This Blog Is a Love Letter to a Community Union
If you’ve been following my Best Vegan Burgers in LA journey, you already know this — I haven’t been writing blogs for every stop. Most of the storytelling has lived in video, comments, DMs, and real-time conversations with the community.
But this one felt different.
This wasn’t just about trying a restaurant.
This was about listening.
So many of you told me, “You have to go to All Vegan Franks.”
And almost immediately after, “You’re not done — Lucky Catsu is right there too.”
Âu Lạc — Slowing Down, Listening, Receiving
Some places don’t rush you.
They don’t ask for performance.
They invite you to arrive exactly as you are.
That’s what Âu Lạc felt like to me.
This wasn’t just another Food Review Friday. This was one of those moments where food, space, and timing align — where you realize you’re not just eating, you’re receiving.
The Pizza Class That Reminded Me What Community Feels Like
There are restaurants you enjoy… and then there are restaurants that become part of your story. For me, Donna Jean has never been “just dinner.” It’s been community. It’s been comfort. It’s been one of those rare places that feels like it sees you back.
PETA’s ThanksVegan at Kindred Spirits Care Farm — A Celebration of Compassion, Love, and Light
There are certain traditions that feel less like events and more like homecomings — and PETA’s annual ThanksVegan at Kindred Spirits Care Farm has become one of mine. This was my third year showing up for this gathering, and every time I step into this space, I feel something in me soften… open… realign. It’s something I truly look forward to every year because it reminds me why compassion is at the center of everything I do.
The Best Review of the Year: Gorganson’s Plant Love 🫀
Every now and then, a restaurant reminds me why I fell in love with food storytelling in the first place. Gorganson’s Plant Love: homed right in the heart of Downtown Pomona, did exactly that. It sits quietly on a calm little street, offering two hours of free parking and a welcoming energy that feels like home the moment you walk in. The vibe is cozy and modern, with a hint of warmth that tells you this place was built with intention.
But the real story starts with the name. Gorganson’s was inspired by the owners’ son who grew up on hemp milk and unknowingly became the heartbeat of the brand. Every recipe, every bite, carries that same sense of love and creativity.
This is what plant-based comfort food looks like when it’s done with purpose.
My Top Ramen for a Reason — Red White Boneless Ramen in DTLA
And this is why I had to put you on.
You ever take one bite and know the rest of the meal isn’t making it past you? That was me the second that sesame ramen hit the table at Red White Boneless Ramen. I’ve loved them since the early days — back when Studio City was the go-to. But something about this downtown LA location feels like a secret you want to keep, but absolutely can’t.
My Top 5 Vegan Spots in LA (Found on Happy Cow)
If there’s one thing Los Angeles always gets right, it’s vegan food. But finding the right spots — the ones that actually deliver — takes a little exploring. Thankfully, @happycow makes it easy to uncover the best of the best. These are the places I go back to again and again — each with its own story, its own flavor, and its own kind of magic.
🐮🌱💜
Vegatinos: Vegan Latin Comfort Back in NoHo
Another @happycow find, Vegatinos has officially made its return to North Hollywood. Once a neighborhood favorite, they closed for a bit and reopened this year. They’re now sharing space with Leonor's Vegetarian Mexican Restaurant on Victory Blvd and the comeback is worth it. 🐮🌱
Lotus Vegan: A Happy Cow Gem in NoHo
Found through @happycow, Lotus Vegan in North Hollywood was one of those recommendations I had to check out — and it did not disappoint. This place is vegan, bold, and unapologetically flavorful. 🐮🌱
Mr. Charlie’s in Brentwood — A Full Circle Moment for the OG Vegan Storyteller
Mr. Charlie’s was the first brand that made me press record. From that first video in 2022 to their newest Brentwood opening, this blog is a full-circle love letter to the brand that started it all — and why I’m still inspired by their mission, growth, and unapologetic flavor.
This Blog Is a Love Letter
After five years of living plant-based, I’m finally creating space to tell the stories behind the meals, the culture, and the moments that shaped me. This blog is a love letter — to the journey, the flavors, and the people. Welcome to a new chapter.