Little Hidden Gems

So healthy eating in a small town is sometimes a bit difficult. You can't always find exactly what you are looking for and sometimes have to search for what you do want. In recent years the main grocery store has gotten better however that was in large part due to a company campaign which I am greatful for. You do not know the joy I had walking in to find an entire isle devoted to organic, gluten free and healthy alternatives! (Cue joyous music) however when it comes to eating out there is still work to be done. I was spoiled a few summers ago well working temporarily in a different location. They had this store, just up the street and let me tell you it was freaking amazing! (cue full blown choir here).

An entire store in a relatively small town catering to healthy food. Part shop part restaurant. It is called Sweet Greens in case you are wondering. I would often shop for healthy snacking goodies, well I placed a lunch order. They carried a variety I couldn't get at home, I found the most amazing coconut almond milk that I can only get out of town as well a french vanilla coconut milk coffee creamer. It's heavenly.

The food was equally tasty I mean an organic Greek salad. I learned some tricks eating there like putting chick peas in my salad and hummus in a wrap, like who needs meat anyways! Just kidding this gal does lol. I was sad to leave this place behind, I mean I can go back it's just not as convenient.

So much to my surprise I stumbled upon a place in my own hometown. It started with a coffee and is definitely becoming this dairy free girl's favorite place. It is called the Minga. So Minga is a meaning of coming together which is what the intentions are. They have space for community activities, events, workshops and meeting place. They offer after school mentoring it's an all ages and abilities place. There is a cafe offering hot and cold beverages, a healthy menu of locally sourced and seasonal soups, salads, sandwiches appetizers and desserts. This is my favorite part!

Maple Latte with Apple Spice muffin

Seriously the first coffee I had could compete with my addiction to Starbucks when out of town. Then I tried the maple latte... OMG! It's just so Canadian and delicious you won't get that kind of quality ingredients in a Starbucks latte anyways. I have eaten there a number of the times now as an added perk of working back in my hometown and it being right up the street. However I won't forget the first time I ate there, having a delicious grilled veggie wrap that made me learn you can put quinoa in a wrap! Like why didn't I think of that before?

My second meal was after working late one night, I just wanted something quick and healthy and Subway just wasn't cutting because really that is the only other place I know of where I can get a quick healthy meal. Enter the Minga, I went in and grabbed black bean and quinoa burger topped with avocado. I admit I was a little nervous, I've never had anything like this before I was hoping I hadn't made a huge mistake. I assure you I did not! It was excellent!

So it won't surprise you to know that I ate there this past Friday lol.  I stepped outside my comfort food bubble and tried something else new to me, Moroccan Tomato Chickpea soup with tortilla chips, I've never had Moroccan spice before... so good!  But I think I might have saved the best for last...  A Chocolate dipped Gingerbread man. Oh yes I did!

I am happy to know I have another healthy eating option (OK the Vegan Donuts may not be 💯% healthy) but for times when I just don't want to cook myself something because let's be honest those days do happen. And knowing there is better alternatives then fat fast food is all the power! With that I will sign off now Happy for Healthy options!