WHY For richly flavorful and sustainably produced modern comfort food—for vegans and carnivores alike—at moderate prices. Ask about dinner parties in her kitchen.

WHAT Jennie Cook’s homey style of cooking suits her Pennsylvania Dutch roots—but the surprise is the commitment to sustainability and health. Her kitchen turns out great briskets and bacon-wrapped dates as well as sophisticated vegan and vegetarian dishes, and she’s made a serious commitment to use local and organic goods, to recycle and to run an environmentally responsible business. She’s also become locally famous for leading the fight to make LAUSD serve healthier foods in schools.

WHO Brides, bar and bat mitzvah celebrants, film-shoot producers and opening-night party throwers.