I find food preferences fascinating. I wouldn't go so far as to call it a hobby, but I really enjoy knowing what friends and family like or don't like to eat. To me, it's a more detailed picture of who they are. So, when we talk about being open-minded about food, it can mean so many different things. My food perspective has evolved over the last few years and I think it has to do mainly with the fact that I live in LA, a city with excellent produce and lots of people who are vegetarian or vegan. While I haven't given up meat, I eat it less than I used to and have even become curious about places like Cafe Gratitude, which serves organic vegan food in Larchmont.
Aside from the vegan aspect, the restaurant menu may require more open-mindedness because of the names of the dishes. Nearly everything starts with I Am. For example, I ordered a berry limeade with sparkling water and mint that was called I Am Inspired (I wasn't able to get a good photo, so didn't include one in this post). So, let's just say, take a break from jaded cynicism when you step through the door and you'll be fine.
I tried the Yo Soy Mucho with quinoa and it exceeded my expectations. Very flavorful and surprisingly satisfying.
In case you're wondering if that's hummus you see there, the answer is no. It is cashew nacho cheese, which isn't very dairy-like, but provided a creamy consistency when everything is mixed together. Overall, I really liked my Cafe Gratitude experience. I'm not planning on trying everything on the menu, but will return for what I like to think of as the quinoa burrito bowl. There was a time when I would not have considered eating at a vegan restaurant. But, I've learned by now that being open-minded can lead to some of the best discoveries.
Cafe Gratitude
639 Larchmont Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 580-6383
Information on their other locations can be found
here.
