Lunch for the cause

Part of the local St. John's Shelter Program for Women & Children, Plates2Go makes for a quick and affordable Midtown lunch option.

More importantly, it gives formerly homeless mothers the opportunity to learn new skills and find jobs in the local culinary and restaurant workforce.

But back to that fast and tasty lunch.

Open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Plates2Go offers a tiny but tasty lunch menu that includes sandwiches, salads, sides, soups and desserts.

There's the usual meaty sandwich selections (turkey, tuna, chicken, etc.) but also a Spicy Greek Vegetarian that can be made vegan if you skip the cheese. Or choose from a generous meal-sized salad such as the CalMex Garden, which comes with corn, black beans, avocado and tortilla strips.

Each item is made using fresh ingredients from area farmers, ranchers and dairies, and all sandwiches are served on slices from the Sacramento-based Grateful Bread Company.

Dine in, or order online for takeout. Lunch options are priced from $1.50 (for a simple side of bread and butter) to $7.95 for a hearty salad or sandwich; all come with the option of adding on an additional donation for the shelter. Plates2Go also offers daily catering options. 1725 L Street, www.plates2go.org.