Ever since Planet Smoothie popped up on Walnut Street in Shadyside, I've been trying to stop by for a smoothie. I get distracted easily...
Now I understand it is attached to a gym but it smells pretty bad in there. It mildly reminded me of being in a locker room after a soccer game. I'm sure it doesn't always smell like that but they might want to do something about it when it does.
The smoothie menu is extensive. You can try several varieties that fall into five categories: weight loss, protein, wellness, energy, and cool blended. It also provides nutritional content for those counting calories. In addition to a variety of smoothies, it also has frozen yogurt with a variety of toppings to choose from (think Razzy Fresh). It has way more candy options then fresh fruit options which I found slightly weird.
After some contemplating, I decided to get one of the new Acai Bowls (pronounced ah-sigh-ee). The acai is blended thickly with raspberries, mango, and apple juice and then topped with granola and bananas. The taste was refreshing and perfect for a post-run snack. The presentation was strange. It was given to me in a cup. I just wanted to drink it but I think I was supposed to eat it with a spoon? I'm not sure really? I ended up drinking most of it because I am weird and also easily confused.
Overall, it was tasty and didn't leave me feeling guilty about eating after I worked out. It also erased the hunger pains for cheese sticks which is a seriously difficult task to do for me after a 5 mile run.