The RAW Truth

My heart's been set on visiting an authentic 'Raw' food restaurant for ages.

After numerous failed attempts at dinning 'Raw' Nour [my best friend] and I were convinced that experiencing a true 'raw' meal together was just not going to happen.

We decided to try one more time...

Determined, excited, and frankly, quite hungry, we finally made our way to 'Live.'

The restaurant is serene and welcoming, and the menu full of delicious options.

After our typical: "You pick," "No, No, you decide," and "Come on, just choose!" We finally settled on the 'Poutine,' Pecan 'Tempura' Sushi, Rainbow Kale and Walnut Salad, The Veggie 'Pounder,' and Chocolate Mousse Pie.  

The 'Poutine' came first and after the first bite we couldn't wait for the rest of our dinner.

The Pecan 'Tempura' Sushi was not only beautifully put together and a delightfully pleasing to the eyes, but also absolutely delicious. By far my favourite part of the meal. This dish is a must try!

[My stomach just grumbled at the thought of it!]

I found the Rainbow Kale and Walnut Salad a tad bland - this is only because I prefer my salads a little on the lemony side - But the raisins, walnuts and sun dried tomatoes were a fabulous touch that, I personally found, compliment the distinct taste of the kale.

The Veggie 'Pounder,' a cooked item, was at first site a little disappointing - "This is it?!?!? REALLY???" was Nour's reaction. The taste was a whole other story. The 'patty,' soft and full of flavour, is dressed with guacamole and BBQ sauce giving it the 'wow' factor.

Now Nour and I are advocates for trying new things, and believe that 'trying' means leaving room for at least one item from each course.

The Chocolate Mousse Pie was divine! Please excuse the half eaten pie in the picture, we were so excited and impressed by this portion of our meal that we forgot to take a picture when it arrived. I believe that this picture speaks a thousand words: IT WAS GOOD!

What is Raw food?
Raw foods are living foods that are eaten in their natural state. These foods are either not cooked or not heated above 118F. These are your typical vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and grains. For more information: Raw vs Cooked & Processed Foods By Rhio

The Health Benefits of a Raw Diet:

• Increased Energy
• Improved Skin Appearance
• Better Digestion - Raw foods contain high levels of enzymes, which assist in digestive processes and contribute to overall good health. 
• Weight Loss
• Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
• Better Nutritional Content - Fruits, Vegetables and plant foods are packed with nutrients. Heating destroys a fair bit of them.
• Dental Health - Cooked food reduces the need for use of one’s teeth, which reduces the  development of the jaw bones and teeth, and increases incidence of tooth decay.

For an in depth explanation: Raw Food Diet read raw Food Diet By Cathy Wong
 
If you're interested in giving Raw Food a try then give 'Live' a try. If you're up for a challenge, take the Raw Food Challenge!
 

Whatever it is you decide to do make sure you get outside and enjoy the weather, and, of course, always Stay Healthy!

  

Mocha Mocha gets 2 THUMBS UP!

I had dinner tonight with my best friend Nour. She suggested  Mocha Mocha Cafe. One of her favourites and a place I hadn't tried yet.

Mocha Mocha Cafe, located on the Danforth, is set up as a modern day cafeteria.

You walk to the cash register, browse the menu hanging behind the register, order, pick a seat (I recommend a table by the window!) sit, then wait for your food...

Nour had the Warm Brown Rice Salad: Cooked brown rice with black eyed peas, black mushrooms and ginger on a bed of mixed greens, shredded carrots and cabbage with sliced tomatoes.

I had the Avocado Salad Plate: Sliced avocado on a bed of mixed greens, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers and shredded carrots with a boiled egg.

And, we shared a Vegetarian Club: Sliced avocado and grilled eggplant with shredded carrots, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and mayo on toasted organic seven grain bread.

Our meal was DelIcIoUs!

The Dishes: Beautiful to look at.

The Food: Healthy & Full of Flavour.

The Ambiance: Comfortable, Warm & Welcoming.

The Company: Fabulous, of course!


All the ingredients to a brilliant dinner out! 

If you don't feel like a salad or sandwich try one of their other menu choices... Bean Burrito Platter, Vegetarian Lasagna, East African Chicken Stew, or maybe a Vegetable Mozzarella Crepe???

Everything coming out of the kitchen looked and smelled sCruMPtioUs!

This may have been my first time to Mocha Mocha Cafe, but it will definitly not be my last.

I'm thinking next time I try out the East African Chicken Stew...

Mocha Mocha you've got my seal of approval!

Stay Healthy!