Mezza Mediterranean Grill (CLOSED)

The ability to grab a fresh, delicious salad to go amidst the many tourist traps in the Loop can be a challenge. At Mezza, which has a handful of locations downtown, our favorite lunchtime choice is the Shepherd salad. The base is made of chopped romaine lettuce, mixed greens and crunchy cabbage, which are topped with heaps of veggies, including ripe tomato, creamy avocado, sweet corn and sugary dates. A sprinkle of almonds adds a bit of crunch, and fluffy dabs of goat cheese finish the whole thing off. The dressing is light and lemony, letting each of the vegetables shine without being overpowering. Enjoy it as a side to one of their other offerings, or throw on some grilled chicken to make it a meal.