Acai bowls, known for their beauty and health benefits, are gaining huge popularity. Recently, not only can you find them at cafes across Tokyo, but you can also enjoy them conveniently from convenience stores. Whether you're wondering, “What do acai bowls taste like?” or “Where can I try one?”, or if you're already obsessed with acai, this article will fully immerse you in its charm! From the basics of what an acai bowl is, to how to enjoy it, and a full guide to popular spots in Tokyo, we've got it all covered.
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What is an Acai Bowl?
Acai bowl is a healthy dessert made by blending puree of the superfruit acai, which originates from the Amazon region of Brazil, with milk, almond milk, or soy milk into a smoothie-like consistency. It is then topped with fresh fruits, granola, nuts, seeds, honey, and other delicious ingredients.
Originally a traditional food in Brazil, it gained popularity in Hawaii as a health-conscious local dish and is now a beloved sweet treat enjoyed all over the world.
What Kind of Fruit Is Acai? What Does It Taste Like?
You might be wondering, "What exactly is acai?"
Acai is a small berry from a type of palm tree native to the Amazon River region in Brazil. It looks similar to a blueberry with its deep purplish-black color, but its flavor is more nutty with a hint of tart sweetness. Rich in polyphenols, dietary fiber, iron, calcium, and other nutrients, it is often called the "king of superfoods" and has attracted worldwide attention.
Why Are Acai Bowls So Popular?
Why are so many people obsessed with acai bowls? Let’s take a closer look at the secrets behind their popularity.
Superfood Benefits That Support Beauty and Health
The greatest appeal of acai lies in its remarkable nutritional value. Especially rich in polyphenols and other antioxidants, acai is known for its positive effects on beauty and anti-aging. It also contains dietary fiber that helps regulate the digestive system and provides a natural energy boost. The ability to enjoy something delicious while nourishing the body from the inside out is a major reason why health-conscious individuals strongly support acai bowls.
Cute and Colorful! Photogenic Look
With its vibrant purple acai base topped with colorful fruits and granola, an acai bowl is as bright and eye-catching as it gets. It truly looks like a work of edible art. Its photogenic appearance makes people want to take pictures and share them on social media. This visual appeal has especially captured the hearts of younger generations and helped drive the popularity of acai bowls.
Light Yet Satisfying! Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert
Acai bowls are cold and smooth, with the refreshing tartness of fruit and the crunchy texture of granola and other toppings providing a nice accent. Although they look light, they are quite filling, making them perfect for when you want to eat something light but still feel satisfied. They are especially popular as a healthy breakfast or a post-meal dessert, and many people choose them as a quick option for busy mornings or as a guilt-free treat during dieting.
7 Popular Spots to Enjoy Acai Bowls in Tokyo
In Tokyo, there are many cafes and specialty shops that serve acai bowls. Among them, we have carefully selected especially popular spots that are creating a buzz, as well as recommended shops that a Fun! Japan editor who loves acai bowls personally visits often. Be sure to find your favorite place and give it a try!
【Jingumae】TREE by NAKED meiji park (Meiji Park)
Located inside Meiji Park, which drew attention during the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, "TREE by NAKED" is a cafe produced by the creative company NAKED, INC. Both the space design and the acai bowl here are like works of art.
You can enjoy a fresh acai bowl that recreates the authentic taste of Hawaii. The carefully selected toppings, such as homemade granola, hazelnut butter, and vegan honey syrup, are also part of the appeal.
In addition to acai bowls, the cafe also offers a variety of smoothie bowls to suit your mood for the day. All menu items are vegan-friendly. It also functions as a dog cafe, making it a perfect spot to stop by during a walk with your dog. Takeout is available too, so you can enjoy a picnic-like experience in the spacious park. There is also Yoyogi Park store, so be sure to check that out as well.
