PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Fans of Portland’s favorite health food bowl can rest easy knowing that The Whole Bowl is here to stay, thanks to an acquisition by another local company.
Moberi, a smoothie and acai-bowl shop, announced its purchase of the iconic bowl brand on Monday. Founder Ryan Carpenter also shared plans to expand The Whole Bowl to a former Moberi location in Lake Oswego by 2025.
However, Carpenter said he does not plan to change the classic menu at The Whole Bowl, which features one item with brown rice, black and red beans, cheddar cheese, black olives, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, salsa, and “Tali sauce.”
“We’re excited to bring The Whole Bowl to Lake Oswego residents looking for that iconic bowl of rice and beans,” he said. “There’s a reason that this bowl has remained relatively untouched for over two decades.”
Back in 2001, The Whole Bowl was one of the first food carts to find success in the city under its founder Tali Ovadia — eventually expanding to seven locations throughout Portland.
“Tali was one of the first Portland founders to open a food cart and she paved the way for the first Moberi with its bike-powered smoothie blender,” Carpenter said. “We’ve been neighboring businesses throughout the years, including at the Portland Airport and the Portland Food Hall. As a long-time admirer of The Whole Bowl, I’m honored that Tali is entrusting me to carry on its legacy.”
In response, Ovadia shared that her company’s purchase was a friendly business exchange.
“In the spirit of The Whole Bowl, this handover has been more hugs than handshakes,” Ovadia said. “I wish Ryan the best of luck and many years of 'bowling.'”
