MMMMadre

The lovely Elise, the tiny Michelle and I all converged at the new Gracias Madre for lunch today. This place, located in (as Elise so aptly called it) the 'vegan vortex' (Weird Fish, Minako, Herbivore), is a very welcome addition to the Mission dining scene. And I can overlook its connection to the sometimes-questionable Cafe Gratitude, because the food and atmosphere is so top-notch. Gorgeous place with high wood chairs, big wood tables, a great collection of Mexican art. Our server was sweet as vegan pie. But best of all, the organic menu: be sure to try the roasted brussels sprouts, nestled in a crock with melty cashew cheese and toasted breadcrumbs. My tacos - butternut squash and a most earthy, deep-flavored mushroom, both drizzled with soy crema - were accompanied by excellent black beans...You get three for $10, so maybe you too will have leftovers. Elise loved her tamales, and Michelle, her cinnamon/chile hot cocoa. Viva madre! Yo soy hermoso!...Oh wait, we're not at Cafe G, scratch that last one.