Drink Up! 5 Juice Spots You’ll Want to Visit Every Day

Have a hard time getting your little one to eat her fruits and veggies? Why not offer them to her in a blended beverage or cup of juice? Juice and smoothie bars are popping up throughout the DMV; here are five that have been vetted by the toughest critics–kids! 

Photo: Carmine.shot via Flickr

Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
Robeks is not new to the juice game. Established in 1996, Robeks offers up a menu of fresh fruit and vegetable smoothies and juices in fun flavors. Their menu includes an assortment of classic blends, like the tried and true Strawberry-Banana to superfood blends of flax seeds and cranberries. There is likely something on the menu for every member of the family.

Kid Favorite: If your kids aren’t big fans of ginger- which has tons of health benefits- try the G-Snap! The G-Snap includes orange and carrot, which tempers the ginger, and adds enough sweetness to make it a great tasting treat. 

Various Locations in Annapolis, and throughout DC and VA
Online: robeks.com

Zia’s Cafe
Zia’s Cafe is not just a juice bar, but a full scale cafe that caters “to all eaters” including those with gluten sensitivities. For the food conscious, this place is just right and prides itself on serving items that don’t include any artificial ingredients, refined sugars, and on and on. You shouldn’t have to worry about your food sensitive kiddo- he’ll be able to find something to happily drink (and eat) here.

Kid Favorite: The Summer Breeze packs a lot of Vitamin C and no added sweeteners. Your little’s taste buds will dance with the grapefruit, orange, apple, pineapple and lemon that make up this juice. 

13 Allegheny Ave. (Towson, Md)
Online: ziascafe.com

The Waterhole
Is your kid already a fresh juice pro? At the Waterhole, preparing fresh juices is their passion and your little one will be right at home. Using 100 percent organic produce is a part of what makes the Waterhole a special place. It can get busy, here, so come prepared to possibly make a friend, or two!

Kid Favorite: Just finished an intense outdoor play session? Rehydrate with an Island Thunder, made with coconut water, pineapple, and fresh ginger or try a simple orange and apple blend. Delicious!

4004 34th St. (Mt. Rainier, Md)
Online: thewaterholecommunity.com

Ultimate Smoothie
So, not every kid is going to become a fresh juice lover right away. A smoothie may be the way to this one’s heart…and a smoothie that is as satisfying as ice cream, may be even better. Before you pass up this “sweet treat”, Ultimate Smoothie drinks are made with all natural ingredients and without added sugar- you and your slow-to-warm-up-to-fresh-juice squeeze can both drink happy here. You can also customize your drink- pick your fruit and choose greek yogurt, vanilla yogurt, or juice, and voila! Enjoy!

Kid Favorite: Put a spin on the classic Strawberry-Banana and go for the Peanut Butter Banana smoothie.

Lake Forest Mall
701 Russell Ave. (Gaithersburg, Md)
Online: places.singleplatform.com

Do you have a favorite juice (or smoothie) spot? Do tell in the comments below. 

–Yolanda Johnson