Green Lotus, San Jose

With its artistic presentation and elegant garnishes, the vegetarian- and vegan-friendly Vietnamese fare at Green Lotus looks almost too good to eat. Once diners take in the dishes' aesthetic delights, they can enjoy its gustatory ones. Read on to learn about a few of the standouts on Green Lotus's menu.

• Bì cuốn: Rice paper envelops lettuce, fresh herbs, vermicelli, and shredded "meat" crafted with the restaurant's housemade tofu in this appetizer accompanied by "fish" sauce.
• Bánh khọt: Best described as a savory cupcake, this Green Lotus specialty features mung bean, coconut milk, and onion. It's served with lettuce, mint, basil, and fish sauce.
• Bún thịt nướng chả giò: This vermicelli bowl features egg rolls, shredded vegetables, and grilled, tofu-based "pork" served over noodles, lettuce, bean sprouts, and herbs with imitation "fish" sauce.