JUICED what you needed
BackLocated on South Main Street, JUICED what you needed has established itself as a noteworthy destination for those seeking nutritious and flavorful options in Memphis. It operates not just as a standard juice bar, but as a full-fledged café serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The establishment has garnered a remarkable reputation, reflected in its consistently high customer ratings, with patrons frequently describing it as a "hidden gem" that successfully merges healthy eating with exciting, globally inspired flavors.
The Menu: A Blend of Health and Flavor
The core of the business is its extensive beverage selection. Customers have access to a wide variety of fresh juice and healthy smoothies, with an emphasis on quality and freshness. The juices are reportedly pressed daily to ensure maximum flavor and nutritional value. Standout items mentioned by patrons include the "Nuts about Cherry" smoothie, a tropical smoothie, the "rainbow" juice, and a unique lavender lemonade, indicating a creative approach to drink crafting. For those seeking non-juice options, the café offers high-quality matcha made with house-made cashew milk, a detail that highlights their commitment to premium, fresh ingredients.
Beyond beverages, JUICED presents a substantial food menu. Co-owned by Stephanie and Ti-Pei Feng, who are also behind Memphis AF Burrito, the café brings a focus on bold flavors to its healthy offerings. The all-day menu features a range of dishes that cater to different tastes. Notable items that receive consistent praise include:
- Kiss my grits / Bless my Grits: A popular dish featuring smoked gouda, kale, and roasted garlic.
- Cured Salmon Gravlax: An offering that has been singled out for its outstanding quality.
- The Greek Bowl: Made with couscous, sweet peppers, and feta.
- Ti-Pei's Oatmeal: An unconventional and praised dish that includes chili crisp and fermented tofu, showcasing the menu's creative flair.
This commitment to being more than a smoothie shop is a clear strength. The menu also provides strong vegetarian options and is accommodating to vegan diets, with offerings like tofu dishes, vegan yogurt, and the ability to modify many items. This flexibility makes it an accessible spot for diners with various dietary preferences.
Atmosphere and Customer Service
The ambiance at JUICED is frequently described as relaxed and welcoming, with some patrons noting its "hippie vibes." The space is set up to encourage guests to linger, offering games and reading materials. This creates a comfortable environment that complements the healthy fare. The service contributes significantly to the positive experience, with staff described as extremely friendly and welcoming. The chef's personal attention, including checking on customers, is a recurring theme in reviews and points to a high level of care and pride in their product.
Areas for Consideration
Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are a few points for potential customers to consider. The most direct piece of constructive criticism found among reviews pertains to the food menu. While most dishes are lauded, one customer found the "Love Your Roots Bowl" (with quinoa and sweet potatoes) to be somewhat plain. This suggests that while flavor innovation is a hallmark, a few dishes may not resonate with every palate.
Another practical aspect to note is the operating hours. The schedule varies significantly throughout the week, with earlier closing times on several days, including Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. For instance, the cafe closes at 3:00 PM on some days and as late as 9:00 PM on others. Prospective visitors should verify the current hours before planning a trip to avoid any inconvenience.
Finally, the establishment's services are focused on the in-person experience. According to the provided information, delivery and curbside pickup options are not available. In an era where convenience is key for many diners, the absence of these services could be a limitation for those unable to visit in person. The recurring description of the business as a "hidden jewel" also suggests it may have lower visibility than more established eateries, so newcomers to the area might need to seek it out specifically.
JUICED what you needed positions itself as a premier health food store and cafe in Memphis by refusing to compromise on taste. The combination of high-quality, fresh ingredients, a creative and diverse menu that extends far beyond juices, and exceptional, personal service has cultivated a loyal following. While the variable hours and lack of delivery service are practical considerations, the overall customer consensus is clear: it is a top-tier destination for a satisfying and nutritious meal. The establishment's ability to deliver complex, enjoyable flavors in a healthy format is its defining characteristic and the primary driver of its success.