

    This non-profit, community-based restaurant is a tremendous value. Fresh, organic produce is cooked three times a day to provide splendid, macro-biotic meals. The restaurant has managed to keep its price at $11 per meal despite the doubling of the price of vegetables in the last year. Wow! I recommend the Thursday evening "Guatamalan Night" meal especially.

    (5)

  • Ed J.

    Amazing and healthy food and amazing atmosphere. We just love this place. I wish they opened a restaurant up North.

    (5)

  • Willis R.

    Thursday night is Taco night and also my favorite. This is one healthy place to eat so don't expect any Nachos here, but for 12 dollars you can get as much of the daily meal as you want which is always delicious. Great play ground outside for the kids after eating as well.

    (4)

  • Isabelle K.

    I think people either like this place or hate it. I don't like this place. When I got in the front garden first, I thought this place is so cool with beautiful plants. I felt so romantic. After I got in the room, we paid $12 person for the dinner before even getting the food. I thought it's a buffet place, actually it's not. They will bring you a fixed menu plate. All vegetarian food. The main chef is Rachel. Some guests came and even asked for her. I guess they made friends already. Friday night was Indian night. They served sweet pea soup with ginger, salad with lemon grass dressing, greens with walnut basil sauce, cauliflower, sweet potato and carrot. Didn't like the food that much. It tastes health and hippie. There are several big tables, so you have to share the table with others. People at our table are from California. They were talking about their lives in Santa Monica. There are a lot of hippies in California and I'm sure they will like this restaurant a lot. I saw some Hippie guys carrying some silk Indian purse inside of the restaurant. Very strange. I'm not a big hippie dish fan, either a big Texas steak fan. $12 for a simple vege plate is over priced. I'm not going back.

    (2)

  • Rodney W.

    Let me start off by saying I am a big meat lover. So I knew this going in. That being said, after reading the reviews for Casa de Luz I and a friend thought we would try them out. We went in around 8pm on a Saturday night. We had the vegetable Lentil soup. It was very bland and needed salt. The garden salad was not bad, nor was the brown rice and the blackeyed peas. The burdock with carrots seem to lack flavor. The blanched greens with sunflower Tahini sauce were not bad but also lacked flavor. I feel it's hard to really mess up vegetables. A little salt and pepper and your good to go. My suggestion is, if you go take your own SALT. I just was not impressed and my friend said that he kinda expected more and was also disappointed.. I like the fact that they try to limit the extras, and try to keep it as healthy as possible. But there are numerous places to get vegetarian food...with flavor! They also ran out of food, so if we had wanted seconds we were out of luck. So I for one will not be returning.

    (2)

  • Chandler M.

    LOVE IT HERE, I feel like I'm on retreat. Its a really wholesome, wonderful place for macrobiotic goodness and really nice PRESENT people.

    (5)

  • Laura D.

    went for brunch. as healthy as it gets and totally yum. food is saved from blandness by awesomely prepared sweet and savory sauces. the "compound" is unique as well--interesting, pretty, and ultimately relaxing. but... no coffee? :-( a little naughty with all that nice, please. i'll definitely be back when i have a little extra money!

    (4)

  • Etta M.

    Okay I'm really glad that this place exits but here's the thing. Vegan/Microbiotic food does not have to mean blandness. And while there are some choice dishes on their menu that avoid this fate, on the whole, a lot of the stuff can be bland. That said, everything is really fresh and really healthy and I do always walk out of there being very satisfied because it IS a buffett and I always find one or two things I love and just pile onto my plate. I'd go there much more if they weren't so overpriced, though. 14 bucks is not quite worth it.

    (3)

  • Matt S.

    We went on "Indian night" and the food was fine, but I really didn't feel overly thrilled about it. The best part was the soup. It was a sweet pea soup with some spice in it.. That was the only thing on the menu with any real character.. I did however like the atmosphere quite a bit. The layout is cool. You sit on picnic-like tables and can't help but talk to the other patrons.. Most people that eat there are hippie-like and very friendly, interesting people. The gardens and foliage around the restaurant are very nice, worth hanging out by after the meal. Overall, I think this restaurant represents Austin well and is a must for anyone wanting to try something more "real"..

    (3)

  • Katherine E.

    I get so happy just thinking of Casa de Luz and its amazing vegan macrobiotic food. So, here is how it works. You walk into the dining area, pay for your meal-it is a steep $12.oo-although completely worth it. The nice casheir (they have always been friendly) will hand you a token that you will hold on to, and a server will bring your plate of deliciousness to wherever you decide to sit-community style seating. In the mean time you may go up and help yourself to THE MOST AMAZING LEMON GRASS TEA, serve yourself some soup and salad. Return to your table and nom nom, all of a sudden wah-la, a cook floats from that heavenly place they call a kitchen and brings your a plate with beautiful and scrumptious food. You may have up to two servings of said dish-I've never known anyone to get two, its usually quite filling. Anyway they also have desserts for an additional cost. I have had the coconut pie which was OK but I would probably go for something else next time. ANYWAY everything here is legitimately good.

    (5)

  • A S.

    I found Casa de Luz thanks to my niece Cindy 2 years ago and what a blessing it was. The food is amazing. Of course it isn't what most would find attractive to the pallet unless you have spent time eating alot of raw and or organic food. I get excited every time I park the car and head toward the front door. The cuisine is something I must say I wouldn't have considered 5 years ago, but , since losing 70 lbs over the last 2 years I realize how important it is to be aware of the good verses the garbage that I consume. This is definitely in the real good category. Mind you it is not for everyone, at least the first time you try it.

    (5)

  • LESLIE M.

    I am just curious how twelve dollars including tip is expensive especially for all you can eat . I spend more than that at Kerbey Lane on a breakfast made from sysco ingredients. Please tell me where all of the places are that serve meals so cheap. I want to go.

    (4)

  • Becky T.

    OOOOOO EMMMMMM GEEEEEEEE! I love this place! Are you kidding me!?!? Another best kept secret in Austin. And to just think we would have never learned about this place if it weren't for one of our customers! I am vegetarian but my husband is not. When he learned about this place, he was reluctant to try it out. After much deliberation and schmoozing, he finally gave in! YES!! So, off we went. I will say if you're not familiar with the area, it's a little hard to find. But once you actually get into the "compound" its very cool and very chillax. We immediately loved the atmosphere! Very kid/family oriented which I loved. We don't have kids but it's nice to see such family oriented eateries. Okay, so the salad (which you can get seconds, thirds whatever) is TDF! I think between the two of us, we ate 4 platefulls! Yes, it's that yummy! Everything else is just as good. The only thing I didn't care for was the Twig Tea, totally didn't prefer that one, but that's not their fault, totally mine. For about $12 (which includes tip by the way) it's very affordable and worth every penny, especially since you can get 2nds and 3rds. For my husband, he loved it because he left there feeling very satisfied, like he ate steak. 5 stars in my book and we are repeat custiomers. I would eat here every day and night if possible! (but it's not so it's a treat when I do!)

    (5)

  • adriana t.

    I can totally appreciate Casa for its macrobiotica...but they can keep those lentil cakes...or use them for doorstoppers. The salad bar has plenty of tasty and fresh colon cleansers chopped thin. The soups can be good and healthy albeit watery. I could eat plate after plate of the steamed greens. I love the folks here who work and frequent here. But I did spring a visit here on my meat and potatoes manly man...just to see what his reaction would be...he was polite but didn't go for seconds on the lentil cakes! I did buy some miso here at the little store for home use...it may be Austin's tiniest health food store...it's like a pantry closet, but will pique your interest in macrobiotics.

    (4)

  • Victor W.

    It's definitely different. Food is served semi-cafeteria style. Their is a theme for each night- sometime Indian, sometimes Japanese, etc... Everything is vege - the portions are enough to fill you up but also light so you dont feel bogged down. Casa De Luz is not for everyone -- people can often find it bland. I would go here only to impress a girl and show her that I know a thing or two about the eclectic scenes of Austin --- dont really see myself paying $12 for no meat if a girl isnt involved. And the truth comes out .... sigh.

    (3)

  • Michael H.

    For low-fat vegans (aka Engine2 dieters), this place is tops. Food has been consistently excellent. Read the website to know what to expect - you get your own side dishes, and they'll bring the main dish to replace the token you're given at the register when you pay first. Lunch is $12... and so is dinner (if I remember correctly). There are some large communal tables if you feel like meeting a hippie stranger ;-)

    (5)

  • Hilary D.

    I have never in my life had a more incredible food experience. Food was great and the energy it gave me was awesome. Will continue to eat this way. Wish there was a restaurant like this in Atlanta.

    (5)

  • Shahrzad K.

    It's about time I write a review for Casa De Luz. My ex-roommate, R, introduced me to Casa back in January or so, and I've been hooked ever since. In turn, I've introduced 10+ (and counting) people, the majority of whom b****ed and moaned, adamantly vouching to hate it beforehand because of the meatless menu and extreme concept, and all of whom left reeling over how it completely trumped their expectations. Talk about foot-in-mouth syndrome. Or maybe that just means you should come here with zero or negative expectations... This is a pretty detailed post so if you want the short version: TRY IT BEFORE YOU KNOCK IT. You might be surprised. That being said... This might be my favorite restaurant in Austin, at least tied for first, for a couple of reasons: (1) Every single meal I've had here has been *consistently* delicious. That's not something that comes easy. I've never walked away thinking "damn, I wish we went somewhere else." In fact, I've left other restaurants thinking, "damn, I knew we shoulda just gone to Casa." (2) The meal is very well balanced and very satisfying. Afterwards, I always feel healthy and totally rejuvenated. Casa does my body gooooood. (3) I enjoy the simplicity of eating what's put in front of me without having to flip through 10 pages of options. It's nice to not have to order off a menu. I'm usually the one who orders something I haven't tried off menus, and, not gonna lie, it doesn't always work out. I love walking through their garden up to the building. The fresh smell of jasmine always reminds me of my childhood and puts a smile on my face as I stroll up. I get an enchanting vibe from their garden and can't wait for nice weather to sit outside to enjoy my meal. The last time we tried sitting outside, my brother and I got eaten by mosquitoes and had to move in after 5 min. The people here are oozing with kindness. It's $12 for the meal which includes soup, salad, and a main plate of fresh, flavorful, deliciousness. They also have water and hot/cold teas available. There is a set menu, so you don't order anything. The place is set up cafeteria/community/whatever-you-want-to-call-it style. You get your own tray and silverware, pick up some soup and salad, then find a place to sit, then someone will bring the main plate out to you, and when you're done, you bus your own table. The main plate always includes a type of grain (usually brown rice - which is super tasty if you try out some soy sauce over it ), greens (usually kale) with some amazing sauce, pickled vegetables, beans, and a vegetable "main" course (which varies every night, but they do have themed nights: casadeluz.org/dining.htm ). If you're still hungry afterwards, you can always go for 2nds. Those who say it's "bland" or lacking flavor should try mixing the foods together. While each group is good on its own, the best way to eat it, as R and I have discovered, is to mix it all up and get a little bit of everything in each bite. We also like to add sesame and a little soy sauce to the soups. R and I have mouth-watering dreams about their Tamale and taco nights. R claims the sauce they use in their tacos tastes like chicken. I haven't tried any of the desserts yet, but R likes em. I know it's not for everyone, but it's worth a try.

    (5)

  • A H.

    This is got to be the best healthiest food in Texas. Both the Thanksgiving meal and New Year's meal were over the top. I feel so much better after eating there. The Minestone soup on New Year's day was as delicious as my parents made. The tamale was to die for. I am a big, big fan and I bring anyone who comes to visit me to Casa De Luz.

    (5)

  • Nao I.

    Wow Wow Wow!!! This place was amazing!!! I had the best pecan pie!!! Sunday Brunch was the best. It's just $12.00 for all you can eat. Not the buffet style though(There is a salad bar and soup bar), if you are still hungry, you can get anything as much as you want. The food is very simple. Some people may lack something. After I ate, my body feels fresh and very satisfied. I love BBQ. But sometimes after I ate them, I feel regret.... I was amazed there is not only the restaurant, but only cozy park, some class rooms for Yoga, Qui-Gong, medtation and so on... And now, There is a "FREE" Yoga class and Meditation class!!! I just YOGAd today. That was also super good! Your body need these staff! P.S: If you wanna take out, You've gotta bring your container.

    (4)

  • Mark D.

    I often find Mother's a bit bland, but somehow Casa de Luz manages to seem flavorful and interesting despite being macrobiotic. I've enjoyed the food every time I've gone.

    (4)

  • Wendy G.

    I always feel like a million bucks after I eat here! Thank you CDL for being so good to me. Healthy little me. xoxoxo

    (5)

  • Parth V.

    Brought my Vegan mom here for lunch when she visited. 100% expected to grab a Pterry's burger on the way out. We ended up coming back for dinner 6 hours later. Really can't say enough about their ability to get me to eat healthy (and enjoy it). Love the soups and entree's. Love that no one notices / cares if I bring a bottle of wine to split with a date. I love that parking is always a breeze and I don't have to wait to start eating. Really a great spot in all dimensions provided you can handle not eating meat for 1 meal.

    (5)

  • Lindsay M.

    This place has a great reputation and I can see why. When you get there it has a very peaceful feeling, the environment is the epitome of a vegan lifestyle. When you walk in there is a very zen-like quiet atmosphere and they make it very simple by only having 1 meal a day. You get your own tea (hot or cold), soup and salad and they bring you the entree. The meal was very good, healthy of course - squash, black beans, kous kous, cucumber with beets. We also ordered a dessert - coconut pudding. It was all very good including the atmosphere. I will definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Liz K.

    Everything here is vegan and gluten free! And it's a community kitchen run by volunteers! You serve yourself salad, soup, and tea, and are brought the daily special entree of vegetables and rice and beans with yummy sauces for a flat rate ($12 for dinner). Community seating and bussing your own dishes also makes this place unique. Such a great concept, and affordable healthy food!

    (5)

  • Elaine C.

    This was amazing. Calm, peaceful, nice view of the sunset. It's a flat fee for the food. Vegan, organic, macrobiotic, oil-free. On the evening we went, they served a yummy salad & cauliflower soup. I had the twig tea, which was yummy. It has about 10% of the caffiene of green tea. Our main course was pinto beans, brown rice, kale cooked like collard greens with a little sauce on it, and a beet zucchini salad. Edited to add: We definitely had some intestinal discomfort after all of this fiber. It totally took away the romance. But it was healthy?

    (3)

  • Gate K.

    Love the concept but does seem a bit too green for me. Food was overall good, several items were bland tasting.

    (4)

  • Julia P.

    This is my new favorite place! I vowed to start eating healthier in 2013, like every other person on the plant, and I was pleasantly surprised to learn about this place. I had no idea it existed even though the Barton Springs area is my hood & they're going to be seeing a lot of me this year. Let's start with the food, I always go during lunch and you usually get a soup, salad and an entree for $12. If you're expecting something super fancy, this probably isn't the place for you. It kind of reminds me of a school cafeteria but the food is clean and healthy so what more do you need right?

    (4)

  • Chris K.

    This is a great place to eat. One of the few where I can go eat and follow my dietary guidelines

    (5)

  • Kat T.

    We ate here before leaving town on our recent trip. The setting is amazing, I felt healthier just being there. The food was also amazing. From the salad to the perfectly prepared butternut squash. I only deduct one star because we had our daughter with us, at 10 she is used to eating things that most children would balk at. However, it would have been nice, since she is a child, to have the option of letting her choose what of the main entree she wanted to eat. She loved the risotto and salad, but wasnt a fan of the squash and cilantro corn. So really she only ended up being half full when we left. Next time we are in town, we will eat there without her.

    (4)

  • Chad A.

    Casa De Luz is a treasure. Austin is lucky to have it. For $12 you get hot or cold tea, a salad, soup, and heaping plateful of food--all on a set menu, almost cafeteria style. The ambiance is incredibly relaxing. Frequently you get to sit with other (typically enlightened) diners at the large tables; everyone is always in a great mood. The main plate always includes rice, beans, greens, and something pickled. The sauces are superb. Most days of the week have a different special item on the main plate (vegan macrobiotic sushi and tacos are my faves). This is my comfort food; it is nourishing and balanced, consistent and healthful. It's a simple formula and once you get used to it you wonder why there aren't more places just like Casa de Luz.

    (5)

  • Mercy H.

    Healthy and yummy :) wonderful atmosphere clean area excellent food preparation and a great place enjoy with good food

    (4)

  • R M.

    Peaceful and enjoyable! Truly enjoyed my experience. The food was terrific and satisfying. Come to Dallas, Casa De Luz!

    (5)

  • Tiffany W.

    A review wayy past overdue -- A friend and I came here as a tribute to my temporary vegetarianism over the summer. We had a difficult time trying to locate the cafeteria since the compound is cleverly disguised as a hippie's haven. At first wasn't sure if we came to meditate, do some yoga, or grab dinner. We eventually found the entrance to the eating area at the end of a crooked rocky path and were greeted inside by the friendliest host. He quickly explained the concept of Casa De Luz and told us to grab a seat at any of the community tables or help ourselves to a bowl of soup or some salad. A few minutes later, someone brought over our plated entree and sides. The food is 100% vegan and surprisingly tasty! The menu changes daily so make sure you check online before you venture on over. Keep an open mind and I'm positive you'll enjoy your experience at Casa De Luz.

    (4)

  • Heather G.

    Beautiful place, nice and friendly staff. It was a peaceful lunch with delicious food. My friend and myself both finished our plates entirely, almost licked them clean!

    (5)

  • Randall R.

    Having been here many more times since my first experience, I'll say that it's grown on me a great deal. The food is more flavorful and seems to be better thought-out in terms of pairings of courses. It also feels a lot looser than it did when I first visited 5 years ago (as in less uptight). Could be because the price has gone up so they can afford a bit more variety & options. And they got rid of the process of paying for the wooden token, which you then gave to a person 5 feet away from where you bought it. Although now I kind of miss it. It gave this place a litle dystopian nudge in an otherwise hey-wow-dude utopian environment.

    (4)

  • Nat C.

    Please don't let other reviews lead you to believe this is a "hipster" place. It may have a bit of a new-agey feel, but there is nothing "hipster" about it. The food is very good and very healthy - they don't use oils or any fancy sauces and spices in their cooking. This is very much the way I cook at home, so of course I think Casa De Luz is great. You play $12 flat for lunch, which includes soup, salad and an entree. They have a fixed menu every day, so you don't get to pick what you want, but the way they cook their food everything turns out really good. Desserts are not included in the $12 price, and they range between $1.50 -$5.

    (5)

  • Michelle G.

    Eating here brings to mind the book, "Like Water for Chocolate". It seems there is a lot of loving care that goes into the preparation of this beautiful food and its no wonder you leave feeling satisfied, body and soul. The first time I went, I didn't ask many questions, I just took it all in and tasted a little bit of everything. I was surprised how much I liked it all. (I am not vegetarian and only as an adult have I even discovered that I like veggies.) However, I would not have guessed how much I loved the Borscht Soup...Heaven! (sing that last word). I honestly would have sworn up and down to you that I don't like beets. WRONG. (mom would be SO proud!) And the juxtaposition of the beautiful, bright magenta soup with the accompanying green nut sauce....well, its as pretty looking as it is good. I now watch the website regularly to see when I can go back and get another Borscht fix. Its that delish. This time around, I even convinced my husband to tag along (gasp) and he was rather shocked at how much he enjoyed it all. Because I go for the soup, the main course is generally the same standard fare. Today was comprised of : Rice, beans, greens, orange and yellow vegetable medley of sorts....its all good. (see pics) Take your own "To Go" containers so you can be sure to save enough room for dessert....the berry crisp is a must in my book! Enjoy!

    (4)

  • Sofia M.

    We had just moved to Austin the day before finding this place , and it was everything we imagined the weird, hippy and anything-goes Austin lifestyle we'd imagined we'd find. You pay a flat-rate for a set menu (that changes daily). It's all vegan and gluten-free. We were pleasantly surprised with what we were served. It's a relaxing spot that we will return to at some point.

    (4)

  • Sara H.

