Healthy Places to Eat in Ridgeland, Mississippi
Eating well in Ridgeland doesn’t require you to give up on flavor, variety, or enjoyment. In fact, this city boasts a diverse selection of eateries that make healthy living both simple and delightful. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh Mediterranean bowls, colorful smoothies, protein-rich salads, or customizable treats, Ridgeland has nutritious choices to satisfy every craving. From charming cafés and contemporary smoothie bars to beloved local spots offering plant-based dishes and yogurt crafted from real ingredients, these venues demonstrate that mindful eating can still be a pleasure. Explore this guide to some of the healthiest—and most delicious—places to eat in Ridgeland, Mississippi.
AC Kitchen
The AC Hotel’s on-site restaurant, AC Kitchen, goes beyond typical hotel fare by offering a range of healthy menu items that cater to guests seeking fresh, nourishing meals. Guests can start the day with whole fruit, Greek yogurt, oatmeal, and made-to-order egg dishes like open-faced toasts topped with arugula, feta, or lean prosciutto. Gluten-free and plant-forward salad, sandwich, and flatbread options are also available at both breakfast and dinner, ensuring choices for light and wellness-minded diners. With an emphasis on fresh produce, lean proteins, whole grains, and customizable meals, AC Kitchen makes healthy eating both convenient and delicious.
Basil’s Renaissance
Basil’s Renaissance, in the Renaissance at Colony Park, is a wonderful option for health-conscious diners in Ridgeland. Renowned for their artisan sandwiches and fresh gourmet pizzas, Basil’s also excels with lighter choices such as crisp garden salads adorned with premium meats and cheeses, along with house-made vinaigrettes that highlight natural flavors. The relaxed yet stylish atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to savor a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality. Whether you’re in for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Basil’s provides numerous ways to maintain a nutritious diet while still indulging yourself.
Aplós Simple Mediterranean
Aplós Simple Mediterranean offers a tasty and health-focused version of Mediterranean cuisine. Begin with nutritious mezza appetizers, such as creamy hummus accompanied by fresh vegetables or soft pita, or try the flavorful falafel, which is a great plant-based option. Their colorful bowls and salads, including the Greek Salad, Mediterranean Cobb, Rice Bowl, and Greens & Rice Bowl, are loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients—crisp greens, bell peppers, cucumbers, olives, feta, and grains—all of which can be enhanced with lighter proteins. The falafel wrap or plate offers even more plant-based protein, served with tahini sauce, rice, salad, and pita for a satisfying yet healthy meal.
The Lily Pad Café
The Lily Pad Café is a charming destination for anyone in search of healthy and nourishing meals within a warm and welcoming environment. Tucked away in the Historic Railroad District, this café features a menu brimming with fresh salads, homemade soups, and daily specials made from wholesome ingredients. For pizza lovers, the flatbreads are served on a lighter cauliflower-crust. With thoughtfully curated healthy offerings and fresh ingredients, The Lily Pad Café strikes a balance between nutrition and flavor while supporting its inclusive mission.
Whirl Natural Smoothie Bar
At Whirl Natural Smoothie Bar, you can easily energize your day with nutritious options. Their wide variety of smoothies features power-packed blends like Protein Punch (47 g protein), Skinny Elvis (banana, peanut butter & hemp hearts), and Green Zinger (pineapple, mango, spinach, orange juice, ginger, honey), as well as lighter choices like Good Day Sunshine and Blue Lemon Gingerade. If you're looking for a more filling snack, don't miss their fresh smoothie bowls—like the Tropical Bowl or Acai Bowl—topped with coconut, chia, granola, and honey. Whether you need protein, fiber, or a clean-energy boost, Whirl’s menu is both delicious and carefully designed for healthy living.
CAET [seafood | oysterette]
CAET stands out as a healthy dining establishment thanks to Executive Chef and owner Derek Emerson—an acclaimed chef and James Beard Award finalist—who creatively highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a seafood-forward menu. Known for sustainable oysters and grilled fish dishes, CAET delivers light, flavorful options balanced with whole grains and vegetables, making it ideal for wellness-minded diners. In an elegant setting, guests can enjoy dishes such as seasonal seafood plates, crisp salads, and vegetable-centric tapas, all thoughtfully curated by Emerson and his wife Jennifer—underscoring CAET’s commitment to nutritious, elevated cuisine.
The Trace Grill
The Trace Grill offers a standout healthy option with its popular veggie burger—served on your choice of homemade wheat, white, jalapeño cheddar, or gluten-free buns for those seeking a lighter, allergy-conscious bite. This veggie-forward menu item allows diners to enjoy a hearty southern meal without the heaviness of traditional burgers. By providing gluten-free buns, The Trace Grill ensures guests with dietary restrictions can indulge in their delicious, balanced offerings.
Other Ridgeland Restaurants with Healthy Options:
- Amerigo Italian Restaurant
- TASTE Italian Kitchen
- Local 463 Urban Kitchen
- Sombra Mexican Kitchen