Why has eating healthy become so much of a chore these days? Have we all gotten lazier or are we just too busy to take the time required to prepare a healthy meal? From the time it takes to purchase the ingredients, prepare 3 meals per day, and cleaning up afterward, that alone can be considered a full-time job. The other issue with healthy eating is that it can be expensive. In today’s busy world, we usually go with what is quick and cheap, but don’t expect to have a million dollar body if you’re eating from the dollar menu. Healthy eating can certainly be challenging when dining out, so that’s why I started looking for better options than fast food. Can you still eat out AND eat healthy at the same time? Keep reading to find out!
Over the last 5 years as a food blogger, I’ve seen healthy eating places come and go. Why is that you ask? Most of them only catered to certain specific diets such as vegetarian, vegan, or ketogenic, and those don’t usually appeal to the masses. They need to have a more diverse menu that caters to everyone. I started looking for places in Indian River County that offer more than just a specific way of eating and below are the places that I found.
Now let’s dive right in and see all the healthy eats I’ve tasted over the past few weeks while creating this article!
AKOHO – A Kitchen of Her Own – Sebastian, FL
Owner Shari Pierce has always dreamt of having her own place one day, and she finally made it a reality several years ago. She has definitely gained a loyal following in a very short time which became obvious to me while I was standing in line. Her customers couldn’t say enough nice things about her or the food. I’ve always associated this place only with baked goods and quiche, but just recently learned of all the healthy options she offers. She can do custom and large orders with enough notice and most of her dishes can be modified to be vegetarian, vegan, or even gluten-free.
A Kitchen of Her Own
9090 North, US-1 Suite #2
Sebastian, FL 32958
(772) 571-5880
https://akitchenofherown.com/
Counter Culture Beachside – Vero Beach, FL
I’ve been a longtime fan of Counter Culture, so when the idea for this article came up, I knew Counter Culture Beachside had to be included. I first discovered Chefs Anthony and Lisa Damiano at the Hope for Families Center Top Chef competition, where they wowed the judges and took home first place for Best Dessert. Over the years, they’ve had a few locations around town—on 14th Avenue and in the Indian River Mall—but their latest venture on the island in Vero Beach is truly something special.
Now known as Counter Culture Beachside, this bright, chef-driven café offers a thoughtfully curated menu with vegetarian, plant-based, and gluten-free options, all made from scratch. Chef Anthony is happy to customize dishes to suit your preferences, and Chef Lisa’s house-made desserts are always the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and healthy or a little indulgent, this is a must-visit spot for fresh, flavorful cuisine.
Counter Culture Beachside
Address: 3225 Cardinal Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 778-4200
https://www.counterculturevero.com/
La Tabla | Food + Juicery – Vero Beach, FL
Located within Royal Palm Pointe, I consider this place to be truly a hidden gem in Vero Beach! Owner, Santiago Ares, says “The key to eating healthy is to balance your lifestyle with clean food & drink and a good exercise program”. They feature nutrient dense, wholesome, mostly organic foods simply prepared and sourced from local farmers as much as possible. I first discovered this place in June 2019 and I ordered the steak salad and was blown away by how fresh and delicious it was. I’m happy to report that it’s still on the menu! On my most recent visit, I got to try the Salmon toast and their Green juice! Both were fresh, very satisfying, and quite tasty!
La Tabla | Food + Juicery
Address: 29 Royal Palm Pointe Unit #1, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 205-2772
https://www.facebook.com/latablavero/
This concludes my list of Healthy Eating restaurants in Indian River County. Do you have a favorite place that I did not include? Sound off in the comments below and let me know so I can go check it out!
Enjoyed reading about healthy food. I love AKOHO and Shari. Have ordered whole quiches and cakes from her. Also have been meaning to go to Counter Culture. It is very near my sister in Vero. Keep on writing for us. Since I am so old and afraid of Covid exposure, dining out is not on my calendar right now. It is up to you to keep eating out and telling us about it. Man, you have such a hard life. Later, Dorace (Doodle)
Thank you Dorace! I totally understand about not wanting to dine out right now. I take all necessary precautions when dining out and try to limit my exposure by dining outside when possible. Yes, I have a tough job, but someone has to do it, right? LOL!!!
Were they at the food event at walking tree? Golden spoon event Oct?
Unfortunately, none of these restaurants were at that event. I only include restaurants that I’ve had a chance to try throughout the year. I end my year on Oct 1st for the article so I have time to plan the event.