True Food Kitchen reviewed: Vegan and vegetarian options shine

The growing health-focused chain True Food Kitchen, which was founded by famed wellness guru Dr. Andrew Weil and run by Plant High graduate and CEO Christine Barone, opened a location in late February behind the REI in Midtown Tampa.

• This is the new $500 million mixed commercial and residential development on the Dale Mabry Freeway near I-275.

I took my daughter last week and we tried a sample of menu items to see what Oprah was up to. The vanity here is consciously selected seasonal ingredients with vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

• We were seated quickly without a reservation on a Thursday night, and although the service was a bit inopportune, we’ll be back for the ambiance and the quality of the food.

Details: I had the grass-fed burger, which was moist and juicy and sort of fat free, while Asher had the vegan double cheeseburger, lightly sweetened from the beet and portobello patty.

• For dessert, we shared a chocolate chip cookie – which tasted gluten-free, and was – aided by vegan coconut ice cream.
• The squash pie, topped with coconut whipped cream, was the best thing I’ve eaten.