Fresh Monkee is one of my favorite spots in Alderman Plaza, right there with Crunch Fitness, The Recover Room, Uncorked Wine Bar, and Luke’s Barbershop. What I love about Fresh Monkee is that they actually offer healthy shakes and smoothies. A lot of places love to throw the word “healthy” around like it’s a magic spell, and then you look at the ingredients and it’s basically sugar, preservatives, additives, and nonsense disguised as a health drink. Fresh Monkee actually does it right. They use real ingredients, fresh fruit, and they have their macros and nutritional information listed, which makes it easy to track calories and stay on top of what you’re eating. Do they have some more indulgent options? Absolutely. But that’s part of what makes the place great. You can get something clean and protein-focused after a workout, or you can get something more dessert-like if you’re in the mood. They have something for everybody. The first time I went in, Stephanie and Alan were incredibly helpful. I was trying to stay within a carnivore/keto-style diet, and they actually took the time to help me find something that worked. They helped me put together a chocolate coconut shake that fit what I was trying to do, and it was genuinely delicious. That was pretty much the beginning of my Fresh Monkee addiction, which is still healthier than some of my old addictions, so we’ll call that progress. Daniel, the manager, always has a smile on his face and somehow manages to make time to talk about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness between helping customers and keeping the place running smoothly. A few visits in I met Matt, the owner, and he’s honestly a wonderful guy. He clearly cares about the business, the brand, the customers, and the experience people have when they walk in. He’s always welcoming, always smiling, and always makes people feel appreciated. He also does a great job hiring people with that same energy. Everyone I’ve met there has been great: Daniel, Jerry, Stephanie, Alex, Danica, Ally, Alan, all of them. Jerry has been there since they opened and always has a smile on his face. Stephanie is always helpful and makes sure you actually enjoy what you ordered. The whole staff is friendly, accommodating, and genuinely pleasant to deal with, which sadly feels like a miracle in modern customer service. And then there are the Monkee Balls. These things are ridiculous. They’re natural peanut butter and chocolate balls, and they could give Reese’s a serious run for their money. I’m not saying they’re addictive, but I am saying someone should probably supervise me around them. Their protein iced coffee is also amazing. They use coffee ice cubes and pour protein over it, which is such a simple but brilliant idea that I’m annoyed I didn’t invent it myself. Fresh Monkee is especially perfect if you’re coming from Crunch Fitness and want a post-workout protein shake, but it’s also great if you just want a healthier treat, coffee, or even something more indulgent with Nutella, peanut butter, jelly, marshmallow, graham cracker, or whatever other delicious nonsense they’ve figured out how to put on the menu. They also have a solid rewards program through the app, which is definitely worth using if you go there regularly. Overall, Fresh Monkee is a great business with great products and genuinely great people behind the counter. Whether you’re trying to stay healthy, track your macros, get a post-workout shake, grab a protein coffee, or destroy your self-control with Monkee Balls, I highly recommend it. Great spot, great staff, great owner, and easily one of the best places in Alderman Plaza.

- Raj Hudek Verified

Response from Fresh Monkee Raj… this might officially be the most detailed Fresh Monkee review ever written 😂 Seriously though, thank you for taking the time to write all of this. You absolutely nailed what we try to be about, real ingredients, real people, and a place where everyone from hardcore gym-goers to dessert lovers can find something they enjoy. Reading your shoutouts to Stephania, Alan, Daniel, Jerry, Alex, Danica, Ally, and the rest of the crew means a lot too. I’ll make sure everyone sees this because they genuinely care about making people feel welcome, and it’s awesome hearing that came through. And yes… the Monkee Ballz have become a dangerous problem for a lot of people around here 😅 Really appreciate the support, Raj. Reviews like this help more than you know, and we’re glad Fresh Monkee has become part of your routine!