Mary always thought she would be a painter or sculpture, but instead followed in her mother’s footsteps and became a chef extraordinaire. She lived in France for a while, studying the art of French cuisine at Le Cordon Bleu and then came back to Los Angeles to work as a head chef at a well-known Hollywood Bistro. At one point Mary became ill from living a “rich French” life and discovered the medicinal properties of food. She became one of those rare vegan chefs that could take an ordinary cashew and turn it into a tasty raw cheese spread: Or grind fresh almonds to magical produce the most delicious almond ice cream you’ve ever tasted.
Mary opened her first Organic Vegan Bistro here in Ventura, offering a “naturally delicious dining experience with consciously prepared food to nurture your mind, body and spirit”. Her menu of organic and natural ingredience include cooked and raw food entrees such as: Yellow Curry Stew, Vegan Shrimp Pad Thai (my personal favorite), Secret Sushi Roll Raw, and a myriad of other delicious combinations of fresh vegetables, raw vegan cheeses, a Secret Burger to “give up meat for” and desserts that will leave you richly satisfied, i.e. Organic 4 Layer Cake de jour, Raw Pecan Pie a la mode and much more. Mary also has a selection of organic fine wine.

This lovely little bistro feels like a delicate posh homey heaven in the middle of downtown Ventura. The prices are reasonable and the environment is cozy. Mary, her husband Hugo, and her friendly staff, make sure that everyone feels at home, and has a memorable dining experience. I’m so grateful for this wonderful first rate Vegan Bistro, 10 minutes from Ojai. Every time I eat there, I swear I’m going Vegan because you feel so light and healthy after a beautiful satisfying meal.
Be sure to make a reservation because it fills up fast, especially on the weekends. Mary is also offering a spectacular vegan Thanksgiving Lunch with exceptional trimmings. Call Tue – Wed. 1-4 p.m and Thurs. Friday & Saturday 11-9:30 p.m. 805-641-3663, 100 S. Fir St, Ventura 93001. You won’t regret it, even if you’re a meat enthusiast.