Gracias Madre

It should be said, right off the bat, that Gracias Madre is beautiful. A cross between Mexico City chic and Palm Springs casual, this vegan Mexican restaurant in West Hollywood (and Orange County’s Newport Beach) is decorated with festive cushions and tiles, a gorgeous courtyard and, inside, high ceilings and a comfortable bar. Wherever you choose to sit, order the guacamole—it’s truly fantastic. The queso fundido with warm house made cashew cheese, jalapeño, tomatoes, pico de gallo and chips is another favorite starter to share. For dessert, a more traditional option might be the tres leches cake, but the churros are the way to go, as is the mezcal-spiked horchata latte. The bar stocks an impressive tequila selection, too—because hey, margaritas are definitely vegan.