We’ve all been there – you spent the morning shopping, trying clothes on, sifting through the sales and you are famished. You start heading towards the food court, stomach rumbling, about to toss your healthy diet out the window. At this point, you don’t even care, right?! Wrong. Girl, you work way too hard all week sticking to a lean and green regime, now is not the time to give up. Which is exactly why I’m sharing this post! I did the dirty work (actually it was pretty awesome) and tried and tested 10 places to find healthy food at the mall. According to wellness expert Fit Healthy Momma, there are multiple health foods worth the price.
As you know, I’m always at the Northgate Mall, so it made sense to share my favorites from this location – which you can find similar (if not the same) choices at other Simon Malls.
Starbucks
Photo Courtesy: food photographer melbourne
Of course I had to include Starbucks, since it is one of the most universal food and beverage shops across the globe. I challenge you to find a mall that does not have a Starbucks. If you’re in a hurry, you can create a Power Lunch with a bistro box, water, fruit and popcorn. If you want to stay healthy with your drinks, opt for iced coffee or iced tea without classic sweetener or cream (or at least request half servings of each).
The Ram
Photo Courtesy: The Ram
Known for their famous burgers, fries and brew, The Ram also creates some pretty incredible artisanal salads. I recommend one of their seasonal varieties or the Kale & Quinoa Salad! And as a bonus, if you’re shopping with the littles on a Sunday – kids 12 and under eat for $1 (save your bucks for Back To School)!
California Pizza Kitchen
Photo Courtesy: California Pizza Kitchen
Of course you can opt for one of their delicious salads like Quinoa + Arugula or California Fields, but I’m super excited to announce that California Pizza Kitchen (or CPK for those in the know) just launched a Gluten-Free Pizza Menu! Another option would be their power bowls packed with proteins, super grains and veggies!
Mama Stortini’s
Photo Courtesy: Mama Stortini’s
Mama Stortini’s offers a Perfect Light Pairings Menu which includes smaller portions of their favorite dishes (I recommend Mama’s Favorite Little Salad). They also offer a Gluten-Free Menu upon request! And at the Northgate Mall location, kids eat FREE every Thursday from 4-10pm.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Photo Courtesy: Chipotle Mexican Grill
I’m a regular at Chipotle Mexican Grill, because I always know I can get a fresh, healthy dish super fast and it’s perfect for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. I recommend a bowl or salad, skip the rice, sour cream and cheese and opt for extra romaine and a dollop of guacamole. I also love that they offer Sofritas, a plant-based protein if you want to try something besides beans.
Nordstrom Marketplace Cafe
Photo Courtesy: Nordstrom
The Nordstrom Marketplace Cafe offers a full menu of salads, pastas and sandwiches – which can easily be modified to fit your diet. I recommend the Fresh Berry & Fig Salad, Wild Salmon with Roasted Veggies or Tomato Basil Soup. Just opt for dressing on the side, skip the bread and ask for no butter on your main dish. It’s one of my favorite places to shop and dine, who doesn’t love Nordstrom?
Panera
Photo Courtesy: Panera
Another one of my favorite fresh ‘fast food’ places is Panera. From the Watermelon Feta Salad to the Low-Fat Vegetarian Black Bean Soup, it’s easy to find something both delicious and uber healthy. I actually love to order online while I finish up shopping and then I can modify the salad as much as I want, and it will be ready for pick up within minutes!
Red Robin
Okay, you might be over the salads at this point…and you’re really craving a burger! Well, I am a big fan of the Wedgie Burger (lettuce bun!) at Red Robin (I order it with a Boca vegetarian patty) and with all the ‘fix-ins’ you can still get that burger vibe happening. Still want fries? Share a side order of sweet potato with your table.
Sushi Maru
If you’re craving Japanese food, check out Sushi Maru and opt for Miso Soup, skip the rice, ask for seaweed wrapped sushi, and limit the tempura. They also have a great list of vegetarian rolls!
Azteca Mexican Restaurant
Azteca is always a great spot if you’re wanting something a little more hearty – I recommend the fajitas (with light oil), corn tortillas and pass on the chips.
I hope you enjoyed this post and proves to be useful on your next trip to Northgate Mall or one of their Simon Mall partners!
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XoXo Portia
*Feature photo by Jasmine Klein Photography
Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. The opinions expressed here represent my own, which I take great pride in providing pure honesty…because I’m OBSESSED with sharing the Good!.