Veg on the Road Pt. 2: Kansas City, Kansas

This past week was my first back since Spring Break and I have to admit, it took a toll on me. So, to try and keep my spirits up, I have decided to write an ode to my favorite spring break eatery on my 19 hour journey from Texas to Minneapolis, Minnesota: Noodles & Company.
In case you haven't already figured it out, Fort Worth is pretty much the least vegetarian friendly place to live in, which always makes it fun to go out of town and enjoy a plethora of restaurants that have veg fare. Over the summer this past year, I made the first of many trips up to Minnesota (my best friends Brandon and Courtney are getting married there) and stumbled upon this gem of a restaurant chain while shopping in Roseville. Noodles & Company, founded in 1995 in Boulder, CO, offers noodles, salads and sandwiches with flavors and flair from all corners of the world. Their menu is broken down into three sections: Asian, Mediterranean, and American. Once you figure out which of the dishes you want, you choose the size of your dish (sizes are regular for $5.50 and small for $4.50). For an additional $2.25 you can add your protein, which for my fellow vegetarians would be the organic tofu. This is something I love, because non-organic tofu can be made from GMO (genetically modified) soy beans, which is not so great for your health.
On our way up to Minnesota, Brandon and I spotted our first Noodles & Company in Kansas City, Kansas, and were beyond stoked to eat there again. This time around, I decided to try the Indonesian Peanut Saute, described as the spiciest dish on their menu. Though I do admit it packed a lot of heat, it was nothing my Texas taste buds couldn't handle. Full of a great mix of veggies and tofu, this Asian noodle dish also contained fresh, crispy bean sprouts, which gives your tongue a break from the spicy flavors. Overall, I though the dish was pretty well-rounded in taste and nutrition.
This past month, Noodles & Company has really been boosting their street cred by using social media to create a buzz about their Mac and Cheese. Though I am lactose intolerant, I sometimes break the rules (oops) and this is one of those times a girl has to make an exception. The Wisconsin Mac and Cheese trumps any Kraft you have in a box at home, and you can get your dose of veggies by adding broccoli for only an additional 75 cents. Totally worth it.
I am dying for Noodles & Company to come to Fort Worth, but at the moment, the closest one slated to open is going to be in Austin, TX. Check out their site and follow Noodles and Company on twitter (@noodlescompany) to learn more about their history, food and more.