“Are there juice bars in Canada?" That's the question that sparked it all for college pals Dale Wishewan and Jon Amack. After mulling over his American buddy's inquiry, Wishewan went to work in his Alberta garage armed with an arsenal of blenders, fresh fruit, and plenty of family and friends to taste-test his creations. Within five months, the first Booster Juice was born in Sherwood Park, followed by 49 more across western Canada by 2001. Today, the juice empire has expanded across the world, with 400 shops equipped with plenty of fresh fruit, yogourt, and boosters to concoct healthful smoothies and juices.

The menu organizes drinks by categories, such as high-protein—fortified by whey—tropical, and superfood, which is made from nature’s healthiest fruits, including açaí, pomegranate, and Starbursts. While their smoothies—thick and creamy and made with yogourt, milk, or soymilk—are definitely the highlight, Booster Juice’s bartenders also create pure juices out of everything from apples and oranges to ginger and carrots. In addition, customers can absorb essential nutrients from decadent solid foods such as paninis, wraps, and booster pastries.