Bootstrapped Açaí Brand Continues Expanding in South Florida

Ernie’s Açaí Bowls has seen rapid growth since opening in 2022. Partner Andrew Platt shared with Business Debut that the company is preparing to open its fifth location in Boca Raton by the end of summer, with plans to expand into Parkland as well, though no date has been announced for that location yet.

Platt became involved with Ernie’s after overhearing founder Hernando Caicedo discussing plans for the original shop while at a nearby table in the same restaurant. He offered some resources, and that conversation eventually led to a partnership between Caicedo, Platt, and Sebastian Williamson.

Ernie’s remains focused exclusively on açaí, offering a proprietary blend made with açaí, apple, lemon, beet, and strawberry juices. Their blend is designed to have lower sugar content than competitors—approximately 12 grams per bowl compared to some brands that contain up to 40 grams.

The upcoming Boca Raton store will open at 5030 Champion Blvd Unit B-1, Boca Raton, FL 33496, in the former Duck Donuts space. The shop will occupy 1,163 square feet and is targeting an opening ahead of the school year.

Since its founding, the brand has been entirely bootstrapped, using profits from existing stores to fund each new location. This strategy has allowed the team to remain lean and focused on its mission.

More information is available at erniesacai.com and on Instagram.