Healthy Restaurants and Cafes
Finding a restaurant that aligns with your health goals doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. Colorado Springs offers a growing selection of establishments that prioritize fresh ingredients, mindful preparation, and diverse dietary needs. Let’s delve into some standout examples.
Farm to Table and Locally Sourced Options
The farm-to-table movement is thriving in Colorado Springs, offering a direct connection between local farmers and discerning diners. This approach not only supports the local economy but also ensures access to the freshest, seasonal ingredients, bursting with flavor and nutrients. Eating locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of food, contributing to a more sustainable food system.
Consider visiting The Skirted Heifer, a local favorite known for its delicious burgers made with grass-fed beef sourced from nearby ranches. Their commitment to quality extends beyond the beef; they also prioritize locally sourced produce whenever possible, creating a truly farm-fresh experience. The ambiance is casual and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a satisfying and healthy lunch or dinner. You can find their current menu and hours on their website.
Another excellent choice is Summit, a restaurant with a menu that changes seasonally to reflect the availability of local produce. Their dishes are creative and thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the best of what Colorado has to offer. They frequently collaborate with local farms and ranchers, ensuring that their ingredients are of the highest quality and that they are supporting the community. Check their social media pages for daily specials highlighting the freshest harvests.
Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly Choices
The demand for plant-based options is steadily increasing, and Colorado Springs is rising to the occasion with a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly establishments. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, you’ll find plenty to savor in this city.
Heart Stone, a dedicated vegan restaurant, is a must-visit for anyone seeking delicious and innovative plant-based cuisine. Their menu features creative dishes that showcase the versatility of vegan ingredients. From hearty entrees to delectable desserts, everything is made with care and attention to detail. They are also dedicated to using organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their online menu details all ingredients and dietary options.
Another great option is Nightingale Bread, although not exclusively vegan, it offers a range of delectable vegan and vegetarian options, alongside their artisan bread selection. From hearty sandwiches loaded with plant-based ingredients to flavorful salads and soups, there’s something for everyone. Their commitment to quality ingredients and their focus on scratch-made items make them a popular choice for health-conscious diners. Check their rotating menu board for daily vegan specials.
Health Focused Casual Dining
Sometimes, you need a quick and healthy meal without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Colorado Springs boasts several casual dining establishments that specialize in wholesome salads, bowls, and wraps, perfect for a light lunch or a convenient dinner.
Modern Market Eatery is a popular choice for its customizable salads and bowls. You can choose from a wide array of fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy dressings to create a meal that perfectly suits your preferences. They also offer a selection of soups and sandwiches made with wholesome ingredients.
Bibibop Asian Grill provides a customizable Asian bowl experience with a focus on healthy ingredients. Build your own bowl with your choice of rice, noodles, protein, vegetables, and flavorful sauces. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
Paleo, Keto, and Other Dietary Specific Restaurants
Catering to specific dietary needs is becoming increasingly important, and some restaurants in Colorado Springs are embracing Paleo, Keto, and other dietary restrictions. These establishments offer menus designed to support these lifestyles, making it easier for individuals to stay on track with their health goals.
Ute & Yeti, although not exclusively paleo or keto, offers a variety of options that cater to these diets. Their menu is clearly marked with dietary information, allowing you to easily identify dishes that align with your specific needs. They prioritize whole foods and avoid processed ingredients, making them a solid choice for those following a specific dietary protocol.
Healthy Grocery Shopping and Markets
Eating healthy isn’t just about dining out; it’s also about making smart choices at the grocery store. Colorado Springs offers a variety of options for sourcing fresh, healthy ingredients, from bustling farmers markets to well-stocked natural food stores.
Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are a treasure trove of fresh, seasonal produce, directly from local farmers. Shopping at farmers markets not only supports local agriculture but also allows you to connect with the people who grow your food. You can find unique varieties of fruits and vegetables that you won’t find in a typical grocery store, and you can be assured that the produce is at its peak of freshness.
The Colorado Farm and Art Market, held regularly throughout the growing season, is a popular destination for local produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. You can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to locally raised meats and eggs. It’s a great place to support local farmers and artisans while stocking up on healthy ingredients. Check their website for times, location, and dates.
The Old Colorado City Farmers Market provides another wonderful experience, in a historical part of town. This market is a community hub, where you can not only purchase fresh produce but also enjoy live music and connect with local residents.
Natural Food Stores
Natural food stores offer a wider selection of organic produce, supplements, and healthy snacks than conventional grocery stores. They often have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance on healthy eating and specific dietary needs.
