When Crossroads Kitchen debuted two years ago, it was a tough reservation to snag. The swanky West Hollywood eatery earned high marks for its gourmet vegan cuisine and attracted a bevy of A-list fans including Sir Paul McCartney, Jay Z and Beyonce. For those of us on NOBREAD and plant-based diets, Crossroads was a dream come true; a chance to swap our yoga pants for little black dresses and dine without worry on tasty food that even carnivores would love…
About half the veggie-focused menu is GF and clearly labeled, and some mainstream dishes can also be made GF on request. Chef Tal Ronnen, who has cooked for Oprah, Ellen DeGeneres, Arianna Huffington and the US Senate rose to fame with vegan “makeovers” of popular mainstream dishes. At Crossroads, and in his NYT best-selling booking The Conscious Cook, he demonstrates that plant-based, GF food doesn’t have to be boring.
Recently, Crossroads did away with their lunch service, and has launched a daily brunch in its place! Featuring a gluten-free French Toast that was one of the best I’ve ever had, multiple salads, a delicious side of gluten-free roasted potatoes, and more, now everyones favorite meal of the week can be enjoyed everyday! Crossroads carries gluten-free bread, and I’m so glad they do, because the classic “egg” sandwich made with tofu and algae can now be enjoyed by us gluten-free folk, as well as several of the other sandwiches! On our recent visit to the restaurant, I enjoyed the spinach salad with garlic vinaigrette and spicy carrots, but I’m told the “mountain” of kale caesar (minus the garlic focaccia croutons) is a must try! For dinner, the menu and range of gluten-free options expands, and the flatbread (request GF crust), crab cakes made with hearts of palm and postcard-perfect artichoke oysters are crowd favorites!
I’m looking forward to returning for the sold-out Kite Hill cheese plate, Ronnen’s own dairy-free line (made from almond milk)! Most of the desserts were GF, and the gluten-free and vegan hot fudge sundae is calling my name.
Crossroads has a full bar, excellent wine list and NOBREAD approved non-alcoholic beers. There are also two luxurious private dining areas adorned with antiques and collections of interesting vinos. Whether you’re seeking a vegan soulmate (head for the bar) or a hipster parent trying to feed your kids right (main dining room), Crossroads has something for everyone. Stilettos and sneakers welcome.