Restaurants have never been accused of being holistic centers. Pleasure, yes. Vitals, no. Just opened in Little Italy, Café Gratitude is part of the growing trend of restaurants changing that. At their locations in L.A., yoga-pantsed celebrities go nuts for its lighter, plant-based (vegan and vegetarian) fare. Dishes are named after life affirmations (“Open-Hearted” buckwheat pancakes, “Humble” curry bowl), and it’s a three-healthy-meals-a-day operation. Breakfast is baked goods (try the gluten-free cinnamon roll). Lunch is sandwiches/wraps/bowls/bruschetta (with basil–hemp seed pesto). Dinner is noodles, ancient grain pizzas, and entrées (asparagus risotto with Brazil-nut Parmesan). Know that inspiring and vaguely annoying friend who’s a walking beam of healthy, balanced soul glow? This is it. Nom-nom-namaste. 1980 Kettner Blvd, Little Italy
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Photo by Paul Body