By: Cassie Pearce

With fast food restaurants taking over a large part of the food industry, sticking to a healthy diet and finding quality food on-the-go has become a difficult task in America. Busy schedules and stressful amounts of work limit the time there is for people to cook their own dinners; instead their number one choice is takeout. Luckily, the Evergreen Café on Cold Spring Lane has found a nutritious median. Just a few minutes down the road from Loyola University, the café offers a large variety of salads sandwiches and delicious gelato.

As a Communications major, Jenna-Leigh Meola, sophomore at Loyola University, has her work set out for her, but not at dinnertime. “The Evergreen offers a healthy alternative and the perfect place to set up to study for the day,” the Evergreen fanatic shares. Fully equipped with free WiFi and ample work space, college students and hardworking locals are always in appearance. Offering options for any meal, the café is never empty. This hip Bohemian eatery has mismatched booths and tables set up throughout the space to invite customers not only to take their food to go, but to sit and take that much needed break in to their stressful schedule.

The prices are perfect for families and students who are trying to keep themselves on budget during these tough financial times. Nancy Pallarino, a local Rolland Park mother of two is a dedicated Evergreen customer.“I bring my children here at least once a week and they always thank me after,” she says as she enjoys her Caprese Panini, one of the café’s most popular dishes. “I am able to let them have whatever it is that they want, even dessert, and feed my family of four for less then $30.” For Loyola students, the Evergreen gives them the opportunity to dine off campus without it costing too much money. “My favorite thing about this place is that we can swipe it!” Loyola student, Meola adds referring to her ability to use one of the two food accounts the University offers. Since 2007 the second meal account, ironically called the Evergreen Account, allows students to spoil themselves at this phenomenal restaurant while staying on their college budget.