How a Trip to Rio Sparked an Açaí Obsession

Everything began in January 2023 when Holly and Gus spent two months in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, enjoying a break from the extremely cold winter in Minnesota.

During their time in Rio, Holly tried authentic Brazilian açaí for the first time at Ipanema Beach and quickly became hooked. She made it a daily ritual to have a cup of açaí after spending time at the beach.

Holly was captivated by the Brazilian açaí shops, taking pictures of their interiors and menus. This enjoyable experience in Rio inspired her and Gus to consider opening their own açaí shop in Holly's hometown.

Upon returning to the U.S., their idea evolved into a business plan. On June 9, 2023, Rio Açaí was inaugurated in Baxter, Minnesota, bringing the authentic flavour of Brazilian açaí to the state.