Keeping the Faith in Lunch

This week two of the world's major religions mark major holy days during Passover and the last week of Lent leading up to Easter. And while followers observe the end of each period with bountiful feasts with families and friends, many of the faithful follow strict dietary restrictions until then. Now even if most of the culinary delights in the Square aren't exactly Kosher, there are plenty of dietary choices for true believers looking for a midday or afterwork bite to eat.

For starters, salads in the Square certainly don't break any culinary commandments. And good grazing abounds around the Square, from Moe's Southwest and Chipotle to NOLA and Fat Tommy's. For a heartier non-meat alternative, plant yourself in front of a Wingheart's Beretta Veggie Burger — a juicy portabella mushroom topped with spinach, arugula, artichoke spread and lots of other garden goodies.  For those seeking the unleavened, let your burrito go naked without a tortilla, or the NOLA salad is a refreshing change with sweet potato chips and the option to add blackened redfish on top.

Of course, during this special week, many believers give up a little more than usual as a sign of devotion. If fasting is part of your religious menu, you'll be pleasantly surprised to discover that many of the Square's eateries are ready to serve made to order smaller portions. Now, most days at the Original Oyster House, it seems that the miracle of the loaves and fishes is on constant replay. However, the Square's oldest restaurant also dishes out a mini-fish sandwich. And if that's pushing the limit, a breaded oyster or two should help keep the observant within the gustatory guidelines. For even lighter fare, the vegetarian and fish soups at Bella Sera, NOLA or Bruegger's will do, or pick a basic flatbread from the menu at Dunkin Donuts. And for the real saints in the crowd, a single fish taco from Moe's might even push the limits!

Now, all this fasting can be a bit taxing. But now that we can all quit thinking about the IRS, why not not take a spring shopping break at the many shops in and around the Square? With the warmer weather here to stay, we're seeing more and more Dapper Dans dashing around town. Which means there's no better time to give your feet a treat with a new pair of kicks from the Nettleton Shoes. Put that tax refund to good use!  And why not top off that head to toe makeover with a sporty chapeau from Heinz Healy's. Even if Pittsburgh doesn't have an Easter parade, ladies, there's no reason why you can't stroll down Fifth Avenue in a fabulous little print dress from Larrimor's, which can be nicely accessorized with up-to-the-minute handbags and jewelry from Serendipity and an oh-so-cool pair of shades from WEAR in the Square.

However you might count your blessings at this special time of the year, we're sure you'll find a way to keep the faith in the Square.