Every other week, this column will review ways and places to eat healthy in D.C.
Most people know Whole Foods for its delicious, fresh and organic produce. But there is so much more to Whole Foods than just groceries. If you head to the fresh deli counters in the back, you can access freshly prepared meals for lunch breaks.
Where To Try
If you have ever taken the shuttle off campus, it’s hard to miss the huge “Whole Foods” sign at the Tenleytown metro stop. If you find yourself wanting a new shopping location, the next closest Whole Foods is in Friendship Heights, one Metro stop away on the red line or a short walk from the AU stop. Check online for other locations in your home towns and around D.C.
What To Try
Though the beautifully crafted sushi and pizza stations may seem tempting, I recommend checking out the always stocked and delicious buffet bars. The Tenleytown Whole Foods offers a cold and hot food bar, soup station, salad bar and deli counter to provide delicious, fresh meal options. Whole Foods accommodates dietary restrictions of all kinds and labels all of its products with ingredients.
At the deli counter, you can find delicious options of all kinds. Even if you’re a carnivore, I would highly recommend the vegan chicken salad sandwich or gen tso vegan chicken. Both are amazing, healthy and vegan twists on a classics. Not sure if you will like something? Ask an employee to try anything at the deli counter before purchasing.
The star of the show is obviously the buffet area. Grab a container, and fill it up with hot foods like creamy mac and cheese and other great salad toppers. The options are endless, and there is a new variety every day. Keep in mind the price is based on weight. To avoid paying for more than you can eat, grab the smaller containers and fill those up so you don’t go overboard filling up a container you can’t finish.
Also, keep note that just because it’s a salad bar, this doesn’t mean every option available is packed with nutrients. Start off with filling your container with a green base, then limit yourself to no more than five or so toppings. Try to keep all the food groups in mind, and don’t overdo any of them. For example, don’t toss in pasta, croutons, noodles and corn because they are all heavy carbohydrates. Add variation to your salad, starting with a ton of veggies, and then maybe one or two toppings that are carbs. Finish off your salad by topping it with a lean protein like grilled chicken, tofu or beans.
Tips To Know
Whole Foods can get a bit pricey at times. Make sure you check out the deals and sales of the week when planning a visit to help stay on a student budget.
Being a savvy shopper is important in an expensive supermarket setting. Make sure you give yourself time to compare prices of products (labels will tell you price per ounce to compare “bang for the buck” of products). Also, eat something before you shop - it’s proven to help you buy less because you’re full.
One aspect of Whole Foods many people will overlook are the opportunities to get involved in the Whole Foods community. Each Whole Foods hosts regular events that include cooking classes, discussions and tastings that are individual to the specific store. Check out the Tenley event schedule online or any of the other D.C. locations for details to take advantage of these free or cheap opportunities.
Most importantly, enjoy Whole Foods. It is a privilege to have such a great place be so accessible from the AU campus.
