Gourmet vegan dining in the San Fernando Valley, Madeline Bistro offers multicourse meals fit for a queen, vegan or not. Beet tartare, mac & cheese and Portobello fillets are just a few examples of the savory and satisfying choices you can enjoy at Madeline’s. There’s even a full-flavor vegan cheese plate to enjoy before (or after) your meal, as well as organic vegan desserts like crème brûlée and chocolate soufflé. The owner, Dave, is a French trained chef and makes my kids delicious sugar- and gluten-free birthday cakes as a special favor.

Let me know what you think of these options, or where you think I should try next in Los Angeles or New York. What makes your favorite eateries, pharmacies and bookstores so special?