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Thrive
Categories: Restaurants Vegetarian Food Juice Bars & Smoothies Restaurants Live/Raw Food Vegetarian, Juice Bars & Smoothies, Live/Raw Food [Edit]
1026 NE 65th StSte A 102
(between N Roosevelt Way & N 12th Ave)
Seattle, WA 98115
Neighborhood: Roosevelt
(206) 525-0300
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 11:30 am - 7:30 pm
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
85 reviews for Thrive
Review Highlights
"favorites: awaken bowl, oh my samurai (kelp."
(in 5 reviews)
"Buddha Bowl (with or without grains."
(in 6 reviews)
"Best Shakes: Coconutty and Oh My Wonka."
(in 8 reviews)
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85 reviews in English
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Review from Paul R.
Seattle, WA
1/9/2012
Wow...wow. This is the best food find I've had in years. My wife and I decided to try something new and deliberately healthy. We are both rampant bacon consumers and my normal babysitter-night-out choice would be French cuisine (Luc is my favorite restaurant, Cafe Campagne a close second). Trying a vegetarian/vegan smoothie cafe with a rather casual, brightly-lit atmosphere was not really what my wife had in mind for 'something different' but I like a food challenge and was hoping to be pleasantly surprised. Our expectations were wildly exceeded!
Now, to be fair, I am primarily basing my four-star rating on the food. While the service was reasonably good, it wasn't great - certainly not the sort of service that we are accustomed to at Seattle's finest restaurants. However, it was certainly a positive experience with friendly, helpful, and energetic folks all around. There was a certain amount of "buzz" in the place - and not because it was busy, though it was nearly full (and on a Sunday evening!). Also, the atmosphere is more of a really upscale juice bar than a fine dining establishment, but perfectly fine unless you were hoping for an intimate and romantic evening. In fact, the community seating adds a cool social dimension that I would like to see as an option at any restaurant.
My wife and I both ordered the Buddha Bowl, which is apparently a favorite of patrons, and we both found it to be astonishingly delicious. While this may qualify as "health food" I would instead describe it as "astoundingly tasty and garden fresh." A real bonus was that thirty minutes or so after the meal, my wife and I both felt a boost in energy and vitality rather than, as so often happens, feeling somewhat weighed down and drowsy. Neither of us were hungry later, nor did we feel the portion size was small - we just didn't experience any sort of food coma and in fact felt the opposite. Now that's just cool!
My wife also had a (small) Coconutty smoothie and I was given the "extra" produced and so had a couple of sips to sample. The taste and sensation was just...weird, and in a good way. It was almost as if I had no language to describe what I was tasting, like discovering umami for the first time. I thought it was wonderful, combining an earthiness and natural sweetness that didn't leave an aftertaste of sugar at all, but instead some kind of savory-sweet with just a hint of bitterness and a substantial body resulting from the fine coconut puree. Perhaps ironically, considering the contrast in dining experience, I would have expected the novel flavor and texture from Lampreia. -
Review from Ann T.
WA
Updated - 1/2/2012
Still a lot of inconsistency. The smoothies are great, but the food has been inconsistent. More garlic than usual one day, less than usual amounts of quinoa the next.
Another gripe is that the employees work at a leisurely pace. They're nice but not attentive. They're not as efficient or knowledgeable as the employees at Chaco Canyon or Alice Juice Bar. Thrive has been open for awhile now so I'm not sure why they can't get the quality of service up to par.
And what's with the juvenile copywriting? "PRO-bliss, PRO-joy, and PRO-shine...testament to the decadence..." Is this a cult or are they trying to attract vapid teenagers?1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/31/2011
They have the best smoothies (especially the coconutty), all made fresh and not with sorbet and… Read more »
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Review from Carly K.
Seattle, WA
1/2/2012
As a repeat customer, I have to commend Thrive for their raw food menu, but as someone with a fairly health/politically conscious diet I must say they run the gamut of appearing cultish. People who want to explore a certain type of dietary lifestyle may not want to view your website as a self-proclaimed "Mission Statement".
That aside, their food is amazing and original, in adequate proportions, and promptly delivered albeit the ordering style a little cafeteria-esque. They usually have a revolving stock of cashiers (or order takers) who seem to have little interest in customer service, and a lot of the time their menu selections are blacked out with tape (unprofessional).
When walking into Thrive, expect to view the menu, order at a cash register, jot down your tip up front, pick your own table, retrieve your own table-ware and water, and bus all that you have used/compost all you have not.
This do-it-yourself approach is not a turn off for me, but for some it might be, (hint: people tip sit-down eating establishments because they normally do not want to do the work themselves}.
