When it comes to eating, the greenest choice is almost always to eat at home and cook from scratch.  But sometimes after a long day, you just want someone else to cook for you.  Luckily, here in Newton we have a handful of greener options when it comes to dining out.

The greenest would have to be The Prana Cafe in Newton Corner. The food there is organic, raw, and vegan.  They also support local and sustainable farms and environmentally-friendly products.  They offer things like salad, pizza, sushi, and even a wide range of desserts!  

When you feel like going somewhere a little bit upscale, try Lumiere in West Newton.   Many of the items on their menu are local and sustainable.  Their menu often says where the food comes from, such as carrots from Verrill Farm, bass from Montauk, or pasture-raised veal from Vermont.  When in season, they also get some of their produce from Newton Community Farm.  You can read about the pureveyors at Lumiere on their website. 

Living in New England, we have access to some of the most delicious seafood in the country.  Skipjack's in Newton Highlands has lots of tasty seafood on the menu, and much of it is from New England.  Calamari from Rhode Island, Maine lobster, bluefish from Gloucester...makes your mouth water, doesn't it?  Most of their regular menu items are also sustainable fish, but if you're curious, check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch website.

When you want to grab a pint of local beer along with your dinner, stop by The Local in West Newton.  Not only are many of their menu items from local producers, but they have a wonderful beer menu featuring beer from Maine's Sea Dog Brewing Company, Mayflower Brewing Company in Plymouth, and Belgian-style beers from the Ommegang Brewing Company in New York.  Even Newton's own Congressman Barney Frank is a fan; I've seen him there chowing down on a flat bread pizza.  

The New England chain, Fresh City, has many green dining options at their Needham Street location.  They use locally grown produce and organic ingredients whenever possible.  While they do have many vegetarian options, they also have naturally-raised meat, poultry, and seafood.  Their food is often very healthy, yet hearty and delicious.  

Even though they're a huge chain, Chipotle also works hard to be green.  They offer some organic options, such as their beans, which are 40 percent organic.  When in season, the Newton location also gets their produce from local farms, including cilantro from Newton Community Farm.  Their pork and beef are naturally-raised, and their chicken is 100% antibiotic-free.   I love their fajita burrito bowls!

Lastly, there's always good old Whole Foods.  The Washington Street location has a sizable dining area, and they have a variety of meal options, including a salad bar, hot buffet, sandwiches, sushi, and pizza.  Don't forget to save room for gelato!  Whole Foods also lets you separate your waste into recyclables, trash, and compostable items.