TREE by NAKED meiji park (Meiji Park)
- Address: 1F THE COURT Jingu Gaien, 2-2-39 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (LO.16:00)
- Closed: Wednesdays
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treebynaked_meijipark/
【Odaiba】Island Vintage Coffee
"Island Vintage Coffee" is a classic Hawaiian cafe beloved by fans of Hawaii. You can enjoy a rich acai bowl that faithfully recreates the taste of Hawaii. Made with organic granola and 100% Hawaiian honey, its authentic flavor is exceptional. Available in two sizes, half and regular, the bowls served in cute mug-shaped dishes are another highlight.
In addition to acai bowls, the cafe also offers a variety of light meals such as sandwiches and pancakes, making it perfect for tea time. Other store locations include Omotesando, Yokohama Bay Quarter, and Kamakura.
Island Vintage Coffee Odaiba Store
- Address: 3F Seaside Mall, Decks Tokyo Beach, 1-6-1 Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: Weekdays 11:00-20:00 (LO.19:30)
Weekends and holidays 11:00-21:00 (LO.20:30) - Closed: None
- Official Website: https://www.islandvintagecoffee.co.jp/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islandvintagecoffeejapan/
【Omotesando】THE_B
Located just steps from Omotesando Station, "THE_B" is a cozy, hidden cafe that has become so popular that it often draws long lines. Their most popular item, the "Acai Beauty Bowl," features an original acai base blend topped generously with colorful ingredients like strawberries, coconut chips, granola, cacao nibs, blueberries, goji berries, and banana. It's truly a bowl made with beauty and wellness in mind.
The cafe also offers a wide range of smoothies and salad bowls. Also, a mobile ordering service is available exclusively for takeout, so it is convenient to pick up your order in between shopping. There's also another store in Nakameguro, so be sure to check that out as well.
THE_B Omotesando Store
- Address: 1F, 5-10-2 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: 10:00-19:30 (LO.19:00)
- Closed: None
- Official Website: https://theb.jp/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_b_vegan/?hl=en
【Kichijoji】Lanikai Juice
"Lanikai Juice", which originated in Oahu, Hawaii, is a popular cafe known for its fresh smoothies and juices. The most popular item is the "Acai Flamingo", topped with a colorful mix of berries. One of the biggest attractions at Lanikai Juice is the ability to fully customize your acai bowl from the base to the toppings, allowing you to create a bowl that is uniquely yours.
In addition to the Kichijoji store, there are also other stores such as Kichijoji Marui, Omotesando, Miyashita Park, and Harajuku Takeshita Street, making it easy to access from various areas of Tokyo.
Lanikai Juice Kichijoji Store
- Address: 1F Suda Building, 1-9-2 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 11:00-20:00
Fri 11:00-21:00
Sat, Sun, Holidays 10:00-21:00 - Closed: None
- Official Website: https://lanikaijuice.co.jp/
- Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/lanikaijuice_jp/
【Kamiyacho】Tokyo Juice Azabudai Hills Store
"Tokyo Juice" is a popular brand with several locations throughout Tokyo, known for its cold-pressed juices and smoothies. Acai bowls are also a staple on the menu and loved by many. These healthy bowls are made with high-quality acai and are especially recommended for those who prioritize wellness. English menus and pet-friendly seating are also part of what makes this cafe so popular.
In addition to the Azabudai Hills store, there are also stores in Omotesando, Hiroo, and Yoyogi, so try the carefully made acai bowls at a store near you.
Tokyo Juice Azabudai Hills Store
- Address: B1F, Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B, 1-3-1 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: Weekdays, Saturdays: 08:00-18:00
Sundays and Holidays: 09:00-18:00 - Closed: None
- Official Website: https://tokyojuice.jp/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tokyojuice
【Daikanyama】 SACYA
Located in a quiet area of Daikanyama, SACYA is the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy an acai bowl in a calm, relaxing place. The cafe is also known for its matcha drinks and basque cheesecake. The terrace seating is pet-friendly, making it a great place to unwind with your dog.