I have also noticed that Thrive, while stocking some DIY supplies, holds a somewhat hostile attitude towards their patrons boasting "Smile! You're On Camera!" signs around their products. Is this justified simply because you chose to locate in the Roosevelt area right behind Whole Foods? I don't know, but it repels me from browsing your merchandise.
To sum it up, delectable meals worth trying and introducing to people into healthy eating or curious of the raw food lifestyle. I hope this establishment sticks around. If their atmosphere were improved Thrive would certainly be a must try experience.Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 1/2/2012
Hi Carly, I appreciate your feedback, thank you so much! I… More » -
Review from Jenn D.
12/18/2011
This is so sad. It seems like Thrive is anything but thriving. I used to be able to come in here and get one of something like 8-10 choices of fresh juice creations in 12, 16, 20, and 24 oz increments. Currently being on a juice fast, this has been my go-to place to "eat" while out and about. In fact, I've eaten here at least twice a week for quite a while.
But they have slashed their (entire) menu choices by more than half. There are now very few options all around food-wise, and now only 4 juices to choose from.
The worst part, however, is that they now offer ONLY 12 and 24-oz juice and smoothie increments--and the 20 oz is $10. I cannot believe I just spent ~$11 on a juice that I couldn't even finish. (The 12-oz option [$6] would have been too small.)
Sorry, Thrive. I will not be returning. -
Review from Tabatha J.
Seattle, WA
1/2/2012
I really enjoy eating at Thrive and wish I could go back more often but the prices are a bit steep for more than the occasional treat. I do wish the classes were a little cheaper but they're fairly reasonable for educational classes in the area. They did cut back they're menu a lot which is unfortunate since i was excited to try new things. I tend to get the smoothies, juices and warm bowls since they are very sustaining and fulfilling. Portions are more than I can eat. As a reasonably "new" restaurant they are still working out their kinks in consistency. The Buddah Bowl is my favorite and the warm cider is delightful. They are one of the best vegan and raw places to eat in the northwest. Very flavorful and imaginative.
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Review from Laura P.
10/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
I hate giving reviews with one star but the only reason I do is because of the after-shock I went through after eating here. My friend and I both tried the Thai Salad - half order, which was plenty. I felt like a bunny when a plate full of different cabbage and carrots was placed in front of me. Not the usual Thai salad, but it is all Vegetarian and Gluten free - and it was actually pretty good. I'm not one who eats at these types of places a lot, but we were feeling adventurous to try some place new. I do have to say the 16oz of fresh coconut water I also ordered was so refreshing and delicious, but I still was left feeling hungry and disatisfied. Without being TMI - I just have to say... both my friend and I were not feeling well AT ALL about an hour later after we ate, so I can't say I would willingly go back to give it a second chance.
So much for trying to be healthy - i would have felt better if i ate a cheeseburger : - / -
Review from Brian L.
9/10/2011
I was lost by my own accord after a workshop from East West Bookstore, but found this conveniently located restaurant after asking another pedestrian. Apparently, my cell phone was out of batteries after playing Oregon Trail. Too bad Thrive didn't have any outlets for recharging my Iphone, otherwise I would have checked in here.
I was immediately greeted by the front reception asking if I wanted to see the menu. After looking around at the busy kitchen and comely patrons, I said sure! It was a debate between three entrees, but I chose the chili added with avocado on top. I seated myself at the bar and met a few people from my class at the same restaurant.
The chefs were all in their 20s and 30s working with smiles surrounded by green vegetation, juicers going off, and washing going on in the background. My lunch came in no time and looked delicious. I savored every bite with delicate munching, enjoying the natural taste of wholesome food. One of the chefs gave me a shot of the greens he just juiced saying it was left overs but for me. I thanked him with much appreciation. The day seemed full of surprises of giving since I also won the lottery of a book from my workshop. I enjoyed being here and just from the luck of my day, Thrive must come from a source of giving and gratitude. Come see consciousness and vibrate on a higher level!!! -
Review from Tami R.
Sheridan, OR
10/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
Really great food, friendly staff The only thing that could be improved was the servings could of been bigger Also yelp says they have breakfast and it's really not a place to go for breakfast, definitely lunch or dinner
My husband had the Buddah Bowl I had the Inca bowl Both were really good!! -
Review from Michael F.
Brooklyn, NY
10/12/2011
The food was just alright. Quinoa was plain. Salsa was undersalted and pico de gallo. The coconut based smoothie was very good, thick and creamy. The key lime pie tasted more like sour coconut but was also very thick and tasty.
