Living

The Health Conscious Canadian Restaurants You Need To Try

 

If you are currently on a health kick or looking to add some greens into your diet, but don’t have the time to cook, these are some of Canada’s go-to healthy restaurants. From zucchini noodles to vegan meat-free options, to nut cheeses, there’s a restaurant that has something to fit every health craze out there. It can be difficult to find a balance between feeling your best and eating nutrient-rich foods while curbing your cravings. Check out our list of restaurants that are sure to fulfill your every desire for a healthy yet tasty meal to fuel your busy day.

 

TORONTO

Fresh
The Toronto homegrown vegan chain has been around since 1993. Fresh has a trendy approach to a plant-based diet as they have created some extremely creative menu items like the Flying Cashew Burger and Mineral Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Shakes. Pop into one of the five bustling locations for a micronutrient-rich Instagramable meal.

Planta
At first glance, Planta just looks like another pretty restaurant that makes for some cute pictures. Chef David Lee designed an entirely plant-based menu to fit customers with strict diet requirements. The chic restaurant with leafy mural-covered walls and Greek tiled counters sits in the heart of Yorkville. Everything on the menu is presented so beautifully it almost looks too pretty to eat. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the watermelon poke, coconut ceviche, cauliflower tots, carrot dogs, and the Habibi salad which integrates Lee’s grandmother’s split pea recipe. Even the cocktails have a healthy twist at Planta, as the base is made from fresh pressed juices sourced from Village Juicery.

 

VANCOUVER

The Acorn
This award-winning restaurant and bar situated at 3995 Main Street is a popular destination for those seeking out of the ordinary meals made from fresh local ingredients. The summer menu currently consists of carefully crafted dishes such as a garlic scape made from a basil and cashew paté, Yu Choy which incorporates browned hazelnut butter and roasted rhubarb, beer-batter halloumi, summer squash and more. Many of the menu options are gluten-free, raw, and vegetarian.

Tractor
Unlike some of the previously mentioned restaurants, the Tractor chain has a menu designed for those with food sensitivities including nut allergies. Their allergen and dietary fact sheets make this an uber friendly restaurant for those that suffer from nut sensitivities, allergies or diabetes. The five-year-old brand allows customers in a hurry to pre-order their meals through the online app Tractor Foods or on the restaurant’s website. Fan favorites from this Vancouver chain include the Grilled Avocado Bowl and the Wild Coho Salmon Bowl. The menu also boasts a range of health conscious and affordable soups and sandwiches.

 

OTTAWA

Green Rebel
Green Rebel is an Ottawa local favorite. With multiple locations, you’re sure to come across one while exploring the city. At the Green Rebel the motto is “Don’t eat less, just eat real.” In order to show people that they don’t need to restrict their portions on crazy diets to feel good about their food, this restaurant has designed Buddha boxes, rebel bowls, smoothies, wraps and more. The Green Rebel is great for a takeout lunch or for a sit-down brunch with friends. With chicken, fish, and vegan menu options, there’s something for everyone.

Blossom Vegetarian Café
This café, which caters to vegetarians, is located at 209 Gilmour Street and is open every day of the week except Sundays. Blossom Vegetarian Café use mostly local produce to create their homemade dishes. The menu boasts vegan as well as gluten-free options and a wide range of cuisine which includes a Japanese salad and Indian rice bowl.