The title should really be “healthy-ish” restaurant options, but healthier restaurant options for athletes will have to do for now. Not everyone wants to cook at home ALL the time and for most parents of young athletes out there – the nights are busy. If you have more than one kid in sports, then you definitely need more dinner tools in your toolbox.
It always helps to have a little extra knowledge in your back pocket on those days when dinner at home is not going to happen and you have nothing packed. Maybe you’re too far from home and you need to grab something quick. I’ve got you.
Here are 3 common restaurant chains and some options to get you headed in the right direction. You’ll notice that there aren’t any “typical” fast food chains on here. Sure you could order the grilled chicken with apple slices, but let’s be honest, that’s not going to happen, the fries are going to make it in your bag. These restaurants have more options for you and your kids without a lot of distractions – because keeping everyone healthy is the name of the game here.
Chipotle
This one shouldn’t be surprising. One of the biggest issues about eating at Chipotle is the amount of food you get. Do yourself a favor, grab an extra container just in case you want to split something here.
Burrito Bowl
- Steak
- Black beans
- Brown Rice
- Fajita veggies
- Salsa
- Cheese
- Lettuce
- 650 calories
- 40 grams protein
- 13 grams fiber
- high quality protein (both animal and plant), vegetables, dairy, whole grain
Whole30 Salad Bowl – Lifestyle Bowl
- Carnitas
- Greens
- Tomato salsa
- Fajita veggies
- Guacamole
- 490 calories
- 26 grams protein
- 9 grams fiber
- High quality protein (animal), vegetables
sweetgreen
You really can’t go wrong with anything at sweetgreen. You are getting a ton of veggies, high quality protein (animal or plant), and some have whole grains. This is a solid choice if you find yourself without dinner plans.
- Lentils and chickpeas
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots, broccoli, cabbage, beets, spinach, kale
- Almonds
- Ranch
- 485 calories
- 20 grams protein
- High quality plant proteins, lots of vegetables
Harvest Bowl
- Roasted Chicken
- Sweet potatoes
- Apples
- Goat Cheese
- Almonds
- Wild rice
- Kale
- Balsamic vinaigrette
- 685 calories
- 36 grams protein
- High quality protein (animal), whole grains, vegetables, fruit, dairy, nuts
Panera/Saint Louis Bread Co.
You need to be selective when it comes to Panera. Most of their dishes are super high in calories and sodium. Stick with the Bowls, and the sandwich/soup combos to keep your dinner at a sane calorie amount.
Napa Almond Chicken Sandwich and Chicken & Wild Rice Soup Combo
- 490 calories
- 19 grams protein
- 6 grams fiber
- High quality protein (animal) and vegetables
- Brown rice and quinoa
- Hummus
- Vegetables
- Olives
- Greek yogurt and feta cheese
- 590 calories
- 16 grams protein
- 8 grams fiber
- Whole grains, vegetables, dairy
So there you have it – 3 big chains that you can feel okay with grabbing lunch or dinner on those times when time is not on your side. There should be more healthier restaurant options for athletes, but for now, these are great choices!