Things are being peddled to you from all directions here though, lessons, blenders, recipes, books, etc. It's not a quiet meal, it's a meal + a sales pitch. -
Review from Stephanie F.
10/30/2011
I've had a lot of raw food at restaurants, and this place has got to have some of the finest. The portions are huge, and the loaded menu was exciting.
We ordered the sampler plate and the zucchini pasta to split. The sampler was amazing - Fresh veggies and flax crackers served with some of the 3 greatest raw dips I've ever tried. The onion cashew dip was sweet and to die for, the nacho dip tasted like a twist on red-pepper hummus, and the lemon-tahini had a great kick.
The zucchini pasta had a flavour I won't forget. It was one of the greatest pasta dishes I've actually ever had. The pasta tomato sauce was perfect, and the zucchini wasn't soggy like it usually has the tendency to become. It was served with a few great curry cumin "meat"balls, which I can't wait to try and make at home.
The service was great, and it's conveniently located right by a Whole Foods. I love this place, and can't wait to return to try more of the menu. -
Review from Chandra W.
Renton, WA
10/5/2011
I won't bother repeating what everyone else has said except to say that I LOVE this place and their staff, and everyone I have taken here (all of the omnivore persuasion) has responded enthusiastically.
Thrive's amazing food has inspired me to branch out more creatively with living foods at home, and I very much appreciate that they are willing to sell me their recipes for $5 a piece. I feel nourished on many levels when I come here. Yeah, it is expensive, but much of what they serve takes hours of prep time that I don't have time or energy to mess around with at home, so I think it is fair; I also consider both the meal and the inspiration a worthy investment in my health. -
Review from Sister A.
Seattle, WA
7/29/2011
Marinated kale, $2
A layer of guacamole, $3
Topped with Sunflower Seed Pate, $2
Spicy sweet with a healthy boost from the kale, priceless.Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 8/16/2011
Hello, Sister A, thanks for the review. Hope to see you… More » -
Review from Seth G.
Seattle, WA
11/8/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I like this place. Great food and drinks, always consistent. The staff is usually super nice. Ordering can be difficult though because the set up doesn't have much of a flow. Even so, pales in comparison to the rest! A regular on my list for sure!
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Review from christine y.
Mill Creek, WA
6/14/2011 2 photos
The Awaken Bowl IS good. It was amazingly flavorful despite being just a bowl of veggies and quinoa. I think it was mostly the mushrooms and nori that did it. Pretty filling, too.
I also tried the coconutty smoothie and it was like dessert in a glass. Soo delish I wish it weren't $6 for 9oz...
The staff turned off the OPEN sign at 9 and let us hang out for another 35mins. They were also counting the till when we kept on going up to buy more things...raw chocolate truffles, for example.
Delicious food, friendly staff, chill dining area. I like it. But why does it have to be so expensive? =/Listed in: 5 big red shining stars
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Review from Jenny J.
Seattle, WA
8/12/2011
Did the raw for a week program and now I'm addicted to this place. Their smoothies are the best I've had and their dishes are packed with flavor. Since incorporating raw food into my eating habits over the past two months (I now eat raw until dinner) I've lost 10lbs, feel great and I still eat as much as I want, whenever I want. The staff have been incredibly helpful with great suggestions and must have a ton of patience because there's always a new person coming through the door with a million questions about the menu.
I've had almost everything on the menu, save for the pies & macaroons. My favorites:
Buddha Bowl (with or without grains)
Juggernaut Bowl (with or without grains)
Oh My Sombrero (salad with taco 'meat', guac & cashew cream)
Bella Burger (get it with cashew cream add-on)
Oh My Samurai (never liked kelp noodles until I had their marinated ones in this dish)
Coconutty (smoothie)
Nourish (green machine smoothie)
Oh My Wonka (minty cacao smoothie)
Refresh (green juice)
Northern Light (green & fruit juice)
Total Bliss (mixed juice)
Nacho Kale Chips (Delicious, though I've had a batch or two that weren't very crispy)Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 8/16/2011
Thanks for the glowing review, Jenny! Congratulations on… More » -
Review from Rachel B.
Seattle, WA
4/14/2011
The gf and I ate at Thrive (vegan/rawfoods) yesterday for her birthday. Let's just say my expectations tended toward mediocre. We were both surprised at how awesome the food was.
I liked much of the food though not all of it suited me. I especially enjoyed the sauces we chose for our appetizer plate. I pretty much couldn't shut up about them. And who knew spirazlied zucchini could be so good?
I was disappointed that a number of their things have agave in 'em as I can't eat it. I didn't realize it was in some of the things we got until later. They do provide a list of all ingredients in their products at the back of the menu so next time, I'll make sure to double check them.
