Something tropical is coming to Decatur.
Playa Bowls is expected to open soon at 335 W Ponce de Leon Avenue, bringing açaí bowls, smoothies, juices and more to another metro Atlanta city.
The new location comes from Erica and Randy Walker, who are excited to open in downtown Decatur.
“We’re really excited about where we are,” Randy told What Now Atlanta. “We’ve always liked that area. I’ve always liked coming down there, having dinner and being in the area… We’re looking forward to being part of the community.”
Erica has years of experience as a multi-business entrepreneur and staffing franchise owner, and Randy has had a 20-year career in management consulting and experience running a health food business. This is the first Playa Bowls location the Walkers are opening. They heard about the brand from Erica’s daughter, inspired by her passion for the brand as she worked at a Playa Bowls on her college campus in Boston.
The Walkers were looking at investment opportunities, and they were drawn to the refreshing, nutritious menu and the values of the Playa Bowls brand.
“I fell in love with the brand not only because they have great menu options, but the mission behind it aligns with my own values and beliefs to being in the community and providing healthy options to the community,” Erica said. “That is really one of my favorite things about Playa Bowls and the Playa Bowls mission.”
The menu includes açaí, pitaya, mango, green and coconut bowls with a variety of toppings, including granola, fruit, honey, coconut flakes and more. The menu also features smoothies, juices, oatmeal and cold brew, with plenty of dairy-free and gluten-free options. Erica recommends the fresh-pressed juices, while Randy sings the praises of anything with the mango base.
Playa Bowls was founded in 2014 by surfers Abby Taylor and Rob Giuliani. The brand now has more than 300 locations across 27 states.
The upcoming Decatur location is currently hiring a general manager. The store will be open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the weekdays and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the weekends. And the Walkers don’t plan to stop there.
“We’ve got aspirations to open at least two more,” Randy said.
Follow on Instagram @playabowlsdecaturga to stay tuned for the announcement of their opening date.
