PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

It seems that just about everyone is experimenting with a healthier lifestyle these days, even if it’s just sampling a few new menu ideas. The bets place downtown to do a little lunch time experimentation is at Kramer’s, where you can try a few new entrees and do a little shopping at the same time.

As you walk in, you’ll immediately pick up on the health nut vibe, from that distinctive vitamin and incense smell to the hippie and hipster types wandering around. So much to shop for and to check out! For the regulars, this place feels just so cozy and welcoming, but newcomers might already be feeling a little overwhelmed. For the latter, I suggest to head straight for the back and go up the stairs to the little café.

The overhead menu on the left shows off the vast concoction of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, and on the right are the lunch items. Go for a lentil soup or a lunch special, like the veggie burrito. If you’re not sure about liking vegetable juice, ask the guys behind the counter to exchange it for an apple juice instead - fresh squeezed apple juice is just so, so good and makes you feel like a kid again! Be sure to season your food at the counter before sitting, because there is absolutely none in it, but is fantastic after you put your personal touch to it! Just remember to pay downstairs when you leave.

Once you’ve finished, go back downstairs and explore. The staff is very helpful, and there is a wealth of information to be had. It’s a little more expensive than bigger stores that carry the same products, but when there’s a sale, it’s very worth it. And hey - students get a 10% discount! What’s also nice is there are many products at this store that are made locally and are otherwise hard to find. And what gal doesn’t love testing hand creams and smelling the shampoo bottles?

Also, across from the register is a prepackaged cooler that has some dangerously good “health food”. The Totally Vegan products are really good, especially the seitan barbecue and the “corned beef” sandwiches - almost identical to the real deal! Pick some of this stuff up and bring it back to the office for even more experimenting! It’s little wonder why all the hipster bike messengers congest this section! Just remember when you leave to grab a store flyer for your next visit, because you’ll definitely be coming back!