Healthy Treat Disguised as Sweet Decadence is Coming to Elmhurst

Long-time Elmhurst residents Ken and Julia Wagner will be opening a cold, creamy and fruity business next weekend at the former Caribou Coffee site on North York Road.

"My husband, Ken, and I have been looking for a franchise that would be good for us and our community," said Julia, owner of the new Yogen Früz location at 275 N. York. "We are happy to be bringing a new, healthy choice to Elmhurst."

Fans of frozen yogurt may already have tried Yogen Früz at Yorktown Mall or one of its other 15 Chicago area locations. But the franchise is actually much bigger than that, with more than 1,300 locations in 35 countries. With that kind of reach, it appears the company, which originated in Toronto, Canada, is on to something.

In addition to its sweet appeal, Yogen Früz is known for offering the many benefits of probiotics.

If you haven't already heard, probiotics are the good bacteria (lactobacillus paracasel, in yogurt) that help balance digestion and boost immune function, according to WebMD and many other sources.

According to the Yogen Früz website, "We put a billion probiotic bacteria in each serving in addition to all of the yogurt culture that is already there."

Even with those extra billion little guys, it can fit into a low-fat diet. A small, low-fat vanilla is 120 calories with 2.5 grams of fat. Non-fat and sugar-free options also are available.

But, let's be honest. That's not the main reason we love frozen yogurt. It's just yummy.

In addition to whole-fruit smoothies—both dairy and non-dairy with an option for protein, antioxidant and energy boosts—and Fruitful Flavours, a blend of whole fruit and yogurt, the location will offer Userve. Customers serve up the soft-serve and top it with any number of fruits, nuts, granola and coconut. Feeling naughty? Yogen Früz also offers cookies and chocolate shavings as toppings. But even chocolate is good for you.

Nusensations are the signature recipes, with flavors like strawberry cheesecake, apple pie, chai latte and key lime, to name a few.

The shop is slated to open the weekend of Aug. 17, but the exact date has not yet been set as last-minute details still are being completed. For the Wagners, who say they plan to be involved in the community and promote a healthy lifestyle, the opening can't happen soon enough.

"We feel we have a great location and overwhelming support for our dream to become a reality," Julia said.