(generationthrive.com) – Ravenna/Roosevelt
How I heard of this place: When I was doing my own raw foods diet experiment, someone told me that a new raw foods restaurant was opening up in the neighborhood. I kept my eyes and ears open and then found it online. I had to twist several arms to get friends to try it with me.
Type of cuisine: Raw foods. Whole foods. Living foods.
Ambiance: Colorful, and vibrant, with dark, wooden seating for about 14-16 people. A small store with raw foods (crackers, dressings, etc.) available for purchase.
What I ordered: On my first visit to Thrive, I ordered the fiery and hearty chili con marvelous ($8 half/$12 full) made with fresh vegetables, nuts, and herbs and topped with onion cashew cream, served on a bed of Romaine. (Ingredients: portabella or crimini mushroom, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, almond, carrot, garlic, sun-dried tomato, cold-pressed olive oil, wheat-free tamari, garlic, agave, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, water, oregano, chili powder, cumin, cayenne). On that same visit only one of my two dining companions was brave enough to venture into the world of raw foods and ordered the Oh My Samurai, one of Thrive’s signature teriyaki noodle dishes, consisting of mineralized sea kelp noodles marinated in sweet and savory teriyaki sauce and served with sword-sliced red and green cabbage, and topped with cashews. (Ingredients: kelp noodles, cabbage, celery, carrot, wheat-free tamari, cold-pressed olive oil, agave, ginger, garlic, cashew, green onion). Our other dining companion ordered a warm grain bowl. This time, both my initially-weary dining companion and I ordered the hungry-no-more! salad ($6), which was served in a small bowl that included organic mixed baby greens, spinach, tomato, mushrooms, basil leaves, cucumber, pinenuts, and our favorite lemon tahini blast dressing. I ordered the smallest (9-ounce) Shine ($5) smoothie, which is a pureed combination of coconut butter, coconut water, pineapple, and agave. I opted for the optional additional of a real vanilla bean ($1), as a splurge! My dining companion ordered the Rapture (12-ounces for $7) for an infusion of antioxidants and natural alchemy made from Açaí and blueberries balanced with ginger, fresh vanilla bean, pineapple, and coconut water.
What I loved: The lightness of the lemon tahihni dressing and the refreshing summery blend of vanilla, coconut and pineapple in my smoothie.
Why I loved it: I love that it’s a raw foods restaurant that aims to satisfy even the biggest skeptic. The food is hearty, filling and very fresh.
Cost: High ($8-$12 for a smaller lunch entree)