With all the challenges of the past year, it’s no wonder many feel the need to refocus on their health in 2021. Thankfully, that’s easier than ever with Irvine’s abundant selection of healthy eateries offering safe takeout options. Here are a few of our favorites.

Urban Plates

Where else can you get organic, nutrient-dense, high-quality cuisine for $10 a plate? This Irvine treasure features a $10 Everyday Menu with choices like Curry Tofu and Vegetable Braise, a Grilled Portobello Mushroom Sandwich, and the Urban Grilled Chicken Salad. It doesn’t matter if you’re a vegan or an omnivore – they’ve got you covered. Best of all, you can order from their app and take advantage of curbside delivery, or order three options and have them delivered right to your door!

Tender Greens

Sandwiches, veggies, and protein bowls, mix ‘n’ match entrees, fresh salads … Tender Greens believes that “food transforms lives” – and they’re living their mission by providing the best, healthiest foods to the Irvine community. They offer both pickup and home delivery options.

Veggie Grill

This restaurant puts the fun – and nutrition – back into comfort food. They call it “clean fuel and conscious indulgence.” Check out their Masala Chili Bowl or Deli Sub. And don’t miss their incredible, ever-so-slightly naughty vegan burger on a brioche bun. (Yes, definitely get the side of fries – everyone needs a treat from time to time.)

Cava

How can anything that tastes this good be so healthy? Cava has mastered the art of healthy food that feels like an indulgence. Their unique approach, which allows diners to customize every aspect of their meal, makes for endless varieties of delicious dishes that you’ll never get tired of.

The Radical Beet

This inclusive plant-based restaurant (omnivores welcome!) keeps things fun, hip, and culturally relevant with their pun-based menu. Enjoy an Earth-Melting Patty Melt as you ponder climate change, or bite into a Ruth Bader Gins-Burger just before busting through that glass ceiling. As they say on their menu, this is radical food for radical people.

For fun tips on trying your own hand at healthy California cooking, check out the Fusion Apartments blog.