Sustenance through a straw: A smooth lunch

With summer on the horizon, it’s time to start considering ways to combat the heat. Instead of adding warm lunches to what will inevitably be some oppressively hot afternoons, one option is to hit the various smoothie joints around Capitol Hill.

Paradise Smoothies

Located in the lower-level food court of Union Station, Paradise Smoothies offers 15 chilled and fruity combinations, such as orange and pineapple, mixed berry and piña colada. 

The cooling treats ring in at $3.50 for a 24-ounce drink and $4 for a 32-ounce variety. Protein, creatine, ginseng, wheat germ and fat-burning supplements can be added for $1 each.

While the smoothies are a bit thin in flavor and consistency (more likely to quench your thirst than your appetite), there are also “Frosty Shakes” — smoothies with yogurt — if you’re looking for something more substantial.


Coffee Shop

Tucked in between the Dirksen Senate Office Building’s busy north- and south-side cafes, the Coffee Shop focuses on Starbucks coffee, gelato and pre-made wraps and panini. But its two already-made and served-from-a-fridge smoothie options are an unlikely revelation.

At $3.75 for a 16-ounce cup, the raspberry and blueberry smoothies are thick and rich. Flavorful yogurt gives rise to a truly “smooth” experience as the beverage slides pleasingly to your stomach. And tiny bits of frozen fruit take the place of ice, providing additional bursts of flavor.

On the House side, the Longworth House Office Building’s Creamery has a limited selection of smoothies — consisting of Mango Tango, Mango Raspberry Twist and Mango Cherry Breeze. The House offerings are also among the least expensive, starting at $2.


Wellness Cafe

About two blocks from the Capitol South Metro stop, the Wellness Cafe is nestled along a strip of quaint brick restaurants and shops on Pennsylvania Avenue SE.

Shelves laden with dietary supplements line the narrow space. Slowly progressing musical compositions and the aroma of burning incense, complemented by the sounds of chirping birds and lapping water, lend to the relaxed ambiance.

There are 12 options for 16-ounce smoothies, which range in price from $3.99 to $5.49.

Choices include All Berries (blueberries, raspberries and strawberries with cranberry juice), Source of Life (protein powder with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, green fruits and vegetables) and Tropical Fruits (peach, pineapple, mango, papaya and berries). You can add one of the more than 10 supplements offered for $1.

---