Enjoy Mendo's Menu & Motto

Located far from its namesake on the ruggedly beautiful North Coast, Mendocino Farms Sandwich Market recently moved north—yes, north—to Ventura County. The LA-based chain recently opened its first eatery here in the Westlake Plaza and Center.

The curious name is explained on the website: “Mendocino Farms pays tribute to the county in Northern California that is known for its support of the Slow Food Movement and sustainable farming.” That’s a mission we at Edible can get behind. The creative menu focuses on local ingredients tucked into sandwiches, salads and soups.

It features Drake Family Farms goat cheese, based in Ontario and sold at our local farmers’ markets. Scarborough Farms in Oxnard provides the greens, heirloom tomatoes and herbs for the salads and sandwiches. Many other ingredients called out in the menu come from producers in the Los Angeles area.

Under “Foodie Favorites,” the “Not So Fried” Chicken rolls roasted free-range chicken in “krispies.” Blue Buffalo, Not the Cow, in the “Classics ‘Mendo Style’” category, has free-range chicken with the twist of blue cheese cabbage slaw with the spicy Buffalo sauce.

There’s a selection of vegan offerings, like the flavorful and filling Vegan Banh Mi made with tofu and pickled veggies, and vegetarian dishes (Kale Caesar with a lemon Parmesan dressing and crispy wheatberries, for one). Some items can be made gluten-free, upon request. That they mention the gluten-free items share equipment with products that contain gluten is a nice touch.

Open for lunch and dinner, the airy restaurant offers a selection of wine and beer.

“Passion, People, Purpose” in large black letters punctuates a white tile wall in the kitchen area. Words of wisdom for any business.