Bites Nearby: Moe's Southwest Grill

Eating out can be difficult if you are counting calories, are on a special diet or just want to eat better. Moe's Southwest Grill, located at Colony Place, however, may be just what you are looking for.

If you have never been to Moe's, the menu at this fast-casual establishment features items like burritos, tacos, quesadillas, fajitas and nachos, and lighter fare such as rice bowls and salads are also available.

Sue Clancy, the general manager, said what sets it apart is its commitment to better-for-you and better-quality foods.

According to Clancy, the company, which has locations nationwide, has worked to serve healthier foods, such as whole grain tortillas and sautéed vegetables, and lighter choices. Reduced-sodium flour tortillas and seasonings are used and the menu is free of trans fats and MSG.

For people on certain diets, there is organic tofu and gluten-free and vegetarian offerings.

"[We] make everything fresh every day," Clancy said. Freezers and microwaves are nowhere to be found.

The Moe's in Plymouth is a franchised location owned by Clancy and her husband, who were attracted to the chain's unique concept. They opened in September 2007.

Moe's also pays attention to what types of food they are serving to their guests and is conscious of animal welfare. The all-natural and cage-free chicken has no hormones, the pork also has no hormones, and is steroid free and grain fed, and the 100 percent sirloin steak has no hormones added and is grass fed. Moe's sour cream is rBGH free, meaning the cows are not given this artificial growth hormone to produce more milk.

Everyone who enters the doors will be greeted with a "Welcome to Moe's" yell from the crew, Clancy said. The eatery is set up like a cafeteria, and all the music played is from musicians who have passed away or bands that have lost a member. Currently, Moe's is decorated with photos of the winners of the Dead Ringer Look-Alike Contest, who are posing as Elvis, John Lennon, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson and more.

Burritos are the most popular menu choice, the manager says, especially the Homewrecker, with black or pinto beans, rice, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, lettuce, sour cream and guacamole, plus steak, chicken, pulled pork, ground beef or tofu.

Chips and salsa are free, Clancy said, and there is a salsa bar with five different types available, including ancho lime, tomatillo and roasted corn poblano.

Beer and wine is served, but the place is "absolutely kid friendly," Clancy pointed out. "Kids seem to love it for sure."

From 4 p.m. to closing on Tuesdays, children eat free with an adult order. They can order a burrito, taco or quesadilla, all of which come with a drink and a cookie.

On Mondays, a burrito, chips and a drink goes for $6.99.

Moe's Southwest Grill is located at 110 Colony Place and is open daily from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., 6 p.m. on Sundays.