New York, NY-
Feeling sluggish? Had one too many martinis last night? Or perhaps you’ve eaten your body weight in meatballs and mozzarella. Whatever your need for a detox and body-refresher, these are my picks for the three best Upper West Side cafes to help get back on your healthy track.
Cafe Blossom: As you walk into this vegan bar/restaurant haven, the sprawling bright wood with arbor-inspired decor has an immediate calming effect on the weary liver. Though Cafe Blossom is more conducive to sitting down and relaxing, you can take your order to go as well. When I asked for a recommendation on their juice blends, the waiter responded immediately with “the Pink Lady” and it was so enthusiastic I’d be a fool not to trust him. This blend of pineapple, carrots and apples is incredibly refreshing with a kick of ginger to balance out the sweetness. This Pink Lady nearly compelled me to belt out a couple of Grease songs.
466 Columbus Ave. (b/t 82nd & 83rd)
Juice Generation: Juice Generation is always bustling and frequently packed to the door. But the wait is worth it seeing as they use all fresh ingredients sweetened with agave nectar, real fruit and are unbelievably fast with their service. Their menu is extensive enough to keep you coming back almost daily for a month without replicating the same order, however after finding a favorite smoothie it’s always hard to stray from the tried and true flavors you love. I’ve had the Antioxidant All-Star which is a hearty berry-centric smoothie chock-full of mangosteen, pomegranates and rounded out with the sweet, full flavor of bananas. For those looking for a tropical, coconut-inspired escape, try the Mucho Mango or the Acai Extreme Energy for a natural way to power up.
117 W. 72nd St. (b/t Columbus & Amsterdam)
http://www.juicegeneration.com/menu
Courtesy of OrganicAvenue.com
Organic Avenue: If you can’t find feel-good bliss in their charming glass bottles and minimalist approach to fine juices, smoothies and coffee, there is little hope that you’ll rid yourself of bad toxins. Organic Avenue has blown up all around the city, so this is by far one of the most accessible and easy-to-locate health stops. From healthy mint chip and chai smoothies to bottled rarities like Turmeric Tonic and Green Coco, there’s a blend for every taste bud. But Organic Ave. makes its unique mark selling cleanses; pre-bottled and scheduled detox juices and supplements to aid in cleaning out your precious insides. From 1-5 day delicious detox programs offered, Organic Ave. will deliver these right to your door and before you know it, you’re back to your glowing, beautiful self.
461 Amsterdam Ave. (b/t 82nd & 83rd)
Diana Tsuchida U.F.P Contibutor
Urban.Food.Print 