    Wow. Just, wow. This place blew me away with the beautiful ambiance, the open-heart-yogic vibe, the fresh and healthy food, and the extremely low price. For a vegan, gluten-free diner, Casa De Luz is a dream come true. Each day there is a set menu for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can read what you'll get online and then head on over to fill your bowl with soup, grab the day's salad choice and some tea or water, and then get served a full plate of delicious vegetarian selections. The day I went, this was the dinner menu [my comments]: Soup: Vegetable Quinoa with Lentils [so full of flavor, light but satisfying] Salad: Fresh Salad with Sunflower Dill Cucumber Dressing [amazing that it is vegan and gluten free!] Entree: Basmati Rice with Nori Condiment Blanched Greens with Basil Tahini Sauce [these were to die for] Baked Green Cabbage with Tamari Black Eyed Peas Red Sauerkraut [there just was not enough of this--I could have eaten a whole head of cabbage prepared this way] Dining out under the stars, listening to the birds, hearing the guests of a workshop at the studio laughing and applauding occasionally, feeling healthy and alive from fresh, tasty food. Yum. Casa De Luz is a gem in Austin, TX. You have to check it out when you're in town.

    (5)

  • Elena T.

    Love it! Always fast, easy, healthy and delicious. I'm not always full but that's when it's time to try their delicious pecan pie! Mmmm :)

    (4)

  • Apoorva M.

    This is one of the most unique places I've dined at... ever! If you're looking for something different, and want to keep it healthy & homey, definitely go here! Even if you're not wow-ed by the food, you will remember the place and the experience. I was introduced to Casa de Luz by a friend who told me it was a "limited buffet". A slightly misleading term, but when you enter and pay, you get unlimited tea, salad, and soup, and 2 tokens for your main plate(s). 2 plates is PLENTY, and filled with a variety of that day's menu. The menu changes daily, but in general, the items were flavorful and tasty. Lots of veggies, but don't expect your typical vegan/vegetarian fare. Expect to be pleasantly surprised! However, if your palate is accustomed to spice, don't expect that. A majority of the restaurant has long tables, so you may find yourself engaging in lunch/dinner conversation with your neighbors. To escape the crowds of families finding places to eat, I took my family here after my graduation. It was the perfect choice! They're not very adventurous eaters, but thoroughly enjoyed their meals, and we were able to take great pictures outside. You'll feel a little more at peace just by walking along the path to enter the restaurant, and you'll feel nourished and satisfied as you leave.

    (5)

  • Nora M.

    I was probably the last vegetarian in Austin to eat here but I'm really glad I finally tried it. It was A LOT of food. I think next time I'm going to forgo either soup or salad because I was stuffed. They sell deserts but I can't imagine trying to eat more. I highly recommend lunch here as a way to recover after a night of drinking and make yourself feel healthier! It cancels out, right?

    (4)

  • Adam B.

    One of my favorite places ever. Such a serene environment. 30 minutes at CDL and my mind, soul and, of course, body feel recharged.

    (5)

  • Robert G.

    Casa de Luz gets a once a week check in from me as they allow the Thai massage open practice group on facebook to meet for free here once a week on Thursday nights. I've loved using the space and all the south Austin acroyoga and Thai massage fans love meeting there. I can't say enough about Casa de Luz and their support of our community functions. I ate here the past two days and rented space for my classes and I have to say that it was affordable, well staffed and easily set up. The food is simple, plain, macrobiotic and vegan. There's nothing wild and crazy about it but for a Thai massage class it's perfect. The food is filling without being heavy, nutritious without being starch laden and is the perfect accompaniment to doing something like yoga, which is why it works so well for the Thai massage class. Both days I had a mix of steamed greens, beans or lentils, a small amount of pickled cabbage, soup and a nice green salad with a tahini dressing. Simple, not overly spicy and perfect for the event I was hosting.

    (4)

  • Madeline A.

    Genuinely healthy vegan food. I love the earthy, wholesome, community atmosphere. Casa is a wonderful place to unwind and be kind. My brother worked there ages ago and I've been visiting periodically ever since my introduction. The meals never disappoint and, in my opinion, the variety and attention to detail (very balanced and nutritious) make it worth every penny.

    (5)

  • Kay P.

    This is a little piece of paradise nestled in the heart of Austin. Casa has the cleanest food you'll ever eat in this town. They are not just vegan, they actually stay away even from some plant based food that has been deemed not too good for consumption in the long term, for example potatoes. I am also gluten free and their menu has always been gluten free every time I've eaten there. And they have everything including yummy deserts. It's also a super laid back place - the most peaceful people will be found eating here, whether in large groups or those that come to eat by themselves. Everyone seems at ease here. A full meal costs about $12 a person. What could be better? I'm told most of their food is delivered say day from local farms. Long live Casa!

    (5)

  • Matthew D.

    AMAZING HEALTHY FOOD. DIVINE! I eat here atleast twice a month, it beats any local healthy spot by far, even beats my own cooking! Want a reliable macro-biotic kitchen? This is YOUR kitchen! Let food be thy medicine!

    (5)

  • Natalia D.

    Visiting Austin and looking for a vegan restaurant... Casa de Luz is a house full of light!! The food is excellent and healthy. Fixed menu and a suggested donation. The vibe at this place is great. I could have spent the whole day here. Loved it!

    (5)

  • Keith P.

    This is one of my favorite places to dine in Austin. There is a delightfully serene path of arbors, soft lights, and lush bamboo that leads you into the restaurant. I would describe the food as vegan, macrobiotic, and Ayurvedic. It feels like you have done something really great for your body when you eat here. It's a delicious way to detox.

    (5)

  • Rachel B.

    Casa de Luz is the best place to find delicious macrobiotic food in the city! Nestled in the back of a Montessori school, one might not even notice that there is a restaurant there! The walk from your car to Casa de Luz is memorable -- tall bamboo lines the walkway, and at night, there are strings of lights that just add to the ambiance. You go in, pay for your meal (the meal is a fixed meal for the day), grab a token, then check out the food. It's a cafeteria style eatery for your salad, soup, and drink. After a few minutes, they will bring you out your main meal, which you will give them your token. The food never fails to impress! It's delicious! I always find myself getting a second bowl of whatever soup they are making. The tea is also so good (I believe it is a rooibos peppermint). For those uncertain about macrobiotic food, or hesitant about alternative restaurants, Casa de Luz might not be something you're 100% comfortable with. However, give it a try! The food is wonderful, and you might like it more because you know it's good for you too!

    (5)

  • Audrey G.

    I always know that when I eat at Casa De Luz, I will enjoy something delicious and healthy. It is easy to eat here and can be very quick if you are in a hurry, though I prefer to linger and enjoy the company and the unique and peaceful surroundings. High quality and tasty food in a casual and affordable restaurant. No need to make difficult menu decisions, they plan the meal, and always include a soup, salad, drinks, and a macrobiotic plate with a variety of interesting items. It may not be "foodie" food, which is great on occasion, however this restaurant is just right for those interested in eating meals that are both healthy and tasty, without any guilt.

    (5)

  • Olivia H.

    I was visiting Austin for business and I came across this place and thought I would give it a try. I thought I was in for a special treat: healthy food, and a very cool entrance. After that it was downhill. I walked in and the guy working, who I think was the owner, leader or whatever he was (it's nonprofit and run by mostly volunteers) was very aloof and unfriendly. I stood at the front counter for a while before he came up and was like, "yeah?". I told him I was there to eat (duh). And he said, get a plate: it's $12. Then he gave me a wooden coin. I didn't know what was going on. I thought it was a normal sit-down and you get served restaurant. No. It was very confusing. He showed me the place that was pre-plated. He quickly pointed to the general area of where you serve yourself salad and soup. I sat in a dark corner and quietly ate my food. There was only a few Christmas lights to light the huge dining area (I think to save energy), so it was really depressing. There was no music, just a few scattered old hippie elites talking about "spirit energy" and "kale". The food was sort of flavorful, but I had to put a lot of soy sauce on my plate. It's macrobiotic and so they don't put salt or pepper on the tables. I did enjoy the meal, but I certainly don't think it was worth 12 dollars. Not for a plate of beans, kale and quinoa. I've been around health food for years and I don't think there was anything extraordinary about the food. It wasn't very welcoming, but maybe that is because I was wearing makeup and was dressed for work. The nerve! Dress super casual when you go here or you will feel like a freak. You have to bus the table yourself, too. I'm glad I realized this because I would have just confirmed to them that I was an evil, greedy business person. I think it's some kind of cult. That's how it felt.

    (2)

  • Wendy B.

    I love Casa de Luz for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Forget that you may or may not follow a plant-based diet. The portions, price and atmosphere are peaceful and tranquil. There is a real sense of community which is nice to see. I try to get in a visit/meal on every trip to Austin.

    (5)

  • Scott R.

    Healthiest and most delicious food in all of Austin. I love this macrobiotic restaurant, and I am now addicted to it. I go here at least 3-4 times per week. It's inexpensive, it's all organic, it's all vegan, it's all locally sourced, the current menu items are all chosen by Mother Nature, and everything is prepared absolutely DELICIOUSLY! What more could you ask for? Well, actually, I wish they served fresh squeezed vegetable juices as well, but I guess that's what Juiceland is for, which is just 2 blocks away. I also like the plethora of community tables at Casa De Luz, which enables you to make new friends while you eat! You know you're eating good food when you wake up feeling completely energized the next morning, thanks to the good stuff you put in your belly the night before from Casa De Luz.

    (5)

  • Kat K.

    The food was so freaking fantastic! My husband and I have been on a plant-based whole-food vegan diet since January and have been planning to dine here for a while. I think I found them through HappyCow or Engine 2 Diet. My husband was a little confused why ice was not available for our drinks, but the tea was cool nonetheless. The vegetable soup was full of natural, delicious flavor and the salad was tossed in some sort of hummus type dressing that was incredible. Our entree was also good. We had a mixture of blanched greens, some sort of corn tortilla enchilada bake type thing, rice, cucumber salad and beans. I can only guess that the people calling the food "bland" are those that are used to eating a high-sodium processed food diet. I was blown away by the flavors and textures in the "more than enough" portions provided. I also had to splurge and got the walnut cake bar. Prepare to roll your eyes back in your head for this one. That's right, it's that good! I felt kind of weird about tipping since the only that is really done for you, is having your meal walked to your table. But, it is a non-profit business that I want to stay around for a long, long time. So tip away!

    (5)

  • Tera S.

    I'm not a vegetarian by any means, but if I had food like this all the time....I would be! I left completely full and satisfied. It's also got a great "community" atmosphere.

    (5)

  • Tracy B.

    I have been meaning to try this place for years, but never got around to it. My mother did a macrobiotic diet for two years when she was suffering from cancer and the food seemed so bland and yuck. There really were very few choices for healthy food in Dallas in the late 80s though. She was desparate and heard great things about macrobiotics and decided to try it. She was in remission for the entire two years that she followed the diet. A few months after she stopped the diet, her cancer returned full force. So it makes one wonder... I was so pleasantly surprised today when I met clients there for lunch. The entrance is very serene and though it was 9 million degrees outside, the room was cool and shaded by their large trees. Seating is communal and we pay up front. The three of us had our own table however. They had a wonderful self serve salad bar with organic crudites and mixed field greens tossed in an amazing Ume flax dressing. It was very zesty. The soup was a tasty vegetable soup which seemed sweetened with beets. Insanely delicious and the menu changes daily. Then the kitchen staff brought out our lunch. AMAZING!!! It was $12 per person, which seemed a little steep as I had to bus my own table. That's my only complaint. I'm sort of a prima donna at times! Here it my lunch in a nutshell: Grain: Basmati & Medium Brown Rice w/ Peas Greens: Mixed Blanched Greens w/ Basil Pecan Pesto- this was bursting with freshness and flavor. Bean: Creamy Black Beans w/ Suncheese- whatever suncheese is, it's kind of salty and very yummy. Vegetable: Soft Tacos w/ Carrots, Cabbage, Onions & Guacamole- the cabbage and carrots were very sweet and delicious! Pickle: Red Cabbage, Beets & Onions The key here is to have a well balanced meal and I feel so refreshed and full! Seriously, I had no idea this would be such a wonderful experience. Wish I could leave work and go do some yoga!! I will be back very soon...

    (5)

  • Kristen H.

    This place makes me want to cry in the most beautiful way. From the plant caressed walkways, to the delicious vegan, macrobiotic cuisine, this restaurant (which is really more of a zen oasis) stole my heart and hid it away. The staff is soft-spoken and helpful. The food is cafeteria style, which somehow adds to the genuine coziness of Casa de Luz. I honestly have been thinking about this place from the moment I left, and I can't wait to take a trip back into Austin to visit again.

    (5)

  • Christine A.

    It was a beautiful Saturday morning at Casa de Luz, a restaurant we selected for my vegetarian brother to try during his visit to Austin. Upon entering the lush gardens we felt instantly relaxed and peaceful. What a gorgeous place to dine! I was so glad we arrived at 11:30 since there was already a line waiting to pay and eat. The blue-eyed handsome man (is that an old school song?) who took our money explained that the raspberry/lemongrass/mint tea and filtered water come with the meal but other drinks and desserts are paid for separately. For $14/person (inclusive) it is an all you can eat buffet. We began our meal with a tasty cauliflower soup and went through the salad bar featuring 6 or 8 fresh vegetables, a field green salad tossed with an orange raspberry dressing, delicious basmati rice with pecan dressing, and yummy baked sweet potatoes. Next we found the savory Portobello and mushroom breakfast tacos served with spicy jalapeno dressing, strawberry/blueberry/pecan scones, lovely black eyed peas, and mixed greens with basil/tahini sauce. Everyone agreed, this is the way to enjoy a meal surrounded by beauty and eating natural, wholesome foods. Our thanks to all the yelpers who recommended this restaurant--we felt completely nourished and healthy after this experience.

    (5)

  • Beckie F.

    DON'T RENT A SPACE AS LONG AS THE CONSTRUCTION IS GOING ON NEXT DOOR!!!! We rented a space for our spiritual meditative workshop online. The policy is to pay upfront and told not to call and ask questions. We complied and less than a week before the event we were notified that our reservation was accepted. This makes it difficult to advertise if you don't know if the space is available. Once there, the real trouble began as they are building condos immediately next door. All day we endured the sound of sawing metal beams and the sound of backing of heavy equipment. Granted this is not the fault of Casa but in our communication with them about it, they were curt and took no responsibility to inform us that this was going on. When ask why they would take our money when the setting was not "calm" as advertised, his comment was "I didn't take your money...paypal did" and I fulfilled my responsibility by providing you a room with lights and the such and it was NOT his responsibility to say anything about the noise. I've always supported Casa but my views have changed by this experience. It's a real shame!!

    (1)

  • Greg S.

    Casa de Luz definitely attracts a certain type of clientele, I'd say it's sort of like a vegan Waffle House. But instead of the naked guy covered in tattoos talking to himself in the corner at 3:00 A.M. there was guy spinning a crystal over his table for the duration of our lunch (I swear!) while his companion stared out the window as if hypnotized or just completely bored out of her mind. There were the gringo rasta guys were there with their moms, but I also saw one of the prettiest girls in the world there, too. The food's pretty straightforward veggie/macrobiotic fare, some might call it bland but then you're really talking down to the vegetables themselves because besides cooking them not a lot has been done to alter them. When I was there they offered a fixed menu for $12.00. The carrots and parsnips were very tasty, the kale with the nut sauce was also very good. The black bean soup was a knockout, and the salad was dressed in a Cesar-ish type dressing that was very nice. The whipped sweet potatoes with cherry glaze would have made a lot better desert than the vegan flan did (some things should NEVER be attempted as a vegan version) and despite what others have written I was full when I left. Unless you're a totally unsocialized carnivore you shouldn't have any problem getting happy at Casa de Luz. The service is good and friendly, and there's a nice vibe from the kitchen. It's little spendy, but the place is gushing goodness and light. One thing I thought was odd was there's no ice for the tea. I asked the guy in Spanish who was working there, but he just sort of shook his head "No" at me. What on earth could be wrong with ice? I didn't notice any other condiments around either, but it's not the kind of food you pour ketchup or mustard on anyway, however a little pepper sauce would have really stepped up that kale! Staying true to their vegan theme, Casa de Luz doesn't monkey around with trying to make artificial meat dishes, like Tofu Chorizo or gluten turkey breast. Really, fake meat is the same as real meat. The intention is there. So, I liked Casa de Luz, it's in a lovely garden-like setting and the space is very clean and relaxing. There was even some new-age music in the background! The food is good, the service good, so I'll probably go again. But really I'll go back to watch the people eating there, they're straight out of central casting!

    (4)

  • Liss C.

    I love that other yelpers have mentioned their Zen experience being ruined by the lack of signs or the actual presence of smarmy, snooty people who aren't there to help you. We walked into the restaurant and though I saw the menu and somewhat remembered reading about the process, my partner had no idea. So after standing there being looked at blankly by the little metrosexual, my s.o. finally asked, "can we see a menu?" The metro "host" then smirked and even chuckled and said, "Oh, so you haven't been here before?" How condescending! You had to be there, I swear. So we were still polite while he told us how it worked and then again we had to ask to purchase two meals. I mean, come on, your job is not that hard -- be polite and offer to ring people up! Besides the really bad introduction to the place, we really enjoyed it. The relaxing vibe, the nice women who bring your entrees, and the soup and salad help yourself area were all really cool. I loved the food; the sauces were really unique and tasty. My s.o. thought they were a bit bland as others have mentioned on here but he left feeling great! No chemicals, no gross oily feeling lol. We both will have no qualms about going back here. ;) We just wish it were a teeny bit cheaper or that dessert was included. (!)

    (4)

  • Arlo P.

    We just love the wholesome food, friendly staff, and comfortable natural atmosphere of Casa De Luz. I hope they are with us for a long time. This place is SOOOO AUSTIN! : )

    (5)

  • Robin S.

    The Casa it is worth a mention For its menu, which aids in digestion Though you may have to guess At the food you will test And leave with some items in question Spartan appears its interior And beautiful in its exterior Structures gardens and paths There some time you should pass A nice walk benefits your posterior So the Casa it seems as of late Seems to garnish either love or hate I find myself in-between These two extremes Feeling A-Ok bout what I ate.

    (3)

  • Sarah D.

    Delicious, nurturing food that is conscientiously prepared. I think it's the best vegetarian restaurant in Austin but you have to appreciate 'healthy' food to really like it. Nothing deep fried here! :-)

    (5)

  • Bill S.

    Delicious. Peaceful. You can tell that the folks who run it really care about what they offer as well as the well being of their customer. I really love that the menu is set each day...basically a very healthy home cooked meal. Hidden gem that makes every other vegetarian/vegan establishment look silly.

    (5)

  • Letitia S.

    If you're not prepared to enjoy this place for what it is- Macrobiotic Diet food(and vegan and gluten free), you may not completely appreciate it for what it is. If your taste buds aren't attuned to eating Real food, and tasting what vegetables taste like- it's possible you might be disappointed by what others have described as a "lack of salt/bland flavor." But if you are in need of a clean, whole relaxing meal and in the midst of the Austin city, it is so good to know that this meal option is here. Food Allergies have caused me to be super particular about food intake. Thank you Cassa de Luz, you're like an oasis. Mmm.

    (5)

  • Lydia L.

    Another great recommendation from MaçRae! I sa-wae-yer I should employ her as a personal travel planner, LOL. Without her guidance I am certain we would have missed Casa de Luz and thereby a wonderful experience. Without getting much into it here is the link to their organization if you care to look--http://www.casadeluz.org. We did not take advantage of their other offerings just dinner. There is a set menu, that night we helped ourselves to a beverage (Iced Rooibos, Peppermint and Lemongrass Tea), soup (Sweet Potato with carrot and ginger) and a green salad with casa dressing, and seating is open in their large dining room. Inside, outside, private or communal. We chose to sit privately outside. Once we had finished our plates, someone came around with the dinner-kidney beans, steamed brown rice with seaweed, blanched greens, kim chee and mixed veggies. It was delicious, nutritious and filling though, TBT, I was hungry later on that night... No wonder all those people are so skinny! Not only did I feel great about eating such tasty fare but supporting their cause. $24 for two for dinner. That is a steal. Thanks to MaçRae for another not to be missed meal! And those run down apartments that had been there? Luxury condos now. Nice. And thanks to Heather N. for helping to get my chakras all in order for my journey: youtube.com/watch?v=F8kw… .

    (5)

  • Scott L.

    I don't believe this place IS 100% organic, but I think it is mostly. This place IS vegan, and follows macrobiotic principles. No dairy, no refined sugar - but they do use honey, no meat. Always a raw vegetable and a soup, all foods are presented at body temperature, nothing hot or cold. No ice cubes. I always leave this place feeling like I'm tripped out = as HIGH AS A KITE. Nothing like a swim at barton springs, and then a meal here. A very healthy meal, in a beautiful dining room with big windows and plants.

