Playa Bowls is about to bring more beach vibes to Pittsburgh, with a second city shop set to open at Bakery Square later this week. The fast-growing chain, known for its acai and pitaya bowls, is sliding into the East Liberty retail hub alongside coffee spots, ice cream, and a food hall, aiming squarely at students, commuters, and nearby office workers. Expect a grab-and-go lineup of bowls, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices.
As reported by Pittsburgh Business Times, the Bakery Square shop is slated to open later this week and will be Playa Bowls' second Pittsburgh location. The outlet notes the brand already operates a location in the Strip District.
Where It Will Be
Bakery Square’s official directory lists Playa Bowls as “COMING IN 2026,” positioning the new shop among storefronts along Bakery Square Boulevard, according to the complex’s directory. The listing points to an opening that is right around the corner and links the concept to the development’s heavy daytime crowd of office workers and students.
Playa's Pittsburgh Footprint
According to Apple Maps, the chain’s first Pittsburgh outpost operates at 1707 Smallman St. in the Strip District. Coverage of the brand’s debut in Pittsburgh's Strip District in June 2024 highlighted its emphasis on acai, pitaya, and made-to-order smoothie bowls.
Why It Matters
Playa Bowls has been in growth mode nationwide, signing multi-unit franchise agreements and opening clusters of new shops in recent quarters, according to a corporate release on PR Newswire. That broader expansion has translated into more aggressive site selection in regional markets like Pittsburgh, where franchisees are targeting high-traffic destinations such as Bakery Square.
For East Liberty regulars and Bakery Square office dwellers, the Playa Bowls sign should flip from "coming soon" to "open" within days. Exact opening hours and any launch promos will be announced by the retailer and the brand ahead of the debut. We will update with hours and photos once the blenders start whirring and service is underway.
