Healthy eating is a concept interpreted differently by everyone based on their dietary preferences. This guide focuses on locally owned restaurants in and around Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, that offer dishes generally considered healthy. While many people enjoy occasional indulgences when dining out, this list caters to those seeking options that are not overly processed, smothered in cheese sauce, or loaded with sugar. Many Champaign-Urbana restaurants offer healthier options on their menus or allow customization to suit individual preferences.
Restaurants with Healthy Options
Sun Singer (Champaign): While Sun Singer is well-known for its wine selection, cheese plates, and fresh bread, it also boasts healthy options. The specialty salads are a highlight, offering unique and flavorful combinations. For those seeking alternatives to salad, consider the steak wrap (without cheese), the black bean burger, or the chicken breast entree.
Farmhouse Restaurant at Harvest Market (Champaign): Harvest Market makes healthy breakfast and lunch choices easy. The vegetable omelet is a solid breakfast option, while "the pest" flatbread is a recommended lunch item.
Forage Kitchen (Champaign, Campustown): Located on campus, Forage Kitchen is a haven for healthy eaters, offering a wide array of nutritious and delicious ingredients. The greens and grains bowls are popular choices, and the menu provides ample opportunities to create a customized healthy meal. Forage is for flavor-healthy food that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your soul. Born in the heart of Madison, we pride ourselves on local health-conscious food. We craft specialty salads, hearty grain bowls, and tasty soups crammed with mouth-watering, wholesome ingredients that keep you happy and satisfed all day long.
The Poke Shack (Champaign and Mahomet): With locations in Champaign (at the Fields) and Mahomet, Poke Shack provides a variety of healthy choices. Poke bowls offer a customizable and healthy meal option with fresh ingredients. The Big Island Bowl is a popular choice, but customers can also create their own bowl to suit their tastes.
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Piato To Go Food Truck: Offering convenient and healthy food on the go.
Common Ground Food Co-Op (Urbana): Common Ground is not just a grocery store for healthy cooking staples; it also offers prepared foods. Their soups are a reliable and healthy option.
CoreLife Eatery: CoreLife Eatery is all about real food. Welcome to CoreLife Eatery, where clean eating meets bold flavor. Our menu is scratch-made with whole ingredients you can pronounce-and probably have in your own kitchen. We chop, simmer, roast, and sear everything right here, so you can enjoy meals that are craveable and clean. Fresh. Fast. Meet our latest limited-time lineup - the Mediterranean Meatball Bowl and Peach Bubbler Beverage. Our scratch-made meatballs are seasoned with bold Mediterranean spices, served over warm grains with fresh veggies, harissa , spicy hummus, feta cheese, and drizzled with tzatziki. Pair it with our refreshing Peach Bubbler, a lightly sparkling drink bursting with sweet, juicy peach flavor.
Market at the Square (Urbana)
From May to October, Market at the Square (and Market IN the Square during the winter months) offers fresh produce, raw local honey, and homemade baked goods. This is an excellent opportunity to stock up on healthy ingredients for home cooking.
Customization and Healthy Choices
Most restaurants in Champaign-Urbana offer at least one or two menu items that are healthier than others. Additionally, many establishments are willing to customize dishes to meet specific dietary needs and preferences.
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Forage: The Art of Happy Food
Forage Kitchen embodies the concept of "happy food," focusing on healthy options that are both delicious and nourishing. The emphasis is on crafting specialty salads, hearty grain bowls, and tasty soups filled with wholesome ingredients.
Catering with Care
For those planning gatherings, Forage Kitchen offers catering services, providing fresh and nutritious ingredients for a healthy spread. All from scratch.
Conclusion
Champaign-Urbana offers a diverse range of options for individuals seeking healthy meals. From restaurants specializing in nutritious dishes to markets providing fresh ingredients, there are numerous ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle while dining out or cooking at home. By exploring the restaurants and markets listed above, residents and visitors can discover delicious and healthy choices that cater to their individual preferences.
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