Fresh Mint

This vegetarian, vegan, and certified kosher eatery in Scottsdale puts a Vietnamese spin on meatless dishes, thanks to owner and chef Mai Ly, who, along with her husband, managed similar restaurants in Maui for more 20 years. On the corner of a strip mall, the atmosphere is casual and easygoing, with bright green walls, linen-topped tables, and '60s tunes in the ackground. Summer rolls, spicy lemongrass noodle soup, or green papaya salad are nice places to start; and for those seeking more "meaty" dishes, the vegetarian citrus "spare ribs," five-spice pho with marinated soy beef, or the guest favorite kung pao soy chicken, are some of the standouts.