Local juice, smoothie and acai bowl chain South Block is opening a new cafe amid the coronavirus pandemic — for a good cause.
The company says it will be opening its first “Fruitful Planet Market & Cafe” in Clarendon tomorrow, on Earth Day. The cafe will be “completely not-for-profit” and will support South Block’s Fruitful Planet initiative.
Fruitful Planet has so far donated over 15,000 pounds of fruits and veggies to local schools, food banks, hospitals, and directly to those in need, according to a spokeswoman.
Located at next to South Block’s original location (3019 11th Street N.) the cafe will offer “South Block’s fresh pressed juices, coffee, superfood lattes, fresh fruits, super snacks, Commonwealth Joe whole bean coffee and cold brew, South Block’s stay-at-home warrior kits, and more.”
“100% of all proceeds made at Fruitful Planet Market & Cafe will go directly towards South Block’s nonprofit, Fruitful Planet, which works with local farmers, schools, and other nonprofits to donate fresh fruits and vegetables to those in need within our community,” the spokeswoman said.
Arlington Public Schools and the Arlington Food Assistance Center have been among the beneficiaries, we’re told, along with Bayou Bakery Chef David Guas’ meal distribution effort.
“One of South Block’s greatest missions is to give back to the community we serve,” Amir Mostafavi, founder and CEO of the Arlington born and bred company, told ARLnow. “The opening of Fruitful Planet Market & Cafe is the next step in our ongoing duty to give back to the communities that have already given us so much.”
South Block opened two new Arlington locations — in Rosslyn and Ballston — last year. It is currently offering free, contactless delivery on orders over $45, in addition to delivery via apps like Uber Eats.