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Casa de Luz Restaurant Review: Casa de Luz is hidden in a lush, shady compound a stone’s throw from downtown. So tucked away in its own forest, one can’t even detect the neighboring high-rise condos that sprout by Lady Bird Lake. The vegan cuisine is prepared according to macrobiotic principles, creating a seasonal and balanced menu. To a vegan, Casa de Luz may be a mecca, yet even meat-eaters dine here frequently. Each day there is a set menu consisting of five to seven items, and the freshness of the vegetables is obvious. A non-vegetarian may find one or two items on the bland side, but each plate always includes some compelling tastes, including pesto, often dolloped atop grains or mixed vegetables. Meanwhile, house-pickled beets, daikon and red cabbage are more delicate and distinctive than one would expect. Perhaps the menu’s best achievement is its selection of gluten-free and dairy-free desserts---good enough to pack a dozen for the road. If there's a downside, it's that there's no alcohol available.