Miramar’s Black Owned Smoothie & Sandwich Shop is the “ISH”!

“If cameraman Korey (@KoreyDavisPhotography) doesn’t shoot it, I won’t eat it.”

On my journey as a novice food critic and writer, I have visited some of the most delicious establishments all over the United States; and my stomach was beginning to show it. As such, I started working out at 24 Hour Fitness.

I use to have a solid workout partner in my cousin (Roderick Tresvant of ICANFITNESS in Miami), one of the best trainers/fat murderers in Florida. Unfortunately, he fired me because I couldn’t stop eating cakes, which resulted in me leaning on the barbells gasping for air – totally throwing off his timed workouts.

So here I am, in the fitness wilderness (thanks to my friend Craig, I may be able to get back on course sooner than later) working out solo at 24 Hour Fitness in Miramar. After my version of a workout, I decided to get a protein shake and was directed to a black owned smoothie shop a few blocks away.

Smoothie Express –11020 Pembroke Rd, Miramar, FL 33025 – is in a plaza directly next to Publix. This place had a quick-casual feel to it with their logo beautifully displayed throughout the restaurant, quaint seating, and a massive menu printed directly behind the register. I had the opportunity to meet the owners, Lisa and Jermaine Smith, who were nothing short of amazing.  The Smiths have operated the shop for two years and have plans on expanding to a second location within the year.

After my initial visit, I returned for the interview and thankfully, the quality and service were consistent. Lisa Smith is one of the hardest working owners I have seen in a while (besides beast mode-Shawn from Magic Soul Food). She was blending smoothies, greeting customers and instructing staff, all while stepping away for our interview.

Back to my post workout experience. I ordered the Acai Bowl ($7.95), an acai fruit blend, topped with bananas and sunrise granola. The menu says that it comes with a mango drizzle, but there wasn’t any, so don’t expect it. If you’ve ever had an acai bowl, then you know they are delicious and standard just about everywhere. I enjoyed it and would order again.

Next, I sampled the Peanut Butter Insane Smoothie ($5.50), which came with peanut butter, bananas and a dab of honey. I absolutely love peanut butter, so this was the smoothie for me. I then had their hallmark shake, the 6 Green Mile Smoothie ($5.79) which had just about everything inside of it including kale, spinach, apples, bananas, oranges, grapes, almond milk, almond butter and coconut water. My favorite, by far. The grapes were pronounced, which made this smoothie unique and extremely refreshing.

Last of the liquids was one of their freshly brewed Strawberry Fruit Ice Tea ($3.49).  The difference between this beverage and others that use powder was pronounced.  This tea was brewed using tea leaves and infused with fresh strawberries and sugar. Simply delicious!

Now for the food! Yes, this little shop serves up an impressive menu that is not only tasty, but extremely affordable. The Floridian Chicken Salad ($7.95) is a no frills grilled chicken salad made with a bed of mixed greens topped with orange, strawberries, jicama, avocado, pecans and chia seeds along with a delicious homemade red onion, and lime cilantro vinaigrette. The salad was tasty with hints of both tang and sweet. Ask for croutons and extra chicken for a full meal!

Next came the Smoked Fish Salad ($8.79). I chose salmon, but you can also choose from mahi-mahi, wahoo or white fish. It is served with mayo with a hint of jalapeño, which added just the right hint of spice merged with their in-house made dressing for an amazing combination of both healthy and tasty goodness!

If you’re a bit hungrier, I would suggest that you try the paninis.  There’s a short wait because the sandwiches are made fresh to order.  Each is served with mixed and micro greens, with your choice of their homemade salad dressing. I like the vinaigrette-based dressings the best.

The paninis I enjoyed were the Lobster Melt ($13.95) that came with a mouthwatering raspberry sauce coupled with cheese and seasoned lobster bits. I would order again, but would request white cheddar cheese or possibly gouda instead.

Next, was the Mahi Panini ($7.95) which came with chunks delicious pineapple highlighting the tropical sauce with its citrusy sweetness all melded together with cilantro, red peppers, jalapeno and red onions. The fish was so flavorful and it would be even more enjoyable if I had just a tad bit more, so on my next visit, I’ll order extra fish.

For my vegan and vegetarian friends, you won’t be disappointed in their Veggie Burger ($6.95) which comes with brown rice, lentils, and plenty of veggies, served on a warm panini bread with lettuce, tomato, red onion and sprouts.  The special sauce, all of their sauces, actually, take the sandwich to another level, so be sure to request it and spread it on the bread.

The sandwich is perfect for folks on the Daniel Fast or observing Lent. The owners provide discounts for people doing the Daniel Fast, so ask for details. I can’t do the Daniel Fast because I’m on the King David Fast of Deliciousness!

The Ultimate Tuna Melt ($6.95) was a classic served with mayo, micro celery, micro onions and topped with tomato, avocado and cheddar.  I enjoyed it, but I recommend pairing it with Swiss or any other white cheese. Aside from the cheddar mismatch, the tuna was delectable. The tuna had a perfect amount of mayo instead of being sloppily floating in it.

Of course, I saved the best for last! My absolute favorite was the Turkey Burger ($6.95).  The burger is made in-house out of ground turkey and comes with a side of mixed greens. Each bite yielded an explosion of flavor and pure elation.  The juicy tomato, potent red onions and the softness of the hamburger bun created a flavor so balanced and delicious, I could have eaten two if I weren’t so full.

Great food, service and unrivaled prices set this eatery apart. This is one of the few Miramar establishments where you can eat healthy on a budget. Feeding a family of four can be accomplished for only $25.00, and without the grease and heart attack juice found at other similarly priced eateries.

Black and woman owned, delicious, economical, great service, and modern decor is all I can ask for!   Smoothie Express was a unforgeable experience and I give them a 9 out of 10. It’s now one of my regular spots when I work out in Miramar.  You can reach them at (954) 391-9261.  Check out our live Facebook video of the 2nd review below! 

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