As parents, sometimes it can be hard to bridge the gap between feeding our kids food that’s delicious and food that’s healthy. Lucky for us, Chaco Canyon means we don’t have to choose.
When Chris Maykut opened the first of his cafés, it was a tiny space offering espresso and a juice bar; 13 years and three locations later, Chaco Canyon is one of Seattle’s premier destinations for organic and vegan cuisine. The café in West Seattle is a great place to take your kids for a treat or for dinner, with a spacious children’s play area that gives busy kids plenty to do and an extensive collection of board games to explore.
Photo: Joshua Huston The play area gives kids plenty to do. |
The wide selection of baked goods and nutrient-packed juices and smoothies never fail to delight younger diners, as does the French toast (available all day). The menu is packed full of delicious and healthy options, many of them gluten free. The quinoa, yam and kale bowl, punched up by a smoky paprika oil, is packed with as much flavor as protein and vitamins. The lentil burger is continually voted Seattle’s best veggie burger.
All of Chaco Canyon’s menu components are made in-house daily, allowing them to maintain high-quality integrity. They list every ingredient and are amenable to substitutions, making it easier for families to navigate food allergies.
Photo: Joshua Huston Too many tasty decisions… Just go for the lentil burger! |
“I want to provide options for people who don’t have a lot of options,” Maykut says. “We listen; we’re committed to providing a safe eating environment.” The cafés are also a model of sustainability, with 90 percent of their waste being recycled or composted. You won’t find any plastic utensils here either. Need a fork to go? Just take one and bring it back next time. Maykut says it takes a commitment, but it’s one that they’re willing to make for our community and our environment.
Seattle locations: 4757 12th Ave. NE; 3770 SW Alaska St.; 8404 Greenwood Ave. N, chacocanyoncafe.com
