Juicce & Java

In these times, it’s great to see any business doing well on Main Street. As people scale back, restaurants are hit the hardest and it’s an all too common sight to see new eateries closing their doors after a few years of business. One shop that fights against this trend is Juicce and Java, located on Hartsdale Ave in Hartsdale, New York.

The owner Raj converted this ‘hole in the wall’ sandwich shop into a fully featured cafe about 3 years ago. The menu now features over 50 sandwiches and wraps to choose from, a fantastic salad selection along with a make-your-own salad bar, a variety of coffees, protein bars and healthy snacks. They also had something I’d never seen before: a machine that makes fresh Wheat Grass shots. I’ve heard about Wheat Grass and its various health benefits, but never in this form. This espresso machine-looking contraption ground up the fresh grass into a shot glass that customers then threw back and chased with slices of orange (reminiscent of tequila shots and lime). The best part about Juicce and Java is the amazing smoothie collection. They are all freshly made and feature ingredients such as 100% acai juice, agave nectar, soy protein, and antioxidant boosts.

If after all those delicious options you still have room for dessert, there’s a lovely case of Ciao Bella waiting to fill your desire. The selection of gelato and sorbet is impressive for a somewhat small cafe, and his sundae combinations are out of this world.

My visit this weekend was during the town’s weekly farmer’s market, complete with rows and tents and live music. Pedestrians strolled up and down the walkways with their fresh fruits and vegetables in tow, content with their fresh and locally grown purchases. Passing by, many people were already on their way to Juicce and Java for a quick bite or pick-me-up. Some were accustomed to having our gelato and sorbet at this eatery while for some it was a first time. Either way, a scoop of Key Lime Graham Gelato or Mango Sorbet on a hot weekend day is hard to pass up. The owner’s daughter Misha even set up a table next to mine and sampled a variety of their amazing smoothies. My favorite part of the day was the owner of the pizzeria next door hopping on the free sample bandwagon and offering free slices to locals walking past.

As the hottest part of the day was over and I was about to make my way home, Raj refused to let me leave without a smoothie for the road. Let me tell you – I’m glad he insisted. My watermelon smoothie with strawberries and agave nectar was the most refreshing drink I’ve had in ages.

We’ll be back at Juicce and Java before the summer is out so always keep a close eye on out on our Facebook page.