Eco-Friendly Boston Restaurants at Fast Food Prices

For the benefit of both diners and the larger community many Boston restaurants are making an effort  to use naturally raised livestock and organic and/lor locally sourced ingredients in their menus.  It is fairly easy to find high-end Boston restaurants that espouse the modern-day  mantra to eat locally and seasonally.  But for those who are thrifty organic-types, here’s a guide to affordable ,sustainable dining options in Boston.

1. Veggie Planet (47 Palmer St., Cambridge, 617-661-1513) is located in the legendary folk haunt, Club Passim.  Organic whole wheat pizza with lots of interesting toppings that are locally sourced whenever possible is the big draw- along with the music! Vegan items too.  
2. Sofra Bakery and Cafe (One Belmont St., Cambridge, 617-661-3161)  Fans of Middle East cuisine will  love the inspired mezze, hummus bar, and the baked goods . Much of the fresh, organic produce comes from Siena Farms , farmed by Chef/Owner  Ana Sortun’s husband. A personal favorite!
3. City Feed and Supply (672 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, 617-524-1700)  offers endless combinations of fresh, organic ingredients in its phenomenal line-up of sandwiches.  Get this: the nitrate -free turkey sandwich with marinated red onion, smoked cheddar, and  locally made pepper relish on a brioche roll from favorite local bakery Iggy’s.
4. Boloco (  2 Park Plaza, Boston, 617-778-6772 , several other locations throughout Boston)  is the home of the “inspired burrito”, is green restaurant certified, and cheap. The Classic has melted cheese, pinto beans,salsa ,cilantro and rice on a flour tortilla with your choice of meat that is raised without anti-biotics or growth hormones for just $5. 
5. The Other Side Cafe (407 Newbury St., Boston 617-536-9477)  Mildly divey and located on the “other” , less chic , side of Mass Ave., the Other Side Cafe caters to an alternative/bohemian crowd.  The eclectic menu offers killer sandwich choices, homemade organic soups,  and  vegan and raw selections too. The Other Side is located near both the Berklee School of Music and Boston University, so prices are college student -friendly.

Image credit: Veggie Planet, Cambridge