Squeeze is a vegan, raw juice bar located in the Four Flags Hotel on Main St. in Niles, MI. Susan, the owner, has had this vision of a juice bar for years. She told me that she would go into the cafes in bigger cities and admire the quaint decor and the draw of the clientele. Finally, she decided she would take her admirations and her vision and come up with her own space. Hence, Squeeze was born.
Upon walking into Squeeze, you will see a very cozy and inviting atmosphere. On one side is a long bar where you can sit and chat with your barista and watch drinks being made. Everything is laid out all in front of the customer -- no surprises! To the opposite side, there are sections of seating and a few corners that small groups can nestle into for longer conversations. The wall is tastefully decorated with pictures of fruits, veggies, and inspiring color.
On the menu, you will find several smoothie selections and juice concoctions. If you request a specific ingredient be left out of the smoothie, that can be done for you. (As someone with various fruit allergies, that can be appreciated!) Each are priced at 3.50. You can also add in extras such as chia seeds, seaweed, and bee pollen. Teas and herbal coffees are also available.
A delicious treat found at Squeeze that you may have never considered before would be Susan's kale chips. I've heard of this new trend, but never had the opportunity to taste them. There was a bowl of samples out, so I took that as my opportunity! They were delicious, and I was instantly addicted to the crunchy beginning, but the melt-in-your-mouth finish of these dehydrated leafy chips. They were lightly seasoned with olive oil, garlic (I believe), and other deliciousness. Don't be afraid! They may very well replace the potato chip for me.
What's really great about checking out a new business and those of a progressive sort such as juice bars is this -- they're still experimenting! While I was there, Susan let me try her carrot muffins (raw, I remind you!) and macaroons, and also her new dish of a mock-tuna salad that consisted of nuts such as cashews and almonds. The mock salad was to die for, especially when paired with her kale chips! I imagine that as Squeeze develops, even more fantastic offerings will be added to her already stellar menu selection.
For my first visit, I chose the "Peak Performance" smoothie and added bee pollen. This smoothie included pineapple, orange, banana, and honey. Without the bee pollen, the consistence of the smoothie had a sweeter and more smooth flavor. With the bee pollen, you noticed a more grainy texture and the bitterness toned down the natural sugars found in the fruit. It was definitely an excellent first choice for myself, and something I would order again.
I realize that in the mid-west, the idea of "vegan" and "raw" foods can scare people away -- especially when we live in the land of Applebees and TGI Fridays. But I guarantee that there is something for everyone on this menu -- from traditionalists who like their basic fruit smoothies to more adventuresome types who are willing to try kale juice and hemp seeds.
The hours for Squeeze are Tuesday through Saturday 9:00am -- 7:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 noon -- 5:00 pm. Be sure to check out this new juice bar in Niles and support your local business owners! It's a great place to socialize, catch up, study, or just relax after a busy day.
Go! Support! Enjoy!
I promise you won't be disappointed.
Nice post! Definitely going there soon!
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