Playa Bowls, a fast growing chain known for its acai and pitaya bowls, smoothies and cold brew coffee, is planning to open multiple locations in the greater Charlotte area, including a restaurant in Tega Cay, according to a report from WhatNow.com.
The expansion comes after multi unit operator Coleen Jeter and her cousin, Robin Richards, signed a multi unit franchise agreement to develop Playa Bowls locations across the region. WhatNow.com, citing reporting from Chain Store Age, reported that the first restaurant under the agreement will open in Indian Land, followed by a location in Tega Cay.
An exact address for the Tega Cay restaurant has not yet been announced, and a timeline for opening has not been confirmed. According to WhatNow.com, the outlet reached out to franchise co owner Coleen Jeter for details on the site and opening date but had not received a response as of publication.
Company executive points to operator demand
In a statement provided to WhatNow.com, Playa Bowls Chief Development Officer Jayson Tipp said the new agreements reflect strong interest from operators who are looking for a brand with broad consumer appeal and long term growth potential. Tipp said the company’s focus remains on disciplined development and building the right partnerships as it continues to grow.
The Tega Cay agreement is part of a broader push for the New Jersey based chain. WhatNow.com reported, citing Chain Store Age, that Playa Bowls opened 85 new locations in 2025, bringing its national footprint to nearly 400 shops across 30 states.
Founded in 2014, Playa Bowls offers more than 40 menu items, including customizable acai, pitaya, coconut and green bowls along with smoothies, juices, oatmeal bowls and cold brew coffee.
What comes next
No site plan or permit filing has been confirmed locally as of this report. The Tega Cay Sun will continue to follow this story and will report further details on the restaurant’s exact location and opening date once they are announced by Playa Bowls or franchise ownership.
Sign up here to receive the Tega Cay Sun "day" Spectator every Sunday morning with all the news from the week directly to your inbox
Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
