If you follow any kind of diet – whether it's a paleo, vegan, low-sodium, carb-conscious, non-dairy, low-calorie or organic one – then you'll be delighted to shop at the health-conscious fast food chain Snap Kitchen that's taken over Chicago.
But even if you're not on any kind of diet, the food is fresh and delicious. So try it out!
Snap Kitchen has a handful of Chicago locations — Photo courtesy of Jamie Bartosch
The pre-made food – everything from salads to grass-fed beef entrees to gluten-free Key lime pie and Snap Juices – is set up in a serve-yourself, cute and bright grocery store-like setting. Everything's designed to take home, heat (or open) and eat. It's all packaged in reusable, brightly colored plastic containers.
There's a wall of microwaves and a few table and chairs, so you can dine in if you prefer. But most customers take their food to go. It's like a 7-11 version of Whole Foods, but better.
Microwaves inside Snap Kitchen — Photo courtesy of Jamie Bartosch
Snap Kitchen has a large variety of entrees, side dishes, desserts and an assortment of Snap Juices. All of the ingredients and pertinent information is on easy-to-read labels.
Some of the popular entrees include grass-fed lamb lasagna; turkey chili; Naked Chicken (grilled chicken breast, garlic snap peas and roasted cauliflower); Grilled Kale Hoppin' John (gluten free, non dairy, sodium conscious and vegan); and a gluten-free chocolate mousse.
Fresh and healthy entrees for sale at Snap Kitchen — Photo courtesy of Jamie Bartosch
One standout is the chicken butternut squash macaroni. This filling dish is made with gluten-free brown rice macaroni, roasted butternut squash, ground chicken, walnuts, roasted garlic and a dollop of goat cheese in the middle. When microwaved, the cheese melts, and everything has a perfect consistency. Not only was the dish gluten free and low in sodium, but it was only 350 calories.
While the prices of some items are steep – a small piece of lamb lasagna will run you $11.49 at their Lake View location – the healthy food and bright atmosphere is worth the cost. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about all of the food.
Pure and simple, it's healthy food made for our busy lifestyles.
