If there’s one thing we can rely on every New Year, it’s the collective urge to embrace healthier habits. We press pause on eating processed foods, dive into online searches for budget-friendly superfood recipes, and wonder if we should start drinking detox teas every morning. Usually, after a few minutes of scrolling, the feeling of being overwhelmed has settled in—not only in our minds but also in our stomachs. Enter Rooted Juicery & Kitchen: the missing piece for taking the stress out of healthy habits and, dare we say, making the process enjoyable.
Located in the heart of Oakley Square on Madison, this organic juicery, kitchen, and plant-based market is a local treasure. Rooted Juicery & Kitchen was founded in 2015 by Megan Tysoe, who envisioned a way to bridge the gap between health and accessibility while making a difference in the local community. For Tysoe, the journey began after her experience in New York City, where she juggled a demanding lifestyle with little time to prepare nutritious meals. Realizing the toll this was taking on her body, she enrolled in culinary school to reshape her approach to food and health. Her passion turned into a dream, and now, nearly a decade later, Rooted Juicery & Kitchen is not only thriving in Oakley but also preparing to expand to new locations and launch cold shipping in the spring of 2025.
Walking into Rooted feels like stepping into an oasis of wellness. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows flood the space with natural light, setting the tone for a fresh and vibrant atmosphere. The shelves are lined with local organic goods, perfect for those who want to take more than just a meal home. Thriving greenery is thoughtfully displayed throughout the space, creating a connection to the natural world and emphasizing the beauty of a balanced lifestyle.
What sets Rooted apart is its approachable yet innovative menu. While everything is vegan—save for a few items containing honey—the dishes aren’t intimidating to those unfamiliar with plant-based eating. Rooted offers a variety of comfort classics like bagels, nachos, cinnamon rolls, and brownies. For those seeking a more traditional health approach, the menu includes smoothie bowls, salads, and wraps, as well as juice cleanse options for anyone interested in a whole-body reset.
During our conversation with the team, they emphasized the importance of listening to your body. “Getting to know your body and what it needs is the key to feeling successful with your habits,” shared Lauren Nurre, one of the managers. “It’s all about balance, and we’re here to help you find that.” This philosophy is woven into every aspect of Rooted, from their carefully crafted menu to their interactions with customers.
For anyone new to Rooted, the team offers a warm piece of advice: don’t come with preconceived notions about what vegan food is. “A lot of people have a scarred mindset of what vegan food is, but there are so many fun and approachable options here. If you’re unsure, just ask—we’re always happy to help!”
Rooted Juicery & Kitchen isn’t just a place to grab a smoothie or a salad; it’s a community hub, a source of inspiration, and a reminder that healthy living can be both accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go lunch, a cozy comfort food alternative, or a way to kickstart new habits, Rooted offers something for everyone.
So next time you’re in Oakley, stop by Rooted Juicery & Kitchen. Grab a juice, pick up a bag of organic goodies, and soak in the inviting atmosphere that has made this eatery a beloved part of the community. Healthy living has never been this delicious—or this welcoming.
“It’s all about balance, and we’re here to help you find that.”