Paleo is a new dietary phenomenon consisting of only meat, vegetables, fruit, nuts, fats, seeds and oils. That means grains and dairy are off the menu. Making paleo at home is simple but eating out can be a challenge. Here are five places in the valley to enjoy a paleo-friendly night out.
Little Cleo’s Seafood Legend
Little Cleo’s is located at The Yard in north Phoenix and features a variety of daily fresh shucked oysters from both the Pacific and Atlantic. Order the Alaskan halibut (without the sauce) and roasted summer squash, but not before a dozen raw oysters garnished with fresh-squeezed lemon. After your meal, step outside to enjoy some bag toss or ping pong at the center of The Yard.
For menus and information, visit foxrc.com.
The Arrogant Butcher
With a front row view of US Airways Center, Arrogant Butcher is one of the premiere steakhouses in downtown Phoenix. A well-rounded paleo meal can’t go wrong with a New York strip steak and a side of grilled asparagus, complemented with a robust cabernet. Drop in on Saturday evenings to enjoy the slow-roasted prime rib special.
For menus and information, visit foxrc.com.
True Food Kitchen
True Food is a fantastic testament to clean eating in the valley. Visit either location at the Biltmore or Scottsdale Quarter and get the grass-fed bison burger in a kale wrap. The vegetable crudites are a refreshing and fun appetizer but downsize to a half order if you’re eating them alone. The full size is a hefty portion of veggies.
For menus and information, visit foxrc.com.
Nourish123
It’s rare to find a restaurant that actually says “paleo” on the menu, but Nourish is one of them. Located in Scottsdale, this establishment does more than serve food – cooking classes, guest speakers and nutrition coaching are available from this unique eatery. Enjoy the glazed chicken with sweet potato and avocado salad when you stop in.
For menus and information, visit nourish123.com.
Astor House
Barbeque is a god-send in the paleo community and this pit in the heart of Phoenix is one of the best to fulfill your meaty desires. Everything’s on the menu – beef, pork, poultry and sausages – and all served up in large quantities. A proper paleo diet suggests you pair this with a vegetable side but at the Astor House, just go ahead and enjoy eating like a caveman.
For menus and information, visit astorinphx.com.
I’d also like to submit Chakra 4 as another wonderful paleo cafe in Phoenix. It’s located in Town & Country at the corner of 20th St. and Camelback. They are vegan/vegetarian, however, they offer a lot of items that are very satisfying and tasty. I didn’t miss meat at all while eating here. Plus, they have a delicious dessert assortment – most paleo.