Nourishment is often overlooked in dining. While we tend to focus on flavors, colors, and aromas, we primarily eat to fuel our day. This idea stayed with me during my first visit to Kuumba Juice & Coffee, located on Milwaukee's near north side.
FOOD
I kept thinking of the term nourishment because Kuumba prioritizes nourishment, focusing on whole-food ingredients for breakfast and lunch. The menu features a variety of sandwiches and scrambles for breakfast, as well as bowls, smoothies, and juices for lunch, all made from fresh fruits and vegetables. After considering the options, I chose the honey chipotle chicken salad bowl to fully experience what Kuumba has to offer.
The bowl was almost too beautiful to eat. Roasted cherry tomatoes, black beans, and avocado created a vibrant palette, while the honey chipotle-marinated chicken provided a flavorful and hearty punch. Paired with brown rice and a chili-lime sauce, the dish was both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
My younger dining companion chose the berry smoothie, a delicious blend of blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, with added plant-based protein. It disappeared within seconds—a clear hit. I opted for the Forever Greens juice, a refreshingly tart mix of cucumber, apple, celery, kale, and lemon—an ideal pick for a late summer afternoon.
SERVICE
Kuumba's service is a warm embrace in a bustling world. Despite the counter service, the staff's patience and warmth were palpable. Even during a busy lunch hour, they took the time to answer my questions and never made me feel rushed while I decided on my meal. Their apology for what they perceived as a delay in my order, though I hardly noticed the wait, was a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction. It was a smooth and pleasant experience overall.
MEMORABILITY
What truly makes Kuumba special is its sense of community. During the bustling lunch hour, I saw many happy faces coming and going, whether they were regulars or first-timers like me. It felt good to be in a place where people were excited to gather. The café offers areas for people to relax, play games, read, and discover upcoming community events, making it a true neighborhood hub.
As the chill of winter approaches, I find myself eagerly anticipating Kuumba's potential menu expansion. The addition of hot items like soups and sandwiches would be a welcome evolution. Kuumba is a café I'll definitely be returning to. Their focus on healthy, wholesome ingredients, combined with the welcoming and mindful atmosphere, makes it a perfect retreat from the daily grind. I'm excited to see how they continue to grow in their second year!
KUUMBA - OVERALL RATING: 3.5 / 5
Website: kuumbajuicecoffee.com
Instagram: @kuumba.juice.coffee
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