There’s a fresh new dining option on campus! Freshens Fresh Food Kitchen opened on February 10 in the Engineering Collaborative Research and Education Building on West Campus. They offer a varied menu featuring rice bowls, melts, açaí bowls, and smoothies. A few staff members went over to check out this new spot and share their thoughts.
Noah Flenard: Chicken Quesadilla & Mango Me Crazy Smoothie
I ordered the chicken quesadilla, which is a limited-time offer, and a Mango Me Crazy smoothie. The quesadilla was tasty, especially with the ranch dip, and came out quickly since it wasn’t busy yet. The smoothie, made with mango and pineapple, was one of the best I’ve ever had—deliciously sweet but not overwhelming. I think Freshens will become a popular spot for quick meals and snacks between classes.
Olivia Hess: Chicken Quesadilla & Caribbean Craze Smoothie
When I visited Freshens, I was excited to try their menu, which had a lot of options. I went for the Caribbean Craze smoothie and the chicken quesadilla. The smoothie was impressive; it was refreshing and not overly sweet. I would definitely walk 25 minutes just to try different smoothie flavors now. The quesadilla was decent, but I wished for more filling in it. Despite this, I would order it again; it got a solid 7.7 from me.
Ella Wehmeyer: Buffalo Chicken Artisan Melt & Maui Mango Smoothie
I arrived at Freshens eager to try their buffalo chicken artisan melt and the Maui Mango smoothie. The smoothie stood out; it was nicely balanced with mango, strawberries, and bananas. I rated it an 8.3 out of 10. The melt, while filling and flavorful, was a bit spicier than I expected. Overall, I enjoyed my meal and gave it an 8.2 out of 10. I’m excited to go back and try more!
Maggie Alderisio: Baja Queso Rice Bowl & Acai Energy Smoothie
I chose the Baja Queso rice bowl and an acai energy smoothie. The bowl had all the right ingredients—rice, queso, chicken, corn, and more. It tasted fresh and reminded me of a burrito bowl from Chipotle but at a lower price. The smoothie was a good size and satisfying. I’d definitely return to explore more options on their menu.
Melanie Thalhimer: On The Border Quesadilla
I ordered the On The Border quesadilla. It was stuffed with chicken, refried beans, and a nice chipotle ranch sauce. The quesadilla was filling and full of flavor. I rated it an 8.5 out of 10 due to the time it took to prepare and its unique insides. I would recommend giving it a try!
Overall, Freshens offers a nice variety of healthy options for those on campus. It feels like a blend of a fast-casual eatery and a smoothie bar, and its quick service is a plus. Whether you’re looking for a smoothie or a meal, Freshens has something for you!
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