This Los Angeles Vegan Spot Has Must-Try Enchiladas

Written by Júlia Almeida

Looking for a delicious vegan Mexican spot in LA? Look no further, Gracias Madre is known for its tasty enchiladas and many other traditional Mexican favorites as seen in this vegan food review.

After a few cups of coffee and munching on two bananas, I woke up absolutely starving! By the time I finally rolled out of bed, it was already noon. I had crashed late after a long day at a fashion show, and now my stomach was making funny noises. I had zero energy to cook, and all I could think about was enchiladas. Having lived in Mexico City for years, I know just where to get the best vegan enchiladas here in LA. Mexican food has always been close to my heart, especially since I’ve seen the whole vegan restaurant scene explode since the early 2010s across Mexico City and the Yucatán Peninsula, including Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

I couldn’t stop thinking about Gracias Madre, this killer vegan spot in Hollywood that totally stole my heart the last time I went. It was definitely time for a super late breakfast-brunch-lunch combo. The vibe there is cozy, with an inviting indoor area and a gorgeous outdoor space that feels just like hanging out at home with family. When I got there, it was already 3 PM, and I was greeted not just with the main menu but also with a tempting happy hour menu.

We kicked things off with two amazing appetizers: the “Coco Frito Calamari,” which are crispy coconut strips paired with fresh arugula, habanero salsa, and chipotle salsa—add lime, and it’s perfection! We also couldn’t resist the “Empanadas de la Casa,” stuffed with housemade tofu chorizo, rice, chickpeas, cilantro, onion salsa chipotle, pico de gallo, and topped with a tangy red cabbage slaw. And of course, I had to get an espresso martini made with house mezcal to really commit to the Mexican vibe.

But let’s be real—the highlight was the enchiladas! I was so ready for my main dish; the “Enchiladas Suizas,” loaded with roasted butternut squash, hoja santa, rajas, mozzarella, and creamy poblano sauce. This dish has been on the menu since the restaurant opened in 2014, so you know it’s definitely a must-try! The presentation was so colorful, and with the first bite, I felt like shouting out loud, “Gracias Madre!”

And I also couldn’t resist getting the “Crispy Oyster Mushroom Steak” on the side. I’m a total mushroom fan, especially when it comes to oyster mushrooms; they have the perfect texture, so they’re my favorite. Everything was just incredible! I feel so lucky to have gone vegan in Mexico, where the food culture makes it super easy to turn traditional plates into vegan options without losing their authentic flavor.

Gracias Madre is such a gem in LA’s vegan and organic restaurant scene. If you’re in town, do yourself a favor and check it out. You won’t regret it! I’m already planning my next visit to try the desserts. They’ve got some options that sound ridiculously delicious and traditional—I can’t wait to try the “Mexican wedding cookies & hot cocoa,” the super traditional “Churros,” and the famous “Tres Leches Cake.”

About The Author:

Julia Almeida is a Brazilian vegan writer and international model based in California. With over a decade of veganism, she has traveled widely, often during times when finding plant-based options was far more challenging than it is today. These experiences pushed her to discover creative ways to cook and uncover vegan-friendly spots within diverse cultural landscapes.

Through her work, Julia merges storytelling and advocacy, inspiring compassionate living. Passionate about animals, she is dedicated to raising awareness about fostering, adoption, and supporting non-profit animal rescues, encouraging others to recognize all animals as intelligent, loving beings deserving of respect and kindness.