    (5)

  • Yum Yum L.

    Sometimes I just want a light meal that is good for my body and tastes good too. Casa de Luz offers wonderful macrobiotic food that doesn't rely on too many sauces and show cases the fresh ingredients. They use creative ways to add texture and flavor to the food - something that I appreciate since I find it hard to prepare tasty vegetarian dishes. The kantens are very light and smooth. The teas are refreshing as well. If you like pancakes, they have awesome gluten-free ones during their Sunday brunch.

    (5)

  • Jennifer K.

    This one of my favorite places to eat in Austin during my visit. The food was flavorful and healthy and the atmosphere was relaxing. Casa de Luz is beautiful and my daughter loved playing on the playground after we ate our lunch. My favorite part was the vegan punpkin pie. I have been SUFFERING for over a decade now missing pumpkin pie and Casa de Luz finally satisfied my craving! $14 (a piece of pie was $4 EXTRA on top of that) seemed a steep price per plate for a tiny lunch buffet with only a soup and a couple of salads but it was tasty.

    (4)

  • Lady S S.

    with delightful ethnic variations and seasonal varieties, I only wish this place was closer.. I love the food so much i've subscribed to the mailing list and get seasonal updates on recipes. The THANKSGIVING meal offerings look so amazing always. i'm nearly willing to make a trip all the way from California just to eat here. I also really like the shop they have adjunct to the dining place. I found the best BLACK salt toothpaste that i've ever had. (it may be the only black salt toothpaste i've ever had...) try it! you might not like it..but it's worth a shot!

    (5)

  • Richard R.

    Odd place. The food is good, although some of it could use a little more seasoning. One thing I wondered about was how the chef decides who to feed next. He seemed to skip over my table until my date stared at him. Pro Tips: Sneak salt in; stare at chef when you're ready for the main course. In all, a nice healthy meal for a good price.

    (4)

  • Jen L.

    I've been a vegan for years and travel a lot. So, I have been to lots of different vegetarian restaurants all over the country. This is one of my absolute all time favorites. I loved it here! As soon as you walk up, you can feel the great vibe of the pace. The outdoor space is great, the people super friendly and the food was incredible. We went for Thanksgiving dinner and back a couple of days later for lunch. Our meals both times were incredible. Everything is vegan and they make it all without oil. Delicious and completely guilt free!

    (5)

  • Erik W.

    Hot damn! This place is the tasties. Casa De Luz is a completely vegan restaurant. Having been a vegetarian for over 15 years it's refreshing to be able to go into a place and not have to worry about what you're eating. Everything that is there is vegan and extremely healthy. We were en route to go see "Where the Wild Things Are" in IMAX, but gave up because the traffic was so terrible. So, my first thought was let's go to Chuys as we were driving by it, but the parking was terrible and I somehow ended up on a side street behind Chuys when I found Casa De Luz. Then it struck me, my Dad who lives in Boston had heard about this place and recommended it to me. At first I was a little worried that Casa De Luz was not a restaurant as they have books on health, yoga, etc lining the walkway, which is lit using Xmas lights. There is also a yoga studio and some other stuff back there. Anyhoo, we finally made it to the door to find the place absolutely packed! Apparently it was Guatemalan night (every Thursday), which is everyone's favorite night because they have tacos. You pay for the dinner before you sit down and then they give you a "token". You need the token to get your entree, but it seemed foolish because you can go back up and just ask for seconds after you redeem your "token". The food was phenomenal - taco, salad, kale, beans, rice, a bunch of teas, etc. It was a smorgasbord of goodness. They had this green goo that was phenomenal - some sort of spicy avocado stuff that went well on EVERYTHING. The people were a little weird, but so am I. The dining is communal, so you have to eat with random peeps. Fairly certain a few of them were high, definitely quite a few hippies and hipsters, haha. Didn't bother me any - it was actually pretty fun. There was one weird lady that decided to sit at the kids table by herself. She was no fun. Anyways, I am most certainly going to make this place a regular hangout - everything was so tasty and healthy. 5+ for this bad larry.

    (5)

  • Alexandra K.

    I've been here once, but it was fantastic. You pay $12 first, then get your tea or water, then your soup and salad, and then you go sit at your table waiting for the main meal. The meal changes daily, but I think you can find out what they're serving ahead of time by checking online. Then, they bring you the main course. If/when you want seconds, you bring your plate to the chefs. Tada! The atmosphere was great...very hippie-ish. They have a nice outdoor area with realllly long picnic tables, too. The property is beautiful, by the way. The food was surprisingly good. The soup needed salt, but the salad was amaaaazing. I don't know what they made their dressing out of, but there was mustard seed involved. The main course was chalupas, which came with black beans and greens. The greens had some sort of nut-based topping (the consistency of hummus) that was to die for, and the chalupas themselves were incredible. They had so much flavor and the textures were perfect. The black beans looked pathetic but they tasted robust and salty and fantastic. I got seconds, by the way. I'll definitely be back. I can't wait to try their other dishes!

    (5)

  • Elizabeth F.

    I've been coming to Casa de Luz regularly since 2008 and it remains one of my favorite places. I always feel great after a meal here. It's not just the food, but I find the atmosphere very calming, especially after a stressful day. I think the meals have good variety day to day, and they are filling. You get soup, salad, plus a well balanced plate of grains greens, pickle and another item that might be all vegetable, or a combination of a vegetable and a grain. The sauces are unique and flavorful, and I really like the kanten desserts since they are nice and light after a filling meal, but satisfy any sweet craving. Like others have said, not every day has a great menu, but it is usually posted online about 30 mins before the start of the meal.

    (5)

  • Anmry N.

    Wow! That's all I thought when I saw CDL - for the congested street to the serenity of this place. We went here for Sunday Brunch and it was wonderful. The pretty zen lady at the counter, Rita, was super nice and gave me a brief guide about the CDL. Everything is self-serve and it is super convenient since it is all laid out. The food was interesting, I did not think it was bland but the SO did. I like the gomasio on the table, cauliflower soup, spicy green sauce, twig tea and the other items there. The place filled up pretty quick and it was great to people watch. It is very peaceful here, I would definitely go again. :D

    (4)

  • Blake S.

    Great food, great people, great conversation and now they are open all day! A Austin original! What a great find - beautiful garden, peaceful atmosphere, near the hiking trails and baseball fields and Zach Scott Theater. Perfect idea dinner and a show all in walking distance!

    (5)

  • Tara B.

    What a lovely experience! I went to Casa De Luz while I was in town for a few days visiting friends, and it's just what I needed. A restaurant that is entirely vegan and gluten free?! That is heaven for me. The food was simple, good, and filling. I loved the atmosphere the most. Next time I am in town, I will definitely visit again.

    (5)

  • Keryn H.

    I really enjoy this place. It's macrobiotic. Everything they have is vegan, healthy, and unique. I always walk away feeling like I did something good for myself by eating there. It's kind of pricy though, and my husband says he'd enjoy it more if he ever remembered to bring salt with him.

    (3)

  • Jaye B.

    I want to like Casa de Luz. Seriously, I do. I want to be the kind of person with a light heart, a breeze in her step, and satisfied with eating nothing but sunshine and rainbows. I am pretty sure that we, here on Yelp, have established, that I am not this person. Therefore, while Casa de Luz is a beautiful atmosphere and a lovely idea, there is no way in hell I'll be back to spend $12 on a meal of twigs and berries. My lawn needs cleaning up, I can just go gather shit from it and put it on a plate. Dinner is served.

    (2)

  • Ryan P.

    People need to understand what they're getting when they patronize Casa. You are getting the most nutritious and healthful food available anywhere in Austin. However, this is not a place to go for a veggie burger or vegan pizza and I think they emphasize health and balance sometimes over flavor. The food is not heavily spiced and it won't "stick to your ribs," but you will feel like a million bucks when you leave. This place deserves big props not only for offering such thoughtful and carefully prepared food, but for being a positive and nurturing place to gather in the community.

    (5)

  • Anh P.

    So I am not NOR have any desire to ever become vegetarian nor vegan. I was a little scared to try. This place has good reviews, but at a glance are they from vegetarians or not? Oh man this place was good. The sweet potato soup was TO DIE FOR. I had no idea what was in the entree was, but it was good. BTW, I like big red juicy steaks. So this is really good for me to give it a 5.

    (5)

  • Marco C.

    I've only been here for lunch on Sundays, so this reviews is limited to that time slot. The style is all-you-can-eat self-service buffet, and the food is vegan/macrobiotic/organic. I'm not vegan, but the food quality is excellent and the variety sufficient to keep an omnivore satisfied. The atmosphere is very subdued - possibly the quietest place you can eat at in Austin. Also, the food is very toddler friendly - it's soft and usually pre-cut into small pieces. A nice plus if you have a little one in tow.

    (4)

  • Kristee L.

    I LOVE this restaurant! It is very inexpensive ($12) with great quality organic food. I like that I never have to choose my meal. It is soup, salad and a plate of food. I like not having to make decisions :). I have never been dissatisfied with a meal and sometimes I go there several times a week. The food is definitely healthy and nourishing.

    (5)

  • Tricia F.

    Best place to enjoy a wonderful and very healthy macrobiotic lunch! It is where I meet my mom for a girls afternoon regularly. When you walk through the gates you step into another world that offers a serene ambience. I have also gone to Casa de Luz many times alone to enjoy their amazing food and then I bring a book to sit in their gardens and listen to the chimes and birds...so peaceful! Please go and support this amazing Austin business!

    (5)

  • Emily B.

    BEWARE of the parking situation! my sister and I both parked on the street and paid and placed the stickers on our car windshields, as indicated. it was 99 degrees outside, so probably 140 in my parked car, so I both of our stickers fell off onto our floorboards. we both got tickets that we now have to go out of our way to contest. I called casa de Luz just to let them know what was going on. the guy could not have cared less. the food is always good. and I know the ticketing is not their fault so they still get 5 stars.

    (5)

  • Lily P.

    Delicious with a dreamy atmosphere. You enter, pay a flat rate, and serve yourself soup/salad. Then your main course is brought to you. I absolutely love the calm and natural vibes I get from this place. The outside and in are both equally charming. The kind of restaurant that you'd think was operated by woodland fairies :P

    (4)

  • Mel Z.

    As a vegetarian and neighbor to this place, I wanted to love it but thought it was just ok. Pros Soup and salad were excellent Cool location within some short of hippie wellness complex Cons/weird rules No ice. The hibiscus iced tea was good but would've been great with some ICE! No salt. The beans and veggies that were part of the entree were bland and would've been a lot better with some salt but all they have is "a mix of sesame seeds and salt" which is at least 90% sesame seeds. Would I go back? Yes, because it's nearby and I like to eat my veggies but I will be bringing my own salt!

    (3)

  • Alexis B.

    The menu is Casa De Luz changes every day, but it's always vegan, organic, and gluten-free. You pay a set fee and get to try everything on the menu that day. It's healthy, and it is a great concept - definitely a unique place. Additionally, it's on a very pretty property! However, the food is just okay. You're not going to have your mind blown by any of the food here. Definitely a good place if you're feeling the need for something very healthy though!

    (3)

  • Linda M.

    I've been here several times now, and this place is just simply AMAZING! The food is always delicious, and it's just a great place to sit, enjoy your meal, chat, read, and/or just be. I want to move in. Seriously.

    (5)

  • Jason D.

    First off, I haven't been there in over six months so this might be out of date. But I'm backfilling my Austin Vegan Yelp Adventure Logbook so, with that in mind, read on: Pros: 1. Vegan food! +3 stars. 2. BEAUTIFUL entrance! I love the walkway. 3. Cool local business support - lots of info and classes. 4. Books! (At least last time I was there, months ago) Cons: 1. Awkward service. Unexplained rules. Used to be, you got a wooden coin in exchange for your $13, then you handed the coin back when someone noticed you sitting there and brought you a plate of food. But now it's, I think, you just pay at the door and then gorge yourself despite the scowls from your fellow eaters. 2. The hours used to be really weird. We made it a joke that we'd drive by Casa de Luz just to see if it was open during that 15 minute segment. Maybe it's better now. 3. Stinky restaurant goers. Okay, I get you're conserving water or whatever by not bathing, but it's really hard to eat next to people when you're smelling their ripe BO. 4. Dessert is extra. 5. Staff is all volunteer? And lunch is still $13?

    (3)

  • Heather M.

    Casa de Luz is a macrobiotic, vegan restaurant. I eat here about for times a week. I always know I am eating the healthiest and freshest food when I eat here. Everything is delicious and I always leave feeling light and energized by what I just ate.

    (5)

  • Adam C.

    I wish I can give them 10 stars instead of only five. This is how God intended man to eat. Plus, you don't have to make any decisions because they tell you what you're eating on the given day you come. Healthy eating? Come here!

    (5)

  • Jenna W.

    I can't believe I haven't gotten around to reviewing Casa de Luz yet! I absolutely love this place. I'm lucky enough to live right around the corner, so I'm able to visit CdL pretty frequently. I love the pretty path with the twinkly lights that leads to the front door. I love the friendly folks that work at the register. I love their incredibly healthy approach to food. I love the salads and the delicious dressing. I'm a vegetarian, and this is literally the second place I've ever actually enjoyed a salad. (Note: If you enjoy the dressings as much as I do, buy their cookbook! They sell it at the counter.) I love their cookbook! I love that the entrees contain small portions of a number of dishes - something I'd like to do at home but can never find the time/energy/motivation. I love that I don't have to think about what I'd like to order here. It's cafeteria style, so you just walk in, pay $12, and you get whatever is on the menu that night. I love the yummy iced tea! Note for first time visitors: So here's how this place works. Stop at the counter to the right of the door, and pay for your meal. Next, head to the left side of the room, grab silverware, a napkin, and some delicious iced tea. Use these items to claim a seat at one of the communal tables. Head to the back left corner of the room, and grab a bowl of soup and a heaping plate of salad. When the employees see that you're about done with your soup and salad, they'll bring your entree to the table. When you're done with the meal, you're responsible for bussing your table - bring everything to the window by the front door. The yummy looking desserts you see in the display case aren't included with your meal, but you can purchase them for an additional fee. While I'd recommend this place to anyone looking for a filling, healthy meal, I especially recommend it for those who are vegan/vegetarian, gluten free, have nightshade sensitivity (which is apparently a thing?), or are on a low-sodium diet.

    (5)

  • Jeffrey C.

    When we first came here we weren't expecting this new way of dining out. We really enjoyed it and hope this idea spreads. The food was delicious and filling and refreshingly natural.

    (5)

  • Adria E.

    With 277+ positive reviews, I'm not sure I really need to write this. But I feel like I should give a little something back to Casa De Luz. I was recently introduced to this place (how did I not know you were there??) and am 100% in love. I want to eat there every day. In fact, I want to LIVE there. The vibe, the love, the zen, the sense of community, peace, beauty, it just pours out of this place. And the food. OH YEAH. My first though was that the soup was magic and that there must be fairies back there in the kitchen because it was like someone used a wand to turn cookies into magic butternut cinnamon soup. DELICIOUS. Salad - Devine. And then the main course. WOW. Seriously. I'm not vegan, but I would be if Casa De Luz were my kitchen. How can healthy taste so freakin' good?? Oh, and they have little cookies that melt in your mouth and Topo Chico to drink. Casa De Luz, please marry me.

    (5)

  • Allison P.

    This was my first macrobiotic meal, so I was a little leery, but pleasantly surprised. When you walk in you pay $11, which included tea, soup, salad and a plate of whatever they are making that day. If I had known ahead a time that you do not have your choice of entree, I probably would not have gone. The tea, soup (they were serving broccoli and zucchini on the day I went) and quinoa were the highlights for me. I'm one of those strange people who just can't get into sweet potatoes and unfortunately that covered about 1/4 of my plate. Overall, it was better than I had expected it to be. But since they don't announce ahead of time (as far as I know) what they are serving that day, it might be too much of a gamble for me.

    (3)

  • Annette C.

    I finally got to try Casa de Luz for a Mother's Day brunch. Because they post their menus the day of, there was some confusion regarding their hours (it being a holiday I was wondering their hours, something like that, whatever, there was just some confusion!). Then, some more confusion when we got there about where the restaurant part actually was (it's in the back), what to do when we got into the restaurant (pay first), but quickly we got that you are to grab your own utensils, etc., and bus yourself. Maybe I just get kind of anxious and out of it when hosting the fam... This was all totally fine and not super annoying. We were feeling happy and nothing was inconvenient. Plus, the food was so satisfying. And healthy!! That was so nice to be able to have healthy food out. I am grateful for this restaurant, and I will go to it as much as I can. I think this place is wonderful for people who are big fans of eating healthy and clean, but for those not well-versed or turned off by healthy stuff, I wouldn't bring them here necessarily. It's hardcore, which I love, but some might not.

    (4)

  • Joey L.

    All of these years and I've never been here. My sister told me about it years ago and I just never maid it. It's right behind chuy's and you'd not know you are so close in the city once there. The food is not only made with love but it great tasting. I'm vegan but that doesn't mean I have a lack for taste. Look at my reviews and you'll see I'm busy going and eating out. The menu is different for every meal. Just show up and see what you get. Prices are incredibly low and you'll leave very full and happy.

    (5)

  • Jess B.

    Always fresh interesting, and delicious!

    (5)

  • Carlos G.

    Pretty well hidden, but theres plenty of parking. Food never disappoints, but you don't get to chose what to have. Very quiet atmosphere - picture yoga meets vegan food. Must check out at least once.

    (4)

  • Jonathan A.

    Cool place and really healthy. I look forward o coming here because it is like a different country and I leave feeling refreshed. The decorations and the complete immersion of the place feel as if you have traveled to a theme park. It almost seems hidden and the actual restaurant is a little hard to find (it's straight in the back). Not something for everyone but for health food champs, this is the Mecca in Austin.

    (4)

  • Gabriel H.

    The house of love the minute I walked into said establishment, I half expected Chef from South park to pop out and start singing about making sweet love to some woman. Onto the quickly disappearing virginity of this place How this place works is simple, you pay about 12$ for a token and that gets you two plates worth for macrobiotic food and as much salad and soup as you can stomach. For this growing boy that meant taking full advantage of as much food as humanly possible (I'm still coming for you Adam Richman) The plates I had were served with brown rice, some black beans, broccoli, and some other random veggies. I also got salad and their veggie soup of the night The good: The ambiance of this place at night is out of this world, it might even be the most elegant and peaceful location in all of fine Austin. Their is a long widening garden that is lit up by white Christmas lights and a dimly light dining area that screams simplicity and beauty all wrapped up in a neat package The kale salad and its dressing were having a hot orgy in my mouth. The dressing was swear and tangy and had just the right flavor for these taste buds The soup was quite delicious and had a plethora of good and healthy things floating about in it like carrots and beans. It appealed to my Italian roots as a minestrone impostor but with some varied ingredients The bad The brown rice was horrible, no flavor and it felt like sand paper in my mouth The black beans and broccoli were also fairly poor, wit the only saving grace being the tamari style dressing offering flavor via being submerged submarine style The food gets about a 3 star but the ambiance of this place really kicks it up a notch This might be the perfect place to warm up a date for a night's pending nuptials or at least read a book and relax (just be sure to steal some salad on the way out) Tamari is my friend Gabriel

    (4)

  • Shelly L.

    Casa De Luz is one of the most unique restaurants I've found around here. Before entering the restaurant, you walk through a beautiful garden area that has a couple small ponds, tables and chairs, and twinkle lights. It's soooo calm and relaxing. I wish it was my own patio. We went on a Tuesday night when they served tamales, mixed veggies, a garden salad and cauliflower soup. Everything (with the exception of the veggies which were kinda bland) was pretty flavorful for being vegan. I think the best part about it was that I left feeling just the right amount of "full," without feeling like I'd eaten way too much. But if you feel so inclined, you CAN get vegan desserts, which looked really really good. PS - the full meal is $12 (including tea) but you can choose a soup and salad or a couple parts of the entree if you don't want a full meal - and pay a little bit less.

    (4)

  • Debbie Z.

    My husband and I decided to enjoy our first vegan Thanksgiving at Casa de Luz and were astonished at the feast that was served. I didn't realize how much I was "mmm-ing" until he pointed it out. Every bite was flavorful and surprisingly delicious, and for the first time I understood that it is possible to enjoy being entirely vegan. Yes, non-vegans (like me) can expect to be completely satisfied by the menu at Casa de Luz. Casa de Luz is a magical place, a place I recommend to anyone interested in experiencing an otherworldly dining experience. The atmosphere recharges the soul and replenishes one's faith in the idea of true community.

