Syra-Juice Juice Bar & Eatery

If you’re up early after a late night, or if you want a quick lunch and are tired of the pizza joints and fast food madness of Marshall Street, swing by Syra-Juice Juice Bar & Eatery for a fresh alternative. 

When To Go:  Any time.  It is open early and often, ready to serve your needs throughout the day.  Syra-Juice is open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the week and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.  It is closed on Sundays, but hey – even the Lord needed a day of rest.  Bottom Line: It's always a convenient time to stop by for a quick snack or meal.

On Tap:  A wide variety of fresh juices and smoothies await, as one might expect to find at a place named Syra-Juice.  The eponymous juices vary from the classic fresh-squeezed orange juice to the less traditional orange-carrot combo.  The creatively titled smoothies include “The Last Mango in Paris” and the “Copa Banana” which blends pineapple, coconut, mango, and banana.  Smoothies include optional extras like ginkgobiloba, calcium, and protein for the health conscious.  Bottom Line:  It is named Syra-Juice for a reason!

Blue Plate Special:  If you walk in expecting just a juice and smoothie bar, you had better hold onto your hat.  In the midst of the fresh fruit and vegetables is a solid lineup of Mexican inspired food.  The chicken burrito claims to be the best in town, and the clientele agrees.  The ingredients like the rice and beans, are prepared fresh from scratch every morning, as are the salad dressings.  Other popular items include the Tomato Garlic Dipping Oil and the tortilla chips made on-site throughout the day.  Bottom Line:  After the surprise wears off, order the chicken burrito - the complimentary nachos are just a perk.

The Scene:  Nestled in the Marshall Street Mall, there are plenty of seating options outside the small store-front.  There are two tables in front of the store, but it is mostly a take-out oriented service.  The small store with few amenities allows the food to be the focus at Syra-Juice.  Bottom Line:  The store isn't the point - it's the food.

The Crew:  The staff is friendly and willing to chat, despite often being very busy.  The number of repeat customers who are familiar with the staff speaks to the quality of the food and the service.  Bottom Line: Service with a smile is always a plus.  The chatty workers make the visit even more enjoyable.

The Crowd:  Yes it is.  Students flock to the juice bar in droves for its fresh options.  The staff efficiently handles the line, which helps cut down on wait-time.  Whether you’re grabbing a quick smoothie after a workout or a quick meal before class, Syra-Juice is clearly a popular choice among those in the know.  Bottom Line:  You might want to look elsewhere for lunch if you're in a hurry, but if you have a few visits or come at off-hours, the crowd shouldn't deter you.

The Deets:  Nestled in the heart of the Marshall Street Mall at 720 University Avenue, the food is popular, as are the prices.  Nothing on the menu costs more than $6, so if you’re on a student’s budget, this is a great place to visit!  Bottom Line:  You can't go wrong with Mexican food and smoothies at an affordable price.  You'll be glad you stopped by.

--Review by Justin O'Neill