🍊 Welcome to a world where dining out is no longer a compromise between taste and health! On this week’s episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Rihanna Glore, founder of Nectarine Grove—a haven for clean eating located in sunny California. Rihanna’s journey from culinary school to creating one of the cleanest restaurants in America is nothing short of inspiring. Let’s dive into her story and how her restaurant is reshaping the dining landscape. 🌱

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🥗 The Journey Begins

Rihanna’s love for food started early, thanks to her grandparents who recognized her passion and offered to pay for culinary school. Attending Bowman College, she learned about organic cooking, healthy fats, and the harmful effects of seed oils—ideas that were ahead of their time. This education became the foundation of her mission: to create a restaurant that serves delicious, clean food without compromise.

But why stop there? Rihanna opened her first cafe, Healthy Creations, over 17 years ago, focusing on fresh, organic meals. As her dream grew, so did her ambition. Enter Nectarine Grove, a place where your favorite comfort foods like fried chicken, burgers, and waffles are made with the highest-quality ingredients. 🍔✨

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🧑‍🍳 Crafting a Clean Menu

Creating a menu this clean wasn’t easy. Rihanna painstakingly developed recipes over months, sometimes years. Take her cinnamon rolls, for example—they underwent countless iterations over five years before reaching perfection. From gluten-free waffles made with almond and tapioca flour to fried chicken coated in plantain chips, every dish is a testament to her dedication.

At Nectarine Grove, the oils used matter. Forget canola and vegetable oils—this kitchen thrives on avocado, olive, and coconut oils. These choices aren’t just about flavor; they’re about avoiding inflammation and promoting better health. The result? Dishes that are indulgent yet nourishing. 🥑💚

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🌍 Why Local and Organic Matter

Rihanna’s commitment extends beyond the kitchen. By sourcing local ingredients like grass-fed beef from Northern California, she reduces environmental impact and supports sustainable farming. Unlike other restaurants relying on mass distributors, Nectarine Grove builds relationships with multiple vendors, ensuring every ingredient meets strict quality standards.

And it doesn’t stop there. The menu is free from refined sugars, instead featuring alternatives like sucanat, a less-processed cane sugar that enhances flavors while retaining nutrients. The result? Barbecue sauces, lattes, and cinnamon rolls that are rich, delicious, and guilt-free. 🍯

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🍕 Favorites to Try

If you’re visiting, prepare to be wowed by the variety:

• Crispy Chicken Salad 🥗
• Breakfast Burrito 🌯
• Salted Caramel Latte ☕
• Gluten-Free Pizza 🍕

Even the French fries are special, hand-cut daily and fried in avocado oil. This attention to detail makes every bite an experience.

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🌟 A Wake-Up Call

Rihanna’s own wake-up moment came when she discovered her gluten intolerance during culinary school. Removing gluten from her diet was life-changing, resolving years of discomfort and inspiring her to help others through her food. “I never cheat,” she says, knowing firsthand the damage gluten can cause.

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🏡 Creating a Movement

While Nectarine Grove remains a single-location gem, Rihanna hopes more restaurants will follow her lead. Though clean eating requires more effort and expense, the loyalty of her customers proves it’s worth it. As Rihanna says, “You have to love it to do it.”

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🍴 Join the Clean Eating Revolution

If you’re in Southern California, Nectarine Grove is a must-visit. Every dish reflects Rihanna’s passion for quality and health. Can’t make it? Follow Nectarine Grove on social media and get inspired to bring clean eating into your own kitchen. 🌟