    (5)

  • Ani P.

    Casa De Luz radiates positive energy. I was so pissy yesterday. My day was going to complete $hit. I think a cotton commercial made me cry. I needed to be filled up with goodness. My body felt sluggish from all of the meat I've been consuming. My heart felt extremely heavy -- I'm desperately missing my 11 month old twin girls while I'm in Austin for a business trip and my hubby's good lovin'. Yeah dudes, it's been 4 days without the dickens and 4 days without my cuties. And I'm buried in a pile of work. FML. As soon as I entered the grounds, i saw lush greenery and heard birds singing. Tranquility. Casa de Luz was open for dinner at 6. I was one of the first people in. I was greeted with friendly smiles. I paid $12 for dinner. I was given a chip. I sat down at a community table. I poured myself a glass of iced tea -- delicately refreshing. I grabbed a small plate and heaped it with salad (mixed greens tossed with dressing), poured myself a bowl of hot beet soup with a dollop of something that's not sour cream but way better (looked like hummus but tasted tangy) and a slice of something that looked like lasagna. The mystery lasagna was off the hook -- it had cabbage, corn/masa?, carrots and other unidentifiable yumminess. Then a dude came to my table, took my chip and gave me a plate filled with various foods. With my mouth full of something-that-clearly-isn't-lasagna, I asked him, '"Uhm is there wheat or gluten in anything." He said the magic words, "This is a wheat free zone. A gluten free place except for brunch." Can I get a Whoop! Whoop! That's my $hit. The first thought that popped into my head -- I'm going to f8ck up some food right now. My plate had little bites of brown basmati rice, perfectly cooked greens (kale?), yams, beans, cucumbers in a yogurty sauce (think deconstructed raita), sauerkraut and cinnamony carrots/cabbage slaw. The food was nourishing. I was told that I could get seconds but chose to follow up with a $3 cherry pie. My pie was vegan and healthy-esque, yet divine -- dark cherries with the perfect ratio of an oat/almond crumble. My neighbors all seemed very happy. If I didn't have to get back to my hotel room to do work, I would have gotten my energy cleansed by the folks doing reiki. So, I'm sitting in my hotel room with a mountain of work. It's going to be a long night. But my heart, body and mind are momentarily at peace.

    (5)

  • Janet S.

    It's us the tourists again and since we were on foot we worked up a good appetite getting here. We love vegan/macrobiotic food and yes it varies tremendously just like any cooking does. Today it was good/ $11 each, the set menu was soup of beet juice and veggies - delish and yes more salt would have been good for all us salt sluts. This was followed by small mounds of of lentils/brown rice/ veggies/kale and a macro sauce thing. It tasted healthy and the gent in charge Mr Kim looked so handsome and good postured I told myself I would try much harder next week with my menus at home and throw away the pork chops and italian wedding cake slices for ever..and I mean it. Pay as you enter and get your soup then the kitchen lads deliver the food to your table. There are desserts but we were too full.

    (4)

  • Ryan S.

    It's macrobiotic. It's veggie. It's veganish. The bamboo gardens in all the pics are as the pics indicate, pretty and serene. Even for vegetarian food, they really seem to have an aversion to using salt or pepper. In other news, Hell reporting freezing temps, ordering snowboards and ski gear.

    (2)

  • Paul H.

    I'm not a vegetarian but wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Would I have rather had a filet? absolutely but what I ate was pretty darn good. It's tucked away in the back of a piece of property that I think may double as a natural foods or holistic living learning center. There are trees and nice vegetation all around and it really blocks out the noise from the area. It was nice and quiet back there. When you make your way to the back and find the restaurant, you pay for the meal which is pre-determined and changes each day and then grab what you want and then grab a seat. That day there was soup and salad and also a meal. I have no idea what the soup was but it was good as hell. The salad was pretty damn good too. The meal was okay to okay+ but definitely not the cardboard tasting food I was expecting. Yes I'm biased about most vegetarian or healthy restaurants and Casa De Luz was a nice surprise. We ate outside on the deck on a nice sunday afternoon. There's a playground next to the deck and I'm not really sure if it's there for the restaurant or for the learning center or whatever it was on the front of the property. It was a nice experience all around. I will definitely be back. if' you're into trying something different and open to eating a vegetarian/vegan meal I think it'll be worth your while. Even if I hadn't enjoyed my food (which I did) I'd think that the experience was worth it.

    (4)

  • Susie G.

    I have to say that I am quite surprised at how positive my review is. For starters, I'm a pretty healthy eater. I eat a lot of veggies and whole grains etc...But. I eat meat, I drink beer... a macrobiotic vegetarian meal was not something I ever thought I would eat. In the words of my sister, the vegetarian ..." Well, Casa De Luz was awesome..but you...you are going to hate it." So! When a friend came in from out of town and wanted to go here, I summoned up some courage, called a few people and checked on its reviews. I was prepared to pay a lot and not eat much. The run down. The place is beautiful. Arches with leaves, greenery, open spaces. The place has a very spa like, relaxing feel. At the front the woman who welcomed us gave us the full run down of the macro biotic lifestyle, and I was seriously impressed by her knowledge base. We has soup and salad first. The salad was soggy, but the dressing was amazing. The soup was good too.... a kind of veggie, summery cream thing. On my plate was..... cinnamon rice, Swiss chard with kale sauce, an uncooked spring roll with almond sauce and some split peas. And it was all good. And I was full. And felt healthy. And while I cant say the experience changed my way of thinking, and I will now give up meat and beer and only eat things with the seasons....I can leave with an appreciation for a different way of eating. And yeah, it was worth 12 bucks.

    (4)

  • Juan G.

    Casa de Luz is definitely my favorite restaurant in Austin. On top of making absolutely, delicious meals prepared with care and love, Casa de Luz only uses organic ingredients. This is more of a community than it is a restaurant, and there is no other place like this in the United States. Austin is blessed to have such a wonderful place in the heart of the city.

    (5)

  • Henry W.

    A super calming place to go and chill - they also happen to serve a balanced vegan meal for $12, which may be pricey for some, but sometimes you just have to pay more to get high quality food. When we went, they had a delicious summer squash soup, house salad, and a mixed plate of spinach with house made tahini sauce, brown rice, and a gordita with blanched veggies, beans, and guac. The tea they serve is delicious as well. Totally recommend coming here every once in awhile as I believe they repeat some of the core items on the menu weekly.

    (4)

  • Jennifer D.

    Been coming here off and on for ages. I love that the food is all healthy and good so that I can just dig in without thinking and still feel good about being stuffed at the end. The food is different each time and some I like more than others but it's wholesome and veggie based so what's not to like? It's probably not for everyone and I definitely don't eat this healthy all of the time but I am always so grateful that this place exists. I am not vegetarian but tend to eat meat kind of sparingly (just how I was raised), like a few times a month. A lot of other vegetarian options are basically just replacing meat with tons of cheese, but often I really want a healthy plant-based meal and Casa de Luz does it well. I appreciate that there's lots of good simple tea too. The grounds are really pretty and the dining room is spacious and calm. It feels a little off the beaten path, like a bit of a respite from the buzz of the world so it's also a nice escape and a great place to have real conversation with whoever your dining with or read a book in peace. It is really so awesome and I am truly grateful for it, but I can't give it 5-stars because there is a bit of that holier-than-thou yoga-maniac vibe going on sometimes and it, well, it irks me. Really, I just want to be served a meal, not a lifestyle, but at least it's not too heavy-handed most of the time and, honestly, no one else is offering this kind of meal.

    (4)

  • Gricelda P.

    Casa de Luz is a pretty nifty concept. The building is very peaceful and beautiful. They offer a variety of services like yoga and wellness programs. The restaurant is pretty awesome because they don't have a menu, they basically charge you a fee at the door and they make only 1 menu per day, so everything is freshly prepared, healthy and vegan. You will receive a very generous amount of food that will most likely have a soup, salad and an entree. If you go at night, it's a beautiful and romantic walk to get to the restaurant through lighted trees. Nice place to bring a date or a group of friends to have a relaxing time.

    (4)

  • Ashley L.

    It blows my mind that I have lived in Austin this long and not until this year I learned about this place. It's located in a healthy and community center which offers a variety of services like healing methods, yoga, and wellness and all things practiced are based on the philosophy of conscious living. They have a unique pathway and garden area that you walk through to get to the restaurant and tons of seating area outside for a beautiful day. Once you get to the restaurant you will notice that they have a daily menu meaning the 3 meals they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner change daily. You can look online ahead of time to see what they are serving so you know or you can also call. So what makes this place so special? Well all the ingredients are organic, local, vegan, vegetarian, and it is a non-profit organization. When you walk in you pay an upfront cost and you serve yourself the salad and soup and don't get me started on the salad. I go here often and the salads are AMAZING...I literally think I could have a whole meal of just that. Once you serve yourself you sit and eat those and after that they serve you the main course. All the food you will eat is colorful, healthy, and the place itself feels homey and comfortable. If you haven't been go and if you are thinking well I'm not a vegetarian or a vegan this girl isn't either, but I like healthy and unique eats and this place knows all about that!

    (5)

  • John H.

    Seriously, What is UP with the attitude at this restaurant? I've been a fan of this place for a long time. How come there are people that work at this oasis that are complete CLOWNS? I expect to have a peaceful meal in a peaceful environment when I come to this restaurant without attitude. Also, good food doesn't make a person's stomach hurt. I had terrible gas from this place the last time I went there. Lastly, get rid of the bald guy who is projecting his B.S. all over this place? You are a looser baby...

    (3)

  • Megan J.

    When I lived in austin, this was my favorite place to go! Sometimes, I'd each lunch here 3 times a week. It's an awesome and healthy place to get a meal. I love the atmosphere, which is very relaxing and peaceful. The grounds are beautiful and there's a nice outdoor space. It's a great deal at $12 for soup, salad, entree and drink. Their salad is the BEST salad I've ever had. I even bought the cookbook just for the dressing recipes! I live in New York City now and miss this place so much!

    (5)

  • Heidi F.

    I recently moved to Austin and happen to live in the building right next to Casa De Luz. Several friends have only had good things to say about this place, so me and a friend decided to try it today for lunch. I have to say, I have never been to a place like Casa De Luz. I felt relaxed the minute I walked into the dining room. It feels very homey. The food is both tasty and super healthy. Casa provides a great reminder of how we should eat! I especially enjoyed their soup -- reminded me of eating at my Grandma's house. The soup and salad alone were a meal! We also shared a coconut pudding dessert, which was yummy. I want to try some of their other desserts too. =) For $12, I feel that their meals are a bargain. As a single person, I would have to spend lots of $$ to buy all of these ingredients, then eat the same thing for weeks. =) I feel so lucky to have this lunch/dinner option next door and plan to go in the evenings for a late dinner after work -- their outside area is just fantastic with little globe lights along their bamboo-filled sidewalk. Truly a special place.

    (5)

  • Kyle O.

    I could not review casa de Luz highly enough. The environment and the food are so healthy. Nice and peaceful atmosphere. The food is all vegetarian, and every time I leave I feel healthier than when I entered. My fiancé and I love to run town lake then end up here for a active, healthy evening. I would not recommend coming here with noisy groups or with people who don't like to try new things.

    (5)

  • The Relaxing Massage -.

    The food tastes great, and its so healthy, I feel amazing after eating here. The atmosphere is very comfortable, relaxing, and zen.

    (5)

  • Jeff T.

    I have been going to Casa for over 20 years and I love this place. The food quality has slipped just a bit the last few years, the prices are outrageous, but I feel so much better after a meal. There is no place like it in Austin. If I could change anything, it would be allowing a single refill on the soups, always the best part of the meal.

    (4)

  • Emily S.

    Everything was outstanding, particularly the soup. Left me feeling energetic afterwards. Lovely atmosphere on the long walkway in. Some mapping programs will send you to the Shady Grove parking lot off Burton Springs, which is for Shady Grove customers only.

    (5)

  • Steph M.

    I want to give this a better review, because it's great to support a place like this, that really makes food a community experience (local food, volunteers help prepare it). But I also want a better experience when dining out. The environment, with great outdoor tables and a beautiful garden, should have been awesome, really peaceful. But it wasn't, thanks to the half dozen toddlers running around screaming, to their parents delight. There was one wearing ONLY a diaper. In a restaurant. That is gross. I understand that moms think their little poop robots are each the best thing ever, but the restaurant should know better. There were a ton of families there, so I guess if you have kids and you like letting them "express themselves by singing" aka "scream the same syllables repeatedly for five minutes directly behind a stranger who came to enjoy a calm food experience", then this place is awesome for you. The food was good, but we got mixed messages when we came in. We'd read on Yelp that you get your salad and soup and then the kitchen staff brings you your entree, and when we got there, the guy at the front desk said the same thing. After waiting 45 minutes with no entree, we asked again and were told that you were supposed to go to the kitchen bar and get your own food. Once I actually got the food, I did enjoy it, but I also felt like these were all things that I could make in my own home, and since the dining experience was so poor, I wish I had. In short! I like to go out to eat for an experience, not just to consume food. The experience at this restaurant was not good. If I go back, it will be to grab a take out plate and eat in the park.

    (3)

  • Kelty G.

    Every time I eat at Casa de Luz, I get this yearning, eat faster, it-tastes-so-good, give-it-to-me-now kind of feeling. My stomach and my soul want me to figure out how I can consume the food faster than my mouth can chew. But let me just remind you that what I'm lusting after here is ... brown rice and kale!?!!? Macrobiotic, vegan and gluten free is not my everyday style of eating, but occasionally swing that way. If I weren't so in love with pork barbeque the transition to all Casa-de-Luz all the time would be a lot easier, but that's another conversation for another day. Today, I'm talking about miso soup, salad with carrots, radishes, and cabbage, squash, black beans, pickled beets (methinks) and drumroll please ... brown rice that has some kind of magical flavor. For eleven little dollars you could buy one bad-for-you-cocktail at a fancy bar or you could take the high road and have Sunday dinner at Casa de Luz. I am under the distinct impression that if you want to achieve nirvana, be a better person, or at least feel like one, then Casa de Luz is where you should be eating. So put down that cocktail, wipe the barbeque sauce off of your face, and have some brown rice.

    (5)

  • Austin T.

    FIVE star food for the whole family at $!2 for all you want refills. We relax as a family and enjoy a very slow paced meal a few times a month. Make it yourself or pay someone to make something you will eat for $12. YUM !

    (5)

  • Inez V.

    Good food, great atmosphere. I would like to see them be a little more conscious of some of the difficulties some guests face in carrying their own trays and offer to help some people, such as young mothers with small children or people with disabilities.

    (5)

  • Pete T.

    Confession: I usually R-U-N when I see/read/hear the word "vegan" in front of any food. While I've had vegan food that I've enjoyed in the past (most of them I did not know was vegan at the time of consumption), I agreed to go with a friend to check Casa de Luz out for dinner on taco night partly because I wanted to try something new and partly because she swears by these magical vegan tacos. Now I'm not macrobiotic (nor do I know what that means) and I don't really know much about the vegan diet. But what I do know is that I've (unfortunately) always associated veganism with borderline edible, mushy food (which I know is, for the most part, an unfounded stereotype). After paying the $12 at the cashier, my friend and I headed to the salad station, The first thing I noticed was that the salad was literally BATHING in dressing - now I'm no salad connoisseur but to me there's nothing worse than soggy vegetables as the base of your salad. On a brighter note, the dressing tasted good, there was just waaaay too much of it. After finishing our salad, we got our plate of food with 2 tacos, a scoop of rice, some black beans. The tacos themselves were delicious - A lot better than I imagined. Suuuure, I would have loved some barbacoa or some pulled pork in that taco, but the taco by itself was tasty enough that I went back and got a couple more. The rice, however, was over cooked, soggy, and bland. The beans were spot on. Overall, I'd say that the food was hit and miss. Casa De Luz is alright in my books, for $12, this might not be my first choice of places to dine at, but this place screams Austin to me. (I don't mean to offend anyone, but in a way, the communal dining, the cafeteria style service made me feel like I was at a hippie camp.)

    (3)

  • smriti k.

    Ommmmm...This is the first word that came to my mind when i stepped into Casa De Luz.The place is filled with creepers and other trees with small wooden cottage like places .There are about 4 to 5 small cottages and each one of them is used for cooking or yoga classes. And as you walk inside through the green and the pebbled foot path you would see a pretty courtyard and a small playground;to keep the noisy kids away ,while the parents meditate? As i walk into the restaurant i feel extremely calm and the place was filled with people who were wearing lose shirts and looked very calm and were happy eating their soup and veggies and discussing yoga and Indian art.This place has a buffet system and you have to pay 14$ and they served mixed vegetables,spelt pancakes,kale salad with tahini and 3 different types of tea. with the calming off white roof ceiling and light old fashioned round tables,and the huge windows calmed every nerve in my body.For once,i could just sit there and eat and i decided not to read my book but to just sit and look around.They have a tiny shop for health foods and cooking books.People here are very friendly and attentive,I really wish they had a hotel here.I would have loved to stay in this Ashram like place close to Barton springs. Casa De Luz - is a warm cup of tea.Dive into it to feel bliss! :) -Smriti

    (5)

  • Laura T.

    One of the best and healthiest places to eat in Austin. The food is macrobiotic, but don't be fooled by fancy names, it is delicious! It can seem like it is maybe on the expensive side, at $12 a dish, but it is worth it. You can also go up and get seconds if you like! Their soup du jour is always good. My favorite is the butternut squash. You get soup, salad, and an entree. The have buffee style serving only on the weekends I think. But I look forward to that the most because they serve a lot more of a variety of foods. The restaurant are open weird hours, so make sure to check to see when they are open. It is a kind of different dining experience, but if you don't mind sitting next to strangers, then this is the place for you. I love love love this place!

    (5)

  • Allie P.

    I am not macrobiotic but I would eat here for every single meal if I could afford it and lived nearby. As it is I have to settle for lunch about once a month. But I feel so *nourished* by that meal-- body & soul. It is different than most places. First of all, you don't order off of a menu. You have what they are serving (which is listed on their website if you must know in advance). But you don't have to worry about that because it is always delicious. I have never had a bad meal there. The tables are large and meant to seat multiple parties. I am shy and was nervous about where to sit at first, but after a few visits I became quite comfortable sharing tables. You grab your salad, soup, silverware, & drink (water and hot or cold tea) and then sit down to enjoy those. The staff will bring you a plate of food a bit later. You may go up for seconds if you like (I am always stuffed after one plate but my husband nearly always opts for seconds). You bus your own dishes at the end. The food is really so incredible and special and delicious. I am vegan and super healthy so maybe it is expected I would love it. But my husband really loves pub food and eats out at bars a couple of times a week for poker tournaments and he also will never turn down a meal at Casa. As for kids, you have to know your own kid to decide if it would work. There is no special kid meal. The food probably looks different than what they are used to. But if they like beans, rice, greens, & soups and they are a little adventurous they will probably enjoy it. I wish it cost less. Not that I feel they overcharge-- the quality of the ingredients is obvious, not to mention the care of the preparation and the peaceful urban space they have created-- but it is beyond my budget to eat there as often as I would like.

    (5)

  • Zoia W.

    Unique. It's like having a meal prepared by Buddhist monks in a quiet bamboo garden. People that come here are very polite. The interior is a simple and dim space with lots of wooden tables. The menu changes daily, and you do not have choices. For $12 dinner price, you get a meal consists of one soup, a salad and a plate of vegetarian items. When I was there they served butternut squash soup, salad with almond sesame dressing, and the entree had basmati rice with carrots, creamy red beans with suncheese, sweet potatoes, blanched kale with pumpkin seed sauce and pickled red cucumber. The simplicity of it is a delightful discovery for me in Austin.

    (3)

  • Laura M.

    Coming here is an experience. Soak in the aromas and enjoy nature on your way in, there a 'universe prayer', loved it, and enjoy the good food for your body.

    (5)

  • Steve O.