Another store is scheduled to open in Shibuya Scramble Square in late July 2025, so keep an eye out for that too!
SACYA Daikanyama Store
- Address: 102 Daikanyama Pocket Park, 2-21-15 Ebisu Nishi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Opening Hours:11:00-18:00
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Official Website: https://www.sacya.co.jp/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sacya.jp
【Shibuya】SUNRISE SHACK
"SUNRISE SHACK", which originated on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, has reopened in Tokyu Plaza Shibuya. The cafe brings the laid-back Hawaiian vibe to Tokyo while serving carefully crafted acai bowls. Peanut butter is one of the most popular toppings! With a wide variety of other toppings available, you can enjoy customizing your acai bowl to your liking.
SUNRISE SHACK Shibuya Store
- Address: 7F Tokyu Plaza Shibuya, 1-2-3 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: 11:00-20:00
- Closed: None
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunriseshack_shibuya.popup/
Acai Products Available at Convenience Stores and Cafe Chains
For those who find it hard to wait in line at acai bowl specialty shops or want to enjoy acai more casually, it's now easier than ever to find acai-related products at convenience stores and major cafe chains.
7-Eleven
Dole Acai Bowl
This cup-style product makes it easy to enjoy an acai bowl at home. Since it’s frozen, you only need to thaw it when you’re ready to eat. It includes toppings like granola and banana, making it a satisfying option. Plus, it’s affordable at under 500 yen!
- Price: 497 yen
Acai Banana Smoothie
This smoothie blends rich acai puree and yogurt ice cubes with strawberries, blueberries, and banana. By mixing it in the in-store machine, you get a high-quality acai smoothie in seconds.
- Price: 380 yen
FamilyMart
Acai Bowl Ice Bar
This two-layered ice bar combines acai and yogurt flavors, giving you a refreshing taste reminiscent of an acai bowl with yogurt. Perfect for the warmer seasons!
- Price: 218 yen
Tully’s Coffee
Frozen Cup Acai Yogurt
This frozen dessert features acai sorbet layered over yogurt-flavored mousse, topped with roasted coconut and strawberries. It’s a great seasonal treat as the temperature rises.
- Price: Single item 765 yen
Set from 1,100 yen
* Due to the limited quantity, it will end as soon as it runs out.
Yogurt & Acai
A classic layered drink with acai and honey yogurt. The sweet and tangy flavor balance makes it great for breakfast. You can also add a free honey topping!
- Price: 565 yen
Doutor Coffee
Acai Yogurt
A frozen drink that mixes acai sauce with yogurt, offering a perfect balance of the berry’s tartness and yogurt’s creaminess.
- Price: S 520 yen M 570 yen L 620 yen
Granola Yogurt ~Acai~
A more filling version of the Acai Yogurt with granola topping. Ideal for those who want to enjoy extra texture along with the flavor.
- Price: S 600 yen M 650 yen L 700 yen
Enjoy at Home Too! How to Make an Acai Bowl
Acai bowl specialty shops and cafes can sometimes have long lines, and the prices can be a bit high. That’s why more and more people are choosing to make acai bowls at home. One of the best parts of making them yourself is getting to load up your bowl with as many of your favorite toppings as you like.
Acai Puree Available at Costco, Kaldi, and Gyomu Super
To make an acai bowl at home, start by getting some acai puree. Frozen acai puree is available at stores like Costco, Kaldi, and Gyomu Super at affordable prices. Once you’ve thawed it, blend it with your choice of liquid, such as milk, almond milk, or soy milk, to create a smooth acai base.
Recommended Toppings
After your acai base is ready, it’s time to add toppings. Here are some great options.
Granola
- Frozen fruits like bananas or strawberries
- Coconut flakes
- Chia seeds and nuts
- Honey or maple syrup
- Yogurt
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Whether at a shop or at home, enjoy delicious and easy-to-make acai bowls anytime!
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