Playa Bowls Makes Waves in Upstate NY with Grand Opening in Rochester’s Finger Lakes Region

Rochester, NY - The sun is officially shining brighter in Upstate New York as Playa Bowls, the nation’s leading superfruit bowl shop, opens its first-ever location in the Rochester and Finger Lakes region. This exciting expansion brings the vibrant flavors of the Jersey Shore to the heart of New York, offering locals a taste of summer all year round.

Founded in 2014, Playa Bowls has grown to over 300 stores across 27 states, with more than 275 franchised locations and a reputation for rapid expansion and community-focused growth. The Rochester store marks a milestone in the brand’s journey, bringing its signature blend of health, flavor, and beach vibes to a new audience.

Local Roots, National Flavor

The new store is owned and operated by Chris and Jeni Jo Gallina, Rochester natives whose journey with Playa Bowls began serendipitously. On their way home from a lacrosse tournament in New Jersey, they stopped for an acai bowl, and it was love at first bite. “We were instantly hooked,” says Jeni Jo. “It was like tasting sunshine in a bowl. We knew right then we had to bring this beachy bowl of goodness to our hometown.” Their passion and vision have culminated in a space that reflects the Playa Bowls ethos: fresh, healthy ingredients, bold flavors, and a laid-back coastal vibe that invites everyone to chill, refuel, and enjoy.

What’s on the Menu?

Playa Bowls is celebrated for its colorful, nutrient-packed creations. Among the top-selling favorites nationwide are:

• Nutella Acai Bowl – A decadent blend of acai topped with granola, banana, strawberry, coconut flakes, and a drizzle of Nutella.

• Electric Mermaid Pitaya Bowl – A vibrant dragon fruit base with kiwi, pineapple, mango, and honey.

• Tropical Mango Bowl – Featuring Alphonso mangoes sourced from India, rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

• Green Bowl – A powerhouse of protein and fiber, starring kale, spinach, and banana.

• Guests can also explore the grab-and-go cooler, stocked with a refreshing lineup of cold-pressed juices and immune-boosting juice shots—perfect for a quick wellness pick-me-up on the go.

Grand Opening Celebration

Join Chris and Jeni Jo Gallina and the Playa Bowls team for a grand opening celebration filled with giveaways, live music, and of course free samples of your favorite Playa Bowls menu items. The event will take place at 400 Commerce Drive, Suite 600, located in the Victor Crossing Plaza on Saturday, October 18 from 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM and the first 50 guests will receive a FREE Bowl and exclusive Playa Bowls swag.

About Playa Bowls

Playa Bowls began in 2014 as a humble pop-up cart on the Jersey Shore and has since become a nationwide sensation. With a mission to serve healthy, delicious superfruit bowls using the freshest ingredients, Playa Bowls continues to redefine fast-casual dining with its beach-inspired aesthetic and commitment to sustainability.