Healthy eating. It doesn’t have to be scary, it doesn’t have to be difficult, and yes, it can even be delicious. We know, we know — it’s much easier said than done, but that’s why we brought in the professionals. We asked nine registered dietitians and nutritionists in the Hoboken/Jersey City area two VERY important questions regarding healthy eating…
“What is your favorite meal to eat out in Hoboken/Jersey City? And what makes it your favorite healthy option?”
“I love breakfast any time of day, so I often visit the Brownstone Diner [now LIFE Pancake House] in Jersey City. My standard order: A garden omelet with whole-wheat toast, with butter on the side. I swap out the home fries for a side of lettuce and sliced tomato. Eggs provide satiating protein to keep me fueled throughout my day, and the veggies in the omelet and on the side offer filling fiber, to help tide me over ’til my next meal. I choose whole-grain bread because it offers additional fiber. I love omelets and could eat them any time of day!”
-Amy Gorin, MS, RDN, Amy Gorin Nutrition in Jersey City, NJ
“Both Hoboken and Jersey City have so many great food options, and it seems like another restaurant is opening everyday, but one of my go-to healthy favorites is the Bibim Rice Bowl at Ahri’s Kitchen in Jersey City. Bibim Bowl Menu description: Firm tofu, carrot, cucumber, mushroom, zucchini, spinach, bean sprout, an egg sunnyside up, drizzled with sesame oil. First of all, it is delicious. But second of all, the great thing about all bibimbap bowls is that they are chock-full of vegetables and are a really great balanced one-dish meal since they have carbohydrates from the rice, fiber from the vegetables, protein from the egg and other “meat” of your choice {tofu or chicken is usually the healthiest} and some healthy fat from sesame oil. Korean fermented chili paste {gochujang} contains capsaicin {which acts as an antioxidant and is anti-inflammatory} and gut-healthy probiotics adding an extra health kick. For even more probiotics and healthy heat, I customize mine with a side of kimchi. The only downside is that they are usually made with white rice but at Ahri’s Kitchen you can order it with brown rice for more fiber. Soy sauce can also add lots of sodium but at Ahri’s they aren’t heavy-handed, keeping the sodium in check.”
-Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, CDN, kristydelcoro.com
“My favorite healthy meal to eat out in Hoboken is the Quinoa Breakfast Bowl at Zack’s Oak Bar & Restaurant. Brunch is one of my favorite meals to eat out. I love this dish because the quinoa and egg provide great sources of protein to start your morning off right. And there are plenty of veggies in the dish for added fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied for the rest of your morning.”
-Jen Flachbart, MS, RD, CDN, Plants Root Nutrition, LLC in Hoboken, NJ
“Though you can find decent choices at other eateries, my pick for best overall healthful place to eat in Hoboken is Bareburger. My personal menu choice is a no gluten, no dairy hamburger with avocado and a side of Brussels sprouts. Unlike most eateries in Hoboken, Bareburger’s entire menu is nutrition-forward. Many ingredients are sourced locally – a really good thing! I selected a beef burger because that’s what I enjoy, though any of the burgers would be great choices. I’ve had zero immune-related symptoms since I eliminated gluten and most grains from my food plan, so a no bun burger is a must for me. To up my restorative fat intake, I added avocado to the burger. And, of course, a vegetable dish that’s more like a main than a side is a must. The Brussels sprouts fit the bill.”
-Laura Lagano, MS, RDN, CDN, Laura Lagano Nutrition in Hoboken, NJ
” Typically Cuban food doesn’t scream healthy, but the spinach salad from La Isla goes under appreciated. The Espinaca y Remolacha is the perfect combo of baby spinach, beets, avocado, mango, mandarin oranges, and your choice of a protein, topped with blue cheese, macadamia nuts, with a champagne vinaigrette. This salad blends healthy fats, protein and carbs together, can be tailored for any food allergies (nuts, dairy), and it’s naturally gluten free.”
-Lisa Bruno, MS, RDN
Read More: Hoboken Girl of the Week: Lisa Bruno {of Work It Out}
“My vote for favorite place to eat is Zack’s Oak Bar and Restaurant on 3rd and Willow. Sure I could tell you to eat a salad from Pure Pita, or Sushi from Robongi; but you already know what to get that would be healthy (grilled chicken with salad and sashimi anyone) but how about when you’re wanting to have a night out with your husband and have something tasty and not boring! Zak’s is your place! I love the lentil salad which by itself is very nutrient dense, packed with protein and fiber. Protein and fiber keep us full and ensure we don’t over eat; I added the steak for more high biological value protein – protein that contains all nine essential amino acids. The versatility of this salad is also a plus – can have it with just the lentils if you want to go the vegetarian/vegan route, but can also add shrimp or salmon and steak if you want animal protein. Zak’s is also super kid-friendly which is very important when toddlers rule your life!”
-Vanessa Rissetto, MS, RD, CDN, vanessarissetto.squarespace.com
“I love all toast offerings at Bluestone Lane in Hoboken, especially the Avocado Smash topped with an egg, feta and tomatoes. The toast provides the perfect mix of protein, healthy fat and fiber – the right balance to keep you satisfied longer. Plus the vibe at Bluestone is awesome! I am a big believer in mindful eating, being present, and establishing a healthy relationship with your food, so Bluestone allows me to slow down and enjoy every bite.”
-Melissa Kelly, MS, RD, CDN, MBK Nutrition in Hoboken, NJ
Read More: All About Bluestone Lane {Hoboken}
