The Costco Food Court is undeniably an iconic part of the Costco experience. While I am a big fan of the churros and hotdogs, I would have to say the Acai Bowl just might be my favorite Costco Food Court item.
Introduced in my Costco in 2018, the Acai Bowl was a beacon of color and fruit that almost instantaneously became one of my all-time favorite treats. I have seen the haters and how they claim that the "acai bowl is the worst item at Costco Food Courts." And to that, I wholeheartedly disagree.
I concede that the acai bowl may not be as healthy as it may seem. The acai itself is not all-natural, and there is definitely a hefty sprinkle of sugar in there. However, I don't opt for an acai bowl because I'm looking for a healthy treat. In fact, the Costco Food Court itself is not the best place to look if you are craving something healthy. I love the acai bowl since it's an affordable, refreshing, and delicious snack that gives me serotonin.
First of all, just look at how beautiful it is:
Ugh my mouth literally waters just looking at it. Everything about the acai bowl works perfectly, in my opinion. The acai consists of a sweet but slightly tart base that's creamy and gives off a berry flavor. Contrary to popular opinion, I actually like the acai base. Although others call it lacking in flavor, I like how it tastes. I love the thick texture and how it tastes almost like a berry smoothie and I think it compliments the toppings very well. The blueberries and strawberries add the perfect touch of freshness and sweetness, while the banana chips and granola add a great layer of crunchiness and heartiness. I could not imagine a better combination of flavors. All of the ingredients balance out to create a bowl of refreshing flavor.
Compared to other Costco Food Court items, the acai bowl gives me an unprecedented rush of excitement and delight. I've always loved acai bowls- just because they feel like a delicious frozen yogurt treat. I love how rejuvenating they are and how fresh and fruity the flavors taste. I actually am a BIG fan of fruit so it's no big surprise that I love the acai bowl. Especially with warm weather, I'm always looking for a refreshing snack (which the acai bowl delivers). One setback to my love for frozen treats is that I am lactose intolerant. And although I will risk discomfort for a dairy treat at times, none of the Costco ice creams really seem to deliver for me. The acai bowl, on the other hand, provides a vegan, lactose-free, fresh, and satisfying snack that I will always love.
I would like to emphasize that I have never been disappointed by a Costco Acai Bowl. The ratios are always perfectly balanced and the flavors are just *chef's kiss*. Given that Costco sells (or used to sell) these acai bowls nationwide, I'm pretty sure there is a standardized method of making them. I know what to expect every time, and I love the consistency of the taste and flavors. I have yet to get a "bad batch" or an acai bowl that does not meet my expectations. Read my review of the Costco Acai Bowl from 2018 and you'll see that everything still stands true today:
Not to mention, the price is just as lipsmacking. For only $4.99, I believe the acai bowl is a WONDERFUL deal. Other fresh acai bowls sell at around $10, while Costco delivers with a filling, fresh, and delicious bowl for half that price.
One of the setbacks to this delicious treat is that it does pack in 41 grams of sugar. Yes, that is quite the amount but I also don't treat myself to an acai bowl every time I go to Costco. I consider the acai bowl a wonderful dessert or "reward" I can treat myself to every once in a while. I LOVE the acai bowl with all of my heart, but I'm careful to only buy a bowl when I truly feel like I've deserved it.
Given how much I love the Costco Acai Bowls, I have implemented it as a reward for my work. When I'm stressed at school/work, I use the acai bowl as an incentive to make me work harder. For instance, if I was stressed over a test I had to take, I would tell myself if I scored a certain percentage on that test I could treat myself to an acai bowl. Last year, I also attended a figure skating competition in Virgnia. I was very stressed about performing and I would constantly motivate myself by telling myself I could treat myself to an acai bowl after I competed. For me, the Costco Acai Bowl served as a source of motivation for me to accomplish my goals. Since I go to Costco every week, I am tempted to buy the acai bowl everytime I see it being advertised at the food courts. It's this temptation that truly drives me to work hard and aim for success. In essence, the acai bowl fuels me at my core.
Now, you can imagine my disappointment that Costco has pulled the acai bowls from their stores due to Covid. I am absolutely heartbroken that I haven't been able to get my hands on a Costco Acai Bowl for four months. I miss you so very much, Costco Acai Bowl, and I can't wait for you to return 💙
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