Though I am not a vegetarian or a vegan, I truly do enjoy eating a mostly plant based diet. In my search to find a plant-based dinner a few weeks ago, I came across this mostly-vegetarian spot in Cambridge’s Central Square. Life Alive is a quick T ride (subway as we call it here in Boston) from downtown and is a colorful oasis of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, spices, and home to a ginger-miso sauce that I still have dreams about.
Walking in the front door you are bombarded with bright colors, the smell of freshly ground vegetables, and a sense of well being (yes that’s right, even without ordering anything you feel healthier just from being there). Though you are almost sure to have to wait in a line, it gives you time to decide what delectable morsel you will have. Another thing to note, it is self serve– so don’t plan on being seated and waited on. This feature of people moving around and waiting in line supports the energetic atmosphere making this place truly “Life Alive.”
So, what to eat?
Deciding what to order is the most difficult part of going to Life Alive, because everything looks and tastes so good. (View the menu). You can choose from salads, warm dishes, the kids menu, the juice bar– rest assured that whatever you choose will be delicious.
The first few times I traveled to Life Alive I had the Rebel– yes I ordered the same thing a few times because it was so good. The first time I had it without the flax oil and tofu, the second time I added extra vegetables- still no flax or tofu.
Fun for us allergy-friendly people
The greatest part about Life Alive is that you can make any addition or substitution to your order– one of my favorite past times and something I frequently do when I eat out. Life Alive has a full list of sides that you can add for a small price. Additionally, you may choose to have your dish one of three ways- in a bowl, a wrap, or a demi (1/2 size portion). So really, your dinner is what you want!
More Perks!
For us allergy-ridden folks, most of the food is gluten free. Additionally, part of the beauty of being able to customize your order is that you may ask to exclude certain ingredients– which again works nicely if you are avoiding any certain food.
The take home:
This is a short post, but I have been meaning to brag about this restaurant for such a long time. You will truly have to go there for yourself to see just what I mean. Next time I go I plan to try a different entree and to add a juice to my order.
If you’re looking for a soul-warming, delicious, filling, and reasonably priced meal this is your spot. And if you like live music, the Central Square location features live music downstairs on thursday nights. Oh! and I almost forgot– they serve wine, a definite plus.
- Healthy Gal
