MOM’s Organic Market, located in Montrose Shopping Center, is a convenient five-minute drive from the Upper School. Inside MOM’s, there is a small vegetarian to-go cafe called Naked Lunch. When I tell people I am going to eat at an organic cafe, the most common concerns are the sometimes high price and the poor quality of vegan and vegetarian food. I have noticed, however, that the quality and value of Naked Lunch’s dishes exceed both people’s expectations for an organic restaurant, as well as the expensive precedent set by other healthy alternatives.

Sushi Bowl ($8.75): This dish is my go-to recommendation for first-timers. The generously-sized container comes filled with brown rice, fresh seaweed, tofu, cucumber, carrots and avocado. While the rice’s texture is slightly drier than I prefer, the fresh vegetables and tofu are absolutely delicious. The bowl is incredibly filling and for a fairly modest price (considering the organic ingredients), is a great option for dinner or lunch during or after school.

Cauliflower Stew ($5.75): The stew is offered in both 8 and 16-ounce sizes and contains cauliflower, celery and root vegetables. It is warm, creamy and has chunks of fully-cooked vegetables dispersed throughout. This soup is perfect for a cold fall or winter afternoon, and it is my personal favorite dinner to get if I am staying late at school for a cappella or volleyball practice.

Service: Thoughtful and passionate, Naked Lunch employees are usually smiling and very kind. While the service can be slow when the line is long, that is to be expected at a made-to-order restaurant of such high quality. As a testament to the staff’s kindness and understanding, an employee once even let my mom leave and come back with her credit card when she forgot it at home and our meals were already prepared. The employees’ dedication and kindness is very unique for a fast-casual restaurant, and is one of the best parts of Naked Lunch.

Naked Lunch is located at 5566 Randolph Road in Rockville, Md. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.