The trend of turning a drinkable smoothie into an edible bowl has quickly grown in popularity. New to the idea? The difference is that these smoothies tend to be of a thicker consistency (a.k.a. more filling) and may include chia seeds, granola, and other thickeners. In addition, these bowls are typically topped with fresh fruit, grains, honey, and much more. Bowls can be customized to fit your palate and dietary needs. You’ve seen them all over Instagram and Pinterest, and we’re here to introduce you to some of Knoxville’s best places to try a smoothie or açaí bowl.
Néktar
Originating in Costa Mesa, California in 2010, Néktar has made its way to Tennessee and brought the “taste good, feel good” lifestyle with it. Located in Bearden, the store is a great place to drop in while running errands in the new shopping area. New to the menu is a variety of açaí bowls. Pictured here is the Superfood Bowl, and it’s clear where the name comes from. This bowl is loaded with yummy fruits and veggies such as strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, spinach and kale, and topped with even more fresh fruit, granola, goji berries, and agave nectar.
- 5361 Kingston Pike
- Knoxville, TN 37919
- (865) 253-7428
- nektarjuicebar.com
- Monday-Friday 7:30 AM-8 PM
- Saturday 8 AM-8 PM
- Sunday 10 AM-6 PM
Java Juice Box
It’s almost too pretty to eat! Java Juice Box, located on North Broadway, is an expert in all things smoothie and juice related. The restaurant offers a variety of cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and other small bites. Our personal favorite is the option to create your own açaí or pitaya bowl. You begin by picking a smoothie base and then loading up with toppings such as fresh fruit, granola, coconut shavings, nut butters, and more. The staff can assist with selections based on nutrients and flavors.
- 1324 N. Broadway
- Knoxville, TN 37917
- (865) 333-5524
- javajuicebox.com
- Monday-Saturday 8 AM-6 PM
- Sunday 9 AM-6 PM
Juice Bar
With two locations in Knoxville and many more throughout Tennessee, Juice Bar has become a popular spot. It’s a favorite among many Knoxvillians as a post-workout treat or morning pick-me-up on the way to work. In addition to juices, smoothies, and small bites, they offer six smoothie bowl options. Pictured here is the Açaí Bowl, but we’re itching to try the Chocolate Bowl–because a case can be made for chocolate at every meal.
- 4801 Kingston Pike
- Knoxville, TN 37919
- (865) 333-5135
- ilovejuicebar.com
- Monday-Friday 7 AM-7 PM
- Saturday 8 AM-5:30 PM
- Sunday 11 AM-5 PM
Clean Juice
Clean Juice opened its first location in 2015 in North Carolina. In four short years, it has grown to over 100 locations, including our very own in Turkey Creek. They offer a variety of healthy smoothies, snacks, juices, and cleanses. This Berry Bowl uses all organic ingredients such as organic almond milk, honey, fruit, and granola. Uniquely, they offer a Nutty Bowl and Carrot Cake Bowl, both which have organic maple syrup in them.
- 11670 Parkside Drive
- Knoxville, TN 37934
- (865) 671-5670
- cleanjuice.com
- Monday-Friday 7 AM-7 PM
- Saturday 8 AM-8 PM
- Sunday 9 AM-6 PM