Most fitness professionals agree that nutrition constitutes 60-80 percent of good health, with exercise composing the remainder.
I kept this stat in mind while visiting the newest branch of Muscle Maker Grill ( 920 W. Belmont Ave., musclemakergrill.com/ ). The location of this particular stopin health-conscious Lake Viewwasn't lost on this particular writer.
As one might guess, there are plenty of salads on the menu, including Muscle Maker Caesar ( with zero-carb dressing ), Asian Sesame Ginger and Lean & Mean Cheeseburger. However, there's a plethora of other items available, including sandwiches, wraps, pasta dishes, bowls and skinny flatbreads. There are even customizable smoothies and shakes with "add-ins" ( like banana and spinach ) and "boosters" ( such as fat burners and antioxidants ).
Brand Ambassador Ellen Dern and District Manager Charlie McAuliff said that among Muscle Maker's most popular items include the Signature Wrap and the Arizona Bowl. ( The tasty turkey taco salad should certainly be in that list as well. )
And to make things even easier, Muscle Maker offers meal plansso there are no excuses for not getting healthier. After all, summer ( the time for those skin-baring clothes ) is right around the corner.
Fogo de Chao's new offerings
On April 27, the Chicago location of Fogo de Chao ( 661 N. LaSalle St.; fogodechao.com/location/chicago ) held a media preview to unveil its newest offerings.
The Brazilian steakhouse revealed its largest bar-menu innovation in its 20-year history, including all-new Brazilian-inspired cocktails ( including the wonderful mango-ginger martini ), Brazilian bites ( including chicken sliders ) and South American wines. ( By the way, per law, calorie amounts are included with drinksso you've been warned. )
Of course, the seasonal table and full-scale churrasco dinner ( with enough meat to satisfy any carnivore, served by smiling gauchos ) are firmly in place. And, somehow, if you have room for dessert, try the tres leches cake.
Note: Restaurant profiles/events are based on invitations arranged from restaurants and/or firms.