Intentions Juice and Smoothie Bar: A Healthy Space for the Tacoma Community
By: Besa Gordon - On South Tacoma Way, Intentions Juice and Smoothie Bar is changing the game for health-conscious living in Tacoma. This isn’t just your average smoothie spot; it’s a vibrant space where health, creativity, and community come together.
The Vision Behind Intentions
Meet Marquita Evans, the powerhouse behind Intentions. Originally from Seattle, Marquita has spent nearly a decade calling Tacoma home, and in that time, she’s poured her heart into building something special. Her goal? To make healthy living accessible and guilt-free while creating a judgment-free zone where real conversations about health—like tackling diabetes—are welcomed.
“Intentions is about making health easy for our community,” Marquita explains. “It’s a place where you can come in, eat healthy, and not feel guilty about it. We like to think of ourselves as the alternative to fast food.”
In 2021, Marquita took things to the next level, making the menu 100% organic. Her signature drink, "The Melanin," with oat milk, banana, peanut butter, and a cinnamon drizzle, is a fan favorite and just one example of how she’s redefining healthy options.
More Than a Juice Bar
Intentions is more than a place to grab a smoothie—it’s a true community hub. Marquita has opened up her space for other small businesses to shine, with retail shelves featuring products from local Black-owned businesses. “When I opened this space, I knew I wanted it to be more than just a juice bar. Not everyone can afford their own brick-and-mortar, but having this open space means they have a place to share their products and connect with the community,” she shares.
The walls at Intentions serve as a rotating gallery for local artists. Each month, a new artist gets the chance to showcase their work for free, with events like Art Nights to bring the community together. Whether it’s sip-and-paints led by Kay the Paint Lady or monthly spoken word nights like Poetry with Intention, there’s always something happening at Intentions that goes beyond just food and drinks.
“Community is at the heart of everything we do here,” Marquita says. “I wanted this to be a space where people feel safe and supported, whether they’re pursuing health goals, sharing their art, or just looking for a place to connect.”
South Tacoma’s Changing Vibe
Marquita has witnessed the transformation of South Tacoma Way into a more family-friendly and community-driven area. Annual events like Santa parades and neighborhood trick-or-treating have made it a place for families, and Intentions has played a key role in creating that welcoming vibe.
“The energy here is amazing,” Marquita reflects. “Tacoma supports their people strong. When locals come in and realize this is Black-owned, their first reaction is, ‘You own this? I’m coming back!’ It’s that sense of community pride that keeps us all going.”
Stop By and Get Inspired
If you’re in the area—or even if you’re not—make it a point to visit Intentions Juice and Smoothie Bar at 5236 South Tacoma Way. Whether you’re starting a health journey, looking to connect with local creatives, or just in need of a pick-me-up, Intentions is the place to be.
Stay in the loop on their events and specials by following Intentions Juice and Smoothie Bar on Facebook and Instagram, or check out their events page at Events by Intentions on Instagram.
“Intentions isn’t just about smoothies and juices,” Marquita says with a smile. “It’s about building something bigger—a place where health, creativity, and community thrive together.” Stop by and see for yourself!
Intentions Juice and Smoothy Bar
5236 South Tacoma Way
Tacoma, Washington 98409
