By: Gin Butler
It continues to amaze me how much we grow, regardless of age, if we only keep our minds open. Such was the case for me the day Skylar Colclazier and I spent time with Chris Hynes, the owner of Superfruit Republic and Bond Lane, the General Manager.
I entered Superfruit Republic with the stereotypical opinion of what I thought a “smoothie” place was supposed to be. Was I in for a surprise! Oh, they do have smoothies, but they’re only a small part of their menu.
When I began to struggle for the correct words to describe our newest “eatery”, Chris provided me with clarification. “We are a health conscience acai bowl café”. With those words, my education began!
- Acai: This little berry’s list of attributes includes a high level of antioxidant activity similar to cranberries, but more than what’s been found in blueberries and strawberries. Acai berries are low in sugar, but contain excellent amounts of iron, calcium, fiber, and vitamin A.
- Steel Cut Oats: Steel-cut oats, also called pinhead oats or coarse oatmeal, are whole oat groats that have been chopped into two or three pieces. They are traditionally used to make porridge, as well as oat cakes, etc.
- Dragon Fruit: Rich in antioxidants, they contain vitamin C (equivalent to 10 percent of the daily value), polyunsaturated (good) fatty acids, and several B vitamins for carbohydrate metabolism, as well as carotene and protein. Calcium is present for strong bones and teeth, iron and phosphorus for healthy blood and tissue formation. The benefits are realized in a number of ways, from a strengthened immune system and faster healing of bruises and wounds to fewer respiratory problems.
I found that Superfruit Republic also focuses on trying to help the local economy. They use Colorado products produced and grown by local small businesses as much as possible in their delicious smoothies and bowls. (As a former Economic Developer for the state of Colorado, that statement alone had a very positive impact on me.) Not only does he support other small businesses, his staff is from the surrounding community; from Johnson and Wales, our local high schools – holding either a degree or studying toward one in the culinary arts or health and nutrition.
Now, I get the picture. This is truly an establishment for those that are health conscience, mature adults, children, millennials and everything in between. Which brings us to “Why Central Park”?
Obviously, Chris had done his homework.
His answer was quick and to the point, citing Central Park as the fastest growing community in the metro area. It has a healthy/active environment, providing the target market for his establishment. Businesses working together for shared success; proving the right location for his particular establishment located at 7483 E. 29th Ave. in the Town Center. Of course fitness enthusiasts are not the only individuals flowing into his business and quickly becoming “regulars”. There are young mothers with strollers, individual joggers, dog walkers, cyclists, individuals visiting the other surrounding businesses who decide to stop in for a healthy option! Superfruit is quickly becoming well known in the community. In fact, Chris is already evaluating the potential of another Superfruit Republic in the Central Park neighborhoods north of I-70!
I encourage everyone to visit Superfruit Republic and welcome Chris and Bond to Central Park and while you’re there have a healthy Acai Bowl!
