Mana Food Bar
Creative, unpretentious vegan.

Laine De Leo
This bustling locale is especially wonderful with a cozy outdoor patio set up for people watching in the funky Wicker Park area. 

Mana, meaning "the lifeforce in nature", has excellent service along with a classy, unpretentious atmosphere.  The simple yet extensive menu covers a multitude of fresh & healthy options with unique ingredients and combinations. Being a nutritarian (one who chooses the most nutrient dense food selections available), I of course love vegan restaurants.

The thinly sliced beet with arugula and apple salad is absolutely perfect.  I could eat that all night long.  My other recommended summer day must-have is the Jicama & Mango with cucumbers, cilantro, and chili lime salt. So tasty and refreshing!  Truth be told, the fresh watermelon mint sake cocktail is reason enough to return.  

I am eager to visit for the 4-6pm daily special of 2 hearty brown rice and mushroom burger sliders (they're outstanding), and beer (Sapporo, Bells, Lagunitas, Avery, or Two Brothers) for $7.50!