This Chick's Kitchen

From the Innovation Station:






She explained that she wants diners to feel as if they are in their own home, opening up their own fridge, and figuring out what they can cook with what they have on hand.  Except it's way better than that, because at the Innovation Station, you will find incredible fresh, local ingredients and you don't have to do any of the work - you have a talented and inspired chef with thirty years of experience to guide you and steer you in the right direction.  Don't see an ingredient you want?  Just ask - odds are Rosaria has it (or something comparable) and would be thrilled to share it with you.  Need inspiration?  Rosaria is brimming with it.  There aren’t many chefs as in touch with their ingredients as Chef Rosaria.  While we were there, she drew from that creativity to whip up a delicious wrap using ingredients from the Innovation Station - and it was amazing.  Quinoa and fresh vegetables were packed inside a mustard green leaf and accented with just a bit of spice.  The cool crisp veggies were a nice contrast to the subtle heat.  And the accompanying salad of greens, pineapple, and pomegranate pips added a perfectly sweet pop to complement our wrap.

In addition to the wrap, we also had the chance to try some of Chef Rosaria's already prepared grab-and-go items.  She served up a quinoa, lentil, and amaranth soup that was rich and hearty while still feeling light and healthy.  It was packed with vegetables and was incredibly flavorful.  We also tasted an amazing slice of paleo quiche.  The farm fresh eggs were full of flavor on their own and were heightened by vegetables and a tasty almond flour crust that added a nice crunchy texture and hint of sweetness.  That quiche plus a simply dressed salad would make a perfect light lunch for just $11.

In addition to Chef Rosaria's healthy and delicious offerings, This Chick's Kitchen also has items from other local vendors on the menu.  Chef Rosaria is a huge supporter of small businesses and local artisans, and her new venture serves as a platform for these vendors to showcase their goods.  We sampled a yummy gluten-free apple cinnamon muffin that pleased even the pickiest among us - a toddler!  One minute it was there on the plate and the next minute, it had been gobbled up.  I managed to sneak a couple of bites and am happy to report that it was moist, sweet, and apple-y.