Eating healthy on a college budget is difficult, and finding healthy options on campus that do not cause you to blow through your Tigercard money impossible. Personally, I have been trying to ration my on-campus dining dollars while eating healthy, but it is not as easy as I thought it would be.
Thankfully, API has expanded its menu to include some new healthier options including the ever-popular acai bowl. I first found out about acai bowls this summer while scrolling through my Instagram feed and have been trying to get my hands on one ever since. Sure, anyone can make them at home, but it is not the same as in the restaurants.
After seeing the acai machine behind the API counter I decided one day after class to order one. I was pleasantly surprised when I ordered that, and instead of pulling an already-prepared frozen bowl out of a refrigerator, an employee started to make the bowl fresh before my eyes.
He started with pouring the smoothie out of a machine that was similar to the ones that make ICEEs. He then pulled out fresh bananas, strawberries and blueberries and began to prepare the fruit. The employee asked me if there were any fruits that I preferred, and, to have the full experience, I said some of each.
When I was handed the bowl I was satisfied with the size of it, and, as a bonus, it came with a lid so walking to my next class would not wind up with me covered in smoothie.
My first bite of the bowl was a perfect combination of granola, strawberries and smoothie. Normally whenever I drink smoothies I get tired of it about five sips in, but in this case each bite was different. I was able to change the taste by using each of the fruit pieces that had been delicately added to the bowl as the final touches, but honestly that was the cherry on top of a great menu item.
I was a little surprised by the price though – sitting at $8.80. However, it kept me full for the rest of the day so I believe that it was worth every penny. I truly think API has outdone themselves with this treat, and I hope they continue to expand their menu.
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