Natural Grocers is a popular chain with a location in Colorado Springs, offering a wide range of organic produce, vitamins, supplements, and natural health products. They are committed to providing affordable access to healthy food and educating their customers on healthy living.
Whole Foods Market is another excellent option, known for its high-quality produce, sustainably sourced seafood, and extensive selection of specialty items. While often pricier, their commitment to quality and their wide variety of healthy options make them a popular choice for health-conscious shoppers.
Tips for Healthy Grocery Shopping
Navigating the grocery store can be overwhelming, but with a few simple tips, you can make smarter choices and fill your cart with healthy, nutritious foods.
* Read Labels: Pay attention to serving sizes, calorie counts, and ingredient lists. Avoid foods with excessive amounts of sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
* Buy In-Season Produce: Seasonal produce is typically fresher, more flavorful, and more affordable.
* Shop the Perimeter: The perimeter of the grocery store is usually where you’ll find the freshest and healthiest foods, such as produce, meat, and dairy.
* Plan Your Meals: Planning your meals ahead of time can help you avoid impulse purchases and ensure that you’re buying healthy ingredients.
* Don’t Shop Hungry: Shopping when you’re hungry can lead to unhealthy impulse purchases.
Healthy Meal Prep and Delivery Services
For busy individuals and families, meal prep and delivery services offer a convenient way to enjoy healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Colorado Springs offers a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences.
Local Meal Prep Companies
Local meal prep companies provide pre-made meals that are designed to be healthy, convenient, and delicious. These companies typically offer a variety of meal options, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.
Fit Kitchen, a local Colorado Springs meal prep service, offers a wide variety of healthy meals that are made with fresh, whole ingredients. They cater to different dietary needs, including Paleo, Keto, and vegan. They offer both individual meals and meal plans, making it easy to stay on track with your health goals.
Lean Kitchen Company provides another option for healthy meal prep, focusing on lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Their meals are designed to be balanced and nutritious, providing you with the fuel you need to power through your day.
Healthy Food Delivery Services (National and Local)
In addition to local meal prep companies, several national and local food delivery services offer healthy options. These services deliver fresh ingredients or pre-made meals directly to your door, making it incredibly convenient to eat healthy.
Services like HelloFresh and Blue Apron offer meal kits that include pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes, allowing you to cook healthy meals at home without the hassle of grocery shopping. DoorDash and GrubHub, while offering access to many regular restaurant meals, also provide delivery from the health-conscious establishments detailed earlier in this article.
Healthy Drinks and Snacks
Staying hydrated and nourished throughout the day is crucial for maintaining energy levels and supporting overall health. Colorado Springs offers a variety of options for healthy drinks and snacks.
Juice Bars and Smoothie Shops
Juice bars and smoothie shops are a great place to grab a refreshing and nutritious beverage. Look for shops that use fresh ingredients and offer healthy add-ins, such as protein powder, superfoods, and greens.
Jamba Juice is a popular chain that offers a variety of smoothies made with fresh fruit and vegetables. Be mindful of added sugars and opt for smoothies with plenty of greens and protein.
Local juice bars like Good Karma provide a wealth of fresh juices and healthy smoothie additions to meet any nutritional need.
Healthy Snack Options on the Go
When hunger strikes between meals, it’s important to have healthy snacks on hand to avoid unhealthy cravings. Look for options like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, protein bars, and fresh fruit.
Most grocery stores and convenience stores offer a variety of healthy snack options. When choosing a snack, be sure to read the label carefully and avoid snacks with excessive amounts of sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
Conclusion
Colorado Springs is a city that embraces an active and healthy lifestyle, and its culinary scene is increasingly reflecting this trend. From farm-to-table restaurants to vegetarian-friendly cafes to bustling farmers markets, there are countless opportunities to discover nutritious and delicious food in this vibrant city. We’ve explored restaurants like The Skirted Heifer, plant-based options such as Heart Stone, and meal prep services like Fit Kitchen, providing a starting point for your healthy eating journey.
We encourage you to explore the healthy food scene in Colorado Springs for yourself. Try a new restaurant, visit a farmer’s market, experiment with a meal prep service, or simply make a conscious effort to choose healthier options at the grocery store. With a little effort and awareness, you can easily fuel your Colorado adventures with wholesome and delicious food, enhancing your overall well-being and allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty and energy of this remarkable city. Remember to prioritize fresh, local ingredients, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors and cuisines. Your health is an investment, and the vibrant food scene of Colorado Springs offers a wealth of opportunities to nourish your body and soul.
