Jewel Brings Health-Conscious Eats to Virgil Village

While Angelenos might roll their eyes at the mention of vegan, vegetarianism or gluten-free labels, Jewel could change that perspective with just one visit. Located in Virgil Village (tucked between Silver Lake and East Hollywood), Jewel serves seasonal, local, and sustainable plant-based food that’s both approachable and easy on the wallet. The restaurant opened its doors this past February.

Jewel is the creation of chef Jasmine Shimoda (formerly executive chef of the now shuttered The Springs), and wife Sharky McGee, a Gjelina alum. The duo is focused on offering accessible, healthy and sophisticated plates for the neighborhood.

On the menu diners can find cleverly disguised vegan takes on crab cakes, a niçoise salad and even a Philly Cheesesteak. Jewel’s version of the cheesesteak is called the LAPhil, which comes in the form of a wrap. Braised yuba sheets take the place of steak and shiitakes, caramelized onion, pickled jalapeno, cashew fondu and scallion mayo come together to fill out the flavor profile.

This is not the first time the LAPhil has appeared on a menu. It received a cult following when Shimoda was chef at The Springs. Fans of the former restaurant will be excited to see it resurrected at a new location.

While Jewel is a plant-based restaurant, the menu is not exclusively vegan or gluten-free, as you’ll find items like breakfast burritos, pizza, noodles and donuts.

For now Jewel is BYOB and plans to rolled out a curated wine menu hand-picked by Den Haan from Vinovore, a wine shop steps away from Jewel who supports female winemakers.

Jewel is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:40 p.m.

Jewel is located at 654 N. Hoover St. in Los Angeles.