If you are a reader of this blog, you know that I’m not vegan. That said, I do however appreciate good tasting vegan food. I believe good vegan cooking requires more knowledge because chefs often forage into new territory with plant-based ingredients. I was fortunate to experience the food at the Counterpart in Echo Park.
Counterpart is located on the corner of Echo Park Ave and Delta St just west of Dodger Stadium and Elysian Park. The outside is lined with tables and chairs; the inside of Counterpart is modern industrial with an art deco flair. The interior has abundant natural light and I like that the seats are comfortable and the music sets a nice vibe.
Counterpart’s menu is plant-based and labeled “All Day Brunch”. Their selections range from Mexican tacos and breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros to shakshukas and Tunesian Frittatas. Sandwiches include a burger, pastrami sandwich, a Reuben sandwich, chicken salad, and a BLT.
Customers should read the specials on the wall sign. It is easy to overlook this because it blends in with their interior design and is not printed on a chalkboard or a neon-colored sign.
Their burger is delicious and it is difficult to tell the difference between this plant-based burger and one made with ground beef. Counterpart sources the beef substitute from Impossible Foods. The bun is flaky and croissant-like; with the truffle sauce and melted cheese, it was an amazing beginning.
Jackfruit is a common protein substitute in a vegan chicken salad. Counterpart’s jackfruit salad is made with a delicious vegan mayonnaise and mixed with sliced celery and fresh herbs, a slice of heirloom tomato, and bibb lettuce wrapped with toasted artisan seeded sourdough. The bread gave this an earthy flavor. I was quite happy with the combinations of flavor and the crunch texture.
On appearance, the Pastrami Sandwich knocked it out of nearby Dodger Stadium. The sandwich is made with brined beets and glancing at it, could easily pass for a pastrami sandwich. I enjoyed the crunchy texture of the coleslaw and the taste of the sandwich, but it didn’t quite taste like pastrami. Still, it was delicious and I would order this again.
The biggest surprise for me that day was their Mac and Cheese. It is made with cauliflower and I was blown away that the taste and texture was just like the real thing. Even after eating several bites, I found it hard to believe that I was eating cauliflower. This was my wife’s favorite item.
Whether or not you are vegan, the Counterpart is worthy of a visit. The chef has a keen sense of taste and texture and creates dishes that can easily pass as meat-based. Take a walk on one of the nearby trails at Elysian Park and you can feel good about the entire day.
Counterpart, 1559 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026; 213.221.7198
counterpartdeli.com