Railroad Street savors healthy food alternative

NORTH CANAAN —One of the latest examples of revitalization on Railroad Street in North Canaan comes in a tumbler with a straw.

Nutrition on Railroad, a business started in May of 2021 during the pandemic, has become a steady favorite.

It serves up smoothies, protein shakes, acai and oatmeal bowls — the kind of  healthy meal alternatives that have become popular in major cities across the nation.

“We wanted to offer something that Canaan didn’t have before,” said owner and North Canaan native Cassidy Considine.

Nutrition on Railroad, located at 5 Railroad Street, first opened its doors after Considine moved back to North Canaan after stepping away from a teaching career.

Since then, area thirst-quenchers have been lining up for all-natural drinks and meals.

“I like that we finally have a healthy option in Canaan,” said one regular customer as she purchased lunch. “I was here for breakfast this morning too,” she added.

Iced teas flavored with all-natural sweeteners are the top selling drinks.

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“I’m a diabetic so I like their sugar-free drinks,” said another customer as he sipped his Sweater Weather Iced Tea.

For food, the acai bowls are most popular, particularly the Peanut Butter and Jelly Bowl.

“We strive to be part of people’s daily routine,” said Considine. “For the winter we’ll be offering more hot drinks. And that includes coffee from a new roaster up the street.

Considine’s coffee beans are sourced from ILSE Coffee, which began roasting activities at 35 Railroad St. in August.

About a year after Nutrition on Railroad opened,  KayCee & Co. Gift Boutique opened in the attached indoor space.

“The idea behind the boutique was to create a place in Canaan where people could buy gifts and browse while they wait for their order,” said boutique co-owner Kelly Wolfe.

The boutique carries products from local artisans and custom gift baskets are created by Wolfe.

Both shops are open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (closed Mondays).

Online ordering is available for grab-and-go customers. The link to order online (nutrition-on-railroad.square.site) can be found in the bio of their Facebook and Instagram @nutritiononrailroad.