Jewel

Jewel is a hidden gem. A few minutes from Sqirl, where people wait up to an hour for brunch, you’ll find some of the best food in the neighborhood: best because it tastes good, but it also makes you feel good. Jewel is a plant-based restaurant, but not necessarily vegan or gluten-free (although if you happen to be looking for this, you’ll feel at home at Jewel): to quote their philosophy, only “refined sugars, processed ingredients, and products of industrial agriculture are never welcome”. Expect forbidden fried rice, pizzas, The Impossible Burger, grain bowls, deliciously cream chia puddings, spicy lychee ceviche, vegan doughnuts, avocado toast with a cashew-herb spread and house pickles, and more. The best thing on the menu, by far, is a plate of coconut meat tacos which is out of this world. Another reason to love Jewel? It’s helmed by wife-and-wife team Jasmine Shimoda and Sharky McGee, respectively from The Springs and Gjelina. Jewel is still BYOB for now, but guests are encouraged to get a bottle at sister-wine-shop Vinovore, which features female winemakers in a friendly environment.