Service was VERY friendly (maybe too friendly for me but the gf loved it.)
As for the atmosphere... well, it felt a bit frenetic but I think a good hunk of that had to do with the music they were playing which was some pretty high intensity electronica type stuff. (good for some situations but not so good for me in this one)
Also, the eating area is pretty small and that felt a bit odd. Lots of "stuff" around and so not as peaceful feeling as I would prefer. I guess I am getting to be an old fart.
Another disappointment is that many of the things on their menu are crossed off. The menu and all of the items on it was one of the the things that got us to try it (we had seen the menu online.) So, it might be good for 'em to remove those items on the online menu.
Regardless of my whining, I very much enjoyed it. It is rare for me to find a place to eat (of any nature as I am an omnivore) that is this good.
The gf and I will most definitely be back! -
Review from Inna B.
Seattle, WA
Awaken Bowl, baby!
The man at the counter was extremely helpful and did a great job answering the many questions we had about their offerings.
We ended up going with two freshly cracked coconuts (mmmm juice & meat) and two warm grain bowls (with red rice & quinoa mixture). I got the Awaken and my dining partner got the Thrivalicious. The sour-cream-like onion cashew cream on the Thrivalicious bowl is a neat idea! I didn't try any of it, though, so I can't really comment on the flavor. My bowl was extremely delicious. I loved their cilantro sauce and whatever other one I got. The vegetables and grains were super delicious. I generally like raw/vegan/gluten-free food, but I was surprised by just how much I liked their bowls! Also, I like how nice they are about substitutions. (I dislike avocados so I didn't want any guac.)
I'm not quite up for signing up for their program where they make you a partial or full week of raw meals, but.... I do think I could benefit from a diet that looks a lot more like the Thrive menu.
Fun fact: While eating we observed about 10 customers visit Thrive and ONE customer visit the Subway across the street.Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 3/27/2011
Thanks so much, Inna, for coming in and for the great… More » -
Review from Kevin E.
Updated - 6/18/2011
I've been here two more times since I wrote my first review on 6/2/11. I've been able to try different dishes and two of their juices.
The first time I visited I had the Garlic Cilantro Buddha Bowl and that was so tasty I really wanted to order it again but decided to branch out. I still wanted to try the Awaken Bowl but decided on their special one day of a personal pizza (I forget what they called it) but it was incredible. On that visit I also tried their 12 oz. Refresh juice, which has celery, cucumber, kale and spinach. Both things I had were awesome and I was there by myself on a Sunday and it wasn't very crowded. It was a very enjoyable time.
Yesterday I went there with a friend again and I had the small Oh My Samurai (Teriyaki style, sea kelp noodles marinated in sweet and savory wheat-free tamari agave sauce and served with sword-sliced red and green cabbage, carrots, and celery. Topped with cashews). I also tried a 24 oz. Northern Light juice, which has apple, basil, cilantro, ginger and lime. I did have some issues hearing my friend over the blenders and the music but as I mentioned in my last review that has more to do with me than anything Thrive is doing.
Each time I come back here I am continually impressed with the high level of customer service, the beautiful environment they've created at Thrive, and their delicious gluten-free, raw, vegan nourishment.
How can I have a favorite here if everything I try I say to myself or a friend, "Oooooh, THIS is my new favorite." :-)Listed in: Spiritual Journeys
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/2/2011
I was inspired by Inna B.'s post and was going to order the Awaken Bowl. But when I asked the very… Read more »
Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 7/24/2011
We just set up a wholesale account with Coconut Secret and… More » -
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Review from Dayna S.
5/8/2011
Any time I go to Seattle, one of my first stops is Thrive, for a Flourish bowl and some young-coconut water. So flavourful. I kind of want one just writing about it.
The vibe is great, thanks to good staff. However, the atmosphere is somewhat reduced by the physical space. The few tables inside are right in the centre and there is a lot of movement on all sides, due to the set up. However, one of those sides is a retail space with a great library and good selection of supplies. There are also classes going on that would be a dream to participate in if I lived there.
Check it out for delicious and healthy eating! -
Review from Sommer W.
Seattle, WA
12/30/2011
The last couple times I've been to Thrive it's been pretty tasty and filling but the last time I went...what a rip off. My Buddha Bowl was pitifully half empty (leaving me half empty) with a puny little smear of cashew cream on top. Definitely NOT worth $10! The Miso Mushroom soup didn't taste like anything. It was watery and tasted like water with some mushroom chunks floating around. We had to add a ton of salt to make it palatable. This experience makes me not want to go there again with the prices as such. They need to work on consistency and making sure the proportions match the price.
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Review from Megas A.
