Refuge Smoothie Cafe

This is a refreshing hidden gem for the neighborhood. The charming and happy vibe was infectious from the moment I walked in. I originally just went in for a smoothie, but the sandwich options on the menu caught my eye and I ended up with a healthy, super filling meal.
I wasn’t expecting a stripmall smoothie place to have such a warm and cozy décor. It serves as a calmer alternative to the local coffee shops — I can see myself taking an older relative or studying on my laptop here. Also, they give free smoothies for dogs with a purchase, so I’d love to take my dog-​owner friends here! When I walked in a bit before 11 it was empty — but once 11 hit, a line grew quickly!
I ordered a 14oz Milwaukee Sunrise smoothie and a Wonderful roll sandwich from a sleepy yet friendly waitress, who made it a combo for me. (As I left I saw a sign for a smaller smoothie sandwich combo, so I would look into that next time.) My smoothie came quickly but there was a bit of a wait for my sandwich.
I loved the smoothie! It was energizing and not too sweet. My sandwich was a little dry but the flavor was amazing. Fresh baby carrots completed the meal. Afterwards I felt very satisfied and will definitely go to Refuge again.

The interior and atmosphere is inviting and fun. The staff was friendly and attentive. I tried a smoothie and it was average. Nothing above and beyond.

ah, love the whole smoothie place.
wholesome smoothies named after local milwaukee personalities, in two sizes, with lots o’ supplement (10 – 15) — add-​ins available for an upcharge. They also sell a variety of little bars, granola, etc., Juiced! cold pressed juice, roll-​ups and breakfast sandwiches. The girl at the counter didn’t bat an eye when I asked for my usual crazy combo of supplements thrown into my drink. So far I’ve tried the «Will Allen» and the «Tom Schlitz“and maybe it’s just the power of suggestion, but I felt energized after both of them.
You might not notice this place because it’s north of north avenue on Farwell, sandwiched in between a physical therapy place and a Great clips.
It looks like it would be just a little store front, but walk inside and its HUGE. It looks like it might be set up for students or anyone who’d want to do work at a coffee shop, etc. There’s a long curving bar type setting thingamabob (describing this wrong) in the center, and I’m guessing Wi-​fi available. There’s also a few outdoor tables.
Best thing ever though about the place is these panels over the fluorescent lights that make them look like blue skys with pillowy white clouds. Why can’t all lighting fixtures have these on em?
I hear rumour that theres specials after 5pm and they give you a punch card (free smoothie after eight punches). There’s also a location off KK in Bayview kaddy corner from Colectivo.
Now I want a smoothie.

Made my run amazing to find you need you in Tosa village please! Great smoothie Pnj love it

Great smoothies, great sandwiches, super friendly service. Highly recommended!
I had the Will Allen and the UWM breakfast sandwich. Both were delicious, fresh and healthy. Make sure to get a punch card when you visit ’cause you’ll be back!

Great smoothie and healthy eating location. The smoothies were awesome! They have other food that is good to eat and made of high quality ingredients. The setting is also excellent. Great place to hang out on Farwell Ave in Milwaukee.

Simply amazing. Do yourself a favor and check this place out. Very healthy!
This place is great no doubt!

This is such an amazing place. It’s so inspiring and the stories behind their smoothies are pure examples of people who make a difference.
There are many benefits to this place — first of all perfect for a smoothie paired with studying. This place is massive for a smoothie shop — way bigger than Jamba Juice! Also, after 5pm Monday-​Friday they offer a $ 5 recharger smoothie special.
Going in here for the first time the staff was super nice! They explained the concept of the place, the different smoothies, and answered any questions that I had — and being me, I had questions. :)
I have been back about 6 times now and every time has been a success. So grab a drink, your work, and relax because this is a pretty cool place.

I think Refuge Café is one of the new hidden gems of the East Side. It is still very new but I think as more people realize it is there, it could become a new hit place on that side of town.
We went in and the person behind the counter was very charismatic and knew their menu back and forth. He had no reservations about what to recommend. The tip he gave us was that adding whey protein to one of their large smoothies (20 oz) could be one meal.
Everything else aside, their smoothies are delicious! Refuge
I really like that this business is owned by a UWM grad. I was happy to support a Panther once and I’ll definitely do so again!

Great place to go and enjoy a smoothie or coffee and get some work finished on the computer. Great atmosphere and great smoothies! The Diane is my personal favorite.