Originally started in Kent’s Acorn Alley in 2020, the Fruit Stand — a youthful and vibrant cafe, specializes in fresh-cut fruit bowls, smoothie bowls, oatmeal bowls and poundcake bowls. Guests can also grab a cup of cold brew, pressed juice or a smoothie or toast with a myriad of topping options. We had the chance to talk to owner Jason Carpinelli, who is expanding to a new location in Playhouse Square at 1501 Euclid Ave. near Cleveland State University’s campus. Here’s everything you need to know about the fast-casual establishment opening Feb. 1. You can grab a regular bowl for $6.99 and a large bowl for $8.99.
(Jason Carpinelli shares the moment he got his keys to the new location.)
Customize To Your Heart's Content
Bowls can be unique every single time one stops in the shop. Your choice of seasonal fresh fruit and produce such as bananas, strawberries, or blackberries pair perfectly with crunchy toppings such as coconut flakes, graham cracker crumbs, chia seeds, granola and more. Finally, top it all off with a drizzle, which varies from locally sourced honey to Nutella. Despite a sometimes overwhelming amount of options, this fast-casual bowl is perfect when you're on the go. “We can get you in and out, even if there’s a line, in under 15 minutes,” Carpinelli says.
Shop Smarter and Fresher
If buying fresh fruit bowls sounds like an expensive investment, don’t worry, Carpinelli did the math already. “I just try to provide the top best quality of fruit at the best price possible,” he says. “If you wanted to go to the store and make your own fruit bowl, it would cost you like $15 just to get the same amount of fruit.” Plus, you'd be hard-pressed to make an at-home bowl as social media-friendly as these whipped cream-topped gems.
The Perfect Hidden Gem
Carpinelli knew that Euclid Avenue was the perfect place to set up shop because Playhouse Square doesn't have anything like the Fruit Stand. “I like quirky little spots, hidden gem type places– and that’s what Playhouse Square has,” he says. The Fruit Stand even has a grass wall decorated with fun neon lights to show they’re fun, inviting and ready for a photo moment. This location also uniquely features a loft space for customers to enjoy a nice chat with their bowls, and overlook the whole store from their tables.