Yard House, a popular sports bar chain, offers a variety of healthy options for diners seeking nutritious meals. The restaurant’s menu includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie choices to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Guests can find detailed nutrition facts and allergen information for all menu items, empowering them to make informed decisions about their meals.
With over 80 locations across the United States, Yard House has been committed to providing healthier alternatives since its inception in 1991. The founder’s personal interest in healthy eating influenced the restaurant’s diverse menu offerings. From nutrient-rich salads to lean protein options, Yard House strives to balance indulgent favorites with more health-conscious selections.
Navigating the Yard House menu for healthier choices is made easier by the restaurant’s transparent approach to nutrition information. Diners can access calorie counts, macronutrient breakdowns, and allergen details for each dish. This allows patrons to enjoy their dining experience while staying mindful of their dietary goals and restrictions.
Understanding Nutrition at Yard House
Yard House provides detailed nutritional information for their menu items, allowing diners to make informed choices. The restaurant offers options for various dietary needs and restrictions.
Overview of Nutritional Information
Yard House’s nutrition guide includes calorie counts, fat content, sodium levels, and carbohydrate information for each dish. Many menu items are high in calories and sodium. The Chicken Nachos, for example, contain 2,580 calories and 5,190 milligrams of sodium.
The House Salad has 430 calories, with 260 calories from fat. It contains 29 grams of fat, 19 grams of protein, and 890 milligrams of sodium. The Kale & Romaine Caesar Salad has 540 calories and 1,070 milligrams of sodium.
Diners can use this information to select lower-calorie options or balance their meal choices. The nutrition guide is updated periodically to ensure accuracy.
Navigating the Menu with Dietary Restrictions
Yard House caters to various dietary needs, offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly options. The restaurant provides a separate guide highlighting items suitable for specific dietary restrictions.
Guests can request modifications to many dishes to accommodate their needs. For example, taco shell options may be available for those avoiding gluten. The menu includes several salads that can be customized.
When dining with dietary restrictions, it’s advisable to inform the server. They can guide guests to suitable options or suggest modifications to existing menu items.
Health-Conscious Menu Choices
Yard House offers a variety of nutritious options for health-conscious diners. From light appetizers to flavorful salads and tacos, the menu provides choices that are both satisfying and mindful of calorie counts and nutritional content.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer menu features several lighter options for those watching their calorie intake. Steamed edamame makes an excellent low-calorie starter at just 264 calories per serving. It’s packed with protein and fiber.
For seafood lovers, the poke nachos offer a healthier twist on traditional nachos. Made with fresh ahi tuna and crisp wonton chips, this dish provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
The hummus and pita plate is another nutritious choice. Rich in protein and healthy fats, it’s served with fresh vegetables for added vitamins and fiber.
Lighter Fare and Salad Selections
Yard House’s salad menu boasts several nutrient-dense options. The Cobb salad, a classic favorite, can be customized with grilled chicken for added protein. At around 500 calories, it’s a filling meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
The Kale Caesar salad offers a modern, nutrient-rich take on the traditional Caesar. It’s lower in calories and higher in vitamins A and C compared to its romaine counterpart.
For a heartier option, the Grilled Chicken and Quinoa bowl combines lean protein with fiber-rich quinoa and fresh vegetables. It’s a well-balanced meal at under 600 calories.
Healthy Tacos and Street Food
Yard House’s taco selection includes several healthier options. The Blackened Shrimp Taco is a standout choice, offering lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s typically under 200 calories per taco.
The Vampire Taco, despite its name, is a surprisingly nutritious option. Wrapped in a crispy cheese shell instead of a tortilla, it’s lower in carbs than traditional tacos.
For vegetarians, the Avocado Taco provides healthy fats and fiber. It’s typically served with black beans and rice, creating a complete protein source.
Street tacos can be customized with lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish for a healthier twist on this popular menu item.
Popular Choices with a Healthy Twist
Yard House offers several menu items that balance taste and nutrition. These options cater to various dietary preferences while maintaining flavor and satisfaction.
Protein-Packed and Plant-Based Options
The Cilantro Lime Chicken stands out as a nutritious choice with 590 calories and 80 grams of protein. This dish also provides 7 grams of fiber and only 3.5 grams of saturated fat. For plant-based diners, Yard House features an extensive vegetarian menu. These options allow guests to enjoy familiar flavors in healthier forms.
Grilled proteins and seafood dishes offer lean alternatives to fried options. The menu includes gluten-sensitive items, catering to those with specific dietary needs. Salads can be customized with grilled chicken or fish for added protein without excess calories.
Healthier Indulgences and Alternatives
Yard House provides lighter versions of popular comfort foods. The margherita pizza can be ordered with a cauliflower crust for a lower-carb option. Wing lovers can opt for lemon pepper wings instead of BBQ or buffalo wings to reduce sugar and calories.
Portion control is key for indulgences. Sharing appetizers or choosing smaller plates allows for taste without overindulgence. The bar offers light beer options and skinny cocktails for those watching their calorie intake.
Substitutions like sweet potato fries or side salads instead of regular fries can cut down on calories and add nutrients. Guests can request dressings and sauces on the side to control added fats and sugars in their meals.
Yard House Dining Experience
Yard House offers a unique atmosphere that blends casual dining with an extensive beverage selection. The restaurant chain provides a modern twist on the traditional American sports bar concept, creating a vibrant space for food and drink enthusiasts.
Ambiance and Setting
Yard House restaurants feature an industrial-chic design with high ceilings and expansive dining areas. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space, creating an open and inviting environment.
The centerpiece of each location is typically a circular bar with an impressive array of beer taps. Sleek metal accents and wood finishes contribute to the contemporary aesthetic.
Multiple flat-screen TVs are strategically placed throughout the restaurant, catering to sports fans without overwhelming the dining experience. The background music adds to the lively atmosphere, striking a balance between energetic and conversational.
Beverage Selections
Yard House is renowned for its extensive craft beer selection. Most locations boast over 100 taps, featuring a rotating selection of local, regional, and international brews.
The signature beer system includes a glass-enclosed keg room and visible beer lines that run overhead to the central bar. This unique setup not only serves a functional purpose but also adds to the visual appeal of the restaurant.
In addition to beer, Yard House offers a comprehensive cocktail menu. Signature drinks often incorporate fresh ingredients and house-made mixers. Wine enthusiasts can choose from a curated list of domestic and international vintages.
For non-alcoholic options, the restaurant provides house-made sodas and flavored teas, catering to a wide range of preferences.
Making Reservations and Special Requests
Yard House offers convenient online reservations at select locations. Guests can easily book a table through the restaurant’s website or mobile app.
For larger groups of 30 or more, Yard House provides a dedicated group dining option. Interested parties can submit a request online to be contacted by a Special Events Coordinator.
When making a reservation, guests have the opportunity to note any special dietary requirements or preferences. This allows the kitchen to better accommodate needs related to allergies or dietary restrictions.
Yard House welcomes walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for busier times like weekends and evenings. Availability may vary by location and day of the week.
For specific dates or special occasions, it’s advisable to book in advance. This ensures guests can secure their preferred dining time and any necessary accommodations.
Yard House strives to cater to various dietary needs. When making a reservation, guests can inquire about menu modifications or substitutions to align with their health goals or restrictions.
By communicating preferences ahead of time, diners can ensure a smoother, more personalized experience at Yard House. The staff aims to accommodate special requests whenever possible.