I tried and reviewed an açaí bowl from Village Juice and Kitchen, a new on-campus dining option, on Friday morning. Village Juice and Kitchen opened this month in UNC’s Lenoir Dining Hall. Likewise, I had to try the açai and see if it compares to local competitors.
I originally came at 9 a.m. after an early cycle class at the Student Recreation Center but was informed they open at 10:30. When I came back at 11:45, business was booming. The newly renovated area looks gorgeous and clean with its white counters and subway tile back splash. I ordered their vegan and gluten-free Açaí Bowl for $9.95. The smoothie contained oat milk, bananas, strawberries and dates in addition to açaí and was topped with bananas, cacao nibs, strawberries, coconut shavings and toasted almond crumble. The workers were friendly, but it was clear they did not know the menu yet–this can be expected as it is new and mostly run by students. As I waited, I noticed the open faced sandwiches and salads were a popular menu item and looked delicious. My bowl was ready in less than 10 minutes and I sat upstairs next to Chic-fil-a.
The presentation was great and made for a nice picture. The first thing I noticed was that the toppings were only on the top, leaving mostly acai after the first few bites. I have found that layering toppings throughout the bowl is more enjoyable. Typically, granola is layered throughout smoothie bowls but it is not an offered topping here. The fruit was obviously fresh and the cacao nibs and coconut shavings were good, but I found the almond crumble to be excessive. It covered two-thirds of the bowl and had little flavor. I think this should be cut in half and another fruit should be added. The second, the beloved tart acai flavor was diluted due to the oat milk. But, it had a great consistency. It was a perfect balance between too soupy or too frozen. No one likes when their toppings are sinking to the bottom of the bowl or when they have to chew through icey acai. Village Juice & Kitchen got that part right in addition to its portions. I finished my bowl and was left satisfied.
Overall I enjoyed the bowl but was not left thinking about my next visit. Their commitment to, “believing in clean food and raw juice – full of nutrients, free of artificial anything and Mother Earth-approved,” is evident by their healthy food options and smoothie blend-ins, like collagen and pea protein, at an added cost. I do plan to come again to try their toasts and grain bowls.
I think this is a great healthy on-campus option. Plus swipes, flex money, or cash/card can be used. Overall, I think Village Juice & Kitchen can compete with the local Clean Juice, but not with the popular Purple Bowl on Franklin Street.