Despite a global pandemic wreaking havoc on the restaurant industry, a new breakfast and lunch spot is now open inside the Oliver House on Broadway Street.
The Salad Bar & Cafe opened its doors Aug. 17 and owner Amanda Elenbaas started serving her favorite healthy options at a low price. Oddly enough, she may have to thank the pandemic for fulfilling a lifelong dream of owning a restaurant.
"My husband and I are from Michigan and we were supposed to close on a house there, and then COVID happened," Ms. Elenbaas said. "We stayed with family here. It was supposed to be five days and it turned into five months. Our family convinced us to move to Ohio so I quit my job on July 1 and said, 'I'm going for it.'"
Ms. Elenbaas, a reservist in the Coast Guard, spotted a for lease sign on the property and peeked through the windows. Everything was gray, she said, but the vision for the restaurant was clear.
The Salad Bar & Cafe serves salads made-to-order or build-you-own in small and large sizes. Extra meat carries a $1 cost. Customers can also order smoothies and fresh-pressed juice made with only fruits and vegetables — nothing added.
"Everything is super simple and made with healthy ingredients," Ms. Elenbaas said. "There are no added ingredients and you can pronounce everything in our food."
The restaurant also offers superfood power bowls for breakfast, and speedy options like avocado toast. There is also a build-your-own trail mix bar.
As far as the decor, Ms. Elenbaas wanted to promote an inclusive and inviting atmosphere.
"I wanted a space where people could enjoy their community and feel welcome," she said. "My husband and I are Christians, but I want everyone to feel comfortable. There's a star of David, a rainbow, LGBTQ symbol. I want people to feel welcome and have a place where they can eat a salad or have a coffee and hang out."
Ms. Elenbaas said Toledoans are making her feel welcome and excited to be part of the area. Judging by online feedback, customers are equally excited about her food.
"I can’t express how amazing this place is," Facebook user Camilla Dean said. "Great food. Great staff. Very welcoming vibes. Environmentally friendly. The owners are listening to customers’ suggestions and are adding things here and there. I can’t stop talking about this place."
User Tonya Gordon Starr shared similar thoughts.
"Fabulous food and a very friendly atmosphere," she said. "The owner was exceptionally personable! The food and juice were very filling. It’s wonderful to have a place to go where you know it has healthy ingredients!"
The Salad Bar & Cafe is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.
First Published September 11, 2020, 10:00 a.m.