    So the first time I went here, the food was OK. I'm not what you'd call a health nut, but I'm food adventurous, so my mood going into a vegan, gluten free restaurant was "cautiously optimistic". The food was good (salad, soup, vegetables and kimchi), the atmosphere was cool (particularly the walk up to the restaurant at night), but the army of folks healing each others' chakra by wiggling their fingers in the air was a little off-putting. The "patient" sitting a table over could be heard loudly stating "ah yes, I can definitely feel a warm spot there where I'm blocking" to which the "physician" replied equally loudly "Yes, I noticed you were red in that area of inertia, so I cleared you." I recognize that I'm the visitor here at Casa De Luz and likely in the minority of Chakra-skeptics, but I sprayed a little bit of my barley bean soup when I heard that exchange. My wife kept me in check from saying anything that would get us ejected with a little glare, but was kind enough to let me rant without interruption as soon as we were out the door. I definitely was full and satisfied and somehow cleansed at the end of the meal. Perhaps the kimchi cleared my Chi. All feelings of inertia had also subsided. My wife and I went back yesterday. The meal was a veggie pizza sans sauce and cheese, vegetable soup, salad, spinach with some sort of delectable sauce, and kimchi. The food was excellent this time, well worth the money. I think this place will be a weekly staple for us, and I'm looking forward to trying taco night, which rumor has it is the best night of all. You can go back for seconds on anything, but everything is so hearty I haven't done so yet. I love the concept, I like the price, I like the food with potential to love.

    (4)

  • Carla W.

    I LOVED this place. Casa De Luz is sort of a complex of buildings where they offer classes. Initially we were a little confused as to exactly where the restaurant was, but you just walk through the beautiful garden all the way to the last building. You pay $12 per diner when you enter (no tipping), The menu for the day is posted when you enter - it includes beverage, soup, salad and entree. There are no choices - it is a fixed menu that changes daily. You serve up your own beverage (hot or cold tea), soup and salad (the salad is prepared, not a salad bar) - cafeteria style. The entree is brought to you by friendly staff. You bus your own table when you are done eating. The portions are plentiful and delicious, definitely worth the $12. The atmosphere is great - more upscale than you'd imagine -, with huge tables that encourage strangers to dine together and share ideas. There is also an outdoor patio with smaller tables. My boyfriend - NOT a vegan - felt it was a bit too hippie/communal for him at first, but was pleasantly surprised at the variety of people eating there: families in jeans and t-shirts, couples in business attire. Kudos to everyone at Casa De Luz for providing delicious, healthy, organic, oil-free, vegan food!

    (5)

  • Mark H.

    To me, this is undoubtedly the best restaurant in Austin. Fresh veggies prepared with love and care. Have eaten there for years - never found anything like it in my travels. And, your kids, if you've for some reason have some, will enjoy the playground while you enjoy your greens. (okay, so your kid doesn't eat greens? neither does mine, the ingrate. it can be a challenge to eat there with your kids, and honestly, i've brought food along for my 5 yr old before. but, he likes something they have usually.)

    (5)

  • Christian Ryan C.

    Casa is a cute little community tucked away near Lamar and Barton Springs. The menu changes daily, so you'll never get bored. You pay at the counter and they give you little coins. You can place the coins at your table and they will bring you the meal, or you can hand them to the person behind the counter and get your meal there. While you're waiting, you can help yourself to the soup and salad of the day. They brought out our food and it was really tasty, and COLORFUL! You can even get a second serving! Dessert is separate, and they had a lot of options. It was hard to choose! I can't wait to go back again. I would really love to go daily! The concept is wonderful, the people were friendly, the food was light and refreshing. Definitely a WINNER!

    (4)

  • Kate R.

    I wish they had a meal plan for graduate students! I would eat there every night if I could afford it. Dinner is only $12 - you would never be able to buy produce and prepare it for that cost on your own. I'm a grad student though, so $12 a day adds up. The produce is high quality, and the preparation emphasizes the natural flavors of the vegetables, grains and legumes. My taste buds are happy, my body feels clean and refreshed - strong. Eating at Casa De Luz is a unique dining experience - very unlike a traditional restaurant. I liked the unique experience and ambiance which seems to put some people off, but for me, flavor and quality of ingredients are the most important things and that is where Casa De Luz excels. Favorite restaurant in Austin hands down. I wish I could give them 6 stars on a 5 star scale.

    (5)

  • Jennifer W.

    4 stars for this vegan hideaway! If I was strictly vegetarian/vegan, this would be my go-to place time and time again. Felt light, clean, and just the right amount of satisfied after eating. Chefs had created a great variety of vegetarian/vegan delights. Twelve dollar dinner came with a set plate along with salad, soup, and varieties of herbal warm and cold teas. Will be back to visit this quiet spot to give my digestive system a recharge after a chili-cheese-hotdog camping excursion or food binge weekend!

    (4)

  • Tanna A.

    YAY! Sunday brunch is back and PANCAKES! This place is just good for the soul. I will say most of the time it gets a bit monotonous with their dishes. They have a specific goal to heal the soul so if you want creativity... Thursday, Friday evenings and Sunday brunch I think are the best times to go. They have the most creative dished those days. Like I said, this place is geared to heal the soul ~ expect to bus you own dishes ~ Yo mama don't work here. :) Pick up after yourself. LOL It's community seating ~ first come first serve so have a seat and be prepared for interesting conversation sometimes way far out there! Hope you enjoy! OK overview~

    (4)

  • Lauren C.

    - Great atmosphere - Nice people - Bad tasting food - Really expensive I really want to like Casa de Luz, but I just don't. Their environment is very peaceful and I like the people who work there and who attend there. They have a beautiful garden and a ne

    (1)

  • Nina G.

    this is a very unique place and i feel lucky to have a restaurant like this in austin. every time i go, i say i need to come here more. great price, generous portions, nice people, healthy and tasty food. i love this place!

    (5)

  • Pamela O.

    I've been eating at Casa practically since the beginning. I eat there because the food is vegetarian, healthy, organic, cooked with consideration and love, nourishes my body/mind/heart. I eat there because it is a community and i never eat alone unless i choose to. i eat there because it is an oasis of peace in a busy world. i eat there because it's like eating at home with the kind of food i like to eat and i don't have to wash the dishes! I eat there because i work there as a Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist. I eat there because i love it!

    (5)

  • Kate S.

    Vegans unite! Casa de Luz delivers a relaxing space, excellent food, and friendly staff. I am not vegan, but always find myself surprised by the amount of flavor their simple dishes offer. Check out their website to see their daily menu.

    (5)

  • Russell L.

    If you're looking for healthy, delicious food, this is the place. Very friendly staff, serve yourself salad and soup, they bring main dish to you, for $12 you can't go wrong here.

    (5)

  • Vanessa C.

    I was looking forward to visiting this establishment for months, as I'm from out of town. I finally have the time and I was in search of a great healthy meal. Not to mention all the great reviews! I was so excited! Then I walked in. The guy at the counter was so rude and condescending I was in such shock I couldn't believe this was happening. Simple questions were returned with attitude and such distain from the young man behind the counter. I have never in my life felt so belittled for asking for a to go menu. I just wonder if the fact that I was the only Hispanic person not working in the kitchen was the reason I was treated so badly. I hope that no one else is treated this way when in search of a great meal. Such a huge let down and extreme disappointment.

    (1)

  • Samuel C.

    Casa de Luz is a sanctuary for healthy vegan cuisine. It is a place of extraordinary soups, acceptable salads, main plate veggies that won't kill you, some of the gluiest good-for-you rice on the planet - and desserts designed to make you swear off vegan desserts as a culinary abomination. But the soups are really really really good. Load up on soup. However, really good soup is not the primary attraction of Casa de Luz. Casa de Luz is a spiritual center for all forms of integrative healing mind-body practice. You can go there to study any number of Eastern or Fusion mystical healthy practices. The place is as beautiful and serene as the Buddha's garden. You enter through a long bamboo-forested walkway punctuated by chanting and meditating alcoves - that really are beautiful places to chant or to meditate. (Chanting at Casa de Luz is WAY more comfortable and spiritually uplifting than trying to chant to the sunset on top of Mount Bonnell. The only spiritual thing I have learned on Mount Bonnell is that my butt hurts.) Casa de Luz has all sorts of teaching rooms and studios where you can learn the arcane mysteries of ancient healthy practices. The dining room could easily be the refectory of a monastery dedicated to teaching the Middle Way ... and everywhere you look are people of the Seeker variety. Tables are common - and you are surrounded with dedicated vegetarians, vegans, and spiritual pilgrims of many traditions. This is a natural crossroads of people seeking a healthier, better way, with cleaner more natural eating being just the first component in an integrated passage towards self improvement. And if you strike up a conversation with your neighbors at the common tables, you are likely to learn a lot about things that you didn't know about, and should know about. Casa de Luz is where I take out of town visitors to give them the experience of an Austin that is not rock and roll, football games or margarita bars. It is often the high point of their visit to Austin ... even if you couldn't get them to eat kale with sun-cheese back home without tying them down and getting a feeding tube. somehow in casa de luz, kale with sun cheese produces longevity, good health and spiritual balance. particularly if you have loosened up the visitors first with a bowl of really really wonderful soup.

    (4)

  • Restaurant C.

    Casa De Luz is one of the most amazing vegan restaurants I have ever visited and very healthy. Their Sunday brunch is the best brunch I have been to in Austin, and it doesn't matter whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or a meat eater. If you have not visited Casa De Luz, you need to give it a try. The taste, the health, and the variety of food is outstanding. I cannot say enough about this restaurant. I have seen Whole Foods execs eat here numerous times. The staff are friendly as well. Two thumbs up!!

    (5)

  • Jenny E.

    I don't think that playground is open to all. My two girls were run off. Please put up signs so you don't disappoint our kids. My girls said that some man, a teacher, told them to leave, and it was a Friday afternoon. Isn't your school closed then? Nobody here was friendly, not a smile in the place. I paid quite a bit for each of their plates, and mine, and y'all were just a bunch of sour looking grumpalumps who really didn't want us there. We're polite, well-dressed, and well-mannered. I'd hoped to enjoy this place, and had really looked forward to coming here. Left for slightly less than $50 for two kids, myself, three meals, two desserts, a parked car, and no playground. No way.

    (1)

  • Walker F.

    For me, for what this place is after, 5 stars and many more. (For other people, like family members of mine who only eat meat and potatoes, this place would freak them out!) All natural, all vegan, all good. This was the first place I have eaten in a long time that I didn't have to worry about the food selection and knew I could eat as much as I wanted without any care in the world. For the most part I follow a paleo diet so sadly, I couldn't get my animal flesh fix here. (I did however have my protein shake beforehand j.i.c.). And sure, they do serve grains, but seriously, beans and rice go together like bert and ernie, and one corn tortialla isn't going to kill me. So it was Guatemalan night last night (Thursday) and the place was pretty busy. Apparently that night is quite popular. (Also, its right by the baseball field, chuys, and shady grove - parking is a bitch.) The setting is really pretty as you walk up - very peaceful, with wooden archways, greenery, and christmas lights. Outside was a little chilly so we chose to share a big table with some other folks. It's basically a cafeteria-type setting inside, but everyone was really friendly, helped us out when we didn't know the system, and engaged in convo about the food. So you pay up front then serve yourself for soup and salad, and they give you a wooden "coin" to leave on your table so the guy will drop off dinner. Salad was great with just a very light dressing. Miso soup had lots of veggies in it, kinda boring, but did the trick as a starter. Dinner was veggie tacos w/ carrots, mushrooms, some others. Great flavor and texture, and the sauce was yum. Speaking of yum sauce they had this green tomatilla-avacado mess that was divine. I wasn't sure what it went on, so I choose the rice and beans. Beans also had "sun cheez" on it that tasted like feta. Pretty impressive considering it was made of sunflower seeds, vingear and garlic (I had to ask). The greens were kale, and thanks to Casa De Luz I now know I like kale! That was one of the best parts about this place - for someone like me on a limited diet, it really gives you ideas. I would love to eat here a couple times a month just to inspire myself. Final note, you must bus your own table here. I also recommend don't go back for seconds (to which you are entitiled to), instead save a little room for dessert. They are not included in the buffet price but looked pretty tempting. Next time...

    (5)

  • Vincent Y.

    Great food, zen-like atmosphere. It was so serene that I almost fell asleep with my face in my salad. It wouldn't have hurt if it did because it was a bit on the wilted side. A bit source (Too much vinegar?) but it still fit the bill after eating bad, fried taco-truck food from ACL the previous evening. It wasn't crowded, and you get self-serve soup and salad right-off the bat. When they bring-out the main entree, you won't be disappointed! My favorite was blanched greens with almond-walnut sauce on top. (Color and texture were almost like hummus but creamier and (duh) nuttier!). The pickle/carrot/radish taco were OK. Served with brown rice and yummy pinto beans (stark contrast from canned beans I've eaten all my life). The entrance reminded me of a private path along a four seasons resort in Hawaii. Go here. You won't regret it.

    (5)

  • Michelle C.

    There's nothing that really stuck out and is drawing me back here. The food was good, but didn't make me leave planning my next visit, just my next meal. The food is a bit on the pricy side ($12 for a plate of whatever is being served) and you can get seconds, at a price. It's a community vibe, and I can tell there are regulars.

    (3)

  • Regina C.

    Came here for lunch buffet two days in a row. I love this place. And it definitely cleanses your body all day and the next! Good to refresh yourself and eat VERY healthy AND delicious!!!

    (4)

  • Bruce B.

    The $12 vegan meal I was served was pitiable: Soggy romaine lettuce, insipid vegetable soup with bits of cucumber, and a small plate of bland vegetables and lentils. Four and a half stars for this place is a joke. $4.50 would have been more appropriate for the quality, service and portions.

    (1)

  • Clyde P.

    If your Vegan or Macrobiotic this is the best place in Austin $12 lunch or dinner that includes tax Help yourself to soup. salad and teas, and they bring you your entry. Balanced plate full of home grown organic veggies with beans too. Clean up your dishes yourself to keep the price low too. Beautiful park like setting you walk thru to get to Casa. Breakfast is only $9 and consists of soup, oatmeal or grains, with a plate of beans, greens and veggies!! Not your traditional fatty American breakfast!

    (5)

  • Vanessa S.

    Dang this place was good. Salad soup entree and tea for 12 dollars. I would totally go back if it wasn't my last day in Austin. Wish I could have found it earlier on my trip! Didn't take the pic sorry :(

    (4)

  • Steve Y.

    I'm a vegan and organic, so this was the only place for me while in Austin for a weekend. While Austin's food truck scene means tons of other (non-organic) vegan and omnivore choices, Casa De Luz can stand up to any of them. The dishes are relatively simple and sound boring, but they are so masterful at bringing out taste that you can really enjoy the true flavors without need for lot spice or sauce. I imagine they use fresh ingredients to help make it so. The deserts are comparable with fine deserts elsewhere and I even took some back when I flew home. Ultra-minor criticism: I wish they wouldn't use agave in the deserts. The atmosphere is calming and not too "hippy dippy". Definitely try this place if you want wholesome good food.

    (5)

  • James L.

    A favorite spot for local vegans to take out-of-town guests... which is deeply unfortunate. This place serves the kind of food that avowed meat-eaters think vegans eat: unimaginative, poorly seasoned, and dull. The path leading to the dining area is beautiful, especially at night. The dining area itself has the acoustics and general feel of a cafeteria, which is precisely what it is: the restaurant is located in the middle of a non-profit "educational center," which explains some of the cultish vibe of the place. You will overhear hippies discussing the importance of raw foods, breastfeeding, and daily meditation. To be fair, Casa de Luz is a macrobiotic restaurant, which is kind of like a puritan whorehouse. A philosophy that largely eschews added salt and favors simply prepared and presented whole foods, and in which "yin" vegetables (a category that arbitrarily includes the nightshade family -- tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, etc. -- and avocadoes, spinach, and beets) are frowned-upon is not terribly conducive to a business that typically revolved around actually preparing delicious foods. I noticed another reviewer praised Casa's twig tea, calling it -- in what was no doubt a paroxysm of culinary ecstasy -- "warm." That really tells you all you need to know about what Casa offers. Frankly, I'm completely baffled by the positive reviews and word of mouth this place receives. I'm baffled that it's lasted more than a week before running out of money. Austin is seriously starved for good vegan food, but that alone doesn't explain it. There are quality vegan restaurants out there. Some of Austin's food trucks are decent. True Bistro in MA is stellar, and Plant in NC is great. As soon as someone with decent chops as a chef opens a vegan place in Austin, I expect Casa de Luz will fade, remembered with the same self-conscious embarrassment one might have for a childhood affection for Ayn Rand, or the praise one's teenage self heaped upon Limp Bizkit.

    (1)

  • cary-anne o.

    I ate here with some friends of mine a few years ago. One of my friends had been before and just raved about it. We knew going into it that it was vegan, but it just was mostly uninteresting food. I've had interesting vegan before, so I know it's out there somewhere... just not at Casa De Luz. I enjoyed the atmosphere, and sharing tables with other people, but overall, I left still feeling hungry. And after you pay $14, it's hard to get up the gumption to go back.

    (2)

  • Happy Z.

    The walkway is very beautiful. However, this place felt slightly cultish. I'm not sure why.. but it kind of gave me a creepy feeling. The salad was delicious! The entree was very bland. It wasn't bad tasting at all, but I feel like I could probably make something similar (and possibly with more flavor) at home. I'd try it again, definitely.. but it just didn't wow me like I was hoping it would based on reviews. Lastly, the girl working told my partner he had to pay for my dessert if I wanted it because she wanted to close the register even though they weren't closed yet.. so he did & when I went to get my dessert it was gone! She tried to rectify it by allowing both my partner and I to take a dessert, but they were both not very good :(

    (3)

  • Christine T.

    I was especially excited to hear about this place. I went by on Indian food night with high expectations. The ambience was amazing, the people were friendly, and the food smelled delicious. I ended up enjoying about half of my meal and was a little disappointed. I am not a fan of ginger and so didn't enjoy the soup, and the salad dressing had a tangy, unique taste that I couldn't quite put my finger on. It was a little like munching on mint leaves. I wasn't especially fond of it. The entree itself was pretty good - yummy lentils, several good sauces, and I love love LOVED the pickled cucumber or whatever they put on there that night - they were the best thing on the plate. Other parts had that distinctive minty taste that bugged me, and some aspects were just kind of bland and made me not want to eat them. I think enjoying Casa de Luz depends entirely on your palate... while I enjoyed some aspects, I have to conclude that I'm not a macrobiotic convert. Although I did feel incredibly healthy leaving the place. The price was a little off-putting as well - $12 is a bit steep for what you get, but for some people it is entirely worth it. It's worth at least one visit, just to enjoy the experience and say you've been there. I was not overly impressed but I do plan to come back and see what else they have to offer.

    (3)

  • Michael M.

    Beautiful sweet and subtle flavors and beautiful scenery make for a great experience

    (4)

  • emily h.

    This is my favorite restaurant in town. They take macrobiotic foods that some people may think are boring or weird and infuse them with herbs and spices that make your mouth sing. It is beyond delicious and you get tea, soup, salad, and as many plate fulls as you can eat for $12. I highly recommend Tuesdays (tamales or gorditas) and Thursdays (Guatelmalan night). You will walk out of this place feeling like a million bucks!!

    (5)

  • Rebecca S.

    Amazing! I want to go everyday. You walk into a magical secret garden. You enter a land where you serve yourself and the owners TRUST YOU to pay for seconds. They will transform a meal of vegetables, grains and legumes into a thrilling ride that makes you want to scream: I want to go again!

    (5)

  • Jennifer W.

    I loooooooove Casa! Although I live in Round Rock, my husband and I regularly make the long drive to eat here. It is a very worthwhile and unique experience. We leave feeling full and healthy. Both carnivores and vegetarians alike can appreciate what this place has to offer.

    (5)

  • melissa c.

    I try and go here at least once a week. my daughter and i are always welcomed when we walk in. she loves the entrance and we always seem to slow down time while we are there, which is always needed. i like the food, even though some say they need salt and pepper. but this is what food is supposed to taste like for our bodies to maximize the nutrients. we are just all so used to weighed down heavy flavored food that this seems bland. i myself love it. i never feel too full when i leave, even if i have seconds. youll know the difference when you go to the cheesecake factory or trudys, ect..when you leave there after a meal you feel so full and heavy. i like the weekends so the playground is open for the public.

    (5)

  • Baravi G.

    I love this place. The food is always wonderful and organic. I am vegan and eat here as often as possible. I love that the menu changes daily, depending on what produce is available and I have never been disappointed when I have eaten here. I also enjoy the events that are available for the community. Yay - Casa de Luz.

    (5)

  • Serg P.

