Greasy fast food seems to be the college diet for most of us here in Tuscaloosa. Whether it’s 2 a.m. Cookout runs or waiting in the McFarland Mcdonald’s line for a little too long, Tuscaloosa is full of unhealthy food. But, sometimes we just crave something fresh, but where do we go if we’re surrounded by junk? Thankfully, this week on “Becoming That Girl” we’re discussing our top healthy eating spots around town.
Sage Juice Bar – 2324 4th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Located behind a local Italian restaurant, DePalma’s, Sage Juice Bar & Speakeasy is your one-stop shop for all your green juice fantasies. With four categories of refreshing and nutritious fruit and vegetable drinks, there is something for every healthy drink enthusiast. There’s an option of juices, smoothies, elixier shots, smoothies, and hybrid drinks (a mix of juice and smoothie with a thicker consistency). Their Cold Kicker juice, made with grapefruit, apple, lemon, ginger, cayenne, and local honey, will knock out those winter sniffles and put you back on track for a healthy lifestyle.
Urban Cookhouse – 1490 Northbank Pkwy #110, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
For those of us not looking for a liquid diet, foodtruck and restaurant, Urban Cookhouse, turns local, fresh ingredients into mouth-watering meals. Urban Cookhouse is the healthier and local Panera Bread, they even offer a pick two option. Their Berry Good salad offers seasonal berries, spiced pecans, tomatoes, and is topped with a citrus vinaigrette. For those looking for something a little more filling, they have a heavy selection of sandwiches, wraps and plated options. Pair your meal with one of their homemade lemonades and a fresh half-baked cookie.
I Love Juice Bar – 1320 McFarland Blvd E Building 520, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Bowls, juice resets and smoothies galore, I Love Juice Bar is giving us all a taste of L.A. with their menu. The chain juice bar specializes in wellness for your gut. After a night on the town, recenter yourself with one of their Resets. The “Anti Inflammatory Reset” comes with six juices that focus on re-aligning your body after one too many Yellow Hammers.
Aesthetically pleasing sushi is all over our Pinterest feeds and we want in on the action, thankfully Tuscaloosa has just the place to fit your feed. Ajian Sushi located conveniently next to Boba Mania, offer to make your own rolls. The grab-and-go spot offers countless varieties of sushi so you can add as little or as much as you would like. Filling and somewhat low-calorie, sushi makes for a great meal that checks off almost every level of the food pyramid. [/ohio_text]
Everyone’s favorite food truck has an official storefront, located in UA’s Student Center food court, Blenz Bowls is bringing fresh and frozen fruit smoothie bowls to our diet. The chain offers smoothie and smoothie bowl options, both customizable. The best part is every bowl comes with five free toppings, choose from fresh fruit like raspberries or bananas, Nutella, granola or go for the more tropical route with some coconut. The endless combinations make a sweet addition to this healthy Dining Dollars option.[/ohio_text]