On the corner of Harvest Drive next to Goodwill, Tropical Smoothie opened, Oct. 17. In contrast to Benton, the one in Bryant includes a hibachi grill and lobby.

The venue adds a new layer of socialization for teens.

“It’s supposed to be the place,” junior Charlie Terry said. Teens now have a place to grab a nutritious drink and grilled food, as well as catch up with friends.

Tropical Smoothie offers 30 smoothies and nearly 40 choices of fresh entrees.

“It’s freaking a butt load of calories, but it’s really good,” sophomore Alex Dillard said.

Those calories became available in a crowded opening.

Junior Matt Clanton was at the opening.

“The line was terrible, boring,” he said.

The atmosphere is what brings in customers and even workers.

With the location comes uncertainty. Multiple stores have failed in the past. But the name may outweigh the place. Senior and employee Cody Jones seems to think so.

“Teens love a smoothie. The past failures won’t affect Tropical Smoothie in any way,” he said.