Spoiler alert: It’s vegan. You read that right. The truth about the best Mexican food in West Hollywood is at Gracias Madre.
If you told me to come to Gracias Madre for Mexican food then said it was vegan? I would have said, no gracias. If you’re a skeptic like me, a meat lover, you think vegan and flavor don’t mix. Well, I’m about to spill the beans on a place that turned this carnivore into a plant-based believer.
The Scene
The moment you walk into Gracias Madre, you’re in love. I recommend starting outside on the patio. Surrounded by olive trees and a bar suited to have your favorite cocktail, it’s the perfect spot to begin your flavor journey.
Now, it’s time to head inside. Gracias Madre’s beautifully whitewashed brick and high ceilings with exposed beams flooded with natural light surround you with colorful accents to bring the indoor and outdoor feel together.
Bold Flavors, Vegan Twist: Gracias Madre’s Must-Try Appetizers
With the perfect ambiance greeting you as you’re seated, now the real delicious adventure begins. You have to start with their Ceviche: hearts of palm, aguachile, avocado mousse, cilantro, and a dash of Aleppo pepper. One bite and your taste buds are thrown into a whirlwind of flavor—unexpected and exhilarating. Your brain is in a mind-maze that will have you wondering, How is this vegan?
Then comes the Esquites: roasted sweet corn topped with creamy cashew mozzarella, onion, chipotle aioli, cilantro, Brazil nut cotija, and a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper. Now onto the queso fundido, this dish was where I officially fell for cashew cheese—who knew it could be this good? Followed by the Tacos Ahogados, “Barbacoa” Tacos, and Gorditas de Chicaron. Surprise, surprise-pure heaven. And dessert: Tres Leches, Churros, and Pumpkin Cheese Cake. All vegan, all mind-blowing. I know, I couldn’t believe it either.
I didn’t feel like one thing was missing which proved one thing: Gracias Madre is where you can feel full, happy, and healthy all in one meal. Here, it’s all about taste—rich, bold, and unapologetic. Forget the cheese and meat; the secret lies in their ability to master the true essence of Mexican cuisine: delectable flavor.
Sip and Savor: Tequila Tasting at Gracias Madre
The food is exceptional but so is the tequila tasting. Here, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after the last sip. With a curated selection of premium tequilas and mezcals, this is your chance to explore the nuanced flavors of Mexico’s most iconic spirits. Sip on blancos, añejos, and reposados but don’t forget to order a cocktail, anything with a Tajin rim is a must.
The Visionary Behind the Flavors: Chef Diana Brisco
Beyond mouth-watering vegan eats and tasty tequila, the star of this experience is no doubt the Executive Chef Diana Brisco, a native Columbian who heads up the kitchen and is Head of Health. As she speaks, she immediately brings you full circle. There’s passion, and there’s purpose. Diana encompasses both. Not just for the food but for health.
Diana cooks based on her heritage but years ago was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and was told she could no longer work in the kitchen. Rightfully defiant, she asked, “Why?” “Why should I give up my dreams?” Instead of giving in, Diana fought to keep them. She went on to study plant-based nutrition and since learning how food can be medicine, she, today, is 100% cured of her Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Diana puts her heart and soul into everything she does and it’s easily apparent. She truly believes that if her message can affect even one person, her job is done. She believes we should all be vegan and with cooking and passion like hers, it’s not hard to be swayed.
Gracias Madre: Where Vegan and Flavor Unite
In the heart of West Hollywood, Gracias Madre stands as a testament to the fact that exceptional Mexican food transcends dietary boundaries. My carnivorous skepticism transformed into pure satisfaction, proving that the best Mexican food can indeed be vegan (don’t tell my mom).
Explore the menu, savor the flavors, and let Gracias Madre redefine your expectations.
