We ditch the carbs and explore the food scene for some of the best

OM FOODS

I can’t say I’ve ever been this excited to do a healthy food feature, but it should come as no surprise since we were sampling two of Chico’s biggest names in the category. OM Foods became our first stop on the trail. To best describe OM would be to analogize it to a yoga studio that decided to transition into a restaurant, leaving its decor behind, but retaining an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Even while the downtown streets are bustling with people on their tight lunch schedules, it’s a very calm place with world music playing in the background. I’m certain, if the Saturday Farmers Market had a signature restaurant, this would be it.

I was immediately intrigued by the Kale Caesar, having indulged in the kale salad from Crush numerous times. Experience? Mind blown. This completely vegan salad checks all the boxes. The kale is finely cut and tastes as though it’s been massaged—an acid and oil technique that breaks down the fibrous nature of the leaves, making them far more delicate than raw. The dressing has all of the salt of your typical anchovy Caesar but truly creative. The finely chopped cashew acts as both crouton and cheese, creating a texture mix that is soft and well-balanced.

I like simplicity, and OM’s Kale Caesar seems to have very few ingredients, making it easier to keep them working together harmoniously. It’s light, leaving you motivated, not sluggish. I remember thinking, “Heck, I’ll have my daily walk right after this.” What impresses me most is OM makes eating vegan easy. I didn’t feel at all like I was missing a meat protein, and even the half-size was satisfying.

Their team member, Summer, informed me that OM opened in 2016 but has been in its current location on Broadway for three years. Their commitment to sustainability is displayed to their diners with a separate compost bin beside their waste bin. Word is, their fish offerings will be moving to their newest location, OM on the Range, in order to be truly vegetarian. I guess I’ll have to try them soon as well.

BACIO CHICO

Known for some of the best food on-thego, and for years as a premier catering company, Bacio Chico’s delicious Power Salad was the inspiration for this month’s feature. I don't recall when or why I decided to order a beet salad, but boy am I glad I did. We sat under the canopy of the patio umbrella, enjoying the sun and our meals. A few picnic tables allow for minimal seating but the outdoor plants, brush, and ivy offer a welcome retreat at the back of the restaurant, just off of Park Avenue.

If you eat with your eyes first, you’ll be twice satisfied, just as I was. My plate was delivered, and its vibrant hues were stunning. It's as though the earth opened itself and presented a bounty of health and robust color. There’s so much to unpack in this salad. The beets were full of moisture. A snappy texture from the broccolini was complemented by a sweet addition from the plump blueberries. The carrot would be best described as al dente—I know it’s not a normal thing for a vegetable, but it tastes like it's at the moment where crisp becomes smooth. Rogue hints of salt, barely present, danced throughout, and the earthiness of the almonds ensures a varied mouthfeel in each bite. Each ingredient tastes as its healthiest version of itself, highlighting how delicious on-the-go food can be.

So many choices can be found within Bacio’s modern commercial kitchen. Their takeout counter offers cooked meats and fish along with an abundant array of side dishes. As always, they still offer both pre-prepared options and sandwiches, even a few sweet treats, that will satisfy everyone at the office or home. Their newest case has gourmet cheeses, meats, and other select grocery delicacies. Try Bacio for yourself. The experience is sophisticated, not haughty or prideful—just experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly.