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Light Fit Flavorful Fare

Under 475 Calories

By Tess Dumlao

We've all heard the saying, 'a moment on your lips, a lifetime on the hips.' In other words, feeding your cravings for delicious, rich foods is not worth the indulgence. Well, perhaps, 'you can have your cake and eat it too.' Allow me to introduce you to Seasons 52, a whole new flavorful concept in dining out, without the guilt.

During a recent trip to Florida, I discovered a fresh grill and wine bar in an upscale, casually sophisticated setting. They had incredible wines and great tasting food to my surprise, all under 475 calories. Not possible. Or, so I thought.

New to the Valley
"Our success is driven by our passionate belief that eating well is part of living well," says Seasons 52 president Stephen Judge. "Guests continually tell us we are exceeding their expectations," he adds. "That's exciting for us."

What was exciting for me, was finding out that this restaurant was opening its doors right here in the Valley at The Biltmore Fashion Park in late Oct. 2010. This is news I had to share.

On the Menu
Its name, Seasons 52, refers to each week of the year as the menu celebrates ingredients at the peak of ripeness and maximum flavor. The lunch and dinner menus change four times a year with weekly seasonal appetizers, entrees, side dishes and desserts.

You can expect some of the most delicious dishes your palette will ever savor, rustic cooking techniques and use of the freshest harvest of each season. "We all want to eat delicious food that celebrates living well, without compromising the rich flavors of a satisfying meal," says Cliff Pleau, co-creator and senior director of culinary.

Under 475 Calories
That's when Pleau came up with the idea for grilling and roasting over open fires to capture the natural flavors of every dish. These techniques have allowed Pleau to keep every delectable item on the menu under 475 calories, so you can indulge, guilt-free.

Some of my favorites include the cedar plank Atlantic salmon, caramelized sea scallops and garlic chicken flatbread. I'm also a huge fan of the mini-indulgence desserts, allowing you to literally take a few small bites, just enough to get that sweet flavor you crave after a meal. Seasons 52 is actually the original creator and founder of these award-winning "minis," which are made fresh daily and never frozen. You can enjoy just one or order a "flight" to be shared among friends.

Every once in a while you come across something so brilliant you tell your friends, family and co-workers. At Seasons 52, there is no compromise in food, service or surroundings. For me, it's the perfect setting to meet with friends at the piano bar, conduct a business lunch or enjoy a romantic dinner, all the while eating light, fit and healthy.

Infolink: Seasons 52

Tess Dumlao is a Valley freelance writer, business consultant and self-proclaimed "foodie."