Hot Spot
Healthy Just Got Tasty Article Kathleen Blair | Photography Grabbagreen
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f you are like most Americans, you see the beginning of a new year as an opportunity for a new start. And, for most of us, getting in shape usually is on top of our list of New Year resolutions. But, healthy eating isn’t always convenient or accessible and can be confusing at times. Well, I am happy to introduce you to a new restaurant that makes eating healthy fun and tasty. Located off the 101 and Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Grabbagreen made its debut in August of 2013 and its popularity instantly grew.
A Healthy Alternative to Fast Food
Owners Kelley Bird, who has three boys, and Keely Newman, who has twin girls, have been best friends since high school. They wanted to be able to take their children out to eat where they knew they would have healthy, tasty meals that would be quick, easy and fun. Thus the concept of Grabbagreen was born using many of their own recipes. On my visit, I sat down with General Manager Mandie Lowran who quickly introduced me to a few of the 16 juices that are fresh squeezed and bottled every morning and perfect to grab and go. It’s like getting a meal or salad in a bottle. I tasted one called “Power” which is a combination of fresh spinach, kale, apple and lemon and was surprised how good it was. The healthy attributes of this drink are that it lowers blood pressure, boasts hemoglobin, reduces lethargy and fights infection. Another was labeled “Wellness” made with organic carrots, strawberries, apple and lemon and increases your energy, relieves heartburn, supports the immune system and reduces inflammation. Both were very good and I can’t wait to try 28 North Scottsdale Lifestyle | January 2014
some of the others. Lowran is excited about how the concept has caught on and all the new people stopping in to try their healthy drinks or meals. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary College who has worked 12 years in the restaurant industry, she became a testimony that healthy eating works. “I never thought I’d be one of those people who says vegetables saved my life, but that is exactly what happened,” explains Lowran. Having gotten very ill and unable to work, Lowran was desperate to try anything to regain her health. As she changed her diet to one of healthy choices, she recovered and hasn’t looked back. She is very passionate about good eating and loves to help others make healthy choices. “I advise new customers to give everything a chance by trying a few things on the menu,” says Lowran. She enjoys seeing the pleasant reaction to how good healthy eating can be. More Than a Juice Bar
There is a wide selection of reasonably priced hot and cold meals to choose from. You can even create your own meal by choosing an organic grain, a protein (chicken, salmon, shrimp, steak or tofu), add a choice of three vegetables and nuts, and then finish it with a low-fat sauce from the 10 available. I found the cold Patagonia salad to be very good and the protein bars an enjoyable and filling snack. Have fun trying all 18 Smoothies on the menu, or create your own.. The Feeling Fabulous is a healthy and delicious option made