Around this time last year, I wrote an article about the obsession of Leesville students with Cookout. At the time I didn’t understand the obsession with the famous fast food place, but as a frequent of the restaurant, I understand it now.
So while the Cookout chapter may be closed, a new one opens: Tropical Smoothie Cafe. If you’ve ever seen someone walking into school with a large styrofoam cup with a bright red straw sticking out, they’ve been to Tropical Smoothie, or as most students just call it, Tropical or Trop.
The first Tropical Smoothie opened up in Destin, Florida back in 1997. Since then, 700 locations have opened up throughout the country. The closest location in Raleigh opened up back in 2013.
While Tropical does offer food, a majority of students just get smoothies. “I personally just like them for their smoothies I’m not a huge fan of their food,” said Emma Grace Johnson, junior who goes to Tropical at least once a week.
All smoothies are 20oz and range in price from $4.79-6.28 based on the smoothie add-ins. A Leesville classic is the Bahama Mama, which includes strawberries, pineapple, white chocolate, and coconut.
“My fav menu item from tropical is a Bahama Mama,” said Hailey Dye, junior, who considers herself obsessed as she visits Tropical at least once or twice a week.
Other favorites include Blimey Limey, Kiwi Quencher, and Pomegranate Plunge. But some students wonder if the smoothies are worth the price as you could get a sandwich. “I personally think that they are a little overpriced, but they are super good and worth the money,” said Dye.
Dani Dalrymple, junior, visits Tropical every couple of months but believes that the price is fair. “I definitely think it’s worth the money, and it’s not that expensive. Five dollars for like a 20 ounce isn’t even bad, plus they’re always delicious,” said Dalrymple.
Whether or not students agree with the price, they can all agree that Tropical has great tasting and healthy smoothies with nice employees that keep them coming back for more.
