Auc Lac is a legend amongst the vegan scene. The owner Mai Nguyen pioneered the concept in 1997 in Fountain Valley after getting news from her doctor that she had a life threatening brain tumor. She completely healed herself by switching to a raw vegan diet.
In 2001, she met chef Ito. They shared a dream to serve and nourish people through a raw and cooked vegan diet. Together they created a menu that offers a fusion of Vietnamese flavors along with some other surprises. Ito educated Mai on how to make vegan cuisine that was far ahead of its time in health and quality of ingredients.
Several months ago, Au Lac opened its 2nd location in Los Angeles, making the Downtown area a mecca for vegans.
Ito calls the food Au Lac serves “Humanese” — food that honors the oneness of humanity. Chef Ito took a vow of silence almost 16 years ago, as an embodiment of peace. Buddha says to only serve love on the table; that is the compassionate mission of Au Lac.
The salt and pepper prawns, a delicately battered tofu with cilantro and jalapeño, have a surprising texture that pops with flavor. No need for a dipping sauce. The creatively prepared raw sushi rolls are also not to be missed.
The raw curried rice uses wild rice, spiced macadamia sauce, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, corn, avocado, cucumber, olives, onion, marinated mushroom, carrots, and cilantro, and is one of those dishes that should receive an award in the raw vegan hall of fame.
The donut holes are so coveted many people call early in the day to reserve their order before they sell out. Each warm, gooey donut hole is filled with sweet coconut nectar. The chocolate x-tasy says it all in its name as the dark chocolate with macadamia and coconut nectar dances with your taste buds.
Image source: Au Lac Facebook
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