Living Green Cafe – Fort Lauderdale 17 street

Living Green Cafe on SE 17th Street in Fort Lauderdale has established itself as a cornerstone for health-conscious diners, offering a comprehensive menu that spans from morning coffee to a full dinner service. This establishment operates on a clear philosophy: clean, fresh, and high-quality ingredients are non-negotiable. This commitment is immediately evident in one of their most significant and frequently praised practices — the exclusive use of extra virgin olive oil in all their cooking, completely avoiding seed oils. For a growing number of consumers aware of the inflammatory properties of common cooking oils, this detail alone sets Living Green Cafe apart as a premier healthy cafe.

The menu is extensive and thoughtfully designed to cater to a wide array of dietary needs and preferences, functioning as a full-service restaurant, cafe, and a vibrant fresh juice bar. Open seven days a week from early morning until late evening, it provides a reliable option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The breakfast and brunch menu, served until 3:00 PM, includes everything from protein-packed omelets and gluten-free pancakes to hearty avocado toast and classic lox bagels. Lunch and dinner introduce a variety of hot plates, salads, sandwiches, and wraps, with popular items like the Salmon bowl and Grass-Fed Meatballs showcasing their dedication to quality sourcing.

A Menu Focused on Wellness and Flavor

The beverage program at Living Green Cafe is as robust as its food offerings. The juice and smoothie selection is a major draw, featuring creative and functional blends. Patrons can choose from a variety of cold-pressed juice options like the signature "Living Green" (kale, spinach, cucumber, celery, green apple) or the beet-forward "Red Stiletto." For those seeking a post-workout boost or a meal replacement, the organic smoothies like the "Chocolate Strength" and "My Protein" are packed with wholesome ingredients like hemp protein, almond butter, and goji berries. These offerings solidify its reputation not just as a cafe, but as a destination for nutrient-dense, purposeful nourishment.

One of the cafe's most lauded attributes is its exceptional accommodation of dietary restrictions. The menu is a haven for those requiring gluten-free, sugar-free, and vegan options. Items like the gluten-free, sugar-free house-made banana bread receive rave reviews, and the availability of delicious vegan options extends from pastries like cookies and donuts to full meals like the "Veggie Monster" wrap and the "Sin Free" sandwich on gluten-free ciabatta. This focus makes the cafe an inclusive and welcoming spot for groups with diverse dietary needs, a feature customers consistently highlight as a primary reason for their loyalty.

The Atmosphere and Customer Experience

Beyond the menu, the ambiance of Living Green Cafe contributes significantly to its appeal. The interior is often described as inviting, fresh, and welcoming, with a layout that is conducive to both social gatherings and individual work sessions. A large communal table in the center encourages a sense of community, and many patrons find it a perfect spot to work remotely while enjoying a coffee or meal. The decor, with its clean and natural aesthetic, complements the cafe's healthy ethos. The staff also receives frequent commendations for being friendly, patient, and knowledgeable. Team members are often mentioned by name in reviews, praised for their kindness and helpfulness in navigating the extensive menu, which speaks to a positive work culture and a genuine focus on customer care.

The Positive Highlights

Living Green Cafe excels in several key areas that resonate deeply with its clientele.

• Commitment to Quality Ingredients: The unwavering policy of using only extra virgin olive oil and avoiding preservatives or artificial flavors is a powerful differentiator. This appeals to health-savvy customers and builds a high level of trust.
• Extensive Dietary Accommodations: With a wealth of clearly labeled gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, the cafe ensures that nearly everyone can find something delicious and suitable for their needs.
• Diverse and Flavorful Menu: From wellness shots and acai bowls to gourmet sandwiches and full dinner plates, the variety is impressive. The food is consistently described as both healthy and incredibly flavorful.
• Inviting Atmosphere: The combination of a welcoming vibe, clean decor, and a layout suitable for working or socializing makes it a comfortable and versatile destination.
• Excellent Service: The friendly and attentive staff enhances the overall experience, making customers feel valued and well-cared for.

Points for Consideration

While the feedback for Living Green Cafe is overwhelmingly positive, there are a few aspects potential customers might want to consider.

• Premium Pricing: The commitment to high-quality, organic ingredients and premium olive oil is reflected in the prices. A salmon hot plate is around $24, and juices and smoothies are in the $12-$15 range. While most customers feel the quality justifies the cost, it is positioned at a higher price point than a typical cafe.
• Potential for Crowds and Wait Times: As a popular spot, especially one that is conducive to remote work, it can get busy during peak hours. Some reviews have noted longer-than-expected wait times for food, which is often a trade-off for fresh, made-to-order preparation.
• Consistency in Food Temperature: A small number of patrons have mentioned that hot food items were not always served at the desired temperature. While not a widespread complaint, it is an area for potential inconsistency.
• Clarity on Vegan Items: On rare occasions, customers have reported that staff communication regarding which prepared items were strictly vegan could be clearer, requiring them to ask about each dish individually.

Living Green Cafe on 17th Street is a standout establishment in Fort Lauderdale's dining scene. It successfully merges the concepts of a healthy cafe, a full-scale restaurant, and a top-tier fresh juice bar. For customers who prioritize clean eating, high-quality ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. While the pricing is on the higher end and its popularity can lead to a bustling environment, these are often seen as acceptable trade-offs for a reliably delicious and nourishing experience that caters thoughtfully to a modern, health-conscious lifestyle.