Dining Out After Bariatric Surgery

A Guide to Phoenix Metro’s Healthiest Restaurants

For bariatric surgery patients and those on a weight loss journey across the Valley of the Sun, dining out can feel like navigating a minefield. However, the Phoenix metropolitan area—including Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and Tempe—offers numerous restaurants that understand the importance of portion control, lean proteins, and whole foods. Here’s your guide to enjoying meals out throughout the East Valley while staying on track with your health goals.

True Food Kitchen – Scottsdale and Phoenix Locations

A pioneer in health-conscious dining, True Food Kitchen (with locations in Phoenix’s Biltmore area and North Scottsdale) was founded with the mission of making nutritious food delicious. Their menu features numerous protein-forward options that can be easily modified for bariatric patients:

• Ancient Grains Bowl with Steelhead: Order without the grains and double the fish for a protein-rich meal
• Grass-fed Steak Tacos: Request lettuce wraps instead of tortillas
• Mediterranean Chicken: A perfectly portioned protein option with vegetables

The staff is well-versed in dietary modifications and happy to accommodate special requests.

Original ChopShop – Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and Scottsdale

Original Chop Shop is an East Valley favorite (with locations in downtown Tempe, north Scottsdale, downtown Chandler, and Gilbert’s SanTan Village). It specializes in lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and customizable portions. Ideal options for a bariatric diet include:

• Teriyaki Chicken Bowl: Order without rice for a protein-focused meal
• Power Bowl: Rich in lean protein with customizable sides
• Protein Shakes: Perfect for early post-surgery patients who need liquid nutrition

Flower Child – Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Gilbert Locations

While known for their vegetarian options, Flower Child (with locations in Central Phoenix, North Scottsdale, and Gilbert) excels at simple, clean proteins that are perfect for bariatric patients from throughout the East Valley:

• Sustainable Salmon: Order à la carte with your choice of vegetables
• All-Natural Chicken: Available grilled and portioned appropriately
• Mix & Match Proteins and Sides: Create your ideal portion size

Chipotle – Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and Tempe Locations

A popular option for customizable meals, Chipotle allows bariatric patients to create protein-focused meals without the high-carb additions:

• Lifestyle Bowl: Order a keto or paleo bowl which prioritizes proteins and vegetables
• Protein by the Portion: Order just the protein as a side for a smaller, focused meal
• Burrito Bowl: Request double protein with minimal rice and beans, focusing on meat and salsas

The build-your-own format makes it easy to manage portions and prioritize protein intake, which is essential for bariatric patients throughout the East Valley.

Sol Cocina – Scottsdale

Mexican food can be challenging post-surgery, but Sol Cocina offers numerous bariatric-friendly options:

• Naked Taco Plates: All the flavors without the tortillas
• Grilled Fish Plates: Fresh protein with customizable sides
• Build-Your-Own Protein Bowl: Skip the rice and focus on proteins and vegetables

Tips for Dining Out Post-Surgery

1. Call Ahead Don’t hesitate to contact restaurants before visiting. Many establishments are happy to discuss modification options and can better accommodate your needs with advance notice.
2. Read the Menu Online Most restaurants post their menus online. Review them in advance to identify potential options and necessary modifications.
3. Be Clear About Your Needs Let your server know you’ve had bariatric surgery or have specific dietary requirements. Many Phoenix restaurants pride themselves on accommodating special requests.
4. Focus on Quality Proteins Look for establishments that offer wild-caught fish, grass-fed beef, or free-range chicken. These typically indicate a commitment to quality ingredients and better preparation methods.

Beyond Traditional Restaurants

The Greater Phoenix area also offers several meal prep services and specialty markets that cater to bariatric patients across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, and the East Valley:

• Clean Eatz Kitchen (Chandler and Gilbert): Offers pre-portioned, protein-focused meals
• AJ’s Fine Foods (Central Phoenix and North Scottsdale): Features a prepared foods section with portion-controlled options
• Whole Foods Market (Tempe, Chandler, and Scottsdale): Provides detailed nutritional information for their prepared foods
• Sprouts Farmers Market (Multiple East Valley locations including Mesa, Apache Junction, and Gilbert): Offers lean proteins and pre-prepared items ideal for post-surgery needs

Remember that successful dining out after bariatric surgery requires planning and communication. These establishments understand the importance of healthy portions and quality ingredients, making them excellent choices for your dining experience.

Note from Your Surgeon

Dr. Brown recommends following your specific post-surgery dietary guidelines and consulting with your nutritionist about individual restaurant choices. Every patient’s journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.