About Us

It is hard to believe that in Southern California, a densely populated veggie paradise lacked a store in which vegetarians and vegans could walk in and pick out any shoe, purse, or belt without having to check the label for animal products or ask questions. But, until now, that was the case.

In October 2005, Lindsey’s vision for Humanitaire was born. With her fashion design degree and her love of animals, Lindsey created her retail concept. Her mom and business partner, Melanie, a real estate investor, began searching for the right retail location. The perfect location was in the SoBeCa district of Costa Mesa, @ THE CAMP, right across from Native Foods.

Lindsey worked for months to find the right mix of animal, people, and earth friendly products. Melanie’s love of unique- one- of- a- kind designs combine for a mix that is not strictly for vegans and vegetarians. While all products are vegan, Humanitaire also has unique items that also include jewelry, tees, and belts from local OC designers. We are constantly looking for items that are animal friendly, environmentally responsible and uniquely individual.

Humanitaire’s doors opened on May 4, 2006, to serve Southern California’s diverse vegetarian, vegan, and ethically minded community, with the opening of an art show to raise awareness of the factory farming of animals, entitled, “Food Without Faces.” For one month, visitors to our store were able to view the many unique art pieces from the US and Canada. Several pieces of art were purchased and are on display in the store, giving customers some food for thought.

On Earth Day weekend, 2008, our first Los Angeles location opened inside the newly-expanded Native Foods Westwood. The Westwood store closed on April 5, 2009 (due to Native Foods needing the space), but we plan to eventually have a full-sized store in LA.

We are dedicated to providing you with excellent customer service whether it’s an “in store” visit or on the web. It is our hope that you will find Humanitaire a favorite shopping destination.

Lindsey & Melanie