June 12, 2015

International Mall Welcomes Freshii

Miami was first introduced to Freshii when it opened a location in Wynwood, and we were quite delighted to hear that a second location would be opening within International Mall. For those not familiar, Freshii is a restaurant whose mission is to help customers live healthier and longer lives by making healthy food affordable and convenient. The first Freshii opened in Canada in 2005, and 10 years later, the brand can be found in over 60 cities and 12 countries worldwide. Needless to say, they’ve been a hit.

“Eat.Energize.” This is the clean and simple model that Freshii clings to, and it translates well into the concept. Even though the food is meant to energize, it doesn’t hurt that it also happens to be satisfying for the palate.

Given the location, it is easily the best dining option when it comes to having a meal in International mall. This Freshii transports its customers outside of the usual mall dining experience and into a comfortable, inviting environment. Bright painted walls and greens growing out of the wall exude the healthy and clean philosophy that Freshii adopts, and the amicable service made for a pleasant experience. I can see the location getting a bit tight with a large crowd, but having found a seat at the bar facing the wall, I enjoyed my meal without a bother in the world.

The Smokehouse Burrito, made with brown rice, black beans, red onions, tomatoes, corn, aged cheddar, and spicy yogurt sauce had the heft of a usual burrito without the gluttonous feeling that one gets after finishing a burrito at most fast casual restaurants. When paired with the house made falafel, it made for a nutritious and satisfying meal that gave me energy to continue the rest of my afternoon without feeling weighed down. The flavors complimented each other well and benefitted from the freshness of the vegetables. Without a doubt, the star of the burrito was the spicy yogurt sauce, giving a nice hint of heat that lingered through after each swallow. It gave an addictive taste in the mouth that made me keep on going in bite after bite until I realized my burrito was gone.

Freshii in International has definitely become my favorite dining destination when in the mall. Word has it that a location will be opening in Dadeland Mall by the end of the year. Here’s to hoping that it happens sooner rather than later.