As a registered dietitian, one thing many of my patients and I discuss is limiting going out to eat. As a general rule, we know that restaurant foods are often less healthy (high in calories, sodium, and fat with little fiber). Many times, restaurants serve huge portion sizes. I promote a balanced, realistic healthy lifestyle which includes eating out on occasion. I’d like to share some of my favorite restaurants in the area.
Eating Out at Seasons 52
An awesome choice for lunch, dinner or happy hour is Seasons 52 located by the King of Prussia mall. I have never had a bad meal here. The menu consists of dishes (typically under 500 calories) using only the freshest, seasonal ingredients. They accommodate those who are gluten-free, lactose/dairy sensitive, vegetarian and vegan. The menu does have the calories listed. The portion sizes are perfect. Seasons 52 offers a variety of flatbreads that are yummy. One of my favorites is the Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread. It will surprise you, how big this is when it arrives at your table! The flatbread is light and crispy. Flavors compliment each other perfectly without being too heavy. You can eat this as a meal or share as an appetizer.
Seasons 52 gets very crowded, so I highly recommend making reservations. They also have a great happy hour (often with live entertainment), but this gets packed as well. Seasons 52 is a “must try” in my book!
Eating Out at First Watch
First Watch is another dining suggestion for eating out, only serving breakfast and lunch. They have a diverse menu using fresh ingredients that meet just about all dietary needs (Menu and Nutrition). They serve traditional entrees such as bacon, eggs, and potatoes. The more non-traditional dishes include a Power Wrap consisting of egg whites, turkey, spinach, crimini mushrooms, and mozzarella in a sun-dried tomato-basil tortilla served with pico de gallo. First Watch provides the nutrition information, so this entree is 610 calories with 39 grams of protein.
A word of caution: at First Watch, although dishes are made with fresh, healthy ingredients, they can be hefty in calories and sodium (above dish has 1380 mg of sodium). Just be aware, and make your choices accordingly. You won’t have to drive far to experience First Watch. They have locations all along the Main Line, including Villanova, Wayne, and Exton.
Learn More
Eating out and splurging on something you truly enjoy eating is okay! Feeling like you need a little more help believing that? Contact Main Line Nutrition! Reach out now to see if an appointment with one of our registered dietitians can help you navigate through the nutrition information overload we face everyday. We also have health coaches who can give you the motivation and drive as you set goals and remain accountable to them. Nutrition counseling is often covered by insurance and may be just what you need to jump start a healthy lifestyle for the year!
