Imagine opening a new business during a pandemic. Several businesses in Uptown took that leap and opened in the Spring. Uptown Consortium, Inc. (UCI) reached out to three new businesses to learn more about what they are bringing to Uptown and what they are looking forward to as the world returns to normal.
Better Blend Nutrition
Better Blend Nutrition opened on April 10 and aims to make the world a happier and healthier place with healthy alternatives that are nutritious, delicious, filling and fast. Whether you are looking for a meal replacement or healthy treat, the menu offers options that have 50+ vitamins and 30 grams of protein, with a focus on smoothies and smoothie bowls.
“We love being able to see the smiles on a customer’s face when they try our product for the first time,” Isaac Hamlin, Founder, and CEO said. “We know our concept is new, and that can be scary for people, especially when they are trying to be healthy. Building that trust and relationships with our guests is very important to us.”
Connecting with customers and the community is what Hamlin is looking forward to most now that things are returning to a pre-pandemic state. “We’ve definitely adapted and have done what we can the past 12 months, but we’re excited to be able to connect fully again. We’re looking forward to catering, events and community outreach,” he said.
Stop by and try a Super Bowl (organic acai bowl) or a Black Raspberry Chip smoothie.
Hours:
Monday – Friday 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Address: 202 W McMillan Street
Online ordering and rewards are available. Find on Facebook here.
Cheba Hut
A national brand, Cheba Hut, opened in March. They offer toasted subs, mellow vibes, salads, and a bar. Their unique theme and menu items stand out among other sandwich shops in the area.
“Our shop is an amazing space to get good eats, a beer, and sit for a game or two,” said Allison Hamilton, Owner of Cheba Hut’s Corryville location. Menu favorites include a chicken, bacon and ranch sub, and the “Hash Can,” a modern take on the Long Island iced tea.
Cheba Hut is also a great location to host events now that people can gather safely again. Recently they hosted trivia and will be installing a new dart board and more games for board game nights. Hamilton is looking forward to socializing and watching people live normally again.
Cheba Hut’s motto is to fill bellies and see folks happy. "We look forward to seeing more people come in and visit, sit back and relax, and enjoy what we have to offer. Making friends along the way,” she said.
Hours:
Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Friday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Address: 2614 Short Vine Street
Online ordering is available through the website or app. Find on Facebook here.
The Upside
By day a coffee house, taproom, and art gallery and by night a taproom and bar, The Upside offers something for everyone. The Upside opened on April 1 and started on the idea that the “little things” matter.
“We focus on providing only small-batch ethically-sourced coffees from local and regional roasters,” Lydia Ludwig, Co-Owner of The Upside, said. “Our Espresso and house drip coffees are provided by Pneuma, which is located in Uptown and the raw coffee is sourced directly from two small family farms located in Honduras and Guatemala.”
On top of that, The Upside reinvests a portion of profits back into the local Clifton community. Ludwig wanted the space to feel comfortable, and they offer powerful WiFi for people looking for a place to work or study.
However, she also designed the space with events in mind for the future, such as painting parties, art shows, and other art-centered happenings. The Upside partnered with Brent Keltch of New Port Art Gallery to provide art for the space that is also up for sale.
With life seeming to return to “normal,” The Upside is looking forward to expanding business hours and offerings like live music in the evenings. “I am looking forward to getting back all the simple things that we all miss, like being able to see someone smile or hanging out with my family and friends without worry or restriction,” Ludwig said.
Guests are sure to feel welcomed at The Upside. Stop in to grab one of their bestselling lattes or their fruit smoothies. Or stop by for happy hour Monday – Friday, 5 – 7 p.m., for a deal on draft beer, wine, and cocktails.
Hours:
Monday- Thursday 7am-9pm***
Friday 7am-10pm***
Saturday 8am-10pm***
Sunday 9am-7pm***
***Extended hours of operation later in the summer
Address: 329 Ludlow Avenue
The Upside offers online ordering on their website Upsidebrew.com, and you can also call (513) 882-3610. Find on Facebook here.