Whether looking to indulge or for a healthier alternative to satisfy your sweet tooth, Yogurt Time can do both. They feature several flavors of frozen yogurt, have a smoothie menu, and offer sorbet and two yogurt flavors made with almond milk. I must also mention that Yogurt Time has a vast topping bar with more than 60 items to choose from, including several healthy options and smoothie boosters such as whey protein. My mom and I recently stopped in for a sweet treat to top off our afternoon. She got chocolate yogurt with shredded coconut and sliced almonds and I chose a smoothie with vanilla yogurt and fresh banana and strawberries. We also tried samples of two of their signature flavors: coconut and salted caramel. The yogurt was light and creamy and there was a pleasant subtlety to each flavor that was just right — not too sweet. The smoothie was just as good and blended to the ideal consistency for sipping through a straw. YOGURT TIME DOWNTOWN HANGOUT Phoenix | yogurttimedt.com Pokitrition is a local build-your-own poke restaurant with two Valley locations. So what is poke? Pronounced (poh-KAY), it’s a dish native to Hawaiian cuisine that has become increasingly popular in the U.S. While there are many variations, poke often includes diced and marinated raw fish or shellfish served in a bowl with items such as vegetables and rice. At Pokitrition, you can put together your own custom bowl or try their signature and unique sushi burrito, which is what I chose. I filled it with spicy tuna and crab, marinated tuna, cheese, veggies, rice and Sriracha aioli for an extra kick. Wrapped in seaweed, the burrito had an ideal texture between the fish and the crunch of the veggies, and the spices nicely enhanced the fish’s flavor. The best part? Their fish comes from Hawaii and is fresh and never frozen. In fact, they only do business with companies that provide high-quality, sushi-grade product. Stop in, order ahead online, or have Pokitrition delivered to your home or office. POKITRITION Chandler | pokitrition.com Chef and owner Damon Brasch has created a menu to please all palates, using 100 percent plant-based ingredients, vegan cheeses and mock meats. From familiar classics like hamburgers and cheesesteak sandwiches to rice bowls and wraps, there’s something for everyone. I picked up lunch for my husband and me, selecting their Original “G” Spicy Po-Boy for him, Thee Fighting Artichoke wrap for me, and an order of Green’s buffalo wings. Served on a toasted ciabatta bun, the po-boy features buffalo mock chicken topped with crisp lettuce, tomato and mayo. It earned a thumbs-up from both of us. My wrap was a delightful combination of artichoke and palm hearts, kalamata olives, cucumbers, tomatoes and greens — all fresh and tossed in a tahini and lemon dressing complemented with crunchy tortilla strips. I added blackened mock chicken and was glad I did; it was delicious. Finally, the wings. As a self-proclaimed wing connoisseur, Green’s version has my seal of approval. The spicy buffalo sauce and texture make them a tasty alternative to the real thing. Stop in, pick up, or order online. GREEN NEW AMERICAN VEGETARIAN Phoenix | greenvegetarian.com Lisa Mullavey | Contributing Writer 42 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JANUARY 2019 KITCHEN DOORS {to your health!}

Having started with a mobile food trailer and pop-up kitchen, owners José and Leticia Gamiz have realized their dream of opening a permanent location on the west side of the Valley. Located in Glendale’s historic district, their Mexican restaurant is a welcoming space that features a menu that is 100 percent vegan. Hungry after a long day, I stopped in for dinner. José and Leticia graciously walked me through their menu and made recommendations based on my request for something on the healthy side. I ordered two tacos, their carne asada (seasoned veggie protein) and taco de picadillo (seasoned vegan ground beef) as well as a corn and queso empanada. The carne taco was topped with cilantro and white onion while the picadillo had onion and diced potatoes, both served on corn tortillas. I added their red salsa and a few squeezes of lime juice. Each had a robust flavor and spice that, along with the toppings, boasted a flavor profile and texture that made me quickly forget I was eating vegan meat. The empanada is oven-baked and filled with coconut- based cheese and corn served with their red salsa. I enjoyed the taste of the cheese — it was creamy, and the corn added sweetness. What a hidden gem! Glendale | facebook.com/MiVeganaMadre Mi Vegana Madre