If the closing of the Norris University Center’s Jamba Juice has gotten you down, one of Evanston’s newest culinary additions may be just the pick-me-up you’re looking for.
Peeled, 940 Church St., touts an extensive menu of juices and smoothies catering to the traditional beverage seeker as well as the more gung-ho health nut. The classic strawberry-banana fusion comes together in the Strawberry Letter smoothie, while the Berry Bonds throws a curve ball of blue-green algae into the mix with a delicious berry blend. No fruit combination goes unexplored, so expect the unexpected … and expect to enjoy it.
And if you’re looking to add an extra kick, all-natural booster shots ranging from wheatgrass to agave to cayenne pepper are guaranteed to cure any funk you may find yourself stuck in.
Though some of the more exotic ingredients need a bit more travel time to arrive in Evanston, the bulk of Peeled’s raw materials come from local farmers. Making the effort to use only organic and fresh produce, Peeled provides not only a nourishing product, but also one you can feel good about consuming. Each drink is made to order in plain sight. Customers get the assurance and satisfaction of seeing exactly what goes into their drink – be it coconut or kale – and what doesn’t – added sugars and chemicals.
The standout performer for me, however, was the gelato. Unique to Peeled’s Evanston location (owners also operate a store in Lincoln Park), this chilly treat is good enough to be a staple all year round. Devoid of any dairy product, the gelato offerings are completely vegan, providing an intimate experience with the tastes you’re actually looking for. Conventional flavors like Raspberry and Lemon lie next to the more bizarre, such as Mango Jalapeno and Coconut Pistachio. The Avocado gelato was surprisingly sweet, with a creamy and thicker texture, but the Dark Chocolate truly boggled my mind. Perhaps it’s just my inner chocolate fiend talking, but the rich, almost bitter taste satisfied after merely a few bites.
Nestled next to Noodles & Company on Church Street, Peeled is easy to get to and worth the walk for more ambitious North Campus dwellers. Open late with plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi, the fun, vibrant atmosphere makes it a great place to meet friends for a healthier, non-fast food option. Though prices typically sit in the $6 to $8 range for a smoothie, the end product makes for a great treat every once in a while. And your immune system will surely be thanking you when you’ve reached the bottom of your cup.
