Once the last pieces of confetti are swept off the the floor and the hangovers are finally cured, it’s officially time to get cracking on your New Year’s resolution to get in shipshape. And while eating out can be the downfall of every diet, Baltimore-based registered dietician Deborah Kauffmann believes that being mindful of what you eat is more beneficial than unrealistic restrictions, which means going out to restaurants can still be an option even if you’re watching your waist. “There’s a lot of stigma about eating out, but enjoyment is part of the mindfulness,” says Kauffmann. “I really recommend not setting a weight loss goal but eating mindfully, and enjoying what you eat—it keeps you feeling fuller longer.”
With that in mind, check out these restaurants focusing on organic, natural, and healthy foods that will leave you feeling guilt-free when the check arrives.
Nalley Fresh: This create-your-own lunch bar serves up fresh salads, wraps, and its famous “Superbowls” using fresh ingredients of your choice. We’re not talking about the kind of bowls that you pile mile high with sour cream and guac. Nalley Fresh offers everything from fresh fruit to sweet potatoes that can be added into your concoction, making it a healthy, protein-loaded alternative to the greasy favorites that sabotage diets. Multiple locations including 120 E. Baltimore St., 443-220-0282
Liquid Earth: In addition to its extensive list of all-natural juices, smoothies, and veggie shots, the entirely vegetarian and vegan menu of this healthy cafe showcases meatless versions of classic sandwiches. Favorites include the “Meatless Muffuletta,” made with roasted peppers and smoked provolone, and the “Filly Cheese Phake,” stuffed with marinated organic tofu and caramelized onions. 1626 Aliceanna St., 410-276-6606
The Flying Avocado Cafe: Salads become boring when you’re adhering to a strict diet plan, but this charming cafe offers unique salads with flavorful mix-ins ranging from capers and artichokes to honey coated walnuts. Other offerings include gluten-free wraps, specialty sandwiches, and made-to-order protein shakes and smoothies, perfect for a post-workout fix. 10210 S. Dolfield Road, Owings Mills, 443-471-2600
GrindHouse Cafe and Juice Bar:: Juicing is all the rage these days. If you’re kicking off 2015 by trying a new cleanse, stop into this vegan restaurant and sample any one of its unique juices and smoothies blended with ingredients like apples, ginger, beets, and carrots. The menu also features what GrindHouse calls “guilt-free cuisine,” which includes a nice selection of healthy salads, wraps, and sandwiches. 2431 St. Paul St. 410-366-2441
Great Sage: If you’ve been recently reading up on preservatives and GMO’s, and would like to focus on eating more organically this year, this wholesome restaurant will keep you on track. Chef Adam Pierce fuses organic and sustainable ingredients into each of the menu’s elegant dishes. Vegan versions of classic comfort foods truly shine, with offerings like buffalo cauliflower salad, meatless potpie, pumpkin empanadas, and a Reuben sandwich made with marinated tempeh. 5809 Clarksville Square Drive, Clarksville, 443-935-9400
Teavolve:: This neighborhood hangout is the perfect place to grab lunch with a friend or partake in an office happy hour without totally going off the rails when it comes to your diet. As its name denotes, the wide selection of loose-leaf teas reign supreme, and tasty eats on the menu include gluten-free crepes, veggie wraps, black bean burgers, and a grilled salmon salad. 1401 Aliceanna St., 410-522-1907