Seattle, WA
10/24/2011
Outstanding. The food is as wealthy as it gets and it's also very tasty. A great example of how healthy food can taste great. It's not about compromises.
Love the laid back environment as well. Nice music selection, funky look and great service.
This place is also tremendously eco friendly.
Just found this place yesterday. From now on it will be my regular brunch place after my long sunday runs. Perfect food to recover the body and environment to recover the mid.
Suggestions: try the Buddha bowl and the chocolate cake with super foods added to it! -
Review from Nicole C.
Lynnwood, WA
5/28/2011 2 photos
We were greeted by a super cheerful, friendly lady. 5 stars for her! The menu was simple, and the food items were explained in detail: 5 items for menu. The food was delicious, served quickly, fresh, incredible, unbelievable, and the kitchen is right in front of you: 5 stars for all of the above.
I am never eating at any other restaurant for the rest of my life. This place has become my favorite hands down! -
Review from Marla E.
Fairwood, WA
12/12/2011
this is probably not a place i would choose to eat again but would come if a dining companion wanted to. i had the juggernaut grain bowl ($11) and the magenta love juice ($6). both were delicious, but i spent $20 with tax & tip and was hungry 2 hours later. very expensive, single-serving (normal) portions. the juice can seriously be $3-4 and i would readily pay $8 or $9 for the grain bowl. my friend had the miso soup and said it was good, but it didn't blow her away. we both pride ourselves on our cooking, so maybe we're harsh critics, but there are many veg restaurants i love - and this is sadly not one of them.
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Review from Chase W.
Seattle, WA
7/21/2011
Oh Thrive.
First, I offer a disclaimer. This review does review the food, but not before some moral chatter.
Thrive uses coconut. A lot. Yum.
The contrast being: Two people eating here once spend more
money that probably the entire South American or Hawaiian family cutting the coconuts off the trees make in a week.
A bowl of quinoa, kale, tiny bit of nut sauce, and five mushrooms,
on no planet, should cost 11.00. None. The message that is being sent here is that organic food should be expected to be an astronomical novelty, and in a way, is likely discouraging people that are income challenged from eating a lot better. Thrive isn't the place responsible for this superiority complex. Whole Foods, PCC, and Madison Market and any other restaurant that uses organic foods as a marketing ploy instead of genuinely wanting every single person who possible can, to afford and enjoy organics. But no. You could be a place like that, Thrive. You could be. You're not. Frankly, shameful. Your raw food classes cost 599.00. When it should be free, or at cost. A work of love. And there should be scholarships and outreach to low income communities, and communities who have the least access to healthy eating knowledge. But clearly your demographic is upper middle class people who have six hundred bucks to drop on organic novelty and raw foods play time, and the money / time to be off work for weeks in a row.
On the other hand. I have no complaints about the flavor of the food at all. It is, in fact, incredibly delicious, and very thoughtfully composed. The smoothies are the best in the city. The ingredients are top notch, I trust Thrive around their ingredients. Almost my whole career as a chef has focused around raw foods, organics, sustainability, so yes. I am aware of how pricey these choices are, even wholesale. Still, I have never lost my vision to greed, and it does break my heart a little when I go to Thrive and see who's eating there. Clearly, the top vision is the bottom line. I don't think I'm likely to go back, mainly because I can't afford it. Admittedly, that Wonka chocolate mint smoothie was perhaps the in the top three tastiest smoothies I've ever had, and I will miss it. But not the 58.00 bill for two people. With that same amount of money, I can buy retail raw vegan organic, enough food to feed a family of 10.Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 7/24/2011
Hey, Chase, thanks for posting feedback. Glad you liked our… More » -
Review from Alice R.
2/9/2011 4 Check-ins Here
How lucky am I to live so close to a specialized cafe like Thrive!. I'm a bonafide meateater, but I like the option of eating healthy, raw, vegan if I so inclined. I do love their fresh juices and smoothies. My favorites are Nourish and Celestial Sea. They use fresh, organic ingredients and this is reflected in the prices. But, you get what you pay for, and these juices and smoothies are worth it. The staff is also friendly and very knowledgeable. There are books and other resources in the cafe for you to read through while you wait for your juice or smoothie. I haven't actually eaten one of their meals, but all of it looks fantastic.
Oh, and even if you're a costco hot dog eating, spam loving, but yoga doing human, there is no judgement here. They have excellent cleanse regimens to help you 'clean out your system.'Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 2/24/2011
Great, Alice, thanks for taking the time to comment! I… More » -
Review from Kristina M.
