True Food Kitchen believes delicious dining and conscious nutrition go hand-in-hand. Without sacrificing flavor, creativity or indulgence, their menu was inspired by the philosophy that food should make you feel better, not worse. Shannon Keller, True Food Kitchen's chief marketing officer, is excited for Kansas City to experience their vibrant culture and robust culinary scene at their newest restaurant located at the Country Club Plaza.
“True Food was co-founded 10 years ago by Dr. Andrew Weil, a graduate of Harvard Medical School and leader in the field of integrative medicine,” Keller says. “Weil wanted to show people that there’s no opposition between food that tastes good and food that’s good for you. He created the anti-inflammatory food pyramid as a way to help those seeking the necessary foods needed to fight inflammation and assist in achieving and maintaining optimal health. Dietary choices play an important role in inflammation, the root cause of many serious illnesses including heart disease, cancer, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Simply put, our menu includes lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices including turmeric and ginger. Eating this way will provide steady energy and ample vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, dietary fiber, and protective nutrients.”
Their menu changes with the seasons, allowing guests to enjoy ingredients at the peak of their freshness.
“We believe food was meant to be grown and nurtured, so we’re inspired by the freshest, in-season ingredients,” Keller says. “We know where all of our produce is grown and abide by the Environmental Working Group’s guide to source 100 percent organic fruit and vegetables as necessary. All our restaurants serve 100 percent grass-fed, grass-finished beef, wild-caught and sustainably farmed fish, antibiotic-free and hormone-free poultry as well as organic milk products. We strive to make choices with the environment and community in mind by supporting innovative, sustainable and fair trade businesses. We offer popular food staples, but with nutrient-rich ingredients for a healthy twist. For example, our teriyaki bowl consists of quinoa, ancient grains, and fresh vegetables, and our grass-fed burger is covered in a flax-seed bun and complemented with a kale salad and roasted sweet potato versus french fries.
“Among our signature dishes, you’ll find many fan favorites throughout the healthful salads, hearty bowls, house-made pizzas, and starter selections. Our seasonal scratch bar features delicious, hand-crafted cocktails, freshly pressed fruit juices and a selection of beer and organic, biodynamic and sustainable wines by the glass and bottle. Our food looks and tastes terrific. There’s something for everyone.”
Guests can customize anything to meet dietary needs or preferences.
“We celebrate variety and encourage any number of modifications including substitutions or omissions for those on a gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, keto, paleo, low-sodium diet or more severe allergies,” Keller says. “Each of our servers is trained to offer recommendations and suggested modifications should you wish to make any of our dishes fit within your lifestyle.”
With restaurants across the country, Kansas City will be their 27th location.
“The restaurant features artwork and décor celebrating the local community that’s inspired by our brand’s mission and values,” Keller says. “Local artist Phil Shafer created a Kansas City-inspired mural that incorporates landmarks in the shapes of seasonal fruits, vegetables and culinary utensils featured in our kitchen.”
Community-centered events like yoga and cooking classes will be held in-house.
“Our restaurants are gathering places of enrichment—they’re open and bright with lots of windows, have a mix of community seating and areas for more intimate gatherings. Our open kitchen means that our passionate chefs and our quality, creative ingredients take center stage. We host events year-round that are available to all guests in our dining room, including fitness and yoga classes followed by a group brunch, community dinners that celebrate new ingredients and their health benefits, cooking classes, gardening workshops, educational seminars and lifestyle workshops. We look forward to partnering with local fitness and yoga studios as part of our ongoing commitment to our True Wellness series.”
For those wanting to live a healthy lifestyle, Keller says it’s not just a choice.
“It’s a journey that starts with simple changes. Each time you dine in is an opportunity to further your journey toward healthy living. The meaningful experiences and warm hospitality that we deliver to our guests are not just the cornerstones of True Food Kitchen, but the foundation for a life well lived. It is because of our loyal guests in each one of our local communities that True Food Kitchen continues to thrive.”