“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food”
Hippocrates, a prominent figure in the history of medicine, was referring to a concept we have gotten away from. More than ever, people are suffering from preventative, chronic conditions related to poor diet and lack of exercise, and we need to get back to the basics of our health. Health starts from the inside out, so it is essential to be more intentional about how you eat for a better quality of life.
I have discovered a local restaurant to the Tampa area, that practices this sentiment precisely. Here is my experience visiting Intelligent Gourmet.
Intelligent Gourmet is a restaurant located in the South Tampa area off of Manhattan avenue. I was delighted to be invited to come and learn about their business and what they stand for.
About the Owner
One of the owners of the restaurant really takes the time and effort to understand the type of food she is serving her customers. She invested in her craft by becoming a certified holistic health coach and plant-based chef. Although she does not prescribe to any specific diets, she creates food combinations to feed your hunger and soul. Not only does she have the education to back up her recipes, but she also has years of experience serving Tampa with healthy, delicious meals.
About the Restaurant
As the first prepared meal and juice distillery in Tampa, they set the standard! They believe that you should never sacrifice health for flavor, or flavor for health. Their dishes serve most diets including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto; you name it! According to Linda, their food is made, ” all-natural, organic, nitrate-free, preservative-free, non-GMO verified, anti-biotic free, gluten-free, and low in carbohydrates.” I will tell you that their food is utterly delicious! They put love and care into their recipes that are bursting with flavor. They offer dine-in, takeout, prepared meals for home, baked goods (hello red velvet cupcake!), juice cleanses, and healthy/ready to eat bulk foods to make your own food combinations. Sunday Brunch? They have that too! Never sacrifice your diet for a fun “Sunday Funday” with their BYOB Sunday Brunch.
My Meal Experience!
I glanced over the menu, and I can tell you that I found it very hard to decide. They have a wide range of dishes, from smoothies to burgers, so there is something for everyone. I opted for the egg roll in a bowl. The majority of their bowls start with a vegan base, and you can add protein from there. You can choose from organic tofu to hanger steak. I selected shrimp! One thing I appreciated about their menu is the macro and calorie breakdown of ALL their meals. This is ESSENTIAL for me because I am a flexible dieter and track my macros. This is very helpful to be able to eat out and know that what your eating fits exactly into your daily plan.
The Egg Roll in a Bowl was very flavorful, with a little hint of spiciness. Here is a breakdown of the ingredients of the bowl for a preview of why Intelligent Gourmet puts thought into the food they prepare:
Ginger: Anti-inflammatory, fights chronic disease, decreases nausea, and added fitness benefits to name a few!
Shredded Cabbage: Packed with vitamin C, improves digestion, may help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and contains antioxidants.
Carrots: Help to protect against several forms of cancer, eye health, and assists in lowering cholesterol.
Celery: Supports immunity, skin, eye health, optimize circulation, and digestion.
Onion: Nutrient-dense, benefits heart health, cancer-fighting compounds, and more!
Liquid Aminos: Contain amino acids to help increase protein in your diet, and a milder than soy sauce.
Green Juice- De Bloat
Includes kale, celery, granny smith apples, and cucumbers. It is essential for a natural diuretic to “debloat” and recovery hydration.
What Are You Waiting For?
This is just a preview of why I think Intelligent Gourmet is an ideal spot to eat out healthfully. If you are in a hurry, don’t worry. They have prepared foods on the go as a healthy fast option. Take them home in convenient containers for your busy lifestyle. If you want to learn more about Intelligent Gourmet check out their website or go visit them in person at 3413 S. Manhattan Ave. Tampa, FL. 33629.