Kirkland, WA
7/23/2011
Thrive, how you disappointed me. I had such high hopes. Delicious looking and descriptive menu, however, what was presented was soooo small for the price, and really not that flavorful. As a chef, I know food and production costs. The shop was overstaffed, the service was poor as the staff where more interested in talking amongst themselves than serving us. I say, do yourself a favor to possibly keep some customers, cut some staff so that you can reduce you menu costs. I seriously felt taken advantage off.
Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 7/24/2011
Hello, Kristina, thanks for taking the time to review our… More » -
Review from Lauren W.
Seattle, WA
4/30/2011
Thrive is awesome! It feels good to be there, food rocks (though I wish the selection were somewhat bigger), there are some interesting books for sale, good bulk bins and raw lifestyle products. I love the Pasta Pomodoro and the Coconutty and the O My Wonka.
And very nice people. -
Review from Barry G.
Seattle, WA
7/24/2011
I too was very disappointed in Thrive as I had previously heard a few good things from friends. The first problem was how the store was laid out as it was not clear where to queue and how to order. It's a partial bookstore/restaurant/cafe with a floor plan that's not well thought out.
I ordered a small salad and was amazed at how small the portion size given the cost -$11. Together we spent close to $30 for two small salads - absolutely shameful on the portion size Thrive.
After seeing that there was a staff of five on hand, it seems that the labor costs are probably pretty high - frustrating to see one employee greet a friend and chat on the floor for the entire time we were there.
The underlying point is that the food costs for this type of food should be extremely low - yet the markup/margin is extremely high, thereby pricing people out of a style of eating that should not be seen as a luxury good. What a letdown. -
Review from Laura B.
Excellent rice and quinoa bowl with fresh carrots and mushrooms and zucchini and other yummy things... like seaweed.
Very expensive and very worth it.Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 2/24/2011
Thank you for the acknowledgement! Glad you enjoyed it! More » -
Review from Ema N.
10/9/2010
Holy crap, I didn't know raw could actually be so good..to the point I would crave a cold raw pasta dish!
I finally came here and had an entree, shake and 2 appetizers ($25+, I think.) for take out.
The Oh Pastadoro actually tasted, strangely, like a real pasta. It's raw and it had raw zucchini noodles (long thin noodle-like strips of zucchini) and a sauce that was surprisingly really tasty! It was also topped off with a dollop of almond ricotta, which was super tasty, and something I wish I could just buy off the shelves at the store. It also came with flax chips so I wish I didn't buy the sampler because it was enough to dip the chips into the almond ricotta.
My appetizer was the Nacho Plate and Thrive Sampler. You really can't go wrong with any of the dips. I had the Nacho Dip (how is this vegan and cheesy tasting?! yum!), Onion Cashew Cream (damn, it's creamy and rich and garlicky and oniony..mmm), and the Almond Ricotta. My only qualm with the THrive Sampler is that a huge carrot was cut vertically into quarters, which meant there were 4 big pieces of carrot sticks...I'm more of a baby carrot stick kind of girl, mostly because I have sensitive teeth and it was tough on my jaws to chew on such large pieces of carrot. The zucchini was also cut the same way which was kind of odd for me. I usually like having smaller pieces of cut vegetables for dips than huge bulky pieces but that's just my own preference. They also leave the skin on for the carrots. Celery..pass! My boyfriend got the celery because I hate celery.
Finally, I gave in and had the Coconutty smoothie. Everyone, get a size larger than the 9 oz. 9 oz. is TINY!!
Now, only if my student budget could afford it more.
ALSO. They have vegan, raw KEY LIME PIES. Seriously, I am coming back to try that soon!Listed in: UW, Seattle restaurants: Safe for…
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Review from J B.
Ashland, OR
Updated - 2/7/2011
I Love Thrive. They've got great raw vegan food, friendly staff, and their integrity is unparallelled.
Best Shakes: Coconutty and Oh My Wonka
Best Entrees: Samurai and the Pastadoro
Best Others: The breakfast menu (I hope it's still around!)1 Previous Review:
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10/18/2008 First to Review
Thrive, I can't wait for you to open and woo us with some incredible raw food!!
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Review from Jessika L.
South Pasadena, CA
6/18/2011
this place is one of the reasons why i'd move to seattle. seriously, it's a health-mecca--un-cooking classes, a wellness center, raw food supply mini-shop, and yummy raw restaurant all rolled into one!
I can't remember the name of the bowl I had but it was a heavenly medley of kale, couscous, avocado and this life-changing raw dressing/sauce! Their raw pasta made of zucchini was yumm-o too! Also, get their coconut shake and do not forget dessert--the chocolate-mint pie is over the hills and far away good!
