Los Angeles, CA-  Raised by vegetarian parents, the LuxLady briefly returned to her roots with a recent visit to family owned Café Gratitude.  The all organic and completely vegan restaurant did not disappoint with its dizzying array of soups, salads, juices, smoothies, sandwiches and more in both raw and cooked form.

I Am Comforted

The LuxLady was blown away by the explosive taste that emitied from simple ingredients such as yams, brussel sprouts, maple syrup, and cashews.  Two must try dishes that are great for sharing are I Am Comforted which consisted of rosemary tinged, oven roasted yams and a ridiculously addictive spicy, cashew based nacho "cheese" and I Am Ecstatic which is a surprisingly yummy combination of roasted brussel sprouts and an organic miso-maple glaze.  Who knew brussel sprouts could taste so good?

I Am Ecstatic

There are many Mexican and Asian based specialties to be found among the entrees: I Am Transformed is made from two corn tacos with brown rice, black beans, guacamole, salsa and cashew nacho cheese; I Am Trusting consists of a zucchini-mushroom tamale with black beans and salsa verde; and I Am Terrific has Pad Thai noodles, red bell peppers, carrots, kale, basil, mint and scallions topped with crumpled teriyaki almonds and sunflower sprouts. I Am Grateful is a community supported grain bowl of shredded kale, quinoa, black beans and garlic-tahini sauce and has a suggested value of $7. Café Gratitude is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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I Am Transformed

Cafe Gratitude

639 Larchmont

Los Angeles, CA 90004

323-580-6383

www.cafegratitudela.com