After indulging in holiday excess, 23 percent of American adults go on a diet in January, according to the NPD Group’s 20th Annual “Eating Patterns in America” and “Dieting Monitor” studies. These restaurants are adding healthier choices to their menus—new items that are slimming yet enticing enough to remain way after weight-conscious customers blow off their diets come February.
Buona
Berwyn, Illinois
Buona’s menu balances overstuffed Italian subs with lighter salads and sandwiches, offering calorie-conscious nutritional recommendations on its Web site. The 11-location chain is currently testing a Grilled Salmon Ciabatta on multigrainbread with lettuce, tomato, red onion and optional lemon-caper mayonnaise to fit those guidelines.
Rock Creek
Washington, D.C.
Rock Creek is a “mindful dining” restaurant—its focus is to serve healthy, flavorful dishes in an upscale atmosphere. For guests with a sweet tooth, pastry chef Roger Potter has introduced “small bites.” These mini indulgences can be purchased in increments (one bite is $3.50, four bites are $12) and include Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch and a Linzer Torte.
Herons Restaurant
Cary, North Carolina
The Umstead Hotel and Spa now features a prix-fixe spa lunch for $35 ($25 for guests getting spa treatments). Chef Phil Evans’ creations include Diver Scallops in a Kaffir Lime Broth, Asparagus Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette, Pan-Roasted Alaskan Halibut with a Blood Orange and Fennel Salad and a Key Lime Rice Milk Panna Cotta.
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