Bites Nearby: Icy Cold Smoothies and Coffees

In 1983, the Maui Wowi Hawaiian all natural fruit smoothies were originally created by Jeff and Jill Summerhays as a healthy alternative to the fat and sugar laden foods that were overtaking the country.  Wherever the Summerhays felt like going, they took their fruit smoothies with them. Their “Aloha Spirit” went with them everywhere, and soon, Maui Wowi soared into a franchise business with over 400 locations nationwide.

Woodbury manager Brittany Jenkin said the founders’ Aloha Spirit has carried into the franchises throughout the country. One example of this spirit: Maui Wowi is the only smoothie shop in the country to be 100 percent kosher and halal certified. 

Speaking of living in harmony, chill your mind and body down with the thirst quenching and tropical fruity Coral Reef Sunset smoothie ($4.29/12 ounce).  The base is Maui Wowi’s own strawberry and passion papaya fruit puree and nonfat yogurt, blended with fresh banana and ice. The result is a mouthful of island fruit paradise!

“Our smoothies are made from prepackaged all natural fruit purees, a secret nonfat yogurt base and Monin brand flavored syrups that contain only pure cane sugar and no preservatives,” said Jenkin.  

The all natural fruit purees and juices are pre-packaged to ensure the integrity of Maui Wowi Hawaiian. “As far as being a healthy alternative, each of our smoothies contain about the equivalent of three fruit servings, not to mention you can add powder boosters such as vitamins and protein,” Jenkin said. “The smoothies are gluten-free, too.”

Coffee and caramel lovers rejoice! The Cappuccino Honu ($4.49/12 ounce) starts with a gooey and rich Ghirardelli caramel syrup lined glass which is filled with a blended mixture of iced Kona cappuccino and Monin coconut syrup. Topped with fresh whipping cream and more gooey Ghirardelli caramel drizzle, this frozen drink is a delightful treat during any coffee break!

For those chocoholics who are counting calories, try Maui Wowi frozen Hot Koko!  Using all the chocolatey rich flavors from Ghirardelli’s double chocolate hot cocoa mix, Maui Wowi will blend this up with nonfat milk and sugar free Monin vanilla flavoring. The result is a wickedly decadent tasting, yet lower calorie, frozen dessert treat.

Kids and adults alike will love knowing that Maui Wowi just started offering Nathan’s Famous hot dogs.  “Buy any Maui Wowi smoothie and for $2.49 more, you can add a quarter pound Nathan’s Famous all beef hot dog,” said Jenkin.  Nathan’s Famous hot dogs are 100 percent beef with no extra fillers. It’s another perfect pairing with the Coral Reef Sunset smoothie.

Budget watchers take note: Invest in a Maui Wowi Tiki cup for $8. This dishwasher safe, refillable Tiki cup allows you to get any future smoothie or iced coffee drink for $5 at any Maui Wowi location.

Maui Wowi is located at 8144 Coller Way, Woodbury, MN. For more information call 651.485.3332 or check out their website at:  www.mauiwowi.com