    The most healthful food in Austin at $12 per person! Casa de Luz is absolutely the best dining out option for you and your body. Don't expect Frito pie or chicken fried anything here--get your veggies on Austin style. The ingredients are the freshest and the flavors will stimulate your palate. You can even have delicious dessert without one ounce of guilt. The staff is very welcoming, the quiet, peaceful atmosphere is that of a warm community humming with positive energy. Every cell in your body will thank you for eating at Casa de Luz. Don't deprive yourself--go try it!

    (5)

  • John K.

    Most of the food here was mediocre. It seriously tasted like dirt. The ingredients are fresh and good and whatnot, but the preparation of them is sub par. This place needs to hire some real cooks.

    (2)

  • Lisa O.

    Favorite time to go: Sunday for brunch! It's not only healthy, flavorful food prepared with love but the dining experience itself is always lovely. It seems like every time I leave there I feel refreshed and energized. I wish I could eat there every single day but while it's most definitely worth the money, it's a little too much (~$12) to be an all-the-time thing for me. Only happy thoughts for this little retreat and I hope you think so too!

    (5)

  • Jasmine W.

    This is how I cooked when I did macrobiotics, so this was nostalgic for me. Everything was very fresh. Loved the salad and the entree. The dishes change daily and what you get is always vegan and healthy and yummy. Could use a little more spice but it's still great for the price. I don't quite get the no cane sugar but any other kind of natural sweetener is OK rule. It's sort of like not seeing the forest for the trees. The ambience feels very homey. the vibe has the calm open feel of a Zen retreat.

    (4)

  • Gabriella E.

    It is SOOOO Nice to have a place to go out to eat that is healthy, reasonably priced, has a calm & soothing atmosphere . I make it a point to eat impeccably healthy for every meal and this venue helps me to do that.

    (5)

  • Bobby A.

    This is the only place I know of to get an all-you-can-eat, vegan, GMO free, organic, macro-biotic meal for one price.

    (5)

  • Jenna C.

    This is the best restaurant in Austin. So I guess that's the end of the review, except no! There's so much to be said about this place. It's real cute! There are plants, zen gardens, mini ponds, outdoor eating space, etc. The interior offers a community dining experience. A little off putting at first, but I've met some people I may never have before. But here's the best part - The Food! Duh. The food's always amazing. After eating here I always feel really good. I'm full but not heavy. I feel like a super hero who just recharged. I AM JENNA!

    (5)

  • Rhett E.

    Great place for a wholesome vegan meal. The vibe is like something out of Portlandia. The atmosphere is zen-casual, cafeteria style. The place could use a fresh coat of paint, but the food truly is organic goodness at it's best!

    (5)

  • Alex C.

    I don't usually think much of vegetarian meals, but this place is great.

    (4)

  • Ryo J.

    It's a lil different, but i really liked the concept. Its kinda nestled away and the place to eat is behind the first building through the garden. Quiet & peaceful, served cafeteria style. You get yr salad, soup, drink, forks & napkins and are served whatevers the daily special. $12. I actually felt good leaving there & happy I did not go stuff my face at chuys next door.

    (4)

  • Karen C.

    My husband and I were visiting from Houston. Due to the great rating, we decided to try it out since we wanted to have some vegetarian fare. I thought it was OK. It is really for macrobiotic/vegan types who are OK with a set menu, communal dining and don't mind busing their own tables. My husband really isn't the type. He likes choice and great service and not having to interact with other people. I had not researched it enough to know that it isn't a regular restaurant. You go in, pay, there is a set menu, you serve yourself soup and salad, tea, and then someone serves the entree. By the time we got to the restaurant we were really hungry, so we just decided to stay. Tasted OK, must admit that we are omnivores who just eat a lot less meat than the average American, but aren't vegan or macrobiotic. My husband does not like having to chat it up with random people so fortunately we found a tiny table that only seated three. I really like the setting.

    (3)

  • Dianne N.

    I love Casa de Luz. The food is so healthy. I specially like the posole.

    (5)

  • bryan m.

    Im pretty sure this is the only vegan joint Ive been to that serves actual grains and vegetables instead of a bunch of processed soy imposters. I like to eat here, even though I think macrobiotics is lame. Ive had a few bland dishes, but for the most part they are consistently good.

    (3)

  • Don M.

    Fan-freakin-tastic! Great food, and when you leave after a nice meal, you'll actually feel healthier. This is really some place special.

    (5)

  • Elise K.

    Well well well. Here I am again what is it, 30 years after I gave up being macrobiotic (for a long 3 years which at the end of it all I threw up green gook for 48 hours and decided then and there to go have a slice of pizza to calm my system). Skeptical and not impressed I ventured forth under the wing of my enthusiastic friends. We had the buffet Sunday brunch. I was actually enjoying it although I had to put on tons of soy sauce, tons of sesame seeds and other spices provided to get some taste into the bland food. The pancakes were rubbery yet with the homemade jam and pseudo cream tasted quite alright. On a second occasion I had lunch with same enthusiastic friends and loved the soup of the day yet ditched the rest of the meal as it was, alas, as bland as a piece of toast. When you over boil greens what do you expect? If you make a pot of rice it's merely that, rice. The salads are just that, salads yet the dressings are tasteless. Will I go again only if my arm is twisted really hard.

    (3)

  • Melody S.

    All-you-can-eat, freshly-grown, organic, macrobiotic, great-tasting food for $12? With a really good salad? And all of this set in a friendly, spic-and-span restaurant set in an adorable garden setting?? And super-light and very tasty vegan flan for dessert??? Yes, please!

    (5)

  • Kim N.

    I have made it my tradition to get eat brunch at Casa de Luz almost every Sunday. I'm not a vegetarian, but I was at one point, which is maybe why I have an appreciation for vegetarian food. I'm also not into yoga or the spiritual side of what goes on at Casa de Luz, but I do enjoy the serene atmosphere. I love nothing more than to have a lazy lunch while reading the Chronicle (which they usually have as long as they're not out of them). The first time I ate here I was not totally impressed, but I came to realize that, if you go to brunch at least, you need someone to guide you through the process of making your plate and what the various "condiments" are for. To me, these are what gives the food the flavor that I love. Granted, overusing some of the sauces may take away from some of the macrobiotic positives, but I really don't care since it's my food. For brunch, there is always a mixed salad with a raw veggie bar. I get the raw veggies as well as a lemon wedge to squeeze on them. If they have the big fat sprouts (I'm not sure what the heck they're called), I love to throw them all over my salad. They also offer a soup, and if there is a hot sauce of some sort it usually goes very well swirled into the soup. I love course meals, so I usually start with the soup and salad and then move on to the rest later. For the main entree, they always offer a mix of a few veggies, like yams and butternut squash. They also always offer a rice of some sort, and if there is an almond sauce, I will always top it with that. It gives it a wonderful nutty flavor. They also will give you greens, and usually serve it with a sauce as well (usually the almond sauce is designated for the greens). The suncheese is awesome on whatever beans they give you. I believe that suncheese is ground sunflowers, garlic, and lemon juice. It has a "cheesy" texture and is lovely. To me, the beans are fairly yucky without something added to them. They usually also give you what they call "migas" but no eggs are involved (obviously since Casa de Luz is vegan). It's a tempe veggie stir fry and is very yummy. Once I sit down with my main entree, I make sure that I grab a bottle of whatever the bottled brown sauce is- it seems like a soy/vinegar sauce. Most of the inside tables have it on the table, and if you're sitting outside you can usually borrow someones. I douse all of my food with that- the raw veggies from the salad bar (along with lemon juice), my mixed salad, the rice, the greens, pretty much everything. That sauce to me is like salt. Like I said before, I could be completely throwing off the balance of the food, but I'm not a health nut in the first place, I actually go there because I REALLY enjoy the food and love how it makes me feel. The condiments really are the key to making this food yummy to me. If you go there for dinner or lunch on a weekday when they make your plate for you, ask them for extra. They also offer scones on Saturdays and pancakes on Sundays. Some people like them, but not me. The pancakes are made with spelt flour (I think) and are sweetened naturally. I'm not a fan of eating something that tastes like cardboard, even if you do drown it in fruit and sauce. It's a waste of my stomach space. I would rather eat more greens. So, while I know that Casa de Luz is certainly not for everyone, I love it. The serene atmosphere is lovely, and there is no better place to go eat a healthy lunch just before heading to Barton Springs. They also have a great playground to keep the kids occupied after eating.

    (4)

  • Syllable X.

    Casa De Luz has to be one of my most favorite places to eat in the world. The atmosphere created there is very supportive, whether you're a vegetarian or not, into macrobiotics or not, all are welcome. To those that think it is too expensive, you may not know but you can get seconds if you're not filled with the first plate and the salad/soup bar. I've volunteered there, working on the bamboo gardens outside and helping to beautify the area and would not have wanted to be anywhere else for my birthday this year, but Casa De Luz. There are no assigned seats, you sit where there is a free spot, and often will strike up a good conversation with strangers. I wish they had more selection for things to drink, as it seems to be only tea, but that is a small thing. Anywhere else, bitching about the price of the meal might be accepted, but this is food for the soul; it's healthy and tastes good. You go cheap, buy some Mc Donald's or something, and your body pays the price later. For the hardcore carnivores, perhaps, if you cannot open your perception and diversify your taste buds, maybe Casa De Luz might not be for you. And Steve O., I've never seen what you're talking about, with Chakra balancing, at Casa De Luz, but I can understand why that might put you off a little. Sometimes people trying to be new age get into "acting" a little too much and there might be a bit of that there. But i've been going for years and never had one negative experience there...so their track record is pretty damn good with me. Onward through the fog...

    (5)

  • Kathleen T.

    Since there is a fixed menu- you take the chance on whether or not you will like what is being served on any particular day. I loved half of my entree and barely touched the rest.

    (3)

  • Jonny S.

    There's this bald guy with glasses who brings food to the eaters. This guy has read many many books on macrobiotics and health and stuff. He is very generous with information, but he's a little shy, so you have to ask questions to find out the answers. He studied with most of the macro mavens. I once dreamed that spock put a Vulcan mind meld on him while he was trying to master a Yo-yo trick. Then every thing turned blue. I became Arjuna and looked over a battle field. He became a green Krishna which was strange because Krishna is usually blue. He the told me I forgot something, so I went to a castle and started searching for it, but I can't remember what it was. Then Madonna tried to seduce me, but she was spitting fire, so I called the bald guy from Casa over and he kissed Madonna on her elbow and she gave me 500 dollars and said I owed her a Haiku! By the way: Casa is my favorite place to eat in the ATX!

    (5)

  • Renee W.

    every meal i've eaten here has been amazing, well-balanced and extremely satisfying and delicious. i love this place so much!!

    (5)

  • Nadine R.

    Always clean, friendly, healthy and tasty!

    (5)

  • jylle e.

    Excellent way to nutrient load before a bender. Your liver will thank you.

    (4)

  • Jim C.

    Short version: Great tasting food (and I say this as a carnivore), nice atmosphere, very peaceful dining room and grounds. Long version: I'd heard of this place for years, but as it's a vegetarian place I treated it like vampires treat sunlight, i.e. stayed far, far away. However, Michelle G.'s stellar review led me to reconsider and I put it on my to-do list. Tonight, fate and a woman led me to eat here, and I must say I was very pleasantly surprised. First, the grounds are really beautiful and peaceful, and I enjoyed a very slow walk back to the main building. Second, I had gotten a bad impression of the dining room from the description of the cafeteria-style service. I was imagining a place like a school cafeteria or Luby's, and it was not like that at all. It was dark and peaceful and fairly quiet (though admittedly there were relatively few people there). But how was the food, you ask? Well, in a word, really good! This was the menu: Butternut~Carrot~Celery Soup Garden Salad with Agave Mustard Dressing Basil Quinoa Black Beans Blanched Greens topped with Mixed Nut* Sauce *contains non-organic almonds Sauteed Beets & Zuchini Kimchi Pickle The soup was tasty, light and refreshing. But apparently, there's a little trick you can do to make it tastier - ask them to put some of the sauce they use for the greens into the soup. And indeed, it turned the light soup into a tasty and filling bisque. The quinoa and black beans were delicious also. I've always liked quinoa, but I've never liked black beans before, but these had a great flavor. I really liked the greens and their sauce as well; my date thought they were a little bitter but I thought that just added to their appeal. The beets were the only thing I didn't like (I've never liked beets), though the zucchini part of the dish was good. But I took Shahrzad K.'s tip of mixing things together and that made the beets tasty The kimchi was OK, nothing special. Even their "twig tea" tasted good, no bitterness at all. Overall, it was a great dinner. And a good value, as well, at $12 for dinner. Although, at this point I have to wonder if Michelle G. has had gastric bypass surgery, since she suggested bringing "To Go" containers to save room for dessert. While I was satisfied at the end of the meal, I was nowhere near stuffed, and could easily have eaten another plate. And I'm already feeling a little hungry now, and it's only been a couple of hours since I ate...

    (4)

  • Anne C.

    You feel amazing and energized after leaving Casa. Which is true sign of healing food. :)

    (5)

  • Lisa Rose M.

    I have been eating at Casa de Luz since it opened -- the atmosphere, sense of community, fabulous organic/vegan food and peacefulness draw me back several times/week. I am so grateful for Casa de Luz and the gift it is in my life.

    (5)

  • David M.

    This might be one of the only actual healthy, 100% organic restaurants in town. I always feel amazing after I eat here and I always get enough to eat. Here's the process: 1. Pay the cute girl or guy that's manning the register. Get your token. 2. Help yourself to fresh salad (with delicious casa dressing!!), soup and Kukicha tea. 3. Begin consuming these items and display your token. 4. A casa employee brings you your main course (usually 4-5 things) 5. Go back for SECONDS!! 6. Clean your space, return the dishes and resume your life back in the "outside world". Casa is one of the most unique and most healthy restaurants in town. I remember one year at ACL the lead singer from some band was up on stage praising them. It's really a must-visit place in Austin.

    (5)

  • Subina B.

    My first visit to Casa de Luz was a really nice experience and it truly embodied what Austin "weirdness" is all about. I know words like "vegan" scare a lot of people away, but this place is good for you in several different ways. And all this time I thought it was a Tex-Mex restaurant but I was so wrong! In fact, I went on sushi night and was genuinely impressed. I'm not usually into hippy stuff, so I had to put those feelings aside when my husband and I ventured through the gardens and past the classrooms. I was expecting just a restaurant, but Casa de Luz has an entire mini campus for yoga, tai chi, cooking classes, and more. I haven't tried any of that yet, but I hope to soon. For now I'll tell you more about the dining experience. So after following the path to the dining room, we paid for our meals up front and took a seat at one of the communal tables. There were only a few two person tables, but the dining room was pretty full and the people we sat with didn't mind our company. We helped ourselves to some soup, salad, and twig tea. The miso soup was kind of bland and somewhat lacking, but everything else was pretty nourishing. The salad was fresh and delicious, the tea was soothing, and the entrée itself was really satisfying with a good variety of healthy and tasty stuff. My husband and I then decided to share a coconut cream pie, but I don't think we're going to do that again. It was like a brick of jelly with little resemblance to what a non-vegan might expect for a cream pie to taste like. Regardless, we left full and happy and we actually felt good. I know it's weird, but we were energized and didn't feel weighed down the way one may typically feel after a big meal. We talked about how strange it was that we didn't miss the animal products. Even the next day, we didn't really find ourselves craving meat like we normally would. And ever since that visit I've been hoping to learn how to cook like that at home. I think every open-minded person should give this place a shot. Not only is the food rejuvenating, but they also have really good ideals and an awesome vision for what life should be like.

    (5)

  • Michelle Z.

    Came here for dinner on Guatemalan night with a dear friend. I had to park far away due to a baseball game that was going on across the street. The restaurant has a very relaxing and cozy atmosphere. It reminds me of a place where hippies might go on a special romantic date night. The lentil soup was like comfort food and the veggie taco was amazing considering it was a veggie taco. Everything tasted like it was making my body happy and healthy. I can't wait to come back!

    (4)

  • Danny G.

    Casa De Luz was good- not knock my socks off good, but organ-grinding, chi-heating, colon-cleansing good. When we left, we all felt like we had eaten a big meal- yet not a "big meal". We felt satiated but not stuffed. The wooden ticket deal is more than a little odd (if you have unlimited refills whats the point in only one coin) but the food was surprisingly good. I'm a meat-eater so I kept my expectations low, and there were a few things I really loved. The pinto beans with mint were great, the mushroom soup with (I think) barley was good, the potato (I think it was potato) was interesting, if oddly topped with sesame seeds. The desserts were just ok and left me longing for a little more sugar. All in all, I felt satisifed and felt that I'd gotten what I'd paid for. My only complaint is that the staff started cleaning our table, which from what I read you should bus your own table, so that was a rather akward way to say "we're closed". Still, very good and I'll be back, if only to keep my organs happy, pretty regularly.

    (4)

  • Amanda T.

    I came here with a friend who had been the the restaurant before. I had head rave reviews but remained skeptical yet curious. It is tucked away behind Chuy's next to a few baseball fields - I accidentally pass right by without noticing it. She showed me a small free standing building to the left of the restaurant that held a small library filled with many donated(?) books and movies that were all selling for 25 cents a piece. This is all done on the honor system - you pay and get your change from a box that is left in this unmonitored room. When you walk in the restaurant for dinner, they give you three options. You can either get just the soup/salad, get a dinner bowl bowl which consists of 2 of the options from the menu, or get the full menu offering which is self serve soup/salad/tea + a plate that a server will bring to you table filled with all the offerings of the day. My friend encouraged me to get the big plate so that I would have the full experience. I would encourage any first-timers to do the same :) It is self-seating; there are some small tables as well as long tables in which you can share with other guests. A little reminiscent of school cafeteria style seating. The menu changes daily, but just to give you my take on our menu: Miso Vegetable Soup: delicious and I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't too salty, as many miso soups are Garden Salad with Casa Dressing: the casa dressing is so delicious! Make sure you put some "sea vegetables" on your salad if available! Entree: Short Medium Brown Rice: it was a little mushy - I wish each grain had more integrity Great Northern Beans with Red Sauce: delicious Baked Cabbage: good Blanched Greens with an Almond Cilantro Scallion Sauce: the sauce was so refreshing mmm :) Red Sauerkraut: I was very skeptical about this since I do not typically like sauerkraut, but I thought this was delicious! I would come here again - I'd want to come to brunch, as I heard theirs is fantastic

    (4)

  • Larry T.

    Really tasty, super healthy, macrobiotic food. Awesome and interesting place. Will revive your tastebuds, body and spirit. Got to try it.

    (5)

  • Maya S.

    Casa is one of my all-time favorite Austin restaurants! And it is quite possibly Austin's healthiest restaurant. True macrobiotic cooking in a peaceful environment. All the meals are great but my favorite is brunch on the weekend. Check their website or call to find out what is on the menu before you go. Or just show up and be surprised. I have never been disappointed there and I consider myself a very picky eater! Of course, you should be in the mood to eat there and it will make your experience much better! Don't go there if you're in the mood for loud music and cheese fries....but do go if you've been truly bad and need to make up for it or if your intent all along was too be good. :-)

    (5)

  • James B.

    A very simple, well executed concept. 3 courses (an optional 4th desert for a surcharge), everyone eats the same thing and it's all good. Very healthy, very tasty, no complications. Love the idea.

    (5)

  • Hoa N.

    Macro and vegan and incredibly Austin. We often take out-of-town friends here and then go for a walk around the lake.* The Gold Dillo takes you to its front door! Located next to Parkside School, you might overlook the entrance and their discreet sign. A mature Zen-garden-inspired walkway leads you to the entrance of the restaurant nestled under pecans. Theirs' is a seasonal-, organic-, and locally-minded macrobiotic menu. You purchase the fixed meal or buffet deal (weekends) and bus your own table (no gratuity). The restaurant composts (!!!! name another restaurant in Austin that composts!) and uses cloth napkins. We are fans of the weekend buffet for guest occasions. Weekdays, a fixed menu (hint: you can go back and ask for more--even pick and choose what you would like seconds of). Parents should know that there is a playground next-door. If you have children-guests, they can play with abandon and the adults can visit and actually have conversation. Tip: be sure to top your greens with the sauces!! My favorite: sun cheese: a garlicky sunflower seed puree for steamed kale. But I also like the tahini based ones. And of course grab the little cute bowls of chili pepper-based purees for your beans! "Duh rool." Loooove their cold tea made with lemon grass, filtered water, roobios tea, red raspberry and more goodness. Name another Austin restaurant that brews teas with filtered water!!!! Baked goods such as agave sweetened- gluten-free and dairy-free desserts are for sale. You can also find wonderful traditionally-fermented steamed bread, too. I do not, however, endorse their spelt "scones". Gack. Avoid these hockey pucks of nasty. *To the lake: Head west following Toomey by the baseball field. See neatly worn footpath; this will lead you to the hike and bike trails at Town/Lady Bird Lake. Turn left and you can cross Barton Springs Creek, see cormorants, wood ducks, and other water fowl plus red sliders and loads of humans, cruising along.

