From cupcakes to salads

Madison Valley gets a healthier alternative

We categorically state that there is nothing like it on the local scene:  a custom-made-salad shop. New York Cupcakes, which called it quits in August, was replaced in its former Madison Valley location yesterday by Seattle Salads, which has a much different vibe from its predecessor. Out is the red-velvet cupcake and in is the quinoa/walnut/goat cheese salad.

Founder and salad developer Desirae Rabe says she's been perfecting her product for the past 18 months or so, working street fairs---such as Queen Anne's---and getting great feedback from a growing fan base.

Now she's ready to put down some roots, and she's chosen Madison Valley for her first store.  She says that custom-salads are very much a big deal in other parts of the country and it's about time for Seattle (and our area of town in particular) to get in line with this "healthy, quick and fun" lunch option.

While there are some pre-made salads for those quickly on the go, most of the salads available will be made-to-order, either with the customer choosing the greens, toppings, and dressing, or from a select list of tried-and-true combinations (such as lime/peanut, strawberry/mint, or mandarine/sesame).  Soups are also going to be on the menu.

One of the best pieces of news for those busy salad lovers who don't have time or the inclination to make the trek to Madison Valley is the fact that you can get your salad delivered!  Seattle Salads already does delivery throughout Seattle.

You can check out all Seattle Salads' details on their website here.  Note that the shop's hours are Monday-Friday, 11 am to 6 pm, Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, 11 am to 3 pm (and not as currently listed on the webage).

The gang's on site and ready to serve you.  And, as you can see, it's a fun group (that's Desirae in the middle):

[Seattle Salads is located at 2711 E. Madison St. Lower photo courtesy of Seattle Salads.]