Lucky, Grateful, Connected and Brilliant are just a few menu options at vegan eatery Cafe Gratitude.

According to Cafe Gratitude’s website, the restaurant’s goal is to “create a menu and environment that supports health and sustainability for both our community and the planet.”

The chain has six locations in southern California — Larchmont, Los Angeles’ Arts District, Newport Beach, San Diego, Venice and the newest location in Beverly Hills. 

On Friday night, I sat down for dinner at the new Beverly Hills location. Needless to say, I enjoyed my experience.

The location is modern and simple, yet it has a home-y vibe. The all vegan restaurant has greenery on the patio, interesting light fixtures and marble tables. It is aesthetically pleasing, and the candles on the tables add a nice glow to the restaurant. The new restaurant differs from past locations because it is more upscale and formal.

“What is a fear you have overcome?” my waitress at Café Gratitude said. She explained that the restaurant has a new discussion question everyday for diners. I found this to be quite creative and appreciated this new approach to conversation.

Each dish has a cheerful corresponding phrase, which is said when ordering; some examples are dynamic, eclectic and present. I found this too to be very creative.

After looking over the diverse menu, I ordered the Mucho, a Mexican bowl with black beans, lettuce, guacamole, pico de gallo, vegan cheese and a mix of quinoa and brown rice. The bowl was delicious, and I found the guacamole to be really good, as it was creamy and smooth. I loved how basic this bowl was, yet it had a great complex flavor.

I also ordered a pineapple and turmeric kombucha specially made for the restaurant along with my meal. The drink was unique and flavorful. For dessert, my family and I split Awakening, a slice of key lime pie. It was not the best dessert I have eaten, but for a vegan treat, I found it to be pretty good.

I was quite impressed by the overall ambiance and food in the restaurant, especially being a vegetarian. I would definitely come back  to Cafe Gratitude again and would recommend it to any vegan or vegetarian.

This location is located at 419 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA. The phone number is (424) 389-1850.