Living a healthy lifestyle can be challenging, especially when traveling. Fortunately, Bloomington, Indiana, offers a variety of local eateries that cater to health-conscious individuals without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. From Mediterranean-inspired bowls to nutrient-packed smoothies and sustainably-sourced meals, Bloomington's healthy food scene has something for everyone.
Mediterranean Magic: Feta Kitchen + Cafe
Feta Kitchen + Cafe stands out as a prime destination for those seeking fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Offering a build-your-meal concept similar to Chipotle, Feta allows patrons to customize their bowls and flatbreads with a variety of healthy options. Begin by selecting a base, such as quinoa or greens, followed by a protein choice like lemon grilled chicken or falafel. Next, choose from an array of dips and spreads, toppings, and dressings, all made in-house.
Feta caters to various dietary needs, making it an allergy-friendly establishment with vegan- and gluten-free offerings. Notably, Feta is a peanut-free restaurant, ensuring a safe dining experience for those with peanut allergies. Patrons can complete their meal with fresh Za’atar fries, a refreshing smoothie with almond milk, or craft beer. For breakfast, Feta offers wholefood items, including smoothies, Greek yogurt bowls, and Paleo bars.
Sustainably Sourced: Hive
Hive has become a local favorite for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, thanks to its unique menu of fresh food in a fast-casual setting. While Hive offers some less health-conscious options, a significant portion of their menu emphasizes healthful offerings. Hive prioritizes sustainably-sourced ingredients, locally sourcing them whenever possible. Many dishes can be made vegetarian, vegan, and/or gluten-free upon request.
Hive serves brunch daily with a menu featuring both classic and modern dishes. Hive is located on the east side of Bloomington, Indiana. Hive offers catering options.
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Wholefoods and Baked Goods: The Inkwell
The Inkwell is known for its healthful wholefoods dishes, scratch-made baked goods, delicious coffee, and cozy ambiance. The Inkwell serves a variety of breakfast and lunch options, some of which are vegetarian- and vegan-friendly.
Smoothie Sensations: Rush Bowls
Rush Bowls offers a different approach to smoothie bowls, dividing its menu into three categories: destination, endurance, and wellness. Destination bowls & smoothies feature flavor combinations designed to transport you to another place. Endurance bowls & smoothies are meant to provide an energy boost, with many including protein for a great pre- or post-workout meal. Wellness smoothies & bowls aim to be nutrient-dense.
Poke Perfection: Sunny Poke Tea
Sunny Poke Tea is Bloomington's only dedicated poke shop, specializing in fresh, nutritious poke bowls. Sunny Poke Tea follows a build-your-meal model, allowing patrons to choose their base, protein, mix-ins, sauces, and toppings. Bowls can be made vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and nut-free.
CoreLife Eatery: Clean Eating, Bold Flavor
CoreLife Eatery emphasizes real food, offering a menu made from scratch with whole ingredients. The restaurant chops, simmers, roasts, and sears everything in-house, ensuring meals are both craveable and clean. CoreLife Eatery is all about real food.
Seasonal Specials
Local restaurants frequently introduce limited-time offerings that highlight seasonal ingredients and flavors. For example, a Mediterranean Meatball Bowl, featuring scratch-made meatballs seasoned with Mediterranean spices, served over warm grains with fresh veggies, harissa, spicy hummus, feta cheese, and drizzled with tzatziki, offers a hearty and flavorful option. A Peach Bubbler Beverage, a lightly sparkling drink bursting with sweet, juicy peach flavor, provides a refreshing complement to any meal.
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