As an adult walking through downtown Loveland, there’s always plenty to do. Options abound—restaurants and bars and boutiques offering one-of-a-kind items to fulfill your every shopping need. Plus the bike path and sports equipment outfitters, all geared toward outdoor enthusiasts.
But as a teen, you may have felt relegated to mostly outdoor spaces, hanging out by the river or along the bike path. That is, until recently.
Enter Playa Bowls Loveland, New Jersey’s original acai shop, serving up smoothie bowls and other healthy items now in historic downtown–and where local teens are flocking in droves, both as a place of employment and enjoyment.
Welcome to Pineappleland
It’s not hard to see why teens are drawn to Playa Bowls—its bright facade welcomes you into an interior filled with tropical vibes, from the colorful menu boards to the beachy-themed, hand-painted wall art.
Owner Aimee Jacob says teens were exactly the demographic she had in mind when opening Playa Bowls this spring in the former Loveland Sweet Shoppe location.
“We wanted Playa Bowls Loveland to be a great place to go with a friend or a group,” she explains. “Whether before or after school, after a practice or as a weekend gathering spot, we wanted teens to say, ‘let’s meet at Playa Bowls!’”
In addition to being a great high-schooler hang, Playa Bowls is also the perfect place to work. Aimee says she had more than 200 teens apply when they first opened, ultimately hiring 23 crew members with ages ranging from 15-20.
“One of the most rewarding parts of opening this business has been seeing the drive and ambition of so many teens,” Aimee adds. “It’s the perfect after-school and summer job. Our crew has fun, works hard and learns life skills while being on a team.”
Elle Ostholthoff, 16-year-old Loveland resident and employee, agrees. “The team here built a connection with each other that just radiates positivity,” she smiles. “People like the beachy theme, summer vibes and great atmosphere—plus, the bowls are soo good!”
The Best Bowls?
Aimee’s recos to tempt you with the most popular Playa Bowls:
Nutella® Bowl. Playa Acai topped with blueberry flax granola, strawberry, banana, coconut flakes and Nutella®.
Pura Vida. Playa Acai topped with blueberry flax granola, strawberry, blueberry and honey.
Electric Mermaid. Playa Pitaya topped with blueberry flax granola, pineapple, mango, kiwi, coconut flakes and honey.
Goldie Mango. Playa Mango topped with blueberry flax granola, strawberry, banana and Nutella®.
PlayaBowls.com/location/loveland | 124 W. Loveland Ave, Loveland | 513.239.6042
“The team here built a connection with each other that just radiates positivity.” - Elle