It's fun to sit at the bar and watch them make your food, and it is really cute how the gal comes around with the dessert tray to tempt you!
I love you THRIVE! (come to LA too, please?) xo -
Review from Betsey S.
8/28/2010
My little one and I definitely felt the love today at Thrive. She loved the shot glass of Sweet Tart they brought us to sample - just her size! And I loved the Magenta Love juice I got - beets, apples, cucumber and ginger.
The staff was so friendly (dare I say loving??). I walked up to the counter, and one of them invited us to have a seat while we looked at the menu. I was wearing the Peanut in a carrier and she's pretty big so I appreciated that.
I love places where I can shop or eat blindly (I'm a locavore-type pescetarian), knowing that everything they have is gonna be what I'm looking for. This is one of those places! It reminds me of the restaurants I adored when I was working in Humboldt.
I will definitely go back to try food when I'm not on one of these crazy juice-only kicks. I don't know about this agave thing but I don't think sweetener needs to be in savory dishes. What about some sweet potato puree? Works for the Peanut.Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 8/29/2010
Hi Betsey!!! Thank you so much for the kind review. I am… More » -
Review from John C.
Seattle, WA
11/10/2010 4 Check-ins Here
Fantastic raw menu, friendly staff and decent prices as far as raw foods go. Do not come here when you are in a hurry, but often when you call ahead you can have your food ready when you get there.
Get the Coconutty for sure, and if its still in season, try the pumpkin spice coconutty! -
Review from Mishel F.
San Diego, CA
6/16/2011
Thanks to my fellow Yelpers I found Thrive! Was jonesing for some fresh veggie juice and found Thrive open and not busy on a recent Thursday morning. The Refresh with kale, spinach, ginger and cucumber was absolutely delicious. The folks who work here are very friendly and I've since come back 3x when I'm in Seattle on business. Haven't yet tried the food, but the juice and smoothies are top notch.
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Review from Kimberley D.
Seattle, WA
4/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
The varying reviews of Thrive made me nervous, but some of them seemed centered around it taking a long time. I don't generally care if it takes a long time to get in and out of a restaurant... if I was in a hurry, I'd be making something quick at home. I go to restaurants to sit down and chill with friends or a laptop or a book.
Our order took around 15 minutes, but I didn't find that excessive. I did get confused when we were served our food and my companion's smoothie but not my smoothie. There was no "Your smoothie's on the way" comment and he got concerned that they might've forgotten it. Based on the reviews I figured it was just taking awhile. Since preparation does take awhile, it might help if people who were dining in were offered some inexpensive snack while they were waiting.
I'm used to eating vegan, raw, and organic, so I don't find the prices that unusual. If you go to the store and buy all organic, raw produce and then make a meal, it's still not that inexpensive. The fact that they're looking for volunteers doesn't indicate to me that they're getting rich off the prices. But prices are about $4-8 for a smoothie and $12 for an entree.
There was no music which I found awkward... we were the only people in the restaurant at the end of the day, and our conversation seemed to echo through the space. Both my smoothie and the key lime pie were very tasty.
Despite generally liking it, I probably won't be a regular... it closes at 9pm, and I'm frequently not ready to go get dinner until 9pm or later.
Apparently they have wifi which I didn't realize... it'd probably be good to have signs up about that. -
Review from Marissa S.
Seattle, WA
2/22/2010 4 Check-ins Here
I was really happy to hear about a second Raw restaurant in town. I am a bit of a health nut, and so that is what is paramount when it comes to food for me. It is always wonderful with the food tastes good too, but I don't want to sacrifice health for taste. This is the main problem I have with Thrive.
AGAVE
They put agave in almost everything. Agave is basically the same thing as high fructose corn syrup, as in that stuff is NOT a health food. It isn't even really raw either, so personally If you must add sweetener I'd prefer dates or maple syrup. Agave is 97% fructose which is NOT good for your liver. It is a processed food, and I really wish people would stop touting it as a healthy sweetener.
FYI it is in almost all (if not all) the smoothies, sauces, and a few of the dips.
I ended up ordering the burger, which was not my first choice because they use raw mushrooms (raw mushrooms of any sort are not really a good idea. Ever.) but the other things that sounded good to me had that vile agave in it.
We also got the nachos with the flax crackers and the veggies. The nacho dip and the guacamole were both tasty, so no complaints there. My burger also did taste good, but I was still uneasy eating it. I have done a lot of research into raw cuisine and I do often worry that people sacrifice safety in favor of raw. Some foods just aren't meant to be eaten raw and are toxic in that form, so I am a little edgy when it comes to many raw recipes.
