Health and wellness have always been hot topics in the South Bay. Our beautiful seaside weather year-round gives us plenty of options for outdoor activity and the ability to grow fresh produce right in our own backyards.

So, it’s not a surprise that more of our community members look for a Blue Zones Restaurant option when dining out. And we’re pleased to say that Bettolino Kitchen is recognized by the Beach Cities Health District as a Blue Zones Project Approved™ Restaurant!

What is a Blue Zones Restaurant?

Blue Zone restaurants are all about serving healthy, longevity-promoting meals inspired by the dietary habits of Blue Zone regions – geographic regions where people live long and healthy lives. These restaurants have a variety of plant-based foods, and incorporate loads of veggies, whole grains, and legumes. Many Blue Zone restaurants prioritize using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, promoting sustainability and supporting the community – just like us!

The Blue Zones Project in the South Bay

The Blue Zones Project is a community-wide approach that surrounds people with healthy options such as healthy menu items at local restaurants, policies that create infrastructures for active lifestyles like bike paths and walkways, and community programming to offer people opportunities to connect with others and improve their well-being. It’s likely that you enjoy the benefits of the Blue Zones Project on a daily basis without even knowing it!

The Project works with local restaurants like ours to showcase healthy menu options that are so delicious that the choice is easy. And while you may be a lover of our creamy pasta dishes, rest assured that the Blue Zones concept doesn’t count calories or include diet restrictions. It’s simply about adopting some of the healthier eating principles so that you can live a longer and better life.

Bettolino Kitchen & The Blue Zones

Here are just a few ways that we incorporate the Blue Zones principles into our restaurant:

• A well-balanced, locally sourced option of greens. Our Greens Menu offers a great selection of plant-based dishes that can be enjoyed as a starter or with additional protein as an entree.
• A whole-grain side option. The Blue Zones include whole grains as a suggested food. A side of our hearty farro and quinoa mix is a great option for those looking to increase their grain consumption.
• Happy hour that includes our wine selection. Because of the antioxidants found in wine, a. limited consumption has been shown to have some health benefits. “Wine@Five” is a principle of the Blue Zones that allots a mindful and healthy consumption of wine.
• We encourage you to bring the whole family to Bettolino Kitchen. The Blue Zones Project has found that surrounding yourself with loved ones can add years to your life expectancy! As a family-friendly restaurant, we welcome even the smallest of diners and even include seasonal offerings that kids can enjoy.

Experience the Difference Community Can Make in Dining

One thing that we learned long ago is that by connecting with our community through programs like the Blue Zones Project, we become so much more than a restaurant… we become a place where we can impact peoples’ lives for the better. We invite you to join us around the table with your loved ones and experience what a difference that makes!