I want to love Pingala, and 50% of the time, I do. The problem is that the place is very inconsistent. I'll have a meal I love, and then the next time I order the same item, it is tasteless, missing several key ingredients, or the recipe has changed. When they first opened, I ordered a pesto pasta, which was one of the most delicious pastas I've ever had. I excitedly went back the next week and ordered the same pasta, and it tasted like dirty water. Now it isn't even on the menu. As I said: inconsistent. This is true for Pingala's concept as well. It seems like every few weeks the hours change, as do the offerings. For example, they experimented with dinner and live music on Saturdays, but that has fallen by the wayside without notice.

I also wish they had more of a focus on whole foods. For example, all the sandwiches come on white flour tortillas and are served with Costco brand potato chips. Many of the items are fried or slathered in a very tasty, but probably not very healthy, spicy mayo. For a vegan restaurant, the plants don't seem to shine as much as I hoped they would. Perhaps this is because the emphasis is on comfort foods? I wish they had healthier options that weren't trying to replicate non-vegan foods. Vegan food that doesn't imitate cheese or meat is delicious too!

I must highlight that the baked goods are amazing, and most are both vegan and gluten-free. I've never gone wrong with a baked good from Pingala (but made by the local Four Sisters Bakery). With these treats, even a non-vegan wouldn't miss the eggs and butter.

I'm vegan, and I'm so grateful that someone has opened up a vegan restaurant in my area. It is exciting to be able to order anything on the menu. I hope they continue to refine their offerings and find their groove because this place has real potential.