Gourmet Lettuce Wraps The WELL Coffeehouse Pub & Eatery 21980 E. Country Vista Drive
Crisp, delicious lettuce wrapped around fresh ingredients, with options including Thai Chicken, Thai Shrimp, Chicken Pesto, Mediterranean, Turkey Caprese and more.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT One of The WELL’s most popular items, the lettuce wraps also represent the mission of Natalie Gauvin’s 3-year-old gourmet cafe, part of a menu featuring many gluten free and organic options. Gauvin believes in sustainability, slowing down and eating well. “Our lettuce wraps are fulfilling in so many ways other than your appetite,” Gauvin said. “They are full of protein, vitamins, minerals and whole-food ingredients. They feed your body’s energy. It’s about eating well and being well.” While many people enjoy the coffeehouse feel and offerings at The WELL, much of its success is found in how this easygoing vibe extends into dining options as well. “Not fast food; healthy food fast,” Gauvin said. “You can grab-n-go with many items or choose a made to order gourmet sandwich or Acai bowl.” Gauvin said all the dishes improve health and wellness in part because they are nutritionally complex. The various ingredients together complement one another, making the impact on the body more complete than if the ingredients were eaten at separate intervals. Even the hummus has 12 ingredients, including 3 fresh organic herbs and organic tahini. All items are made from scratch. “I always coach my clients to never eat a piece of fruit by itself,” Gauvin said. “Always consume it with some protein and fats, such as an apple with peanut butter or a banana with almonds.” In addition to sustainable food options, The WELL serves coffee, tea, smoothies, beer, wine and more from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. Though The WELL closes to the public at 4 p.m., that’s often because the kitchen remains open for private events and catering. For more on The WELL, see ad on page 79.
Pollo con Crema
Palenque Mexican Restaurant 1102 N. Liberty Lake Road Strips of chicken breast sautéed, then smothered in Palenque’s special sour cream and parmesan cheese sauce. Served with rice, beans and tortillas.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT First off, a confession. The writer of this piece (Yearbook publisher Josh Johnson) ordered Pollo con Crema the first time he dined at Palenque in January 2004. He hasn’t swerved from this particular menu item for 15 years since. If you like creamy and cheesy, this is your order. Bonus tip: After filling your final tortilla with the chicken, take your rice for a swim through the remaining sauce. Delicioso! Located on Trailhead Golf Course, Palenque is a perfect option for year-round dining with a view. Most of the seating opens to a wall of windows looking out over well-manicured fairways and the majestic mountains that embrace Liberty Lake. When the weather is nice, the patio dining pairs perfectly with an authentic Mexican meal and margarita. For more on Palenque, see ad on page 80.
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