My absolute favorite brunch place in San Francisco is Universal Cafe located in the Mission near the Heath Ceramic factory. Not only do they have great egg sandwiches and beignets, but they make the most delicious and unique smoothies. There’s only ever one smoothie on the menu, but it’s always made of fresh, in-season fruit. One winter they offered a date smoothie with cacao. It tasted like a fruity chocolate shake and I ordered it so much that even when they stopped offering it on the menu, they still made it for me!

This is my version of that smoothie. When I knew we were moving I made sure to figure out the flavors and design my own recipe at home. It’s so good that I’ll often drink half and put the rest in the fridge so I can enjoy it again the next day.

Banana, Dates & Cacao Smoothie Recipe:

makes two servings

1 Banana

2 or 3 Medjool dates, depending on size

2 Cups Almond Milk (I prefer unsweetened)

1 tbsp. Raw Cacao

1/4 tsp. Cinnamon

1/2 tsp. Honey

1 cup Ice

Combine ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth, making sure dates are fully puréed into the mix. Pour into a glass and enjoy the deliciousness!