Are Erewhon smoothies actually worth it?

I haven’t actually tried an Erewhon smoothie, I don’t live in Los Angeles, and for now, that means no viral $20 Strawberry Glaze in my life. But that hasn’t stopped me from obsessing over them. If I could order one online and have it shipped to me, I probably would. For someone who loves smoothies as much as I do, these drinks look like the ultimate treat: indulgent, nutrient-packed, and undeniably Instagram-worthy.

The most famous one, often called the Hailey Bieber Strawberry Glaze smoothie, has a short but impressive ingredient list: frozen strawberries, 2 dates, avocado, maple syrup, vanilla collagen powder, almond milk, coconut cream, and a strawberry glaze swirl. Even just reading it makes me want one. Beyond looking delicious, each ingredient has something beneficial to offer.

Frozen strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help protect your skin and cells from damage caused by free radicals. They’re also naturally sweet without needing extra sugar. Dates are another source of natural sweetness and provide fiber, which is great for digestion and keeping your gut happy. Avocado adds healthy fats, which make the smoothie creamy, help you feel full, and support skin and cell health. Maple syrup, while still a sugar, is a more natural sweetener than refined sugar and adds depth to the flavour.

Vanilla collagen powder is often marketed as a beauty booster, supporting skin elasticity and overall “glow.” While collagen benefits are best seen with consistent, long-term use, including it in a smoothie is a nice little wellness bonus. Almond milk gives the smoothie a light, dairy-free base, keeping it smooth without weighing it down. Coconut cream adds richness and a luxurious texture, along with medium-chain fats that can be used for quick energy. Finally, the strawberry glaze swirl is mostly aesthetic, but it makes the drink feel extra indulgent, part of what makes it a treat and an experience.

Even without tasting it, I can see why people are willing to pay a premium for these smoothies. For me, it’s not just about nutrition, it’s about the experience. The ritual of sipping something creamy, rich, and thoughtfully made feels like a little act of self-care, a mental break in the middle of a busy day. Sure, the price is high, and yes, you could probably make something similar at home, but the combination of quality ingredients, flavour, and presentation is part of the appeal.

For now, my relationship with Erewhon smoothies is entirely aspirational. I haven’t tasted the $20 Strawberry Glaze, but just thinking about it makes me want to savour every sip. If anything, it reminds me that self-care comes in many forms, and sometimes treating yourself to something special, even just in your imagination, can feel surprisingly satisfying. And while I dream of trying one for real, I can also appreciate what each ingredient brings to the table and why, for some, the price might be justified.