BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse offers a variety of healthier menu options for diners looking to make nutritious choices. The restaurant provides detailed nutrition information and allergen guides to help customers make informed decisions about their meals. Some of the healthiest items at BJ’s include oven-roasted fish tacos, which are lower in calories than their fried counterparts and come with a side of fiber-rich black beans.
BJ’s commitment to health-conscious dining extends beyond just offering lighter fare. The restaurant chain has pledged to transition to cage-free eggs by 2025, demonstrating a focus on quality ingredients. Customers can easily access nutritional data for menu items, allowing them to track calorie intake and other dietary factors. This transparency empowers diners to select meals that align with their personal health goals and dietary requirements.
Understanding Nutrition at BJ’s Restaurant
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse provides nutritional information for their menu items. This allows diners to make informed choices based on their dietary needs and preferences.
Calories and Nutritional Information
BJ’s offers a comprehensive nutritional guide for their menu. This guide includes calorie counts, fat content, sodium levels, and carbohydrate information for each dish.
The calorie content of menu items varies widely. Some dishes contain over 1000 calories, while others are under 500 calories.
Sodium levels are also important to note, as many restaurant meals can be high in salt. BJ’s guide helps diners track their sodium intake.
Carbohydrate counts are provided, which is useful for those following low-carb diets or managing diabetes.
Identifying Healthier Options
BJ’s menu includes several lighter options for health-conscious diners. The restaurant offers a selection of EnLIGHTened Entrees, which are generally lower in calories and fat.
Grilled chicken and fish dishes are often healthier choices. These tend to be lower in calories and higher in protein compared to fried options.
Salads can be a nutritious option, but it’s important to consider dressing choices. Some dressings can add significant calories and fat.
BJ’s provides allergen information, which is helpful for those with food sensitivities or allergies. This includes details on common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts.
Customization is available for many menu items. Diners can request modifications to make dishes healthier, such as asking for dressings on the side or substituting sides.
Satisfying Salads and Soups
BJ’s Restaurant offers a variety of nutritious salads and soups that cater to health-conscious diners. These options provide a balance of flavors and nutrients while keeping calorie counts in check.
Nuanced Salads
BJ’s salad menu features diverse choices for different tastes and dietary needs. The Strawberry Fields Salad combines fresh greens with sweet strawberries, candied pecans, and feta cheese. For those seeking an Asian-inspired option, the Asian Chopped Salad blends crisp vegetables with a tangy dressing.
Many salads can be customized to accommodate vegetarian and gluten-free preferences. Grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp can be added for extra protein. BJ’s uses fresh ingredients in their salads, ensuring a crisp and flavorful experience.
Calorie-conscious diners will appreciate that most salads range from 400-600 calories, making them a lighter meal option.
Hearty and Healthy Soups
BJ’s soup selection offers warm, comforting options that don’t sacrifice nutrition. The Chicken Tortilla Soup provides a spicy kick with tender chicken, vegetables, and crispy tortilla strips. For cheese lovers, the Broccoli Cheddar Soup blends creamy cheese with nutritious broccoli.
Soup portions come in cup or bowl sizes, allowing flexibility in portion control. A cup of soup paired with a small salad creates a balanced meal under 500 calories.
BJ’s also offers a unique Piranha Pale Ale Chili, incorporating their signature beer into a hearty, protein-rich dish. Vegetarian soup options are available, catering to various dietary needs.
Lighter Main Course Options
BJ’s Restaurant offers a variety of healthier main course options for those seeking lighter fare. These dishes focus on lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and balanced portions to satisfy hunger without excess calories.
Enlightened Entrees
BJ’s Enlightened menu features several nutritious main courses. The Enlightened Mediterranean Chicken Pita Tacos are a flavorful choice, combining grilled chicken with fresh vegetables in a whole wheat pita. For seafood lovers, the Oven-Roasted Mahi Mahi Tacos provide a lean protein option. These tacos are served with black beans, adding fiber to the meal.
Calorie-conscious diners can find detailed nutritional information for each Enlightened entree on BJ’s menu. Many of these dishes contain under 600 calories, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
Creative and Healthy Pizzas
BJ’s offers lighter pizza options for those craving a slice without the guilt. The restaurant provides vegetarian and gluten-free pizza choices, catering to different dietary preferences. Thin-crust pizzas are available as a lower-calorie alternative to traditional deep-dish styles.
Customers can customize their pizzas with a variety of vegetable toppings to increase nutritional value. BJ’s also offers cauliflower crust as a low-carb pizza base option. These healthier pizza variations allow diners to enjoy a favorite comfort food while maintaining a balanced diet.
Appetizers with a Healthy Twist
BJ’s Restaurant offers appetizers that balance flavor and nutrition. These starters provide tasty options for health-conscious diners looking to enjoy a lighter meal.
Innovative Starters
BJ’s menu features several appetizers with a healthier profile. The Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts offer a flavorful vegetarian option, combining sweet and spicy notes. These crispy sprouts provide a nutrient-rich start to the meal.
For those seeking a protein boost, BJ’s offers a lighter take on Boneless Wings. These can be paired with lower-calorie sauces for a more mindful indulgence.
