Pembroke Pines Black Owned Vegan, Smoothie, Chicken & Waffle Joint is LIFE!

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

I remember hovering around my grandmother as she fried catfish listening to gospel and humming along with the likes of Shirley Cesar.  Walking into Fantasy Twist Smoothie and Food Shop located at 654 N. University Dr. in Pembroke Pines, FL 33024, I had an immediate flashback. Gospel music playing softly in the background, humming coming from the beautiful black grandmother stirring in pots, amid sounds of blenders churning fruits, nuts, and other ingredients took me back to a much more simpler time.

Owner and operator, Mrs. Robin Starks created Fantasy Twist out of necessity and what she felt was a divine calling to offer people healthy, but delicious food options. I became a believer after sampling some of her menu items.

Our first item was the Mango Crusher Smoothie, followed by the Peanut Butter Cup meal replacement. For starters, I would recommend you get the blended drinks WITHOUT protein powders or any additives because the powders drastically changed the taste.  However, if you’re coming from LA Fitness across the street, then have at it!  I thoroughly enjoyed my mango crusher smoothie without the protein powder. Sweet, healthy, and delicious – just what you expect from a good smoothie.

Next I tried a specialty salad with various fruits added over a bed of spinach with vinaigrette dressing for only ($7). The construction and presentation of the salad were very impressive brandishing vibrant colors from various fruits, veggies, and sprinkled quinoa.  Gazing at this beautiful salad, I felt disappointed in myself for depriving my taste buds of more healthy options, but right before I could finish that thought and lie to myself about eating healthier, Gospel Grandma started frying chicken.  The aroma floated to my nostrils along with inspirational lyrics giving indication that God probably wanted me to order fried chicken.  Surely this woman, who is obviously much closer to the Lord than I am, was sent as a sign.

Being obedient, I ordered the Chicken and Waffles ($6.99) I added walnuts and bananas for an extra punch before drenching the entire entrée with maple syrup.  Make sure you request warm syrup. People who use room temperature syrup are not to be trusted. The Belgian waffle was soft with just the right amount of crispiness on the edges in addition to a mild cinnamon, nutmeg and buttery flavor. Each waffle is made from an in-house batter and thankfully, not a pre-made store bought mix, because that’s non-negotiable for me.

With three winglets fried to golden perfection, the Chicken and Waffle combination is a MUST HAVE.   The wings come in different flavors – my favorite by far was the Lemon Pepper, simply wonderful! You can also get a vegan waffle and omit the chicken for other vegan options.

Realizing that I just went from eating one of the healthiest salads known to man, to a plate of fried chicken and waffles, I began to question the motives of Mrs. Starks. Things started to make me wonder if she and her mother really were who they claimed to be. My fortune cookie last week said I would be tested this week. I quickly changed my order back to heathy eating, realizing that these women may have been sent to test me, and this may not even be real, none of it.

I suspiciously ordered the chicken wrap ($6.99) with vinaigrette dressing. Exploding with flavor, this unassuming wrap will surprise the hell out of you. An absolute MUST HAVE. Make sure you ask for Mrs. Robin, and tell her you want your chicken wrap constructed the EXACT way she did it for The Hungry Black Man. This wrap was spectacular. I am a sucker for wraps because of their portability and healthy benefits. This wrap will have you satisfied without adding to the waste line, so if you are looking to eat healthy but not sacrifice taste, this is the meal for you!  I’ve been back several times for this wrap (and the chicken and waffles, don’t judge me).

Just about done with my entrée selections, Mrs. Robin casually mentions that they carry fried fish, grits, bacon, eggs, and a grilled fish. I noticed Gospel Grandma was extra happy in the kitchen as Mrs. Robin riddled on and on about these African-American staple breakfast items, but I knew what was happening here. The temptation. I politely said I was stuffed and continued eating my wrap.  I am sure I passed the test, because Gospel Grandma vanished.

Fantasy Twist has only been open since January 2017, but from their service and food quality they seemed like veterans. With a classic mother-daughter duo and a couple of courteous high school student employees, this establishment is slated to do very well in the smoothie and quick healthy market.

Directly across the street from LA Fitness, the store is nestled in a busy plaza (Pembroke Commons plaza), and can be hard to find if you aren’t paying attention. If you’re in the mood for delicious food, great smoothies and both vegetarian and vegan meal options, then Fantasy Twist is a quick, casual, no hassle option.  I give this place The Hungry Black Man approval and an easy 9 out of 10 stars! You can reach Fantasy Twist by calling (754) 400-8995. Check out our live Facebook video of the 2nd review below!

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