Seven months ago I wrote about the plans to bring the Juice Bar to 2 Market Square. Read that article for the details regarding the history of the Nashville company. Just starting in 2013, the franchise has exploded across the state and the region. Plans called for this store to open July 1, but obviously, there were delays. Thankfully, the sidewalk blockage was removed recently and the store opens today.
The business concept is one that, as I mentioned in the previous article, should fit nicely with downtown. I quoted the owners in the previous article and it bears repeating here as it describes precisely what they are interested in achieving with the food offerings: ” “Juice Bar is overwhelmingly vegetarian, gluten-free, organic when possible, and always uses 100% whole fruits and vegetables. Simply said, we are a “I want to eat healthy and feel great” type place, offering yummies like our Super Greens juice with local wheat grass, or our superfoods salad with kale, spinach, organic quinoa and fresh-juiced lemon dressing.”
The previous article gives more detail about the food, but, as you’d expect, there is a great emphasis on juices, but they also offer smoothies, sandwiches, salads and edible essential oils. Water and Kombucha is available, as well as a healthy parfait. It looks to be the most vegetarian-friendly spot in the downtown area.
The new location has been carefully constructed, with very cool, heavy wooden tables built by Wade Richardson, known for his construction of furniture for Blackberry Farm. He also built the stools, but it’s the center table which makes the biggest impression. Seemingly built with wooden beams and looking like something from a Viking castle, it surreptitiously slips in a modern element: it is lined with sockets and USB ports.
One of the investors told me he’d like to see this become a spot where patrons bring their devices and spend time while enjoying the food offered by the restaurant. John Osborne, another of the owners of this franchise told me he felt t was important that the restaurant integrate well into downtown and, for that reason, many of the finishes are different than other franchises. With the extensive use of woods, the interesting chandeliers and the earth-toned soft seating, it does feel welcoming and warm. As he said, “They let us put on our own flair.”
It’s an attractive space and it’s good to have this corner of Market Square active again. Luke Pfleger is the manager and Janice is assistant manager. You’ll find them on one of the best corners in the city. The restaurant is open beginning today and hours are 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM Monday through Friday and 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM on Saturday.
Program Note: Join me on WUTK 90.3, The Rock at 10:00 AM Sunday morning when my guest will be Matt Ward who will talk about the upcoming Scruffy City Comedy Festival.