By Joe Boyle
Rosa Prieto had been considering opening a business that provides refreshing drinks and food but was waiting for the right time.
For Rosa and her husband, Jaime Prieto, that time has arrived.
The Healthy and Delicious Smoothie Spot, 10408 S. Cicero Ave., Oak Lawn, officially opened on March 10. Since then, the Prietos reached out to the community and with the assistance of the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the morning of May 29.
Rosa said the new business offers a wide variety of smoothies, kids smoothies, food and coffee.
But Rosa said what makes this business unique is that it offers healthy options for all age groups. The gourmet protein crepes are served with a side salad.
“We wanted it to be a healthy option for everyone,” Rosa said. “We have been talking about this for awhile. We have menus for kids without any sugar, except natural sugar from fruit.”
Jamie said they have a long list of smoothies to choose from in a variety of sizes. One favorite of his is the “Oak Lawn Berry,” which includes wild berry and fresh mixed berries. He also enjoys the “Green Machine,” which is a combination of kale, ginger, spinach and mango.
Some other flavors are the blueberry muffin, Aloha Pina Colada, Mango Madness and Strawberry Potion.
“All the drinks and desserts are fresh and nutritious,” Rosa said.
The Prietos, residents of Alsip, said they want to be a local option for all age groups who like smoothies, refreshments, and “guilt-free” desserts. This is their first business venture.
“We want to be part of the community,” Rosa said. “We want people to come here and relax and enjoy themselves. There are franchises out there but we want to be the local business here.”
Customers are greeted by three comfortable chairs fit for a dining room and a table to sit and talk while enjoying a smoothie, crepe or coffee. An extended seating area includes five tables in the back. A counter with a series of stools allow customers to peer out the window while enjoying their treats.
The Prietos also offer strawberry, blueberry, granola, and pecan-flavored waffles. The desserts have no more than a gram of sugar each and are no more than 40 calories, according to the Prietos. Desserts include banana bread, carrot cake, and blueberry and cranberry muffins.
The Smoothie Spot also provides workout drinks. Pre-workout refreshments include tropical mango or watermelon. A muscle-impact smoothie includes whey protein, chocolate, banana, and oats.
Along with chamber members, several public officials attended the grand opening that drew a large crowd. Guests were treated to a variety of smoothies and desserts.
Oak Lawn Mayor Terry Vorderer attended the grand opening.
“I want to thank you for setting up here in Oak Lawn,” Vorderer said. “This is a wonderful community and we hope you have great success.”
Natasha Miller Williams, current president of the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce, said the organization was delighted that the Healthy and Delicious Smoothie Spot is in the village.
“I just want to welcome you to the community,” Miller Williams said. “What you have done here is wonderful. It’s beautiful in here.”
The Smoothies Spot is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday. They can be found on Facebook. More information can be obtained by calling 708-581-4113.
Jaime said that business has been good most days since they opened two months ago.
“But now since we have had the grand opening, we hope to get the word out,” Jaime said. “We want to be part of this community.”