I was also NOT a fan of the table bussing situation. I don't have a problem bussing my own table, but I do take issue with having to separate glasses, plates, trash, compost, and recycling. There is a bit too much involved here and I think it is unfair to the customer who isn't used to having to do this. Are your cups trash or recyclable? Why don't you just use glasses and not plastic cups? What about paper towels, do they go into the compost or the trash? The system doesn't have explanations and that just seems to create more work for everyone involved.
I really want to come back as I appreciate vegan establishments where I can potentially order anything from the menu, but the abundance of agave and raw mushrooms in your menu will probably keep me from coming here often. I am not the only one who takes issue with these two aspects either, others are definitely being clued into the agave mess and I know that I have had the raw mushroom discussion with others as well.Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 2/23/2010
Hey Marisa, Thanks for the great feedback! I'll research… More » -
Review from PieandPly Z.
Seattle, WA
4/26/2010
I love all food (except bivalves) but the food I love most is the kind that manages to be exceptional--or even decent--without the crutch of a half pound of butter, a cup of sugar, a liter of cream, and a wad of duck fat. So I tried Thrive not as a raw foodist, vegan, or vegetarian, but as someone looking for healthier restaurant offerings in Seattle. I think it will satisfy anyone looking for something similar.
I ordered small sizes--most dishes come in small and large--of the Oh My Sombrero salad and Chili con Marvelous entrée at around 6:30 on a Tuesday evening. I waited only about 10 minutes amongst a mostly full restaurant (8-10 other people) for them to arrive.
High marks to the guacamole, salsa, and flax crackers in the hat salad. It was a surprisingly hearty, Tex-Mex tasting combination of non-meat and non-dairy products and I would definitely order it again. But only after trying the rest of the salads on the menu because now I have high hopes. The chili had a good flavor and a surprisingly good texture but--and I know I can't legitimately log this as a complaint--it was cold. Some things are just meant to emit steam. Every bite I took made me think how much better a minute in the microwave would make the next bite taste. (Maybe in the future I will get it to-go and then corrupt it with heat in my laboratory).
I love that they have a food glossary on the back of their menu, partly because I would like to make a tub of Thrive guacamole to eat at home, and partly because it shows how truly creative they have gotten within their very restrictive parameters. On the downside, I half-echo the sentiments below about the wide use of agave, made apparent via a quick scan of the glossary. I know agave is (supposedly) raw and natural and unprocessed, but being birthed by a cactus doesn't un-duck it--it still looks, walks, and acts like sugar, and is devoid of any nutritional value. I get using it to sweeten the smoothies, but does it have to show up in all of the savory dishes too? -
Review from Rose B.
Seattle, WA
10/31/2010
I have only eaten here once but I want to reveiw. I read many reviews that sort of panned the service but I didn't have the same experience. The person who took our order made us repeat what we wanted twice but I appreciate that he made sure he was placing the order correctly. The food and juice came in timely fashion and everything was just the way we requested it.
I had the Oh Pastadora and was pretty impressed even I thought I was sick of zucchini after eating it all summer!!
I also ordered the Refresh juice. I am a little less sure of that, I thought it lacked taste, maybe a bit watery. I have had a few juices at Chaco and I think they are better at adding flavors like fennel and ginger. I wrote it off as medicinal.
My friend ordered the Anchor Away, I had a taste of that and am pretty sure that is what I am ordering next time I am there. It looked and tasted fantastic.
For both dishes the servings seemed generous but then it is a bit pricey so they shouldn't be skimpy.
There is not a whole lot of seating available. If I go again I will make sure I have a seat before I order. -
Review from Christina B.
Seattle, WA
3/18/2009
I have been their twice now, but never for a meal. The first time was for their coconutty smoothie, which was really good. I also got a dessert to take home, their mocha cake, which wasn't so good. The cake was horribly, sickly sweet. I am a sweet person, I have a lot of experience with raw food, and this was just not good. My husband tried it as well. We could not even come close to finishing half between the two of us. The wait for the smoothie was over ten minutes and I was the only one in the store at all and their were three people working. The bill came to just under $15.
The smoothie was good, so I went in for a second one today. I just got the smoothie. After waiting about ten minutes I peek over to the prep area. There is one girl on the phone and two others at the sink doing dishes. I was finally able to catch someone's eye and then someone started making my smoothie. About twenty minutes for a smoothie is a bit long. It seems like it should be good, but the food I had was awful and while the smoothie I like is not, I don't know if it is worth $6.50 plus twenty minutes of my time.Listed in: Of the Herbivore Persuasion., Good for gluten free
Comment from Monika K. of Thrive 4/28/2009
One of the things we have been working on is improving our… More »
