The only thing I like better than a good workout is a good meal. But, here’s the thing… I don’t want to take a nap after I eat. I shouldn’t have to take a shot of espresso just to make it through the rest of the day.

I want to feel energized and that means finding great food that’s healthy too! But, here’s the other thing, I don’t want to big bucks, just because it’s “healthy” (I’m talking to you, $17 avocado toast). So, I’m a big fan of healthy fast casual food that tastes great and keeps my wallet happy! Here are three of my favorites…

VEGGIE GRILL

Veggie Grill Burger - Healthy Fast Food
Veggie Grill focuses on making killer fast casual food like burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, bowls, etc. (but, it’s actually vegan, even though they don’t talk about it much). But here’s the thing… the food is legit. I’ve taken lots of meat loving folks there and they think they’re eating the real thing.

Veggie Grill has turned more than a few people vegetarian, but you don’t have to be a vegan to love this place. The bottom line is it’s super healthy, but outstanding. And it will NOT break the bank.

I especially love the Buffalo Chicken Bomber and the Beyond Burger. Instead of a ton of artery clogging cholesterol, you’ll find tasty, filling meals that are delicious and healthy. They are always changing up their menu and have lots of seasonal specials, so if you have one in your area, get after it!

Veggie Grill has locations in California, Oregon, Washington, Chicago and more soon… For more details, click here

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN

True Food Kitchen - Healthy Food

If you’ve already been to True Food Kitchen, you already know what’s coming next… this place is seriously great. I’m upset they don’t have one closer to my house (are you listening True Food?!), but I sometimes make the drive to Santa Monica to get after this food.

This place personifies amazingly healthy food that just so happens to be delicious. I love their TLT sandwich (smoked tempeh, butter lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan mayonnaise, seeded grain bread), the Tuscan Kale Caesar, and any of their pizzas or bowls. It’s all soooooo good.

I literally dare you try something on the menu that isn’t great! Also, the atmosphere of this place deserves special mention. It’s so clean, beautiful and full of life (it makes me want to be a better man). But seriously, even the bathrooms are beautiful!

They also have great drinks (like their lemonades) with super healthy and fresh ingredients…

True Food Kitchen has locations in many states and growing fast (for a reason)… For more details, click here

CAVA

Cava Grill - Fast Casual Food

My third pick is by no means third place. Feast your eyes on Cava Grill. I literally crave this place at least once a week. Cava is all about fast casual food that is healthy and freakin’ awesome. The ingredients are incredibly fresh and delicious. You pick your food and they make it in front of you.

By the way, one of the things that bothers me about most falafel is that it’s usually too salty and dry. And they never use enough sauce! Not at Cava… not only is the falafel fresh and delicious, they have so many different kinds of fresh ingredients and sauces to ensure your bowl or pita is outrageously full and popping with flavor.

You start with a base which could be grains (rice or lentils), greens (they have an awesome super greens blend) or pita. Then, the dips and spreads (hummus, etc… I love the crazy feta). Then, the protein (beed, chicken, lamb, meatballs or falafel – I love the falafel). Then, the toppings (veggies, salads, etc.) and finally the dressings ( I like the lemon herb tahini)… Put all that into a bowl or pita and you have something serious on your hands.

So, if you like Mediterranean food (like me), you will love Cava!

Cava has locations in many states and growing fast… For more details, click here