Fast food. How there is a debate about the actual nutritional value of fast food, I don’t understand. Here’s the thing, I rarely eat fast food because it doesn’t make me feel all that great. I like my food to nourish my body and help me feel energized! But I’ll still have fast food every once in a while if I’m seriously craving an In’N’Out cheeseburger and chocolate shake. YUMMM!!!! What I mean is everything in moderation. Know what you eat and don’t blindly chow down on empty, fatty calories. They’re not good for you now and definitely not good for you as you age. (-; So, have that cheeseburger, just be sure to balance out your other meals with steamed veggies, quinoa, whole grains, a colorful salad, etc. (And a ton of water!!) You get the idea. Be creative with it!
For more reading on what we eat, click the title of this post. I’ve attached a link to an article from the LA Times on a new study that shows the relationship of fast food restaurants to the high rates of obesity. Enjoy and happy, healthful eating!!

The fantastic, community-oriented cafe has more than exceeded its mission statement! I adore it here and always stop by when I’m feeling the need for a calm, welcoming, and delicious experience.
I have yet to try the entire menu, but everything I have sampled so far is scrumptious! Order the soup of the day (vegetarian or non-vegetarian varieties) which is served with the best toasted-yet-super-soft focaccia bread or the red pepper hummus to start. Try their chicken and pesto baguette or their tuna and cheddar toasty bite. You feel like you have re-fueled your body with their natural and fresh ingredients that will invigorate your day!
Oh, and did I mention their vanilla latte is completely addictive and that their fresh veggie and fruit juices and smoothies are like heaven? (Favs: Jazzy Ginger Smoothie and Raggin’ Rabbit Juice.)
Everyone who works here makes you feel like you’re part of the family, cares about what you’re eating (kind of like Mom! (-; ) and creates such an inviting environment and thus, experience.
Thank you, Fresh Bites!!
The Veggie Grill!!!
As a foodie, I think it is wise to explore the entire food spectrum and, thankfully, in recent years, with the popularity explosion of vegan delights (especially in Los Angeles) being a vegan or a vegan-lover-wannabe (like me!) is super easy and YUMMY!!!
There are many places to try a vegan dish and one you MUST try is The Veggie Grill off Sunset Blvd. It’s bright, cheery, and the service is always excellent. Order items like VG-Cheeseburger with the Red Cabbage Slaw as your side (that red cabbage slaw is something wonderful), Uptown Nachos (sooooooo good!!!!), Mac-n-Cheese (zero dairy for our lactose intolerant friends), or for a super tricked out meatless yet meaty sandwich get the All-American Stack with the Sweetheart Fries. They also serve natural sodas, beer and wine! Sit outside on the patio, people watch (always highly entertaining), and chow down on the all-natural plant-based food. Yum! Yum! Yum!
P.S. Secret: I personally choose to believe that when eating vegan calories do not exist. I extend the same freedom to you! ;-)