Fast-growing Playa Bowls in milestone opening

An eatery that specializes in customizable bowls starring “superfoods” such as acai is on the fast-track.

Playa Bowls has opened its 100th store, in Darien, Conn. Founded in 2014 as a makeshift sidewalk acai bowl and smoothie stand, the company has grown organically with a mix of franchised and company locations, with locations in 16 states and territories. 

Despite challenges resulting from the pandemic, Playa Bowls has opened nine new locations since March. It will open five more stores by the end of the year, including its first location out West, in Littleton, Colo.

In 2021, Playa Bowls plans to expand to such cities as San Antonio, New Orleans; Chicago; Columbus, Ohio; Scottsdale, Ariz.; and Coral Springs, Fla.

Customers at Playa Bowls can pick from an extensive menu of bowls or custom design their own, choosing from a variety of bases made with “superfoods”  including pure acai berry, pitaya, chia seeds, coconuts, kale, bananas, and layering toppings including fresh fruit, seeds, nuts, granola, dried berries, and nut butters. Playa Bowls also offers a selection of oatmeal bowls, fresh juices, and smoothies.