A fast-casual chain that started in New Jersey is continuing to expand in West Michigan, and its newest location brings a colorful, beach-inspired menu to the lakeshore.

Mix 95.7 logo
Get our free mobile app

A Jersey Shore-Inspired Chain With National Growth

Playa Bowls was founded in 2014 by New Jersey surfers Robert Giuliani and Abby Taylor. The idea came after trips to surf destinations like Costa Rica, Panama, Nicaragua, and Hawaii, where açaí and smoothie bowl shops were a common find. What started as a small sidewalk pop-up has grown into a national brand with over 300 locations across 30 states.

👇BELOW: MORE NEW WEST MICHIGAN RESTAURANTS TO DISCOVER👇

Playa Bowl via Facebook
Playa Bowl via Facebook
loading...

West Michigan Expansion Continues

In West Michigan, the growth has been steady. The chain opened a Grand Rapids location on the East Beltline in May of last year, followed by stores in Grandville and Kalamazoo. Now Holland has joined the list.

READ MORE: Get 25+ Free Samples at Upcoming SampleFest in West Michigan

The newest Playa Bowls restaurant opened on West 9th Street last month, adding another option for açaí bowls, smoothies, and fruit-forward snacks in the area.

What’s on the Menu at Playa Bowls

The concept centers around customizable bowls built on bases like açaí, pitaya (dragon fruit), coconut, and kale. From there, customers can add a variety of toppings like granola, fresh fruit, nut butters, seeds, and drizzles. The menu also includes smoothies, juices, and cold brew.

The brand also plays up its surf culture roots. Stores are designed with a bright, coastal feel that mirrors its origins on the Jersey Shore, giving each location a laid-back, beachy atmosphere.

UP NEXT: Ultimate Guide to Free Outdoor Movies Around West Michigan This Summer

With Holland now in the mix, the chain continues to build momentum across West Michigan, especially for anyone looking for something fresh, fast, and a little different from the usual quick-service stops.

The new restaurant in Holland is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Ultimate List of New West Michigan Restaurants in 2026

Looking for new restaurants to try in West Michigan in 2026?

From Grand Rapids to Holland, Cascade, Grandville, and East Grand Rapids, a variety of restaurants have opened so far this year, and this gallery keeps track of them all.

You’ll find fresh sandwiches, Caribbean and Indian cuisine, Cajun and seafood boils, late-night bites, comfort food, pizza, and more.

Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a family-friendly dinner, a salad bar, or a late-night snack, there is something new for every taste. This gallery will be updated throughout the year as more restaurants open, so check back often to see what is new and worth trying!

Gallery Credit: Janna

What’s New to Eat? 45+ West Michigan Restaurants That Opened in 2025

Looking to explore West Michigan’s booming restaurant scene? More than 40 new dining destinations opened in 2025 across Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Wyoming, Hudsonville, and Holland—and the list keeps growing!

From fresh bakeries and authentic Mexican restaurants to Cajun eateries, burger joints, Vietnamese spots, vegan places, a footlong hot dog establishment, and even a beloved Grand Rapids breakfast and lunch favorite brought back to life, there’s something for every taste. Don’t miss the new bars and food trucks shaking things up too!

Gallery Credit: Janna