Oklahoma’s food scene is known best for its copious amounts of delicious Tex Mex, massive steaks and comfort food. We have done more than our share of indulging in these delicacies. But, in the name of balance, we’ve also been spending a lot of time at Wheeze the Juice. Just a short walk from our apartment, Wheeze serves the freshest juices, smoothies and smoothie bowls out of a shipping container in the OK Sea development in Deep Deuce. (They also have a newer location in Leadership Square for the downtown office crowd.)
The space is small, bright and open, and service is always helpful and friendly. There’s a small bar counter inside with a small 90’s-style TV and VHS player showing “classic” movies from the 90’s. Wheeze the Juice is a cheeky moniker harkening back to the scene from Encino Man when Pauly Shore drinks directly from the slurpee machine. The offerings here are much more nutritious than a slurpee, but just as fun and colorful. The menu covers all the healthy and trendy bases you would expect at a juice bar with something for every taste bud.
Smoothie Bowls
As much as I do enjoy juice and smoothies, I have a long-formed affinity for chewing and usually opt for a bowl. Wheeze’s smoothie bowls are packed with flavor and texture. Each one we’ve tried has been tasty, but my favorites are the Harriet the Acai and the Mannie Fresh. At $10 a bowl, they’re not an every day treat (at least on my budget). I’ve started making my own most of the time, but they really pale in comparison to these beauties. Each bowl is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the belly.
Harriet the Acai – strawberry, blueberry, banana, acai and almond milk topped with fruit and granola
Macarena – banana, mango, spinach, kale, almond milk and maca topped with pumpkin seeds, honey and kiwi
Mannie Fresh – apple, pineapple, spinach, almond milk and coconut water topped with cacao nibs, peanut butter, sunflower seeds and coconut
Lambda3 – strawberry, blueberry, oats, vanilla Greek yogurt and almond milk topped with chia, oats, blueberries and coconut
Smoothies
For a grab-and-go meal with a healthy kick, nothing beats a nutrient-packed smoothie. Like the smoothie bowls, these boast only natural ingredients with no sugar-laden juices like you typically see at chain smoothie restaurants. My dad and Tom are big fans of the Camp Anawana, while I gravitate toward fruitier options like the Li-Quato.
Juices and Shots
Wheeze the Juice is obviously all about fresh cold-pressed juices. They can make one to order, or if you’re in a hurry they provide a selection of bottled juices made in-house. As you sit at the bar, you’ll see the employees are constantly prepping and juicing when not preparing an order. It doesn’t get any fresher than that. They also offer a selection of shots for an immunity or energy boost. I tried the turmeric shot when I had the flu last month, and while I didn’t notice any immediate healing it was nice to get that healthy pick-me-up.
No matter what I order, I always walk away from Wheeze feeling good. Overall, we’re incredibly grateful to have easy access to this healthful eatery as we attempt not to gain 100 pounds exploring all of OKC’s more indulgent restaurants.
I’ve only been able to go a couple of times and I am so crazy about the Camp Anawana smoothie that I haven’t ordered anything else. I did get to taste my wife’s Macarena bowl and her #7 Beet juice. Both were delicious and fresh! The people were very friendly and answered our many questions. Can’t wait to go back.