Some days, cooking just ain’t happening. Whether you’re stuck at your desk late or juggling a million things at home, takeout is a lifesaver. Now, you’re probably thinking about how unhealthy ordering takeout is.
The truth is that eating healthy doesn’t have to fly out the window because you’re ordering takeout. With a few strategies (like following our rules for ordering healthy takeout), you can enjoy your favorite meals without the post-meal regret.
We’re breaking down simple, practical rules to help order no-guilt healthy takeout food. Your meal can actually support your health goals and still taste good. Whether you’re a regular at your local fast-casual spot or scrolling through delivery apps, these tips will help you order healthy takeout.
Why Healthy Takeout in NoVa is Possible (and Necessary)
We live in a world where takeout is basically a food group. In fact, studies show that over 47% of adults pick up takeout and 37% order delivery at least once a week.
And while it’s convenient, it can also be a fast track to extra calories, salt, sugar, and not-so-great choices—unless you follow some rules for ordering healthy takeout.
But here’s the good news: more restaurants, especially fast-casual spots right here in Reston, VA, are offering healthier options than ever before. You just need to know what to look for and how to order.
9 Rules for Healthy Takeout in Northern Virginia
Before you order your next takeout meal, make sure to review these rules to help you make healthier, smarter choices.
1. Prioritize Grilled, Baked, or Steamed Over Fried
Fried food might taste amazing, but it’s usually a one-way ticket to excess calories, unhealthy fats, and that too-full, sluggish feeling. The easiest upgrade? Look for dishes that are grilled, baked, roasted, or steamed. These cooking methods keep flavor intact without drowning your food in oil.
When scanning the menu, keywords to look for: grilled, oven-roasted, baked, steamed, or broiled. Red flags? Anything labeled: crispy, battered, or deep-fried. Those are code for “extra grease incoming.”
For example, at Cafesano: Italian & Mediterranean Bistro, we offer grilled chicken kabobs over fried shawarma. Still flavorful, but much lighter.
2. Skip the Heavy Sauces and Dressings
Sauces can be sneaky. That creamy chipotle drizzle or ranch on your salad? Delicious, sure, but also packed with calories, sugar, and fat that can turn an otherwise healthy meal into a nutritional landmine.
Instead, ask for sauces and dressings on the side. This lets you control how much you use. You’ll be surprised at how little you actually need. And when possible, swap creamy options for lighter ones, such as vinaigrettes, lemon juice, or olive oil.
3. Control the Portions
Portion sizes at most takeout spots are pretty generous. In fact, a study shows that half of Americans want smaller portion sizes.
Instead of powering through the whole thing in one sitting, try splitting your order in half right away. Box up the rest for later, or share with someone. If you’re dining solo, think of it as a built-in lunch for tomorrow.
Another trick? Skip the combo meals and sides you don’t really need. Just because it comes with fries and a drink doesn’t mean you have to say yes. Being mindful of portions keeps you satisfied without overdoing it.
4. Balance Your Plate with Veggies, Protein, and Whole Grains
The healthiest meals usually follow a simple formula: half veggies, a quarter lean protein, and a quarter whole grains. When ordering takeout, aim for a balance that keeps you full, fueled, and feeling good.
Look for meals that load up on fresh vegetables, include grilled proteins like chicken or shrimp, and offer complex carbs like brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat wraps.
This is something Cafesano is proud to do. Our Mediterranean meals are built around this exact combo. We use fresh veggies, grilled meats, fiber-rich grains, and heart-healthy fats like olive oil and hummus.
5. Watch for Hidden Calories in Beverages
You might be making all the right choices with your meal, only to undo them with your drink. Sugary sodas, sweet teas, lemonades, and even some smoothies can sneak in hundreds of empty calories.
Stick to the basics: water, sparkling water, unsweetened iced tea, or even infused water with lemon or mint. These keep you hydrated without the sugar crash.
6. Customize Your Order
When you ask to swap things out in your meal, you’re not being picky, you’re being healthy! Most restaurants (especially here at Cafesano) are happy to make simple swaps or adjustments. All you have to do is ask.
Want grilled instead of fried? No problem. Extra veggies instead of rice? Totally doable. Dressing on the side? Of course. You don’t need to settle for exactly what’s on the menu.
At Cafesano, customization is part of the experience. You can build your own bowl or salad, swap sauces, choose your protein, and get exactly what fits your tastes and goals.
7. Avoid Empty Carbs
We all love a warm pita or a side of fries now and then. But refined carbs like white bread, white rice, and fried sides don’t offer much in the way of nutrition.
Try upgrading to whole grains when you can. Choose brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat wraps. Or skip the carb base altogether and go with a salad or veggie bowl.
Cafesano makes it easy to avoid the usual traps. Our bowls come with options like romaine, arugula, and brown rice. Plus, you can always swap out white pasta for whole wheat—not a problem!
8. Don’t Order While Hungry
You know that feeling when you’re starving and suddenly everything on the menu looks amazing? That’s when good intentions go out the window. Ordering takeout while you’re overly hungry usually leads to impulsive choices.
Instead, try to look at the menu ahead of time and make a decision before you’re hungry. Planning ahead doesn’t have to be complicated. It just keeps you in the driver’s seat instead of letting cravings take the wheel.
9. Choose Restaurants That Align with Your Goals
Some restaurants just aren’t set up for healthy choices. And that’s okay… sometimes. But if you’re ordering takeout regularly, it helps to stick with spots that make it easier to eat well.
Look for restaurants that offer fresh ingredients, customizable meals, whole foods, and cooking methods that don’t rely on deep-frying.
Cafesano keeps this in mind. Our Mediterranean-style menu is packed with grilled proteins, vibrant veggies, whole grains, and bold flavors that don’t rely on processed shortcuts.
Whether you’re low-carb, gluten-free, or just trying to eat cleaner, you have options at Cafesano.
Order Your Next Healthy Takeout Meal from Cafesano in Reston, VA
Takeout doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. With just a little awareness and a few smart tweaks, you can turn your order into something that supports your health, without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about making better choices, one order at a time. Whether you’re swapping fries for salad, asking for dressing on the side, or choosing grilled over fried, every little move adds up.
And if you’re looking for a place that makes healthy takeout easy, Cafesano has you covered! With Mediterranean-inspired meals packed with fresh ingredients and flexible options, eating well on the go has never been simpler.
Check out our menu and order online today. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you!