NYC, MidtownJuice Generation, Salma Hayek's juice chain

By Caly, AKA Vegan Feels Good @veganfeelsgood
15 March '19

I am always on the lookout for a cool juice pitstop when I am travelling. New York’s Juice Generation is a must. Famous for their signature juices, smoothies and now açai bowls, Juice Generation try to make eating enough fresh ingredients a day more accessible. I decided to check out their Lexington branch to see if it is really the best grab “n” go across NYC if you are craving a little freshness in your day.

The setting

The branch I reviewed is between 52nd and 53rd street on buzzing Lexington. It is a short walk from the famous 5th Avenue shops and Central Park. I recommend grabbing a juice and then going for a stroll in the park.

The space

Juice Generation has several different locations and they all vary in size. This one is compact, but I have also been to the one in the Financial District which is larger with a seating area. E53rd St just has a standing bar. But it’s not really a place where people sit and linger, the style is much more takeaway.

There are nice design touches like the wooden countertops, subway tiles, black and white drawing of fruit and veg and chalk boards.

The crowd

The crowd is very diverse : students rushing to class, mums wearing yoga pants, business workers, carers and children. Juices are good for everyone after all.

The fresh juice test

I chose the Hi-Fibe green smoothie which is large blend of spinach, kale, cucumber and green apple. This juice is rich in leafy greens and they told me it was rich in vitamin K, iron, vitamin C, folate and fibre. All of which are good for skin health and a natural glow. The smoothie itself is very fresh, but still has a nice thick texture.

 

What we ate

As this meal was my brunch, I decided to go all raw vegan and have a selection of what Juice Generation offers. As a fan of açai bowls, a taste I developed living in LA, I had to order one. I chose the Aloha Açai for its many fresh toppings including strawberries, banana slices, pineapple, mango, kiwi, coconut, hemp and granola. It was just as I like my açai, not too watery and lush.

In the spirit of going fully into a detox, I tried their Defender Shot which burns! I’m a fan, but it is definitely not for everyone. It is a strong concentrate of ginger, lemon, turmeric, cayenne and oil of oregano which is supposed to reduce inflammation and support recovery. I also got one of their Vital Shots to go which has a blend of ginger, lemon and cayenne.

The little things that make a difference…

I loved that they have large open fridges with a selection of juices to grab and go. They also serve fresh coconuts to drink from. The service is very fast, which is nice considering how hectic and people packed New York feels.

What we’d go back for…

All the utensils and cups are made from sustainable materials.

You can also get a discount by using a glass container. Juice Generation prioritises using locally sourced fresh ingredients and supporting farmers. They have a “grow it back” programme to help communities, as well and donate a portion of ever sale to charity like Harlem Grown and animal sanctuaries. Also, actress Salma Hayek has collaborated with Juice Generation to create a line of juices and a cleanse home-delivery programme.

The bill

Hi-Fibe Smoothie  $8.95
Aloha Açai Bowl  $10.95
Defender Shot   $3.95

 

Juice Generation

599 Lexington Avenue
10022
New York City

(212) 531-1110
visit website
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