Randi W.
Yelp
When I lived right next to Laughing Planet, I totally underestimated this place. LP is what every neighborhood needs: an affordable, healthy, locally-grown cafe with a seasonal menu and vegan options. Their menu is creative, and offers something for everyone.
I don't usually crave LP, but when I'm half starved and looking for something filling and good for me, LP is always there. It prevents a desperate run to burgers-and-fries fast food. LP understands somedays i want to keep it extra healthy and make it a salad with tempeh instead of meat. It's also there for me when I need a massive, gut-busting burrito made fresh from whole food.
Today's epiphany occurred after walking around to 8 restaurants in the rain, desperately searching for a St Patrick's day menu. Really I wanted shepherds pie. After several responses of "we don't have that/a special menu today", I was willing to compromise. I was just looking for mashed potatoes. Whatever. It's fine.
Then I walked by LP.
I remembered their mashed potato bowl. It would be les than $15 and fill me up. Progress!
THEN I saw their seasonal menu - an IRISH bowl (or burrito, you do you). For $9.50, there was a mound of Yukon gold mashed potatoes, some crunch kraut, sweet peas and carrots, shredded corn beef, and a tangy mustard dressing. LP is what I had no idea I wanted, but what I definitely needed.
Now I'm going next door for some mango lassi, and then on to home where I will not fall into a food coma, but be able to enjoy my afternoon, thankful and sated.