Essex Squeeze is a healthy taste of New York City flavor. Started by childhood friends Cedric Hernandez and Charles DeLaCruz, this juice bar is a representation of their high energy upbringing and the city that inspired them. The dynamic duo has been kicking it since 1988 in the Lower East Side. Their neighborhood was such a thrilling and eclectic community to grow up in. Full of immigrant families striving to make a living, the Lower East Side was fertile ground to inspire these two entrepreneurs. Since they were kids, Cedric and Charles had dreams of becoming fruit vendors: a healthy type of hustle.

Charles had an early start in the restaurant and hospitality business, climbing the ranks at the world renowned Katz Deli. Starting as a teen, he worked his way up to the head management position, and ran the daily operations of the incredibly successful delicatessen. Feeding New York City is a lifelong passion for him.

Cedric is one of the Founders of the Bridge The Gap (#BTG) Running Movement, and a Co-Captain and original crewmember of the NYC Bridge Runners Crew. Athletic and creative, Cedric and the Bridge Runners have motivated residents of New York to stay active and strengthen their community bond for over 17 years. He and his Crew have partnered with sponsors like Nike and Cliff Bar, hosted concerts and panel discussions, and organized Midnight Half Marathons for their runners and friends all over the world.

These gentlemen are looking forward to utilizing their combined skills to fulfill this twist on their childhood entrepreneurial dream. Their goal is to provide a healthier option for the people of the Lower East Side and do their best to utilize the sustainability products for a cleaner planet. Come check it out and sip the excitement at the Essex Squeeze.