Michael S.
Yelp
How I have not reviewed Carrot Express previously is a mystery. A one-off, turned small franchise has grown to become a staple amongst healthy eating throughout the south beach area and beyond. I am of course reviewing the Sunny Isles Beach location as it should stand alone for its overall greatness.
QUALITY
The quality of the food at Carrot Express is the main attraction. Sure, the venue is clean and the folks running it are on top of their game, however the food quality is top notch. Yes, this is a theme that dates to the original location further south on Dade Boulevard, however I do feel that the selection at the SIB (Sunny Isles Beach) location is fantastic. I am obsessed with the "Steven Vegan" (coconut patty) whole wheat pita. I have indeed tried other items; however, this becomes a go to for me as the taste is fresh and pure.
QUANTITY
The size of all entrees, be it a wrap, pita, salad, potato or other are excellent. The whole wheat pita pocket I typically opt in for is substantial. I have also had the wrap style and that too is sizable. A while back I also once had the sweet potato with zero fat tuna and this too was a great portion size. Even the smoothies and juices offered are of a reasonable size and will fill one up.
VALUE
As always with "health food" spots, one must wonder if the value is there; as fresh produce and foods do come with a cost typically, I usually expect to pay more for "real" food. I am happy to say that at Carrot Express, the value for all items is outstanding. The wraps are very reasonable whether you add a substantial protein or stay in the vegetarian or vegan variety. The smoothies, which typically are a huge markup on price at competitor spots, is also modestly priced at Carrot Express.
AMBIANCE
The mood at Carrot Express is light, bright and casual. For the SIB area, this is welcomed. There is a ton of competition in the area, whether it is health conscious or not and still, Carrot Express stands well on its own. Once inside, the bright light colors and orange and green setting will make you smile (at least it always does for me). A lot of times when we pick up an order to go there will be sample of a desert, such as "carrot" cake, or something new the restaurant is interested in having customers learn more about. There is always complimentary lime and lemon infused water for dine in or to go folks, and the system for checking out and picking up orders is a breeze.
CROWD
As we are talking about the SIB area, sure, there are a ton of tourists that come in, however, I do feel that Carrot Express does well with locals alike. My wife and I travel from north Miami to enjoy and that is about five or so miles away. The freshness and great value bring us back again and again of course. Still though, the crowd typically is younger folks looking for a healthy dining option, as well as families looking for a great deal.
SERVICE
The folks running the SIB location have everything down to a science. My wife and I typically call in and place a to go order we will be picking up. The only gripe which has turned into a good thing, in hindsight, is the fact when you place a pick-up order to give your credit card information over the phone. The last time we picked up an order we were running very late due to a bad traffic situation and we were worried the place would close before we could pick up our order which was already paid for. It all worked out and I was glad we prepaid as it made the pick up very smooth.
PARKING
Parking at the SIB Carrot Express is typically a breeze. Sure, the spot is within a huge, sprawling strip mall, however there are well more than enough parking spots for everyone and whether you are visiting on a weekend, weekday or any time of the day, parking is not an issue. Good for me being the crazy parking worry freak.
EXTRA
All in all, Carrot Express brings fresh taste, good service and an overall amazing experience. We place Carrot Express on the list of foods that, once we finish, we must have another, right away. When in SIB, I highly advise you give the place a try. I would recommend the pita, wrap, smoothie, sweet potato, and all with any protein choice you may like. Until then, SYOY!