I became a changed woman this summer. No, it wasn’t because I started Game of Thrones (although I am changed in other ways because of that) or because I finally perfected my order at Starbucks (grande iced nonfat chai tea latte, one pump vanilla — yes I’m basic). It was because I had my first açaí bowl, and for those of you who do not know what that is, then today is your lucky day.
This bowl of heavenly deliciousness not only tastes good, but is good for you! The açaí berry is known as a “superfood” that has some great health benefits such as improving your heart, clearing up your skin, and aiding in weight loss. In an açaí bowl, the açaí berry gets blended into a thick substance, similar to that of a milkshake or smoothie, and is topped with oatmeal, fruit, coconut shavings, and/or peanut butter to just name a few. Don’t forget to take a photo of this bad boy before you dig in — açaí bowls are just too pretty to not take a pic of them.
Now I know you are probably wondering how food this healthy could possibly taste good.
Gif courtesy of giphy.com
The açaí berry is known for its taste. The berry is filled with antioxidants, and has a taste that is a mix of blueberries, strawberries, and a hint of chocolate. Mix that together with some peanut butter and nuts and BAM — breakfast is served.
Gif courtesy of giphy.com
Living in New York City, I have made it my mission to find the best açaí bowl to fill the emptiness in my heart (and stomach). I’ve managed to narrow down my options to four places which, I believe, have helped bring the gift that is açaí to the city.
Pro tip: to avoid looking like a newb, make sure you know how to say it. Açaí is pronounced ah-sah-EE.
Juice Generation
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
They have several locations around the city, but the one I went to was at Grand Central (122 E 42nd Street). I tried the Almond Butter Bliss Açaí Bowl and I was definitely in a state of bliss after eating that.
Agavi Organic Juice Bar
Photo by Madeline McGuire
This adorable little shop is located on 7th Street between 1st and 2nd Ave. Agavi is an organic juice bar in the East Village, and I would definitely recommend the PB&J Açaí Bowl because it is a beautiful blend of my favorite things: peanut butter, banana, almond milk, and açaí.
Two Hands NYC
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
You don’t have to be an art major to see how aesthetically beautiful this açaí bowl is. Located right around the corner from Washington Square Park, Two Hands NYC should be on the top of your list for not only having some of the prettiest açaí bowls, but also some of the best tasting ones too. Raspberries, blueberries, cacao, coconut shavings, and quinoa all in one place – where have you been all my life?
Pure Green
This cold pressed juice and smoothie company Pure Green has many locations all around NYC including Midtown East, Greenwich Village, The Financial District, Cobble Hill Brooklyn and more on the way with locations opening soon in Tribeca and the East Village. Pure Green has five different acai bowls including the unique and spectacular Coconut Chia Acai Bowl topped with chia seeds, coconut shavings, blueberries, fresh apple and organic hemp granola.
For those of you who do not live near a cafe or juice bar that sells açaí bowls, no need to fret! Açaí berry frozen puree can be bought in your local health food store or on Amazon, so you can make this delicious breakfast at home (I also recommend buying the puree because you save a couple of bucks, too).
So now that you know what the açaí bowl is, and how beautiful it looks, you absolutely need to go try one of these babies. You will not regret it.