After visiting San Francisco about 5 times in the past 2 years knowing fully well about Cafe Gratitude, I finally made it. And it was more than worth the wait.
cut to today: walking about 20 blocks, taking the Bart and 2 buses, I arrived. I am here.
it's no wonder it's such a challenge for people to stay healthy, and especially raw, while traveling. Most people won't endure the above trek in order to achieve a healthy meal.
After arriving... again after ordering, and while eating...and once again after I am finished: I feel such gratitude.
I feel thankful for this beautiful food, for the love and intention that goes into every bite and sip, for the gracious and kind staff, for small details such as the Question of the Day (today's: What are you devoted to?) for The Present Moment, and for my deep awareness of my body and my health to bring me to such a conscious place for lunch.
Here's what I ordered: 'I Am Healthy" Green Veggie Juice, followed by "I Am Giving" Asian Kale Salad with Teriyaki Almonds, sea vegetables and sesame seeds. For dessert (you can't skip dessert when doing a review for a restaurant-it wouldn't be fair) I had the raw Pecan Pie called "I Am Perfect" with Pecans and Dates and a Macadamia nut crust. mmmm. Afterward, while walking around the beautiful store, letting my food digest and my heart absorb my surroundings, I sipped on a cup of mint green tea with ginger and spices. ("I Am Charmed")
I consider it a treat to be in such an amazing environment. I definitely don't take it for granted. Every time I walk in such a place, i feel humble and gracious.
I feel at home here. I can sit Indian style like I would at home. I can ask questions that matter to me and know that they will be acknowledged and respected. There is a lot of love being felt here... the staff just had a group hug, for example. This is exactly how life is in my bubble, in my head, in my heart.
For now, all i can say is that until I can create my own sanctuary, my own yoga studio-juice bar-restaurant-safe place...
I'll be venturing to Cafe Gratitude to fulfill these desires.