I am a big fan of True Food Kitchen and its uniquely healthy menu which appeals to everyone from carnivores to those on a gluten free or vegan diet. This is THE place to go if you have a group of varying dietary requirements.
It is too early to indulge in an alcoholic beverage, so we choose one of my favorites: Honey Lemonade ($5) — served refreshingly cold; and a new offering, Watermelon Coconut Soda ($5) a mix of watermelon, lime, coconut water, Himalayan pink salt, and evaporated cane.
From the “Vegetables” section, there is Roasted Toybox Squash ($8) a vegan and gluten free appetizer of green and yellow summer squashes, sitting atop a lemon dill emulsion with a beautiful smokiness from the burnt onion. The toasted pine nut gremolata is reminiscent of pesto, making it substantial enough for a meal if you’re not feeling super hungry.
Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta ($11) uses a nutty bread topped with almond ricotta — super delicious and possesses no dairy — with garden herbs, and a drizzle of arbequina olive oil. It is simplicity at its best focusing on the luscious tomatoes without too many fussy ingredients.
One of our favorites is Grilled Avocado ($9) served with goat cheese mixed with pappadew peppers and bits of edamame, organic corn, and pepitas (pumpkin seeds), drizzled with a sherry vinaigrette. There is richness from the goat cheese, and the hint of heat from the pappadew is welcoming. This gluten free and vegetarian dish is so good even the carnivores are loving it.
Wild Caught Albacore Tataki ($12.50) is a little different to what I remember. The avocado mousse makes it easier to eat when compared to the chunks in its previous format. Love the jalapeno, toasted sesame, and yuzu ponzu which add so much flavor to this very simple offering.
From the “Bowls” section, there are four variations all starting at $15. You may add a protein at any time. This way, omnivores, carnivores, as well as gluten free or vegan diners are able to adjust each dish according to their needs. For example, we choose Ancient Grains but add tofu ($17) to the bowl comprising miso glazed sweet potato, turmeric, charred onion, snow pea, grilled portobello, avocado, and hemp seed.
One of my long time favorites is the Spicy Panang Curry. We add salmon ($21) to the organic potatoes, long beans, bok choy, carrot, and Thai basil, all swimming in a beautiful coconut broth.
In the “Entrée” section, Scottish Steelhead “Salmon” ($12) is a perfectly executed piece of fish topped with a tangy arugula salad dotted with roasted beets and organic corn. I love the farro which is infused with smoked onion, giving it a heady aroma. The cilantro pumpkin seed pesto adds brightness and brings the entire dish together in perfect harmony.
The food here always leaves me feeling very good about myself. Not only is the menu healthy, but I love how clean tasting everything is. It is no surprise True Food Kitchen is always busy, no matter what time of day you dine there.
True Food Kitchen
451 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Tel: 949-644-2400
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