Going out to eat can sound scary for some on a certain nutritional plan, especially for those of us on a low carb or- keto based diet. Although it can take some getting used to, eating out on a low carb plan is actually not as hard as one may think! Usually I am able to find something on most menus to leave me full and satisfied without fear of being kicked out of ketosis or s sugar crash later in the night. Below are my 5 go-to low carb friendly lunch and dinner picks and my favorite restaurants to get them!
Classic Cobb Salad
Many salads are or have the potential to be low-carb, but with the avocado, bacon, and cheese a cobb salad is a clear winner when it comes to staying low carb and high fat.
Ordering Tips:
I usually replace chicken with a more keto-friendly option like extra egg, salmon, or shrimp if available
I always skip croutons and ask for olive oil and lemon if the dressing isn't low-carb friendly
I also usually replace blue cheese with goat or feta, as these cheeses are a bit less calorie dense and personally taste better to me!
Favorite Cobb Salad in NYC: Sarabeth's
Salmon and Greens
A big hunk of salmon is my go-to dinner-date meal and is available on many menus, both upscale and casual.
Ordering Tips:
Always consider how the salmon is cooked - grilled with lemon and olive oil or pesto is my favorite. Watch out for any sugary sauces or glazes and instead ask for it plainly grilled!
I always ask for a side of salad or green veggies like spinach, asparagus, or broccoli to replace typical menu sides like rice or potatoes.
Favorite Salmon and Greens in NYC: Westville
Bun-less Burger
I usually order fish or salad, but sometimes a burger at a Manhattan pub is too irresistible to pass up. This is my go-to meal if i'm super hungry or know I have a long right ahead of me.
Tips:
Steer clear of sugary sauces like ketchup or BBQ sauce and pick something mayo-based if you must, like chipotle sauce, instead.
It's totally ok to add bacon, cheese, avocado, or a fried egg for an extra dose of fat (and to make it even tastier)
Skip the fries for a side salad or veggies!
Ask for a bibb lettuce bun if available - they are super crunchy and call me crazy but I prefer it over a real bun any day.
Favorite place for a Burger in NYC: The Bailey
Tacos
Who in their right mind wants to pass up taco Tuesday? Being that I am obsessed with guacamole and all things spicy, tacos get me super excited. Luckily, more and more restaurants are giving diners the option of ordering tacos on lettuce shells instead of tortillas, transforming them into the perfect low carb meal.
Ordering Tips:
Most taco meat options are low-carb friendly. Some of my favorites are shrimp, fish, and steak.
Most add-ons are low-carb but look out for sugary sauces and salsas with fruit and glazes.
Make sure the meat, fish, or tofu isn't fried or battered!
Favorite Tacos in NYC: Seamore's
Zoodles
I wish I could hug, high five, and become best friends with whoever cooked up the world's first batch of zoodles. Lucky for us gluten free and low carb eaters, zoodles are popping up asa replacement option on Italian and Asian restaurant menus all over Manhattan.
Ordering Tips:
Always add fat like olive oil, butter, or a yummy low carb sauce to keep it keto
Look out for sugary sauces
Add cheese and protein to make it a more filling meal!
My Favorite Zoodles in NYC: Bocaphe
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