While a rigorous workout at FFC West Loop can leave you feeling energized and content, dining out in the area shouldn’t make you nervous about derailing your healthy eating habits. After all, getting out and enjoying a meal (or a happy hour once in a while, like these nearby spots) not made in your own kitchen is an event to be celebrated! Check out these healthy restaurants in West Loop that will offer something for everyone – no matter what type of cuisine you prefer!
Greek Islands (Mediterranean) – 200 S. Halsted St.
The “Mediterranean Diet” is widely considered to be one of the healthiest diets around, focusing on high consumption of vegetables, nuts, oils, legumes, fish and whole grains, and low consumption of red meat, dairy products and processed foods. At Greek restaurants like this one, opt for vegetable or seafood dishes, and steer clear of the fried foods, red meats and cream sauces.
Healthy suggestions:
- Broiled seafood shish kabob
- Vegetarian plate
- Fresh whole fish
Haymarket Pub & Brewery (American/Pub) – 737 W. Randolph St.
Pub fare can be tricky when you’re watching what you eat, but that doesn’t mean it’s off limits. While you should probably skip the bun, pass on the fried foods and stay away from pizza, you still have many options to choose from for a tasty yet healthy meal.
Healthy suggestions:
- Pear salad
- Vegan chili
- Grilled chicken breast – No bun
- Diner-style burger – No bun, 1 patty only
Jaipur (Indian) – 847 W. Randolph St.
Bread, rice, ghee (clarified butter) and cheese are staples in most Indian cuisine, and it can be tricky to see past them to the healthier options. Avoid the fried samosas, paneer (cheese) and malai (cream), go easy on the rice and help yourself to dal (lentils), lean meats, and of course, plenty of vegetables.
Healthy suggestions:
- Tandoori chicken
- Mahi tikka
- Dal makahani
- Navrattan korma
Sushi Dokku (Japanese) – 823 W. Randolph St.
Traditional Japanese cuisine centers on fresh fish, tofu and vegetables, but more and more these days we’re seeing tempura, mayonnaise-based “spicy” sauces, cream cheese and even fried foods making their way onto the menu. In addition to these, many restaurants offer a wide variety of noodle and rice dishes to choose from, which can be overloaded with refined carbohydrates and sodium. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, opting for the more traditional fare is recommended.
Healthy suggestions:
- Cucumber and spiced tofu salad
- Nigiri or sashimi
- Northern California maki roll
- Ecuador maki roll (hold the wasabi mayo)
Viaggio Ristorante & Lounge (Italian) – 1330 W. Madison St.
When you think of Italian food, what comes to mind other than pasta, cheese, pasta, tomatoes and… More pasta? While most Italian menus feature more pasta dishes than anything else, there are indeed other options if you’re willing to branch out. If you are looking for a pasta fix, I suggest splitting an entree-sized portion with a friend or loved one, and avoiding heavy cream sauces.
Healthy suggestions:
- Salmon over mixed greens
- Chicken Viaggio
- Pappardelle shrimp and broccollini – Share it or box up half to go!
*Note: All menu items subject to change
Did we miss one of your favorite spots? Let us know in the comments!
Post written by FFC contributor.
