The Juice Box Public House (Centralia WA)

Date: March 29, 2025

Location: 216 S Tower Avenue, Centralia WA

Website: https://juiceboxpublichouse.com/

I’ve been a loyal customer of The Juice Box Public House ever since they first opened a few years ago on the site of a former Elk’s club. Given their high concept decor, ambitious live entertainment calendar, and extensive menu of craft beers and creative cuisine, I wondered whether this decidedly Seattlesque joint would be able to lake a go of it in sleepy Centralia … but they seem to be doing just fine!

On my most recent visit I ordered The Abbey Road, described as a 1/3 LB hand-pressed Angus beef patty, Tillamook (the best!) cheddar cheese, fresh grilled onions, and “goop,” on a toasted brioche bun.

1 Aesthetics — An appetizing presentation, albeit prepared somewhat differently than as described in the menu. My burger also included two slices of tomato, lots of chopped lettuce, and raw (not grilled) red onion. Fine with me! 7

2 Flavor — Delicious! The Angus beef was perfectly charred and pink on the inside, just the way I like it, and the entire patty was covered in melted white cheddar. 7.5

3 Mouthfeel — Very satisfying to bite into. Firm, juicy, beef. A very sturdy bun toasted to golden perfection. And while I do prefer the flavor of grilled onion, the raw onion slices and iceberg lettuce gave this sandwich a pleasing crunch. 8.5

4 Quality/Freshness — Very high quality and quite fresh. 8.5

5 Integrity — Strong and sturdy. 9

6 Atmosphere — Uber-hip. I especially dig the mural wall art and colorful art glass pieces hanging from the ceiling. 9

7 Service — A little slow, but the kitchen was very busy due to a sold-out jazz performance that evening. Nevertheless, they took care to ask how I wanted my burger cooked (medium rare, please), and served it up, as ordered, with a smile. 8

8 Satisfaction — Yes! Deeply satisfying to mind, body, and spirit. 9

9 Creativity/Uniqueness — This burger and every other item on the Juice Box menu is a unique (and cleverly named) creation. 9

10 Value — A bit expensive at $18 with fries or onion rings ($3 more to substitute soup or salad), but worth stretching the budget when it’s time to celebrate or splurge. 7

I’m a big fan of this joint, and will continue to support it. Highly recommended!

Total Score: 82.5