Central Florida Green Guide

We were driving home tonight from a crazy trip to IKEA when the kids expressed they were hungry. It had been a long day and, while I had been planning to make dinner, I was exhausted and figured we’d stop somewhere instead.

Finding somewhere to stop for dinner is always a challenge because we try to eat an all natural and mostly organic diet.  I had heard good things about Jason’s Deli, so we decided to stop when we passed it on 436 in Altamonte Springs.

When I opened the menu, I was impressed to see the following:

• Vegetarian sandwiches, salads, and soups
• Whole grain breads and wraps
• Kid’s menu with healthier options and sides
• Salad bar featuring homemade pasta salads and organic greens
• Organic and natural beverages 
• Transfat-free dining

I had the Southwestern Chicken Sandwich and a side salad.  I thought the sandwich was fine, but I loved the salad bar!  Hubby and I both decided that we would do only half a sandwich next time plus the salad bar.  It’s not everyday that you go to a restaurant with a salad bar that features organic greens and hummus!  Yummy!

The restaurant was clean and the staff members were courteous.  It was kid-friendly because we ordered up front, found a table, and had our dinner within about 10 minutes.  That’s great since my 2 year old is going through a phase that makes going out to eat very difficult! 

Obviously, since this was our first visit, I can’t review many items on the menu.  My son had the cheese pizza which appeared to be homemade (didn’t ask though) and my little one had a grilled cheese on whole grain bread with a side of fruit.  Other options on the kid’s menu included a junior baked potato, junior salad bar, spaghetti and meatballs, and “Little Deli Plate” which features a ham or turkey sandwich.

My husband originally thought the prices were a little high but soon realized that they really did use many organic ingredients. We saw organic ketchup, mustard, and other items that we don’t typically see in restaurants.  Therefore, we felt the prices were very reasonable.  The four of us ate for just $26 and everyone went home full and happy.

 I hear that Jason’s business practices are eco-friendly and hope to report on those details soon.  I also read that while they recently converted completely to a menu that’s free of transfats, they are not done yet.  They are still working to improve their menu! 

Have you been to one of Jason’s Central Florida locations? How was your experience?  We’d love to hear from you!