Your guide to healthier local lunches
When busy workdays and packed schedules leave little time to cook, grabbing a healthy lunch nearby can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re meeting a colleague, stepping out for a quick meal, or just need a convenient bite, you don’t have to sacrifice your health goals. With a few smart choices, you can enjoy delicious, satisfying meals around the corner from your workplace.
Check out these simple tips to stay on track while enjoying local eats — and our healthy lunch picks at some nearby restaurants!
- Look for Lean Proteins: Grilled chicken, turkey, tofu, or fish are your friends. Skip fried versions when you can—your energy levels will thank you.
- Build a Better Salad: Salads can be great… or sneaky calorie bombs. Stick to light dressings on the side, add protein, and go easy on cheese, croutons, and candied nuts.
- Swap the Sides: Trade fries for a side salad, fruit cup, or steamed veggies. Even asking for “half the fries” is a win!
- Watch the Drinks: Sugary drinks can double your meal’s calories. Choose water, sparkling water, or unsweetened tea to stay hydrated and energized.
- Be Portion-Wise: Restaurant servings are often oversized. Try splitting an entrée, saving half for later, or ordering off the lunch/small plates menu.
- Plan Ahead: Most restaurants post menus online. A few minutes of planning can help you choose something you’ll feel good about—before hunger takes over. Check out our quick picks for better-for-you choices at nearby spots below.
- Ancho & Agave: Opt for the Cauliflower Street Taco that is packed with fiber, low in saturated fat, and lots of vegetable goodness. The Sweet Potato Taco is another great choice. It’s packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. For a side dish, order the Black Beans or Refried Pinto Beans for a fiber-rich and nutrient dense choice.
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Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano: Try the Half Mediterranean Salad and Cup of Minestrone Soup for loads of fiber, lean fats and loads of veggies to get you full until dinner time. For a full meal option the Seared Salmon is rich in protein and omega-3s with moderate healthy fats.
- Avanti’s Italian Restaurant: A bowl of Cream of Brocoli Soup is slightly higher in fat that the Chicken Noodle Soup, but is more filling and rich in vegetables. Craving pasta? Order the Small Spaghetti or Mostaccioli for fiber and carbs for energy. The 8″ Vegetable Pizza Slice is a light and veggie-forward choice.
- Baxters American Grill: A large Baxter’s Sale with Grilled Chicken or Shrimp will hit the spot with lots of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and a lean protein boost. The large Beet Salad is full of antioxidant-packed beets and greens (ask for dressing on the side to control the added fats and calories).
- Buffalo Wild Wings: The Naked Chicken Tenders (grilled, no breading) is super low on calories and super high in protein, and the Grilled Chicken Buffalitos ordered with a light rub and no sour cream delivers protein and flavor without the extra calories. If wings are calling your name, opt for a dry rub instead of a sauce to keep calories and sodium low. A Garden Side Salad or the traditional Carrots & Celery side dish will round out your low-cal meal.
- Egg Republic: The Stuffed Avocado provides clean energy, heart-healthy monosaturated fats, and fiber, while its stuffed chicken salad topping offers satisfying protein without the bread. For a more traditional entrée, consider the Veggie Lover Wrap with the whole wheat tortilla and light cheese/dressing.
- Robb Dob’s Restaurant & Bar: The Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast Sandwich (on multi-grain bread) offers lean protein, avocado with heart-healthy fats, whoe grains, and fresh veggies. Consider swapping fries for a side salad or cottage cheese to avoid trans fat.
- Pop-Up Chicken Shop: Try the Crunchy Kale Salad for a delicious and customizable lunch pick. Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Adding grilled or pulled chicken provides a lean source of protein.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to be perfect—just intentional. A few smart choices can make a big difference in how you feel during the day (and after). Whether you’re grabbing something quick or enjoying a sit-down meal, healthy eating is always within reach.