Reviewing Earth: Casual Mexican eatery serving vegan dishes in Phoenix.

The owners of Earth, Eric, Keyla, Marie, Keren, Kelsy, and their partner Martin began a vegan lifestyle about four years ago. Their mission is to help the planet and encourage others to recycle, reuse, reduce, compost, and care about the planet. They are determined to prove that veganism is more than just eating grass. And after dining at Earth, I can confidently say this is true. 

Earth Aesthetic is Good Vibes

Approaching Earth through the exterior hallway is a cheerful and colorful experience. Doily flags in all of the rainbow colors are strung on ropes and draped from the ceiling and edge to edge. Bright silver horse troughs used as planters with trees between the tables separate the restaurant and sidewalk from the parking lot and create alcoves for dining. They also help lower the noise from passing traffic.

The clever artwork painted on wood is eye-catching when you walk in the door. The vivid blue and green earth in bright primary colors is the background for the pastoral scene with a cow, pig, and chicken in a simple artistic style. A large blackboard attached to the wall encourages visitors with positive affirmations like “Radiate Positive Vibes; The Future is Bright; Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.” 

They stayed true to their mission during the construction of their restaurant. Their goal was to be as green as possible. According to their website, they recycled and repurposed many materials to create the bones of Earth. The tables and cloud ceilings are constructed from wooden pallets. The countertops, prep tables, and bar beams are all repurposed. 

The side counter holds two enormous water jugs with lemon slices from which customers can fill earth-friendly glassware. Recyclable utensils and paper napkins are easily accessible here, too. Small tables for two people outside allow diners to spread out and gain easy access to the restrooms at the end of the hall. 

Earth’s expansive vegan menu

Three large signs on the wall behind the register list their exciting menu. The list of five appetizers includes chips and salsa, buffalo wings, chorizo fries, nachos, and street-style corn; all looked tempting. Two flauta entrees stuffed with vegan chicken or creamy potatoes. A choice of six taco dishes and four handhelds (think burritos and sandwiches) rounds out the menu. Dining with kids? Not a problem, Earth offers two simple vegan dishes for a fraction of the cost. They also have options for sides and extras include ranch, barbeque, or Mexican beans and rice. 

Try the Crazy Shrimp Tacos

When I asked for their signature dish, the order was unmistakably for the Crazy Shrimp Tacos, the most popular item on the menu. How could I go wrong with a name like that? 

The crispy, crunchy cabbage filling complemented the three shrimp tacos perfectly. Warning: it was very spicy, which, for me, was a good thing. The vegan shrimp were heavily breaded and could have used more time in the crisper. While the edges were crisp, the centers were not. I enjoy a juicy, run-down-your-arms, hand-held taco or burger. These tacos did not disappoint. The tray (recyclable, of course) was filled to the edges. 

Ready for dessert? Enjoy a Monster Shake

Earth has a fairly expansive list of milkshake flavors, ranging from the classic vanilla or chocolate to the more unique chocolate peanut butter pretzel or strawberry shortcake. While enticed to try a vegan shake, I decided I better save this for my next visit. The crazy shrimp tacos filled me up. 

Earth Final Review 

The next time I visit Earth, I’ll come with a bigger appetite so that I have room to try one of their Monster Shakes.