Important note: Since this Oatmeals restaurant review was written, I have changed my approach from weight management to Health at Every Size and intuitive eating. The recommendations here were intended for the pursuit of weight loss, an approach that is no longer aligned with my beliefs and brand. Keep this in mind as you read through the post.

Oatmeals Restaurant Review

I used to hate oatmeal. Every time I encountered it, it was bland and boring. No matter how many raisins or brown sugar you added, it was hard to get excited. It didn't help that no one's was as good as my mom's. Think Quaker rolled oats, whole milk and cinnamon sticks slow cooked on the stove. And who knows what else she puts in it. Mom crack.

But I was willing to put my oatmeal bias aside when a restaurant opened up near my apartment. One morning, as I started out a miserable 1.5 hour commute to the Bronx during my dietetic internship, I stopped by the newly opened Oatmeals on West 3rd Street. I walked in and was greeted by the smell of baked goods and coffee. The shop was warm and cozy, just like mom's oatmeal. As I perused the extensive menu, one item caught my eye: The Canadian. Having trouble deciding between the savory or sweet options, this item had the best of both worlds---cheddar cheese, baked apples, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Could life get any better?

It's now several years later and Oatmeals has become my go-to place for breakfast, partially because it's across the street from my apartment, but also because it's just SO GOOD. And easy. And affordable. Sam Stephens, the delightful owner who trained as a pastry chef at ICC, has concocted some artful bowls, including a host of savory options that challenge all oatmeal conventions. Goat cheese and truffle oil coexist with traditional toppings such as honey and banana. You can create your own bowl from the extensive list of toppings, or if you're not feeling creative, go for one of their signature bowls. There are also some cold options that are particularly tasty---the Muesli bowl, Overnight Oats and Greek yogurt parfait (this one is seasonal)---which can easily be topped off with generous amounts of fruit. There is something here for every palate, so you're guaranteed to find something that sounds and actually tastes good.

The details

Location: 120 West 3rd Street, New York, NY 10012

Menu: fixed year-round menu except for monthly specials

Service: all-day breakfast that could sub as lunch or dinner

Price: $

Vibe: relaxed; busy in the mornings, calmer in the afternoons

Good For: quick bite with one or two friends (the space is small), to-go, delivery via Seamless or GrubHub

Standout Dishes: The Canadian, The Elvis, Cacio e Pepe, Truffle Honey Cheese Plate, Muesli Bowl

Worthwhile Splurges: Salted Caramel Apple, Banana Cream Pie, S'mores, any baked good

Intuitive Eats: a post-workout meals calls for a savory oatmeal with ham and egg. If you're choosing a savory option and feel like you're in need of some fruits or veggies, ask if they have vegetables to add or ask for a cup of fruit on the side. For something less hearty, go for a fruit-based meal such as the Blueberry Maple Walnut bowl or Muesli bowl with added fruit.

Heads Up: if you're trying to up your fruit content, ask for extra of any fruit that is in the bowl. Add chia for more fiber. Feel free to mix in whey or vegan protein powder for a protein boost (Oatmeals doesn't sell these, you'd have to bring your own).

For ladies, Baby Bear- or Momma Bear-sized bowls are enough unless you're starving. For men, go for Momma Bear or Poppa Bear sizes.

This is an extremely IBS-friendly restaurant because you can make your own bowl. If you have a sensitivity to fructans (GOS, specifically), go for a Baby Bear size bowl.

Health Rating: 

Overall Rating: 3 (Awesome)

The wrap-up

That's it for this Oatmeals restaurant review! Options abound so you are never bored and your wallet never feels a serious pinch.