Category Archives: Juice Bars & Smoothies

Heaven on Seven Wabash

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BBQ Shrimp po’boy

Gumbo and jalapeno corn muffin

Entry

Interior

Hot sauce wall (only half of it!)

Interior

One table’s hot sauce

***** (5 stars)

This is a very good Cajun restaurant. No, it’s not as good as many in New Orleans, but it’s good. And what makes it special is the vibe, with its thousands of different hot sauces lining the walls (no, there are no repeats) and its perpetual Christmas-garlanded ceilings.

I started with a cup of the gumbo, which was excellent, with its generous helping of tender, flavorful Andouille sausage.

A jalapeno corn muffin wasn’t all that impressive compared to others I’ve had.

My main was a Cajun barbecued shrimp po’boy. The shrimp was very hot, with a slight saffron flavor, and the bread was nicely grilled. The whole mess (and I use the term intentionally) was covered in a flavorful Cajun gravy with just the right amount of spice. At first, as I picked at it with my fork, I thought it was just okay, but once I’d eaten enough shrimp to be able to pick the whole thing up and get a bite of everything, I really liked it.

Service was friendly and efficient. A lot of regulars came in and sat at the small, U-shaped lunch counter while I was there. I could tell it’s a place many people have been coming to for decades, and I can see why.

Heaven on Seven Wabash
111 N Wabash Ave
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 263-6443
https://www.yelp.com/biz/heaven-on-seven-wabash-chicago

Amazing Kale Burger Lunch Counter

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**** (4 stars)

It’s always a pleasure to eat where the employees are really passionate about what they do, and that epitomizes The Amazing Kale Burger. From the moment I walked in I felt right at home, and my server’s enthusiasm for the food was very clear.

I tried the Vaden, which is served with a beet-based BBQ sauce. The kale burger patty is quite delicious, with all the ingredient in balance, and a nice crust from cooking. The accompanying lettuce and tomato were quite fresh, and the BBQ sauce was delicious. The bun was a bit small, sturdy and dry for my taste, but I can see where others might like it.

For a side dish I had pickled asparagus, which was tossed with yellow peppers and extremely fresh oregano bits. It was delicious.

House made mint tea was pleasantly unsweetened.

The kale burger was one of the better vegetarian patties I’ve had, and I’d often choose it over a meat patty if it were available elsewhere. Coincidentally, I ate here on national burger day!

Amazing Kale Burger Lunch Counter
741 Howard St
Evanston, IL 60202
(847) 660-4330
http://www.yelp.com/biz/amazing-kale-burger-lunch-counter-evanston

Fresh Made Kitchen

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**** (4 stars)

What a makeover this place has had since its origins as a Perkins and then short stints as two sports bars. This latest remodeling has opened the place up and lightened it so that it’s hard to believe it’s the same spot. Now it’s light, airy and energetic.

The food has improved, too. You order a broad selection of salads, sandwiches, or entrees at the counter and they bring it to your table. There is a focus on fresh ingredients, and everything is prepared to order.

There is also a large beverage bar in the center of the room, with homemade infused teas and waters. Beer and wine is also available.

Our group had three salads and a chicken noodle bowl, and everyone liked their selections.

Service was very friendly, and management seems to really be on top of things.

This is definitely the best concept for this place so far, and should be quite successful.

Fresh Made Kitchen
8965 Conroy Windermere Rd
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 720-8329
http://www.yelp.com/biz/fresh-made-kitchen-orlando

Green Kitchen

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**** (4 stars)

This is a welcome addition to the vegetarian dining scene in southwest Orange County, which has been pretty sparse. But despite the name this isn’t a vegetarian restaurant. The majority of offerings actually include a protein.

The menu is divided between salads, panini sandwiches, and melts made on a naan-like bread. I wasn’t too happy with my special of the day, a flank steak that was done with too little seasoning, although the accompanying broccoli was good. But my companions enjoyed their sandwiches.

The space is all hard surfaces, so it can be pretty loud, even when only a third filled. But the service is quick and friendly, making it a good lunch choice.

Green Kitchen
7055 S Kirkman Rd
Ste 126
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 413-5005
http://www.yelp.com/biz/green-kitchen-orlando

Meli Cafe & Juice Bar

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***** (5 stars)

Wow, the breakfast menu here is incredible. Whether you want a scramble, hash, eggs, or something sweet, this is the place, as evidenced by the line to get in. Great ambiance and service. Note that you can swap the toast for a really nice serving of fruit.

Meli Cafe & Juice Bar
301 S Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 454-0748
http://www.yelp.com/biz/meli-cafe-and-juice-bar-chicago