The Artichoke Dip presents a shareable option that incorporates vegetables. Made with artichokes and spinach, it offers a creamy texture without excessive calories.
Mozzarella Sticks, while not the lightest option, can be enjoyed in moderation. BJ’s version uses quality ingredients and can be shared among the table.
BJ’s also provides customization options for many appetizers. Diners can request modifications like grilled instead of fried preparations or lighter dipping sauces to further reduce calorie content.
Beverages to Complement Your Meal
BJ’s offers a variety of beverages to enhance your dining experience, ranging from refreshing non-alcoholic options to carefully crafted cocktails. These drinks cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, with options that can fit into a balanced meal plan.
Non-Alcoholic Offerings
BJ’s provides several non-alcoholic beverages to quench your thirst. Calorie-conscious diners can opt for unsweetened iced tea or sparkling water, both of which have zero calories. For those seeking more flavor, BJ’s offers fresh-brewed lemonade and fruit-infused waters.
Coffee and decaf are available for a caffeine boost or after-dinner drink. Soft drinks are also on the menu, though these tend to be higher in calories and sugar. For a healthier alternative, consider their selection of hot teas, which can aid digestion and provide antioxidants.
Alcohol with Attention to Calories
BJ’s features a range of alcoholic beverages, including craft beers brewed on-site. Light beer options typically contain fewer calories, around 100-120 per 12 oz serving. For cocktail enthusiasts, BJ’s offers lower-calorie choices like the Aperol Spritz or a Vodka Soda with fresh lime.
The White Peach Boba-Rita and Tito’s American Mule provide unique flavor profiles but may be higher in calories due to added sugars. Guests can request nutrition information for specific drinks. For a balance of flavor and moderation, consider sipping on a glass of wine, which typically contains about 120-150 calories per 5 oz pour.
Dessert Choices for a Balanced End
BJ’s offers dessert options that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While many are indulgent, there are ways to make smarter choices.
Mindful Dessert Selections
The Pizookie is BJ’s signature dessert – a warm cookie topped with ice cream. To reduce calories, consider sharing a Pizookie with others at the table.
BJ’s chocolate chip cookie Pizookie contains around 1,000 calories. Opting for a mini version cuts that significantly.
For a lighter option, look for fruit-based desserts when available. These tend to be lower in calories while still satisfying a sweet craving.
Consider skipping dessert altogether and ending your meal with a cup of coffee or tea instead. This can help you avoid excess sugar and calories.
If you do indulge, balance it out by choosing lighter options for your main course. Moderation is key when it comes to desserts at restaurants.
Accompaniments and Add-Ons
BJ’s Restaurant offers several lighter side dishes and add-ons to complement meals without excess calories. These options allow diners to customize their orders with nutritious choices.
Health-Conscious Side Dishes
BJ’s menu features some healthier side dish alternatives. Steamed vegetables provide fiber and nutrients with minimal added fats. A side salad with light dressing offers vitamins and minerals. Soba noodles serve as a lower-calorie option compared to traditional pasta sides.
For protein add-ons, grilled chicken breast adds lean protein without excessive calories. The nutrition calculator indicates blackened chicken contributes 230 calories and 40g of protein. Blackened salmon provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
The Seared Ahi Salad stands out as a lighter entrée option. It combines seared ahi tuna with mixed greens and Asian-inspired ingredients for a nutrient-dense meal under 500 calories.
When selecting sides and add-ons, diners can reference BJ’s online nutrition information to make informed choices aligned with their dietary goals.
Navigating Allergies and Sensitivities
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse offers resources to help guests with food allergies and sensitivities make informed choices. The restaurant provides a detailed Allergen Menu that lists common allergens present in each dish.
For those with gluten sensitivities, BJ’s offers a selection of gluten-free options. These include certain entrees, sides, and even a gluten-free thin crust pizza. The restaurant takes precautions to minimize cross-contamination, but advises guests with severe allergies to exercise caution.
Vegetarian diners can find several suitable options on the menu. Salads, veggie burgers, and certain pasta dishes cater to those avoiding meat. BJ’s also allows customization of many menu items to accommodate dietary needs.
Guests with specific allergies or sensitivities should inform their server before ordering. The staff can provide additional information and help guide diners toward suitable menu choices. BJ’s commitment to transparency in ingredient information helps customers make safe and enjoyable dining decisions.
Making Informed Choices
At BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, diners can make smart decisions by reviewing nutritional information. The restaurant provides calorie counts and other key details for menu items.
To stay within recommended daily limits, patrons should pay attention to calories, sodium, and other nutrients. Many appetizers and entrees contain over 1,000 calories, so sharing or choosing smaller portions is advisable.
BJ’s offers some lighter options under 600 calories. The Peruvian Quinoa Bowl is a nutritious choice high in fiber and protein. Grilled chicken salads and vegetable-based dishes can also be good picks.
For those with dietary restrictions, BJ’s has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections. The menu is clearly labeled to help guests identify appropriate options.
Customization is another way to make meals healthier. Asking for dressings and sauces on the side allows control over added fats and sodium. Swapping sides like fries for steamed vegetables boosts nutrition.
BJ’s commitment to transparency empowers customers. By reviewing nutrition facts and ingredients, diners can select meals aligned with their health goals and dietary needs.