In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the impact of dietary choices on health. Most recently, my patients are asking for seed oil free restaurants options in Dallas. This is likely due to the rise of obesity and metabolic disease in the United States. Individuals are looking to take more control of their health and be aware of what they consume by reading labels and paying attention to ingredients. One of those ingredients is seed oils. And, one contentious issue in the realm of nutrition is the use of seed oils, often touted as healthy but increasingly recognized for their potential drawbacks.
What oils are considered seed oils?
Seed oils, such as soybean, corn, and sunflower oils, are prevalent in many processed foods and restaurant kitchens. However, their high omega-6 fatty acid content and potential for oxidation have led to concerns about their impact on health.
Which restaurants use seed oils?
99% of restaurants use seed oils in American due to their convenience and price-point. They are easy to source, have zero aftertaste, and can be used in high heat, baking and sautéing, making them a versatile option for large chain restaurants and franchises. It’s rare to find a restaurant that is farm to table, paleo, or focused on health that is utilizing an alternative option like avocado oil, olive oil, grass-fed butter, or tallow. Part of this is because of the large burden of cost and sourcing.
Fortunately, discerning diners in Dallas have options when it comes to restaurants that eschew seed oils in their culinary creations. Here are five establishments where you can savor flavorful dishes without worrying about the presence of seed oils:
Dallas Dining: Seed Oil Free Restaurants
1. Asador
Located in the Renaissance Dallas Hotel, Asador prides itself on its farm-to-fire dining experience. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and wood-fired cooking techniques, Asador offers a menu free from seed oils and many locally sourced ingredients. There are so many wonderful options to choose from, it’s hard to go wrong. But, the Verlasso Salmon with chili glazed brussel sprouts is a favorite of mine!
2. Origin
Nestled on Mckinney in the Knox-Henderson district, Origin is an OG haven for health-conscious foodies. Their menu features nutrient-dense dishes crafted with care and attention to quality. They’ve offered Whole30 compliant options, an upgrade to avocado oil, partnerships with the Defined Dish; they have it all! They’re not new to the healthy food game and you’ll be impressed by the taste but also the staff’s confidence in helping you navigate the menu and any dietary needs.
What does a dietitian order at Origin? I love the brussel and hash bowl for a brunch meal, but also the steak & eggs or the thai salmon salad. The menu is always changing and I’ve never had a bad dish from fish tacos to the green goddess salad designed by The Defined Dish.
3. sweetgreen
A popular destination for salads and bowls, sweetgreen is committed to transparency and sustainability. Their commitment extends to the ingredients they use, which are always fresh and free from seed oils. Whether you’re craving a hearty salad or a grain bowl (although not great for blood sugar), sweetgreen has you covered with wholesome options.
What do I order as a nutrition expert? The Kale Caesar or Buffalo Chicken because it’s funny, the protein plates actually have 3-4x more carbohydrate than protein. Nutrition smarter, not harder!
4. Maya’s Modern Mediterranean
Offering a modern twist on traditional Mediterranean cuisine, Maya’s takes pride in serving dishes made from scratch using authentic ingredients. The menu is simple but so flavorful and the family style options work great to support lunch and dinner options during busy weeks. I can’t ever say no to the Israeli salad, babaganoush with sliced vegetables and chicken kabobs.
5. True Food Kitchen
Likely one of the only chain restaurants that will continue to promote health as it’s first goal, with taste coming second, True Food Kitchen is a great staple for those who want to avoid seed oils.
What does a dietitian order at True Food Kitchen?
It’s a hard toss up between the Seasonal Ingredient salad, the not your mama’s meatloaf and the spaghetti squash casserole! But, I have so many great restaurant orders and recommendations to help you improve your health, here, too!
6. HopDoddy; a seed oil free burger bar!
A new press release stated that this healthier burger joint has switched to Zero Acre Farms oil. Zero Acre farms has created an oil from sugar-cane plants that is a majority 93% monounsaturated fat. That’s even more concentrated than olive oil, but cooks to a higher smoke point safelty and has a neautral taste. This makes HopDoddy a weekly “Burger Tuesday” staple for me! I love their grass-fed Buffalo Bill burger on a lettuce wrap with a side of sweet potato fries.
If you’re looking for support to reduce your systemic inflammation, make better restaurant choices, improve blood sugar and feel your best, book a discovery call!
Why are seed oils considered bad?
While these restaurants offer delicious alternatives to seed oil-laden dishes, it’s essential to understand why reducing seed oil consumption is beneficial for overall health. Seed oils, particularly those high in omega-6 fatty acids, have been linked to inflammation and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and obesity. By opting for restaurants that avoid seed oils, you can take a proactive step towards improving your well-being.
What oils are healthful?
On the other hand, omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to heart health. Incorporating omega-3-rich foods into your diet can help balance the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, promoting optimal health and well-being.
In conclusion, dining out doesn’t have to mean compromising on health. By choosing restaurants like Asador, Origin, sweetgreen, Maya’s Modern Mediterranean, and The Provision Home, you can enjoy delicious meals without the harmful effects of seed oils. Additionally, being mindful of your omega-6 and omega-3 intake can further support your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.
If you’re looking for other healthy restaurants but don’t mind the occasional use of seed oils, you can use my Dallas healthy dining guides!
How can I avoid seed oils?
How can I reduce the prevalence of seed oils?
When you’re at a restaurant that does use seed oils, consider the following tips when ordering off the menu to reduce your intake!
- Choose an entree that is grilled or steamed
- Choose a side that is baked on steamed
- Avoid heavy sauces and oil based dressings
There’s also a new app that can be helpful to utilize; Seed Oil Scout and a website that acts as a search engine. Both of these are new and are still growing in their directory base! But, they can be a helpful tool.
Remember, no one food is going to heavily influence your health if you aren’t eating it chronically. When you choose to cook from home more, add in lots of healthful fruits and vegetables and minimize ultra-processed foods consumption, much of your omega-6 overconsumption naturally decreases. These are the small habit changes I work with patients on daily to live an optimal health life.
I just stopped by mayas today and they told me they cook with canola oil :/ not sure if they’ve changed but they are no longer seed oil free!
Oh no! Thank you for reporting though. We have to stay on top of this!