I first tasted Tiffany Watts’ super-healthy creations several years ago, when writing a story on going vegan. And while my experiment only lasted a month, Watts’ flavorful concoctions were certainly worth revisiting time and again.
The food scientist is the co-owner of the newly opened Oasis Juice Bar in Wayne, along with husband Jonathan Watts. And this duo is no stranger to the Main Line food scene; they’ve owned and operated Oasis in Malvern for over ten years (currently being transformed into a juice bar and yoga studio of its own).
Offerings at their new Wayne location range from juices like the popular apple-lemon-kale, to fruit smoothies and decadent cashew shakes. There’s a long list of superfood boosters that can be added like protein powders, cocoa nibs and even bee pollen. Watts’ substantial retail section includes desserts, handcrafted chocolates and snacks. Click here to view the whole menu.
On a recent visit to Oasis Juice Bar, Watts shared more about her inspirations and what she’s mixing up at their new concept:
You certainly have a fascinating culinary background. Tell us more.
I have a degree in food science and worked in the food industry in product, research and development for a number of different companies, including Hershey, Kellogg’s, and other smaller companies that manufactured flavors. I wanted to make a break from the corporate world and start my own business.
The juices here are ultra fresh, but there’s much more to what you’re offering.
Yes, you’ll find healthy snack products and specialty foods that fit into a lot of different lifestyles. Although our products are a fit for those who eat raw foods, they also work for people that are vegan, gluten free, soy free or dairy free, even the Paleo lifestyle (our granola is a huge hit!). We construct our products with these preferences in mind.
What ingredients do you use for creating these healthy treats?
When we’re formulating something like our scones, instead of using wheat flour, we make our base out of sprouted buckwheat. It essentially becomes a healthier food; there’s no gluten. We find other ways to substitute, often using nuts in place of dairy. Creamy nuts like cashews and almonds as well as coconut oil and cocoa butter are good. For sweeteners, we try to use less refined sugars, like agave, local raw honey and coconut sugar.
Lastly, will you share your thoughts on leading a raw food lifestyle?
I’ve been a raw foodist for over 15 years. I like fruits, vegetables and the concept of consuming food that isn’t overheated. It just makes sense to me. I don’t have any particular health issues…I just like to eat this way! People do not have to have a 100 percent raw diet to enjoy the benefits. It’s great to be able to add raw food products and reintroduce fruits and vegetables in their natural state to whatever your lifestyle is.
Oasis Juice Bar is located at 224 Sugartown Rd. in Wayne. For more details call (610) 254-9797 or visit oasisjuicebar.net.
Photograph credit: Image of Tiffany and stocked shelves credited to Laura Koster; remaining images courtesy of Oasis Juice Bar.