    (4)

  • Gunjan A.

    We went here for dinner with 2 kids. Kids didn't like the food but we LOVED it. It is easy on the body and tasteful food. Tea, Salad, lovely soup.... the home-made hummus on kale was a treasure!

    (5)

  • Fritz V.

    Upon passing through the entrance to Casa De Luz I am welcomed into a garden with meditation places along the path. I start experiencing the feelings from my experience at Pur Vida in Costa Rica. Very calming. I did not realize how much I liked vegan food until my Casa De Luz experience. There are long tables and you'll find yourself sitting next to people you don't know and joining a conversation. Like a big happy family. If you've brought along a pet not problem. There are tables outside too.

    (5)

  • Tom M.

    I eat here several times a week and thank goodness for the vision they have! I don't have to eat gluten-free or vegan but I love to eat here. I avoid real busy times of the day and never have a problem. The staff is friendly, caring and competent!

    (5)

  • Lyn B.

    This is the best food in Austin. There's nothing phony about it - no cheese sauce to clog arteries or high fat content to encourage diabetes. The food is delicious and nutritious. I've been going there 15 years and have tried high-end to low-end restaurants and this is the best. Austin is so lucky to have a macrobiotic restaurant. There are very few in the country. We like Wednesday lunch (usually vegan tacos), Friday night Indian, and the weekend food fare the best - but any time is excellent. BTW, the desserts are heavenly. They are sweetened naturally with maple sugar or fruit. Try it, you will be wonderfully surprised. The family style seating is a plus. In the 15 years of going there I've just met delightful people that run the gamut from UT professors, spiritual guru, to Austin Weird. All are welcome.

    (5)

  • Lady O.

    Really Zen out!

    (4)

  • Sam S.

    What can I say other then love the place. Get my weekly ration of greens and lots of other beautiful food.!! I have been a regular for years! entertaining eclectic clientele. You don't have to be a vegan or into macrobiotics to enjoy the healthy fresh food.

    (5)

  • Travis B.

    Eating at Casa de Luz is like stepping into a space-warp and emerging in some utopian ashram at the foot of the Himalayas. Except the kitchen staff is largely Mexican. Seriously, go just for the odd ambience of the place, which is so much different than anywhere else in Texas (that I've been, at least). The food is always a surprise; you buy a magical coin for 10 dollars and exchange it for a plate of macrobiotic food. Very good tea, the food can be a little hit-and-miss, but generally there's one thing on the plate that will be miss and the rest will be hit. It's good for you too, I hear.

    (4)

  • Natalie C.

    I'm conflicted about this review. On the one hand, I love the whole macrobiotic concept of Casa De Luz...and since my first visit there was in support of one of my friend's who was pregnant and making every effort to be health conscious, what's not to love? You walk through the archway into a peaceful zen-like garden setting, then the dining room is inviting and relaxing with it's communal dining tables and various food and drink stations, and the employees are personable. Good, right? I think so. On the other hand, when having been informed that some of the food is very raw (meaning it's still alive and has retained it's nutrients) and then encountering a live action salad with the action provided by a worm vigorously doing it's best to escape my fork...well...I'm not certain I want my food THAT live! :-O Eek! Given that I know how to slaughter various animals and know my way around growing things, not sure why one worm makes me squeamish??? Perhaps it's 'cause the slaughtered animals are thoroughly roasted, stewed, fried, or boiled by the time I'm done with them and not trying to escape the plate with life left in them...oh wait! I just went off on a tangent when talking about a vegetarian / vegan restaurant! (Apologies to all my veggie / vegan friends and readers!) Anyways, the chef's reaction was even funnier when I quietly and kind of embarassed took my plate and worm up to him. He looked really sternly at me, then at the worm, took my plate, then proceeded to SQUASH the little guy!!! Not what I was expecting...he then looked like he wanted to hand the salad plate, squished worm and all, back to me. Seriously. He wasn't kidding. Ahhahaha! Well, my friend, quite concerned for my first experience at Casa De Luz having taken a turn for the unexpected, wondered if I wanted to go. But, we braved the rest of the meal (it was cooked - a key element here!), which was quite tasty, filling in a satisfyingly refreshing way, and worth the whole worm experience. And I made a new food discovery: organic ginger jello!!! Hello!? The most tantalizing salivary taste explosion I've had in a while! While I forget it's proper name, this dessert alone will make me go back to Casa De Luz, again and again and again. In fact, the ability to taste / eat my way through their entire dessert fridge is reason enough to return. The organic coconut jello is pretty good, too. So, all in all...while I might skip the salad bar on a next visit, there are the soups (delicious), cooked items (the food really digests well!), and desserts to enjoy. Add it's peaceful environment and we've got something here... Maybe I'm not so conflicted after all :) PS If you're not a fan of lightly flavoured / bland tasting food, this might not be the spot for you. But if you do want to promote healthy digestion post eating, this is definitely something to do once a quarter.

    (3)

  • John B.

    Yummy, healthy food, served family style. I rarely get to eat this well when I travel. It's fresh, simply-prepared food that appears seasonal and somewhat local. I think it's very organic. They even had sweets that I could (sort-of) eat: Agave-sweetened this, rice sweetened that. 99% of the time, there's no desert that I can eat, so it's truly a thrill to find a place that offers a morsel or two of a simple dessert. If it were closer to where I'm staying, I would eat there every night for a week, the probably go back for another week. It's that good.

    (5)

  • Chris T.

    Great place, great food, great people, and great price. What a nice healthy alternative the norm. Wish I could give it more stars!

    (5)

  • Jenny K.

    casa de luz is wonderful. everything is macrobiotic, everything is amazing, and everything is paired beautifully. their salad is wonderful, the soups - ranging from butternut squash to carrot to cauliflower to vegetable - are always excellent, their tea is lovely, their meals (especially on guatemalan nights on thursdays) are incredible and often include quinoa, kale, beets, squash, lentils, brown rice, and greens and garlic sauce. everything is super fresh, super flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared (not so much, though, on the desert front). there are also lovely places to eat outside and it's a short walk down to the river, the bridges, and barton springs: all in all, a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

    (4)

  • Jeremy K.

    Decent vegan food, but does not deserve its current #11 ranking on Yelp's Austin restaurant list! Disclaimer: I am not a vegan. I prefer my meals to have some meat content. However, I appreciate all good-tasting food and feel like I judge most restaurants very fairly. To correlate my review of this place, the one vegan place I really enjoy in town is Mr Natural. I have been to Casa de Luz several times for lunch with coworkers and just feel that it is so-so. It is expensive for lunch ($12+?) and I found about half of the dishes to be simply unappetizing. Granted I have a non-macrobiotic palate, but just found that quite a bit of stuff tasted like soggy amoeba. Surprisingly, many of the dishes are quite bland despite seemingly having a complex set of ingredients. So from a non-vegan, non-macrobiotic perspective, I would just say tread with caution. There are some dishes that are well put together and taste good but you'll have to do some digging.

    (3)

  • Solomon W.

    I've been a student in Austin for about 4 months, and this is definitely the most innovative culinary gem I have found, and it perfectly represents Austin's greenness, healthiness, and hippiness. The absolutely vegan preparation is really something surprising, as everything tastes fresh, crisp, but slightly underseasoned. I went two days in a row for the dinner. You pay $12 for a pre-fix dinner with 1-2 servings of a plate of 1 bean, 1 vegetable, 1 picked vegetable, and 1 extraordinary entree. One day I had kidney beans with a "sun cheese" which was something like a salty hummus. The vegetable both days were nicely steamed kale. The other day the beans were pintos. The pickled vegetables were cabbage. It also comes with a sticky brown rice, which is a perfect compliment. The entrees were a gordita, and a chalupa, both with a pesto sauce over roasted vegetables. Flawless preparation on all of these. In addition to your meal, you have basically unlimited trips to the salad bar with a nice soup. One day the soup was a kombucha squash and the other day it was a nice pumpkin. Both days the salad bar had a nice healthy grain and seed along with miso and soy dressing. The self-cleaning service is nice as you do not have to tip. I also like the variety of second-hand cups for your drinks and the cleaned rags for napkins. Great place. Must, must, must visit this if you are in Austin. Location is a bit tough to find as it is tucked away behind a small street off of busy Lamar.

    (4)

  • Alex I.

    The area around Casa is very relaxing. Lots of shade and bamboo. The food was very satisfying. Casa has a nice selection of japanese goods and macrobiotic books for sales. Lunch was 12 bucks and well worth it. Salad with sprouts, veggie soup, veggie taco with brown rice, and kale. Go for free yoga T, W, Th and stay for lunch.

    (4)

  • Koley P.

    The setting is nice and the food is tasty, though I would not get too involved in the pseudo-scientific rationales behind the menu options.

    (3)

  • sharon s.

    Casa de Luz is my favorite place to eat. It is vegan, macrobiotic, prix fixe menu. Dinner is $12, you get soup, a small delicious salad bar, then a delicious healthy meal. It also comes with hot and cold teas. I could eat here every day, unfortunately I live across the country now, and can only wish that something similar would open here.

    (5)

  • tyler A.

    terrific macrobiotic vegan place. I go here for lunch regularly. The food is all quite good, Wednesdays are my favorite day for the Mexican style dishes. Having said that, I dont think I could ever go vegan - I like kale and all, but based on this place, you have it almost every meal.

    (5)

  • Jay R.

    This restaurant is an amazing experience. I feel like I've purified and nourished my body every time I dine here. The amazing zen-like calm - the socialistic touches of the fixed menu & the bus-your-own-tables-my-blessed-one routine - the new age music ... all are a great antidote to 8 hours in a gray cubicle. Some portion of my friends are unable to eat here: can't get around no meat, little salt, and gobs of healthy & organic greens, legumes, and grains. One friend says that her digestive system just doesn't work on food this healthy.

    (5)

  • Isaac W.

    Tucked back from the road, accessed by a nice path with lots of plant growth and huge bamboo stalks. Started off with sweet potato soup and salad...the soup was really good, thick and flavorful. The main course at first seemed a little bland in parts, and strong in others. Once I started eating not just one item at a time, the flavors blended well. The biggest difference was the food was not overly flavorful...this allowed all of the flavors they added to be subtly tasted. As I ate the food, I could taste hints of sesame, tahini, lemon, etc. Overall a very good mean, topped off with their excellent cold tea. A good way to help my system feel clean, especially since I ate two large Texas BBQ meals in the past 24 hours.

    (4)

  • Heidi L.

    if you are a vegetarian/vegan, you will understand. you will like this place. you will eat the most delicious, fresh, different food, and you will leave feeling full, healthy, and satisfied. the food may look weird, but just eat it. trust me.

    (5)

  • Kayla S.

    O.k seriously, you dont have to be a vegan, macrobiotic crazed or a connoisseur to like this restuarant... the food is food... "enough said". I love the environment around Casa de luz. its so inviting and the people are so friendly. I went to Manzanita in Oakland and still find Casa tastier and more satisfying. The meal is a bit pricey ($12) but it is ALL YOU CAN EAT and drink. The desserts are made from scratch and MOST if not ALL of the food is organic and sustainable. There's a lot of love that goes into the food... that's important.

    (4)

  • kerri b.

    this food is good and good for you! best macro in town! (and only, as well) :P

    (4)

  • becca p.

    I am not a vegetatarian, vegan, or macrobiotic follower BUT, this food makes me feel good and happy. I have NO guilt after eating a totally delicious meal. I feel that a lot of times you want a good atmosphere and a healthy salad to share with a GF. This is a perfect spot as there is no one rushing you, plenty of outdoor seating, affordable, delicious and ALWAYS diet friendly! This is always a treat for me! Their soups are the BEST! Thanks CDL!

    (5)

  • laurie c.

    What a wacky Austin spot! Totally macrobiotic and totally loopy. I am a healthy eater but my husband? Not so much. Well, at least overtly he isn't... There is a better chance I could get him to go shopping than drag him back to Casa de Luz. However, he certainly didn't hate the food and he liked the idea that they had theme nights and perhaps we can go back for Mexican or Italian night. It was just an odd dining experience. Not bad. frankly just weird. Since when was serving ice with your drink breaking Vegan Law? We've even attended a birthday celebration in one of their rooms after hours. They require a vegetarian-catered event which is no problem since Austin has lots of tasty options. I think this particular party was able to bring in Whole Foods. That's cool they allow you to BYOV! I am vowing to bring my husband back. I think I'll up it to another star the next visit if all goes well or if we ever get back there! But did I hear correctly that Mother's Cafe is back in business? That will most definitely postpone our return trip to Casa de Luz.

    (3)

  • Little Al K.

    Part of the problem here may have been my high expectations. A friend just raved about how good their food was and I arrived famished. First, the salad was fine except for the dressing. I love romaine but just wasn't digging the dressing. Next, the soup was cold but the flavor was good although the only solid thing in it appeared to be cabbage which isn't my favorite vegetable although I know it is very nutritious. According to their website the price was supposedly $11.09 including tax (I can't find where it said tax included on their site; but I paid the $12). I'd say this place would be a pretty good option for lunch if you don't want to feel sleep during your workday afternoon. Most of the way through my meal, the host/cashier came by and asked how everything was then seemed surprised when I started telling him how everything was. Here's a review of what I told him.... the soup was cold when I went back the second time for more, his suggestion. There was no squash although it was on the menu. The portions seemed very small to this Texan. The sweet potatoes (baked strips like fries) were one of the two things I filled up on. The split peas were the other thing but then they ran out when I went back for thirds (as I said the portions are small). It's a little weird sitting at a big table that other people are sitting at and then also bussing your own table. I didn't see anybody cleaning off the tables after people removed their plates, etc. although the host/cashier cat said they do (I'm not saying they don't, I just didn't see it happening). Their tea cups are a conglomeration of donated cups, it appeared. I thought the hot tea was fine but there was no stevia anywhere so that was disappointing too. Asked the host if the little pile of stuff that had corn in it was supposed to be hot and he said yes; told him that too was cold (actually it was room temperature while the soup was only slightly warm) but again seemed to do absolutely nothing about it. The pickled purple cabbage was pretty good. After eating most of the meal, I decided to take another bite of the salad and it suddenly tasted very good, compared to the rest of the food. When I returned for more split peas, the Mexican dude gave me a plate with a little bit of everything BUT split peas (when people don't speak or understand English, it makes me think they're in the country illegally; if they're not illegal then they're disrespecting our culture by not learning our language, Engrish!) When I got seconds, about two bites of beans appeared on my plate, sort of like ranch style beans but sans the animal fat; they were very good but why didn't my first plate have them??? I didn't like the green salad that came in the middle of the dinner plate (different than the romaine with the dressing) at all. Very raw tasting. I left feeling fine but somehow under-nourished. I just felt like something was missing although my stomach was telling me it was getting full. Had to go to Carl's Jr. for a Teriyaki turkey burger with honey wheat bun. Now I feel satisfied! I'm just entirely too much of a carnivore for this place. Oh, there's a little nutrition bookstore inside the dining room. Plenty of outdoor seating in their very nice, large patio which was very green with plants. It was 93 outside so I opted to sit indoors. A buddy of mine said he goes there with relatives that are on a raw food diet; most of the stuff I saw was cooked (although not hot except for the baked sweet potato fries). That's my take; it's official, I'd give 1.5 stars if I could. Because 1 star would be for a place that was all this and filthy too; this place is not filthy (but if that's one of their only good points....).

    (1)

  • Nandy S.

    I've left many a restaurant satisfied, even pleased with my meal. I left Casa de Luz feeling nourished and vitalized. You can taste the LOVE in this food. Savor your meal because it is such a gift from these students. 24 dollars for two adults at dinner time, but they do give you thriftier options (like soup and salad). How can you not love complimentary cold lemongrass/rooibos tea and hot kukicha tea? I devoured everything on my plate and went back for seconds, except for the Nori. I just can't come to a civil agreement with cooked Nori. However,I did generously pile on the dried Nori condiment on my rice. The atmosphere is very relaxing, the place is quaint and provincial. Cons: The other diners. Unfortunately, you will run into the same crowds that frequent other similar dining establishments. The New Age yuppie. They will complain loudly and rudely adjust the lighting without asking others in the nearby 3 foot radius. I'm not too big on the communal seating either. My dinners are usually an intimate affair, focusing on my food and my company. Scoring a two seater table requires precise timing and fast, fancy footwork. Oh and that guy wearing the woven Baja hoodie hogging the best cozy table for two? Yeah, don't count on him moving. He is gonna be there all..night..long.

    (5)

  • S K.

    First of all i'm not vegan or vegetarian..but this place is awesome..its a hidden sanctuary in the heart of the urban jumgle...love the garden and zen decor..the buffet is cheap with the all you can eat option..when i was eating the food i thought "man i'll still be hungry after dinner" ..but No!..the food satisfies you hunger w/o filling you up..the different kinds of teas were great..but i have to admit.i still don't know what macrobiotic is all about..they have a good book selection on it though in the dining area..:)

    (4)

  • Maurice G.

    Casa de Luz is the Anti-Kreutz.

    (1)

  • Gabriel C.

    If every meal I ate was this good, I'd have no problem leaving meat by the wayside. Excellent atmosphere, excellent food, and the courtyard, as well as the inside of the restaurant, is very peaceful and calming. Will definitely bring people here in the future.

    (5)

  • James Y.

    Casa de luz...how strange is this place. It's the hippy epicenter for Austin, complete with yoga classes, a macrobiotic restaurant, a culinary school and plenty of foliage. When my friend first told me about this place, I wondered how in the heck she found it. But boy, am I glad she did. First, a little terminology. This restaurant is a Vegan Macrobiotic restaurant. What does that mean? Well, vegan means no animal products. So no dairy, no honey, no meat. Macrobiotic is a little more difficult to define, but it mainly means eating with the seasons, eating more simply and eating a very balanced plate. The dinner plates here typically contain beans, greens, grains, salad and some sort of fermented pickle. The plate isn't going to have lots of sauce and decoration, but will be tasty and is designed to nourish the body, mind & soul. The dinner plates are $12 apiece, you bus your own table and you will have the most interesting random conversations with people there. If you're going, I highly recommend sitting at one of the long family-style tables and just talking to the people there. I hear good things about the weekend brunch, so I'll have to check that out.

    (5)

  • Gretchen T.

    My sweet Austinite friend thought I would like this macrobiotic spot when I told her I felt like something healthy after a week of rubber chicken meals for work meetings. Lesson learned--when in Texas, just get BBQ and shut up! The grounds are beautiful, it's like walking through paradise to get to the restaurant in back. The experience plummets after that, however. Everything about the place is ecofriendly, so I have to assume that the jungle darkness of the dining room was to save energy. It also made things feel dreary. You eat whatever is on the menu of the day (only $12!) and it is all you can eat. Salad and soup are serve yourself, but you go to the kitchen for seconds of the entree. We were there on Guatemalan night, so there were beans and rice and a corn tortilla taco with uninspiring mushroomy filling. The desserts looked good but we skipped it in favor of getting a glass of wine elsewhere. One whole star docked for not being able to even bring in your own wine. Wine is fermented--isn't that a key tenet of macrobiotic meals?! Overall, I think Earth Restaurant in LA does a much better job of offering creative, delicious macro food that doesn't make you feel like you're being deprived.

    (2)

  • Jason E.

    True macrobiotic dining complete with community/family style seating. Very Austin. Great place to detox your body.

    (5)

  • Cori M.

    YUMMY!!! Went with some friends. I'd never heard of it. Was surprised in a great way! First when you walk up ....it's like entering another location (think zen Santa Fe). We then went in for dinner. We didn't see the menu for that night....thus we enjoyed trying to figure out what we were eating. Found it later....we guessed wrong on a few things. Everything was very tasty. Will definitely go back!

    (5)

  • Russ C.

    okay this place is slightly expensive ($12 for dinner) - but i always feel great when i go here, everything about it is calming and energizing, especially the macrobiotic, amazingly good meals.

    (5)

  • Miriam M.

