In May 2007, a small, well-lit cafe opened up along Court Street in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. The epicurious wandered in; as they tasted Chef/Owner Jill Pettijohn's "vegan organic wild-crafted" creations, they were filled with delight, and knew they'd return.

While Jill's Cafe was new to the area, however, Pettijohn had years of experience satisfying discriminating palates. As personal chef to the stars and menu designer at resorts and spas across the world, the Australian sought to build a "bridge to a better lifestyle" to many New York elites. Through her cafe, she offers the same to the whole of the Brooklyn community.

Jill's Cafe serves a variety of vegan living foods, as well as "kindly cooked" grains and veggies (marked with a small "c" on her menu). Gourmet salads, daily soups, appetizers, sandwiches, entrees, and drinks are all available. Favorites include the open-faced sandwich/salad combo--fresh veggies piled high on homemade manna bread alongside a generous serving of greens--and the blueberry, avocado, and cacao smoothie, a must try!

Among the most popular of Jill's offerings are her handcrafted raw desserts. With no fillers and organic ingredients, expect to revel in bliss. Lots and lots of chocolate (cacao), rich nutty tarts, fruit parfaits, and thick puddings provide a sweet end to a light meal. Nut-free desserts are available.

If you eat in, Jill's treats you to a feast for the eyes with beautiful plating, and a large carafe of Reverse Osmosis filtered water. In the summer you might relax in the tree-shaded backyard. In cooler months, enjoy the warm wood dining area and indulge (a little less guiltily) in her nut-milk cocoa, chai, or hot herbal tea. Packaged to go are Jill's signature living crackers and cookies. The cafe offers gift certificates and holiday baskets, and is working on designing one-day classes on the preparation of living foods.

Jill's offers her Nutritional Cleanse Program, a five-day cleanse designed to rejuvenate the body and boost the immune system. While most cleanses require one to cease activity and leave one feeling weak and tired, Pettijohn's design allows for people to continue their normal activities while effectively clearing the body of toxins. She lends her 5-years of experience to guide each person through the period of transformation. Cleanse consultations, and follow-up meals to assist through a difficult and important post-cleanse period, are available.