Smoothies and Beyond is a calm oasis

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This article was published 27/04/2022 (1491 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

One might think the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic would have been a great opportunity for writers, who are often seen as lone creatives who relish isolation to foster their works.

Before COVID hit, I relied greatly on coffee shops, as they afforded some sense of companionship while engaged in the lone act of writing.

At the height of pandemic restrictions, retreating to friendly places with the sounds of rattling coffee cups or happy background chit-chat could not be had. But that was only temporary, and necessary.

Actually, at the best of times, finding pleasant spots for writers — or anyone needing to get out — could be difficult.

But East Kildonan boasts a perfect gem — the Smoothies and Beyond restaurant/cafe located at the corner of Kimberly Avenue and Watt Street in a former bank branch. It opened in 2019, just before the pandemic began, and I missed it greatly during the long days when patrons could not stay to enjoy their food because of pandemic restrictions.

Smoothies and Beyond is a bright, beautiful place that takes full advantage of windows that span the entire walls at each street. It has an attractive, bright, and contemporary decor that is a joyful experience.

A large bookshelf invites people to stay and read, close to a collection of oversized lounge chairs at the front of the cafe. There are many tables throughout. A solitary writer can contemplate in contentment while seated at the long counter that looks out on Kimberley Avenue as its quiet bustle moves along. Beautiful succulent plants dot the cafe.

People hold meetings there, and many students from the nearby Miles Macdonell Collegiate drop in. My daughter, like many visitors, got to know Susan, who owns the cafe with her husband Doug and takes a genuine interest in her customers.

The food is great, too, with many home made pastries (the nourishment-packed sun cookies are a favourite). The smoothies are creative and tasty. Try the Kalinator — a delicious blend of five ingredients that includes mint and coconut water. Hong Kong bubble waffles with varied toppings are scrumptious, and the wraps and soups are tasty with often unexpectedly blended ingredients.

Susan personally researched and developed her menu and introduces new dishes every so often. Everything I have tasted at Smoothie’s and Beyond is good, original, and affordable, including the chili which beats Tim Hortons for meatiness and flavour. Need a zinger upper? The ginger tea is like no other.

Smoothies and Beyond, at 720 Watt St., is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. Inside those large stencilled windows, Susan and Doug will be waiting for you with a warm greeting. Find out more at www.smoothiesandbeyond.com