[Photograph: Lindsey Becker]

Thanks to pure dumb luck, I've had some pretty breathtaking but extreme meals lately: sampling sixteen different cream puffs and one of everything at a certain hot dog stand come to mind. Though they were both undeniably once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the one-two punch of sugar and carbs has got me looking for healthier options in my everyday life.

At brunch, I always appreciate something a little different than the usual oatmeal or yogurt, and I found a great alternative at Meli Cafe. The Healthy Start ($11.50) sandwich certainly doesn't play coy about its purpose. Part-skim mozzarella, tomato, spinach, and chunks of warm, but still crunchy, onion fill a light-as-air egg white omelet. The whole thing is placed between two slices of thin multi-grain Naan to make for a substantial brunch option that won't send you on a sugar high or make you feel even more lethargic than you did when you walked in.

Meli Cafe

301 S Halsted, Chicago, IL 60661 (map)
312-454-0748
http://www.MeliCafe.com/