The owners of a new business featuring a lot of produce — things that come from the ground — thought Earth Day would be perfect for their opening.
So they premiered Half Moon Creative Salads, offering fresh gourmet salads, April 22 in Clover Commons.
Christopher West, who co-owns the business with Eileen McNamara, said Half Moon Creative Salads features five different kinds of lettuce with about 60 toppings — including steak, chicken and shrimp — along with 18 homemade dressings. He said there are also about 30 homemade soups that will be rotated, featuring three choices each day.
Patrons can order one of nine salads created by Chef Dave McGregor, former executive chef at Brio Wine Bar & Grill, or have one custom-made with the lettuce cut up fresh right behind the counter.
West, who also owns West Construction, and McGregor got talking about the concept of their own place, patterned after similar New York City restaurants. West did all the interior work at Half Moon, which is brightly colored with a lot of windows.
“It’s very energizing,” said McGregor.
The name of the business comes from mezzaluna, which is Italian for half moon, the shape of the circular utensil used for chopping lettuce, herbs, vegetables and other salad ingredients.
West said Half Moon Creative Salads plans to do catering and offer delivery service in the near future. He said the goal is to have multiple locations.
“We just wanted to develop a quick eatery, offering a healthy alternative with all fresh ingredients,” said McGregor, who’s been in the food industry for 14 years. “I just have a passion for food and connecting with people. I’ve always enjoyed cooking and creating dishes since I was young. Everyone not only has to eat, but enjoys eating. There’s something here for everyone. You could come here every day for a month and not walk out with the same meal.”
Half moon also offers half moon cookies, a brownie bar and other desserts, kettle-style chips and two types of gourmet coffee.
