Feeling good comes with fueling my body with what it needs when it needs it.
Eating "healthy" is a vague term that means different things to everyone. I think it's a disservice to say one restaurant or product is healthier than another because everyone has a different relationship with food and their body—there are complex and personal factors.
That being said, here are my local recommendations for when I'm focusing on consuming less animal products, using less carbon emissions, and producing less environmental waste. And sometimes, when I'm just in the mood for something lighter.
A favorite on Haley Street, this locally sourced organic cafe offers fresh drinks and food. It's nearly zero-waste and doesn’t use plastic bottles or cups. Pop by for breakfast or lunch, where some of my go-tos are their original red pressed juice, lemon and ginger probiotic smoothie, and chicken and roasted beet wrap. @ascendinghealthjuice
This State Street gem offers farmers market-inspired cuisine and a natural wine selection. They focus on "ethical, environmentally beneficial agriculture and the freshest locally grown ingredients." Some of my favorite bites are their yoga pants salad and grilled cheese. @satellitesb
A hometown staple for breakfast and lunch. They have one of the best salad bars in town, sandwiches, and around 40 hot and cold dishes to choose from to make your perfect plate. They are organic-forward, focusing on natural and fresh produce and offerings. My favorites are the Gaviota sandwich and their salmon. @savoycafeanddeli
The Daisy lives up to its name: it's bright, fresh, and makes almost everything from scratch. They seasonally source their menus, offering thoughtful California cuisine with cultural influences. I love their pickle plate, mezze plate, salads, roasted meats, and toasts. Browse their shop in the back and stock up on rare, beautiful items. @the_daisy_restaurant
One of the first restaurants in Santa Barbara to focus on healthier options in a fast-casual way. Their extensive menu includes all the options: salads, stir-fries, wraps, smoothies, juices, and sandwiches. My favorite order is their rotating soup, which always comes with a giant slice of whole-grain bread. @thenaturalcafe_official
Part of the White Buffalo Land Trust, this local maker should be on your radar. Their mission focuses on restorative and regenerative agriculture, meaning farming methods that support an ecosystem to restore the land for future generations to use. They make Biltong Biltong, a South African beef-jerky, and Persimmon Vinegar, a naturally fermented, gut-friendly elixir that's super for salad dressing. @figureatefoods
It's Zoe from @bitemesb, your resident food lover and eater of all the things.