Product Review: No Cookie Cookie

“Yes they're chewy, yes they're moist, yes they're delicious. They are baked by my wife and me in our Oakland bakery, it’s the No Cookie, Cookie" greets the owner, Bilal of the vegan cookie that’s satisfying tummies internationally. Bilals' bright smile and charismatic charm pulls in the crowds while his delicious vegan and gluten-free cookies pull our bellies.

The ingenious No Cookie Cookies are prepared at The No Bakery based in Oakland,CA by owner Bilal and his wife. This family owned business started small combining hard work, healthy ingredients, and love to create what has now become one of the most sought after vegan treats in the San Francisco/Bay Area. The creation of this cookie began as a challenge to Mr. Bilal 14 years ago by his vegan friends; who challenged him to create a tasty vegan cookie that could compare in taste to non-vegan cookies. Bilal welcomed the challenge and created his first vegan cookie which proved successful. What began as merely a challenge grew into what we now know as The No Cookie Cookie.

For those of you, like myself looking for a healthy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt, dairy, or gluten look no further The No Cookie Cookie is dairy free, wheat free, and free of refined sugars. Their motto: vegan never tasted so good only scratches the surface of how amazing The No Bakery treats are. I love how flavorful, chewy, and moist each cookie is. My favorites are Oatmeal Raisin and Island Coconut. They come in packs of 2 or 4 and are enjoyed best with almond milk, non-dairy ice cream, or simply alone.

Visit them online or at a healthstore near you. The No Cookie Cookie comes in 7 different flavors: Oatmeal Raisin, Carob Mint, Chocolate Chip, Ginger Spice, Peanut Butter, Island Coconut and Lemon Poppy Seed. Oh, I forgot to mention they also have a moist and delicious No Cookie Brownie. Yum!!!

Me and my sweet tooth are feeling right, right about now!

Restaurant Review: Golden Lotus

Me and Thai Iced Tea

I love to eat. Although, many in my circle tease me for eating like a rabbit. Little do they know that not much can put a smile on my face like good quality food. My weeks are full of smoothies, fresh juices, salads, beans, quinoa, fruits, veggies and nuts- but sometimes- (like once every month for about a week)- I crave heavier, rich, filling foods. When these cravings come on there are few restaurants that meet my standards for quality, taste, and health under one roof.
 

Vegan Veggie Pot Stickers with Peanut Sauce

A place I often turn to when I have meat eating visitors or when my palate is craving faux meat is Golden Lotus Restaurant. One of Oakland, California’s most popular vegan restaurants. They are located in the heart of downtown open for lunch until late into the night. Their extensive menu will have you wishing you were hungrier, richer, or available to return the next day. The warm family style atmosphere is light and jovial. The wait staff is attentive and friendly. The Golden Lotus menu creatively names their dishes after popular meat dishes, although everything is vegan. This place is great for large groups, couples, and even a solo date. 
 

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Brown Rice

Gourmet Spicy Lemongrass Chicken

I have frequented this place for over six years now. After trying many different entrees still I return to my favorite: Special #16 Gourmet Spicy Lemongrass Chicken with a side of brown rice and a vegan Thai Ice Tea. I top it off with my favorite dessert of all time: Sweet Sticky Rice and Mango. YUMM!!!

Check this place out and share your experience here. Happy Eating!!!

Healthy Sweet Treat