    I love this restaurant. The food is full of life and love and TASTE. Don't be turned off by the thought of "macrobiotic" or "vegetarian" or whatever, this is just good food. Guatamalan Night is usually when we are there and it never disappoints. Yummy! I only wish that they were open later.

    (5)

  • Stephanie S.

    Casa De Luz is a really unique, wholesome experience that extends further than dining into a short immersive getaway. The long family-style picnic tables situated in a peaceful spot full of tall trees, soft-lighting and hand-crafted decor lend itself to a really relaxing environment. This is the sort of place where you can go alone and still have conversation while you dine if you're looking to have company. Really flavorful, thoughtfully-prepared meals and friendly atmosphere that leaves you feeling good. I could eat here three days a week and not be tired of the menu or space!

    (5)

  • Shanna P.

    I want to give macrobiotic food a shot, especially because I've grown interested lately in reading how macrobiotic food has cured some people's cancer. However, years ago, I wrecked my scooter after eating Casa de Luz--it's all I had eaten all day, and in the end, after a show at Stubb's and a beer, I was a little loopy and out-of-it. A friend had *raved* about how macrobiotic had changed his life and he drug me here. I guess I just don't like macrobiotic food, but maybe one day I'd give it another shot... as long as it's not my only meal of the day. It's kind of like how I feel when all I've been eating for days is salad--i.e., hungry and zoning out. It reminds me of a veggie place in Prague, so it gets two stars... and the locale and gardens are nice. I like that they have belly dancing classes and stuff on that campus, too.

    (2)

  • chiu t.

    Peaceful and rejuvelent! That's how I feel every time when I dine in Casa De Luz. Everything's organic and vegan and natural. Some items are raw. The buffet is a good start if you want to check out this restaurant. I like everything over there, especially their ice-tea, the veggies, the berry sauce for the pancakes.

    (4)

  • Jackie A.

    I always feel so great after I eat here- physically and mentally. Something about it just makes me feel really calm and happy. The food is good, and the people are friendly. And honestly, it's 12 bucks flat with a beverage and no tipping- it's definitely worth the money.

    (5)

  • J P.

    $12 a plate all you can eat. Always interesting 'AWAKE' people here. It's a peaceful eating experience. Vegan's paradise...

    (5)

  • Lisa R.

    Be prepared to have a different dining experience. If you keep an open mind, it's all good. 1. Take your time walking up the path to the restaurant. The garden is delightful. 2. You pay one price for the dinner. No tipping. Desserts (in the cold case) are extra. Cash or CC. 3. You get a token that you take to your table. Don't be afraid to sit at tables that have other diners at it. 4. Leave your token on the table and get your drink (very subtle but addictive tea or water), salad, cutlery, napkin, and soup. 5. Have seconds if you like. 6. When your server takes your token and gives you your dinner plate, your brain will probably reflexively say "What in the heck is this stuff". Your brain will use a voice you haven't heard since you were 5 years old. 7. Don't be afraid to mix foods together. So what if you don't know what each thing is and therefore you don't know what "goes" with what, experiment. 8. Let the kids play on the playscape outdoors, but since it's shady, make sure to spray them down with bugspray before hand. You leave feeling good - like you just earned some good karma because you fed your body right, in a communal setting. I have never left still feeling hungry - but never overstuffed either. The brunch pancakes are yummy too!

    (5)

  • Stephen J.

    i forgot to mention check there website for the daily menu. ya know the yummy sesame mush on top of my kale that i described? its actually called a walnut tahini dill sauce, and i figured that out because they keep an archive of the menus on the website also. . . . so what did i do with this information? -- i emailed Casa de Luz to get the recipe and i had it in 3 days. SCORE! i didn't make enough of it to bathe in, like i would've liked. however, went to a dinner party yesterday and totally poured it on some pork chops - its a new style of macrobiotics - 'neo pork macrobiotic fusion' - which is really just the long version of 'delicious'

    (5)

  • Lynne W.

    If you are serious about eating low on the food chain or just feel like something outside your usual then give Casa de Luz a whirl. I guarantee you won't leave this urban oasis hungry or too full. Casa Luz is part of a campus that includes a preschool, a yoga and healing arts center and a culinary school. So if you want to yap it up or soak it up this is not the place. But if you are looking for a delicate, balanced meal served with love this is the spot.

    (4)

  • Jeff W.

    I have been eating at Casa De Luz regularly for seven years. Amazing. It's more than a restaurant. It's like my second kitchen. Casa De Luz feeds me. Keeps me incredibly healthy. And always reminds me that a fresh, organic, plant-based diet is better tasting than the typical American diet. If you have never been to Casa De Luz, try it on Thursday night. This is usually taco night. Delicious. And check out the brunch on Sunday. Quite possibly the best meal in Austin. Very reasonably priced at $12 per meal which includes soup, salad, and two plates of food. Yes... all of this for $12. I can always count on the consistency, seasonal variety, and delightful atmosphere. This is not only my favorite restaurant in Austin, it's my favorite place to eat anywhere in the world!

    (5)

  • Mike S.

    Groovy macrobiotic/vegan restaurant. Prix fixe menu of grains, legumes and veggies. Flavorful and terrific. A little light on the salt, but then again I'm a salt junkie. Great atmosphere. Five stars.

    (5)

  • Michelle C.

    For years while I was in graduate school, I was basically a carb-a-tarian. All I ate was carbs. Cheap carbs. Then, a year or two after I entered the working class, I discovered that eating less carbs and more protein made me less susceptible to the frequent blood sugar issues I was having. So I started eating a lot more meat, and began to believe that vegetarian (and especially vegan) meals weren't satisfying enough for my protein-needing, carb-avoiding self. Enter Casa de Luz. I finally discovered this place a couple of years ago, and was instantly hooked. This restaurant taught me that vegan, macrobiotic food could be both extremely delicious and plenty satisfying. It's one price for your meal ($10-$12, depending on whether you're there at lunch or dinnertime), including a drink, tax and tip, and you can belly up to the counter and ask for more. There is always soup, a salad bar, and then a plate full of 4-5 delicious things. Much of the time, I haven't a clue what any of them are, but I rarely care. And the best part of it is, I always feel really good after I eat there. It's probably psychosomatic, but I'll take it. The whole experience is so soothing. Despite its location near the craziness of Barton Springs Road, Casa de Luz is like a little oasis of calm and peacefulness. Walking down the path to the restaurant is like stepping into another world. They offer workshops, yoga, and other classes of a spiritual nature, as well as having a couple of little shopping areas featuring cookbooks, macrobiotic foods, and beautiful kitchen items. Love it, love it.

    (5)

  • evan s.

    i have been hearing about casa for years, about a month ago i finally went and since that first time, i have eaten there approximately six or seven times and have taken a cooking class. the setting is wonderful, the people are nice and it is reasonably priced. i can however see how people would get bored with the food, because each of the meals are similar, but i happen to adore it. it is so clean, healthy and fresh and even when you eat till you are full, you don't feel gross. how does it get any better than that?

    (4)

  • Sarah H.

    Like Kerry G, I LOVE Casa de Luz. I'm a sober crazy wacky vegan, so it's really the place to be for me. It could owe to my Seventh Day Adventist upbringing though. Though I must say, in all my time as a Sabbath follower, I never once witnessed my Dad or brothers in suspenders. They're the belt wearing kind, vegetarian, but definitely belt wearers.

    (5)

  • Rachel G.

    i was eating at casa de luz when it was $7. that's right. $7! i remember when it went up to $8, and so on. all the people who complain about the $12 meal need to remember that there is NO other place in town to get macrobiotic food this fresh (they cook continuously throughout the meal so the food is right off the stove, so to speak). there is NO other place in town to get organic vegan food this fresh with the all-you-can-eat option, including drinks. no tip is expected. of course you do bus your own table, but hopefully this helps to remind people that you can compost your leftovers and use them to fertilize your garden, that you can use cloth napkins and save some trees...etc. it also fits in with the community vibe. at most coffee shops you bus your own table and you tip. i digress... i always feel amazing after eating here. even when i eat too much and feel stuffed, it's not that 'omg i'm so full i'm going to be sick' feeling. and i stay full for hours! i usually have to eat a meal every 3 to 4 hours to keep my blood sugar levels stable, but not after eating here. i can go for 5 hours before another meal and be fine. there are times when i don't like everything on the plate offered at a particular meal, but that's where the all-you-can-eat option comes in handy. just go back up to the counter and ask for a plate of your faves and eat until you feel like you're going to burst. this year their thanksgiving meal was out of this world. i honestly feel lighter, healthier, happier and very satisfied after a meal at casa de luz. i wish i could afford to eat here every day.

    (5)

  • john j.

    I have never had a bad experience at Casa De Luz, and I eat there about ten times a year. The food is always perfectly seasoned, the price is right because you can eat until you explode, if you want, and the ambiance is interesting/cool. The servers behind the main table are not the friendliest, to be honest, but I think for many of them there is a language barrier. I highly recommend this place, in the final analysis.

    (5)

  • Acata G.

    Going here is kind of like being in a secret society with the in-the-middle-of-things-yet-hidden location, the tokens, and the dim lighting and hushed tones of the dining room. I have no idea what the whole larger purpose behind this place is, but I do love the food. It is simple, nourishing, clean-tasting, and filling. The desserts left something to be desired both times I tried, but it didn't detract from the overall experience. Also, fun people-watching.

    (5)

  • Sherry H.

    Gone here many times after having a hangover or feeling down. I leave with a smile on my face and the ability to face life again. For those fearful of macro and vegan food--get some guts. This is what you body needs and it really will not leave you hungry or disappointed. They have a nice outdoor area which helps puts the Zen into your body. It is really hard to go back to work after this lunch. The hammocks out front call my name and I can't resist after the perfect meal.

    (5)

  • Daniel B.

    Casa is a wonderful, clean macrobiotic experience. The grounds have a "Zen Garden" feel. The area is kept clean. There is a Montessori School and yoga center there. The older I get, the less new-agey I get. Still, I have to say that this pace has "good energy." You can eat as much of the fixed price meal as you desire. This is the kind of thing you can fill up on, yet still feel excellent. You have to love things like kale, root, vegetables, brown rice, twig tea, miso, etc. When I first went to Casa, I had barely eaten any whole food in my life. It was an eye and body opening experience 10 years ago. I eat quite a range of food from low brow fried stuff to organic veggies. Casa never fails to deliver a tasty, interesting dinner.

    (5)

  • Dorit K.

    Went there on Saturday for lunch buffet. We paid $14 per person for a full meal which included: Mushroom soup Butternut squash with carrots stew Brown rice Tahini sauce with Bazil Almonds spread Beets and Cabbage salad Spinach leaves (or beets leaves) - sauteed Hot and cold tea Cesar salad (very light dressing, yummy) Everything was delicous. It was raining outside and so cozy inside. The only thing that was missing was some kind of bread. They don't use yeast so they don't have bread, but this would complete the meal I guess. Very recommended. Check their website for the daily menu. They also have special meals every first Monday of the month and second Sat.

    (5)

  • Beezus S.

    The setting is just lovely. I thought the food was really good and the iced tea was fantastic. I left feeling full and nourished and not grossly overstuffed considering the large amount of food I consumed. I would definitely recommend this place for a vegan date.

    (4)

  • John E.

    On a whim, I had brunch here on Saturday (same menu as Dorit). As much as I love the veggies, it struck me as a little unlikely that the macrobiotic medley would rock my socks. I was surprised: it was amazing from start to finish. Everything was very fresh, nicely prepared, and well-spiced. My party of three omnivores had a happy glow on our way out. As much as I would like to stuff myself here on a regular basis, it is pricey. My plan is to drop in now and then when I am burned out on my usual foods (rare, thanks to Yelp). Less money than tapas or sushi; more than than a run through your favorite Indian buffet.

    (5)

  • B T.

    I have to say I feel weird giving the lovely Casa De Luz 3 stars since it's one of my favorite places to eat. However, I have my reasoning. One: It's over priced. Though the food is fresh and organic it's not as if the recipes are hard to prepare, plus they don't have meat. Second: No parking. Seriously, what kind of sit down eating establishment doesn't have parking? Third: I got sick (grossly sick) and found a bug (yes the whole bug) in my salad. I would have told the people, but they probably would have said it's healthy or something. Other wise, the atmosphere is great and the food is delish! Plus they have a playground!!

    (3)

  • Heather F.

    I love this place! Good food and a great atmosphere. The food feels very fresh and restorative.

    (5)

  • Koby M.

    Walking into Casa de Luz is just relaxing. The lush greenery, the hammocks and benches, the park with little ones playing. After searching for parking it's a nice change. Couldn't ask for more as far as ambiance is concerned. To bad for all the construction going on right next door at this moment but that's not their fault. The staff is very friendly and seem to be super happy. It's a serve yourself style setup. They have a salad and a soup that changes daily, and so do the main plates. I love their teas and other beverages. You can't get any healthier than Casas dishes. I do wish they maybe had a couple of plates to choose from but I'm never disappointed. And I've never had something I didn't like. $12 isn't much for a satisfying all organic meal. Itd be awesome if they didn't charge two dollars for seconds though. I love places that make being vegan and healthy easy. Couple that with the beautiful restaurant and great staff you have a winner in my book. Austin could use more places like this.

    (4)

  • Victorious V.

    We found this gem by accident. I googled "organic restaurants" not thinking I'd find anything locally, and bam! It popped up and made my day! Basically, for $12, you can enjoy a delicious, healthy, organic, vegan dinner. It starts with a "help yourself" soup and salad. After you finish, the staff will bring you a plate of deliciousness. The sauces are amazing, and even if you are a meat-eater, you'll swear it's the best meal you've ever had. If we could cook veggies and grains like this, we'd do it every day. It's great to feel good about what we're putting into our bodies. The menu is set, so we log onto the website to see what we'll be eating if we go that day. We've NEVER had a bad meal. Add to that an awesome atmosphere, and you've got a winner! It's tucked away in a "compound" sort of property, and the beauty is that the $12 price includes your drink and tip too. You definitely need to try this one. I take everyone here.

    (5)

  • Tiffany L.

    There are no words to describe this place. I am never disappointed. I always feel great after I leave. Great atmosphere. Wonderful food. Affordable. I just LOVE this place.

    (5)

  • Jeff L.

    Eat real food. Start here. The beautiful walkway to the dining room will begin to get you prepared for a healthy, alkaline meal that satisfies. The food will fix whatever ails ya.

    (5)

  • Kelly S.

    I love this concept of macrobiotic, clean eating restaurant! The atmosphere makes you forget you're in the center of Austin, right of the Zilker walking trail. It's a "you get what you get" menu--- there's only the meal they're cooking for that day. I've been twice and have not come away disappointed either time. I tried one of the desserts this week. At first bite, I thought, "This is not my taste." But then I realized it was because I'm a sugar freak and my palette had to get used to only natural sugars... I ate all of it and it was really, really good! I'm not a vegetarian or vegan, but I'm always willing to try new things. This was worth the try and I enjoy the 'clean' food. Great place to take a girl friend for quiet conversation and good food.

    (5)

  • Angela P.

    In my research of Austin, I discovered this non-profit, educational community center called "Casa De Luz" that offers yoga and health classes. On-site there is an all-organic cafe that serves vegan and gluten-free cuisine. We thought it would be interesting to check it out for lunch on a Sunday. To get to the cafe, you have to walk through their gardens. It is a nice little pathway lined with trees and flowers. At the end of the path, we entered a very busy cafe. There must have been at least 50 people in this medium-sized cafe. At the counter, they displayed their fixed menu for the day. We checked it out and decided to give it a go. So, we paid the host a flat $12 for each of us, tax included. He explained to us how it worked -- we would seat ourselves, we could grab our own drinks, salad, and soup. Then, the entrees would be brought out to our table. Dessert would cost extra. Simple enough. We were game. We found a couple seats at the end of a communal table. Then we grabbed our soup, salad, and drinks. The atmosphere was energetic, the cafe was dimly lit, and we felt a really nice vibe there. People of all ages were brought together in this community center to dine on fresh vegan meals. The salad was a mixed greens salad -- very simple. The best part about it was the pumpkinseed basil dressing, which really brought life into an otherwise plain salad. The soup was also pretty simple -- a black bean soup. Again, it was the topping - a cheesy spread made of sunflower seeds that really gave it its flavor. For the entree, we were served quite a variety of very fresh foods. There were sauteed carrots, zucchini, cauliflower and onions with lemon-cilantro basmati rice. The mashed sweet potatoes were topped with some sort of strawberry syrup making them a bit too sweet for my palate. My favorite dish was the steamed collard greens and kale topped with the parsley almond sauce. Yum! We just loved how fresh everything tasted. Afterwards, we took a look at what they were selling in the front of the cafe. There were some unusual things like freeze-dried tofu and some hard-to-find seaweeds. As we walked back to the car, I spotted a beautiful red-mohawked woodpecker in the trees (you may need to click the image below to enlarge it). I don't get to see birds like this often so that was a real treat. In sum, we really liked the gardens and the fresh food and found it reasonably priced at only $12 per person. This is a great place to go for fresh, healthy vegan fare in Austin.

    (4)

  • Tamara M.

    This is by far the best Vegan & macro-biotic restaurant in Austin!! Feels like home sweet home here! The staff is lovely, the food is incredible & sooooo reasonably priced!

    (5)

  • Molly S.

    If I could describe the atmosphere of this restaurant, I'd have to go with the word "zen." It's the ultimate HIPSTER vegetarian organic restaurant out there... However, it's just not my thing. By all means, I love vegetables, but the nothing about the vegetables here stood out to me. The salad and soup I had that day was very blech...especially the salad. Everything else on my lunch plate was ALRIGHT, but I would never come back here again. You pay a a set price for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. No ordering. The people brings out a set dish for you, but you have access to unlimited salad and soup (which changes everyday). Lunch was $14...pretty pricey for lunch if I may say. Ya ya, I get that everything is organic, but meh, not that big of a deal for me. If you are into that, by all means, this will be a good restaurant for you. It's just not for me...and I felt really out of place the whole time.

    (2)

  • Michael S.

    Step into the Zen garden of Casa De Luz and give yourself to the experience. One payment for a prix fixe menu of balanced vegan fare. I am not quite sure exactly what I ate but the soup, salad, balanced main course all combined to taste delicious and fill me comfortably. I plan to return often even though I am neither a vegan nor a vegetarian.

    (5)

  • Annie S.

    What an unexpected and pleasant surprise. I didn't read any reviews before I went here, I just hopped in. You enter a small oasis with a bunch a signage about a school and different therapies. You say to yourself, "I must be at the wrong place. Is this even a restaurant?" But you continue on and sure enough, delicious foods are indeed being made here. The place is organic, macrobiotic, vegan, gluten free and yummy. You pay $12 for a three-course meal that will make you feel satisfied and light on your feet when you leave. The salad dressing, soup, hot twig tea and iced lemongrass tea were my favorites. It's a rotating menu. I went here after arriving from a flight from Boston and it was just what the doctor ordered. The wait staff was friendly. And I even got to talking to another patron there who gave me a bunch of Austin recommendations. I've been in this city less than five hours and I am already crushing on it.

    (5)

  • Manasa D.

    I have mixed feelings right now. The ambience is serene, I am so at peace ... But the food has kind of disappointed me. If you've read my reviews before, you know im a vegetarian. I love vegan food. But I'm not feeling that love here. My vegetable lentil soup was warm and hearty.The salad dressing was outstanding. It's the entree I have a problem with. I get it,'it's healthy, portion control, what ever. But what I'm disappointed about is the complete lack of flavor in the entrees and the total disharmony of the existing flavors. Macrobiotic or not, the inherent flavors were missing. I'm assuming this is cos it's over cooked. I was left wanting. Every extra portion is an additional $2. It ain't cheap either. But it's quite kid friendly- nice play area, if your kids like macrobiotic food : good for you and them. Il come back. But just for the ambience. Il probably have something loaded with cheese before I get here , and give my kid a a slice of pizza though.

    (2)

  • Allison S.

    They change the menu daily and it's a great place. The food is wholesome, delicious and affordable. I would definitely recommend this place for dinner. Love casa and will be back.

    (5)

  • Nina S.

    I love Casa! I have shared some very special and magical moments with some of my favorite people here. Casa is a gem in Austin that allows you to step out of the concrete jungle and step into a quiet, peaceful zen garden where you will be nourished by the most delicious, and healthy high vibe cuisine..always prepared. with a whole lot of love. Well what else would you expect from the house of light? Also kid and family friendly.

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :7:00 am - 8:3

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Lunch, Dinner
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Quiet
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : No

Casa De Luz

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