Doctors Highlight Best Menu Choices at Roadside Eateries, Whether You’re Traveling by Teleportation or More Conventional Means

WASHINGTON—Following the news about Federal Emergency Management Agency official Gregg Phillips’s remarks about teleporting to a Waffle House in Rome, Georgia, the Physicians Committee is highlighting the best menu choices at the Waffle House and other roadside eateries, whether you arrive by teleportation or more conventional means. The Physicians Committee is a nonprofit health advocacy organization with 17,000 physician members nationwide.

“During your summer travels, if you unexpectedly find yourself at a Waffle House or another roadside eatery, you’ll be able to order a healthful meal,” says Anna Herby, DHSc, RD, CDE, of the Physicians Committee. Dr. Herby offers these tips for dining at chain restaurants:

1. Waffle House has healthy options. “Ask for grits (hold the butter), or the hash browns with grilled tomatoes and mushrooms, along with a side of toast, with fresh juice,” Dr. Herby recommends. “You will also find salads. But skip the bacon, sausage, and eggs so as to retain sufficient energy for your return home.”  
2. Try IHOP. “Smart teleporters, and other travelers, will order the Spinach & Mushroom omelet, minus the eggs and cheese,” Dr. Herby said. “That means you’ll get a platter with spinach, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and tomatoes. Ask for potatoes as a substitute for egg and you’ll have yourself a breakfast veggie hash.” IHOP will make oatmeal with water so it’s dairy-free, and you can top it with fruit and nuts. There’s also grits, fruit cups, and multigrain toast.
3. Think international. “If you have a choice in your destination, go for Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese restaurants,” Dr. Herby said. “They have many plant-based choices.”  
4. Restaurant managers should prepare for health-conscious people dropping in. “Be ready by adding scrambled tofu or vegan eggs, baked or refried beans, and Morningstar vegan sausage to the menu, and be sure to stock nondairy creamer.”

Following a plant-based diet can help people reach their health goals including maintaining a healthy weight, improving heart health, and preventing diabetes.