Playa Bowls Locks In Urbana Strip Spot Near Wegmans

Playa Bowls is officially headed to Urbana, with owner Gene Sherman confirming he has signed a lease for a new shop in the Villages at Urbana shopping center. The counter-service açaí concept is slated to move into the space that previously housed Urbana Tanning, but Sherman says permitting and a full tenant fit-out mean the opening is still a ways off. He is targeting an early-winter 2027 debut, though no firm date has been set.

According to The MoCo Show, Sherman’s lease covers 3531 John Simmons Street, Suite D09 in the Villages at Urbana. The outlet notes that the unit is the former Urbana Tanning space, and Sherman told the publication that many months remain to get the store open. He said he plans to share updates as construction and permitting move forward.

Playa Bowls, founded on the Jersey Shore, centers its menu on açaí, pitaya, and coconut bowls, plus smoothies and fresh juices. The company lists a Frederick location at Clemson Corner at 7820 Wormans Mill Road, and local coverage reports that the shop opened in December 2024 under Sherman’s operation, according to Garnet & Gold Gazette.

Where It Will Be

The Urbana unit is located at 3531 John Simmons St., part of a multi-tenant strip in the Villages at Urbana that county records show already houses several restaurants and service businesses. Frederick County records tie multiple businesses to that address, underscoring that the new Playa Bowls would join an existing food and services cluster rather than stand on its own.

Timeline And What To Expect

Because the fit-out and permits still need to be completed, any opening date remains tentative and could slip into the winter season, as Sherman has cautioned. Tracked similar suburban rollouts this year, many of which included promotions or giveaways on opening day.

Sherman says he will post updates as construction progresses, and the brand’s arrival would add another quick breakfast and lunch option for Urbana shoppers. This story will be updated once a firm opening date or any promotional details are announced.