Fast Break: MJ’s Cafe

Located in the Goodwood Shopping Center near the intersection of Jefferson Highway and Government Street, MJ’s Café is a quiet and quaint Mid City stop. Serving up vegetarian and seafood specialties featuring local and seasonal foods, MJ’s has more than a few delicious options when it comes to the lunchtime rush.

If you can’t quite choose what you want, try a lunch duo for $10. The midday deal offers two items from the selection of soups, salads, sandwiches and fresh-baked desserts.

I tried the summer squash soup topped with salsa verde. This hot and hearty soup is a puree of jasmine rice, basil, zucchini, vegetable stock and more. Served in a coffee cup, it’s as if the owners are suggesting you should slurp it up. Believe me, I was tempted.

For the other part of my meal, I chose the French sandwich served hot with provolone, pepper jelly and apples. While you can enjoy this sandwich cold and with goat cheese, the grilled option is a delicious summer selection, mixing a bit of heat from the marmalade-like jelly with tart, crisp apples and melted provolone.

Overall, MJ’s is an affordable option for those looking for something on the healthier side. For those worried a healthy lunch equals bland flavor, you can leave those concerns at the door when you visit MJ’s. For more information, visit mjs-cafe.com or call 933-5569. MJ’s is open Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-3:15 p.m.

Note: Soups change daily, and the summer squash soup may not be available every day.