The earthy aroma of fresh fruit and bitter kale filled the air of local health food spot, Green Grub as I walked through the door.
Located next to Raley’s on Geer Road in Turlock, Green Grub is open daily to guests wanting to enjoy a sit-down meal or a fast snack during a break from work or school.
Menus awaited at rustic wood tables and lightly cushioned booths. Looking through the menu, there was an array of items. Each was listed with a detailed description to give the full flavor overview before digging in.
I finally decided on the house favorite, The Barnbuster at $9.50, with a side of pesto pasta.
As the waitress placed the sandwich on the table, only one word came to mind: “Wow.”
The Barnbuster was stacked high with four kinds of meat, two different cheeses, along with sprouts, lettuce and tomato, all held together with two slices of moist white bread that were almost too soft. A creamy pesto mayo oozed from all sides after taking the first bite.
The side of pesto pasta was tasty, yet subtle enough to make a great addition to the sandwich. As the waitress came with the check, she brought along a small cup  of creamy frozen yogurt.
After paying, it was time to venture to the other side of Green Grub and order one of their many drinks. The restaurant is divided into two sections, one with the diner and one with the smoothie bar – but the staff welcomes customers to order food or smoothies on either side.
The drink menu varied from juices to smoothies, all including either fresh fruits, vegetables or both.  I chose the Choco Banana at $7.50, filled with 12 ingredients ranging from dark chocolate chips to avocado. It was ready in five minutes.
The drink was surprisingly delicious, considering it was a green-almost-brown color and filled with tiny specks of spinach and kale.
Open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Green Grub is a healthy-eating alternative that doesn’t sacrifice taste.