Indianapolis, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene, offers a growing number of restaurants catering to the ketogenic (keto) diet. This dietary approach, characterized by high fat, moderate protein, and very low carbohydrate intake, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including weight loss and improved blood sugar control. Whether you're a long-time keto enthusiast or simply exploring low-carb options, Indianapolis has something to satisfy your cravings.
Understanding the Keto Diet
Before diving into specific restaurants, it's essential to understand the fundamentals of the keto diet. The primary goal is to induce a metabolic state called ketosis, where the body burns fat for fuel instead of glucose (sugar) from carbohydrates. To achieve this, individuals typically limit their carbohydrate intake to 20-50 grams per day, while increasing their fat consumption.
CoreLife Eatery: A Customizable and Clean Eating Option
CoreLife Eatery stands out as a prime example of a restaurant where clean eating meets bold flavor. With a menu that is scratch-made with whole ingredients you can pronounce, CoreLife Eatery offers a customizable experience. You can enjoy meals that are craveable and clean, as they chop, simmer, roast, and sear everything right in the restaurant.
Keto-Friendly Choices at CoreLife Eatery:
- Salad Bowls: Opt for a base of spinach or mixed greens and load up on healthy fats and protein sources like grilled chicken, steak, or tofu. Add avocado, nuts, and seeds for extra fat. Be mindful of dressings, choosing oil-based vinaigrettes or asking for olive oil and vinegar.
- Grain Bowls (Modified): While grain bowls typically contain carbohydrates, you can modify them by requesting extra vegetables and protein while omitting the grains. For example, you could order the Mediterranean Meatball Bowl and ask for it without the warm grains, focusing on the fresh veggies, harissa, spicy hummus, feta cheese, and tzatziki.
- Broth Bowls: These can be a good option, but be sure to check the ingredients of the broth and any added sauces for hidden sugars or carbohydrates.
Limited-Time Offerings:
Keep an eye out for limited-time offerings that may align with keto principles. For instance, the Mediterranean Meatball Bowl, with its scratch-made meatballs seasoned with bold Mediterranean spices, served over warm grains with fresh veggies, harissa, spicy hummus, feta cheese, and drizzled with tzatziki, can be modified to be keto-friendly by removing the grains.
Convenience and Rewards:
CoreLife Eatery offers the convenience of ordering ahead through their app, allowing you to skip the line, stack the perks, earn rewards, and get exclusive offers. This can be particularly helpful for planning your keto-friendly meals in advance.
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Drake's: A Neighborhood Restaurant with Keto-Conscious Choices
Drake’s is a neighborhood restaurant and bar with an unconventional spirit, dedicated to giving everyone a place to come play. While Drake's might not be exclusively keto-focused, careful menu selections can make it a viable option.
Tips for Keto Dining at Drake's:
- Burgers (Bunless): Order any of Drake's burgers without the bun. Ask for extra lettuce to wrap the burger and load it up with keto-friendly toppings like cheese, bacon, avocado, and sauteed mushrooms.
- Steak and Seafood: Opt for grilled or pan-seared steak or seafood dishes. Request that they be prepared with butter or olive oil and served with non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or spinach.
- Wings (Carefully): Some wing sauces can be high in sugar. Choose dry-rubbed wings or ask for sauces on the side so you can control the amount you use. Be sure to inquire about the carb content of the sauces.
- Salads (Modified): Order a salad and customize it to fit your keto needs. Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, and choose a low-carb dressing. Be mindful of croutons and sugary dressings.
General Tips for Keto Dining Out
Navigating the Indianapolis restaurant scene while adhering to a keto diet requires some planning and awareness. Here are some general tips to help you make informed choices:
- Plan Ahead: Before heading out, check the restaurant's menu online to identify potential keto-friendly options.
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask: Most restaurants are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions. Don't hesitate to ask your server about ingredients and preparation methods. Request modifications to dishes, such as omitting sugary sauces or substituting vegetables for starchy sides.
- Focus on Protein and Healthy Fats: Prioritize protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs, and healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, and nuts.
- Be Mindful of Hidden Carbs: Sauces, dressings, and marinades can often contain hidden sugars and carbohydrates. Ask for these on the side or choose simple preparations like grilled or baked.
- Read Reviews: Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other keto dieters at specific restaurants.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
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tags: #keto #restaurants #Indianapolis