The first time I had a legit açai bowl was when I visited Bali, Indonesia for the first time. The wellness scene was starting to grow back then in 2015, and Aussies were bringing in delicious açai bowls to the island. I remember trying it and to this day, I will never, ever forget how delicious it tasted. Tarty, frozen acai with slices of fresh fruit, some granola, toasted coconut, goji berries, and some chia seeds—it was pure heaven! 

The first açai bowl I had in Bali, 2015.

Fast forward to 2025—I still live in Manila and still dream about that delicious açai bowl from time to time. 

Thank goodness there's some good news for us Manila-based açai fans: Omberry is coming!

                                               Omberry Signature Tuki-Tuki Bowls                                   

What is Açai?

Açai is a Portugese word and is pronounced phonetically as /asa’i/ or simply aa-saa-ee. Think of the Japanese appliance maker, Asahi, but say it without the H. Aa-saa-ee. The superfood comes from açai palm trees which are common in the Amazon river and rainforest region, especially in Brazil. The small berry with dark purple skin and yellow flesh has been a food source for many centuries for the indigenous people in the region.

While now trendy globally, the consumption of açai is rooted in nutrition and health benefits. Açai berries contain vitamin A, and are high in fiber and good fats. Compared to other berries—blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and raspberries, açai berries have more antioxidants that fight free radicals in our systems. They also contain other trace minerals including chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.                                    

Omberry frozen Açaì with fruits and superfood toppingsBrazilians eat açai in many ways including having the berries mashed, blended, or served with other food including fish, shrimp, and other seafood. In other countries, açai is popularly consumed as a healthy snack for a quick bite providing a shot of vitamins and minerals.                    

Fresh açai berries have a short shelf life and are not available outside the region where açai palm trees are grown. Elsewhere in the world, açai is available as a powder, frozen purée, or pressed juice.                   

 In the Philippines, market entrant Omberry is the first açai superfood bar in the country. Its offerings include thoughtfully crafted, organic açai soft serve, smoothies, and bowls. Omberry prides itself in using premium, sustainably-sourced açai berries. No artificial sweeteners are used in its products plus Omberry offers a customizable menu allowing customers to choose healthy, delicious toppings.        Take OM Frozen Scoopable Açaì Served Solo or with ToppingsThe Big OM Antioxidant-Rich Smoothie

Behind Omberry is a group of successful Filipinas from the growing wellness community in the country. Cinty Yniguez, a plant-based and raw vegan wellness chef and consultant, a certified yoga teacher and culinary nutrition coach, and entrepreneur; Imma Altavas, an entrepreneur and advertising agency executive; Rosa Corrales, a mom and entrepreneur; Ysabel Castro, interior designer and fitness enthusiast; Marie Koh, fitness enthusiast and management core team of the Rockwell Run Club.

READ: Fascinating Women 2024: Plant-Based Wellness Chef & Consultant Cinty Yniguez    

“We see Omberry resonating with consumers who prioritize health and maintain an active lifestyle. With the growing demand for healthier food options, açai is now becoming a staple among those looking for guilt-free treats,” says Cinty.                    

Omberry products target health-conscious individuals looking for a fresh, organic snack or meal replacement, wellness practitioners needing a nutrient-packed boost, and consumers who crave a tasty yet healthy treat. The menu includes affordable items like: Omberry Frozen Açaì Solo, Omberry Frozen Açaì with Fruits and SuperFood Toppings, Omberry’s The Big OM Antioxidant-Rich Smoothie, Frozen Scoopable Açaì, Homemade Açai Chia Pudding, and Omberry Signature Tuki-Tuki Bowls.                

Watch out for Omberry, opening soon in April 2025. The bar will be located at Level 2 – K2208 of Robinsons Magnolia.