New Brisbane smoothie bar divides with price of ‘high-quality’ drink

An “aesthetic” new venue has opened in Brisbane, but while some love it, others have been left horrified at its “expensive” prices.

There’s nothing consumers like better than an aesthetically pleasing item – which is why a new Brisbane smoothie bar has erupted in popularity since its opening.

Bubbleboy, a new “quick-service restaurant”, has just started serving up “high-quality” beverages to thirsty Aussies at its first ever venue, located in Newstead.

The colourful drinks have been described to those sold at Erewhon, the upscale US grocery chain famed for its celebrity-approved smoothies, but some have questioned the new Aussie start-up’s similarly expensive prices.

A smoothie’s base price at Bubbleboy is $15.50 but there are multiple wellness add ons, such as collagen powder, lime caviar and sea moss, priced at $2 each that quickly hike up the final bill.

And while social media users have erupted at the taste and vibe of the “epic” drinks, some have blasted the “insane” prices – prompting the new venue to defend its menu.

“Our pricing reflects the high-quality, organic ingredients we use and the care that goes into crafting each drink,” a Bubbleboy spokesperson told news.com.au.

“We’re all about using the best of the best — certified organic fruits, nutrient-dense superfoods, and freshly blended smoothies made to order, so you get the most out of every sip.

“We know our drinks are a little more premium, but that’s because we never cut corners on quality. Every ingredient is chosen with purpose, so you’re getting a drink that not only tastes amazing but also fuels your body in the best way possible.”

A new smoothie bar serving ‘aesthetically pleasing’ drinks has launched in Brisbane. Picture: Instagram/BNE Foodie Girl

But despite its ‘yummy’ beverages, some have shared shock at its prices. Picture: TikTok/BecHardgrave

Some social media users called the drinks “expensive”, explaining it was off-putting during the current economic climate.

“For $16 I will pass,” one wrote in the comments section of a viral TikTok video in which a woman purchased 3 of the drinks.

“$48 for 3 smoothies is crazy,” another said, while one blasted the price as “criminal”.

“Such a cutie vibe but the prices in this economy,” added someone else.

Australians are paying 54 per cent more than the world average for food, including groceries and eating out, according to World Bank data.

Over the past three years energy and gas costs have also gone up by more than 50 per cent while packaging and ingredient costs have also spiked, according to the Australian Food & Grocery Council.

Some social media users called the drinks ‘expensive’. Picture: Instagram/LowryGroup

A spokesperson for the new venue said it’s ‘high pricing reflects the high-quality, organic ingredients’ used in the drinks. Picture: TikTok/@cyansocial

Bubbleboy said its products are “unlike other juices” and is specially processed using a cold-pressed technique to “guarantees maximum nutrient retention and freshness”.

“True cold-pressed methods preserve enzymes, reduce oxidation, and enhance the natural sweetness of fruits and vegetables,” the spokesperson stressed.

“We’re not just another juice and smoothie bar – we’re an experience where wellness, sustainability, and innovation meet.”

Some customers also reported long wait times. Picture: TikTok/BecHardgrave

Judging from the reaction from the community so far, locals have been frothing over Bubbleboy’s arrival.

“These are so yummy,” one noted, as another described the pink smoothie as “dupe” of Hailey Bieber’s “Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothie” from Erewhon.

“While prices seem like a lot, it’s a small business with high rent and based on the quality ingredients they put into it, it would probs equal to about that price,” another reasoned.

“They look so pretty,” mused someone else, as one demanded: “We need this in Perth.”

However, some said wait-time to receive their “aesthetic” drink was a disappointment, with multiple reporting it took 40 minutes for their order to be complete.

“I tried to go on Sunday but when they told me it was a 40 MINUTE wait for a juice I was like nah,” one claimed.

“I waited 45 minutes, I have to say it was worth it though,” said popular fitness blogger Bec Hardgrave in a video.

Bubbleboy responded to her video stating it had “made improvements” following the feedback.