We’ve all seen how consistent the Seminole Heights’ food scene is growing over the years and there’s no evidence it’s stopping soon. Harvest Bowl will officially add itself to the mix this Friday, January 10 upon making its official debut at 6109 N. Florida Ave. The new concept is a blend of a specialty market and a fast-casual restaurant.
“We wanted something that was fast and catered to everyone from college students to families to couples having a date night,” explains co-owner Athar Naif.
Athar and her sister Atheer, who is also co-owner, started working on initial ideas for Harvest Bowl in late-2018. It took a month for them to gather up the courage to finally start putting any kind of plans in action. Inspiration for decor ranged from their husbands to Pinterest, with a heavy emphasis on foliage.
“We wanted something fresh where you could hang out and feel the ambiance. We want you to be comfortable,” says Atheer.
Expect to see fast, quality healthy foods on the menu. The concept offers a full, customizable salad bar with lots of variety, drinks including coffee, tea, CBD-infused kombucha, and acai bowls. The market includes simple grab-and-go options like dairy, veggies, dry fruit, and hummus. The menu choices range between $7-$13, comprised of ingredients that are either locally-sourced or house-made.
“We’re working on different tastes and spice combinations if we do curry lentils and the falafels,” says Kevin Boxx, executive chef at Harvest Bowl. He says the neighborhood is giving input into what they like so the menu can continue to evolve.
They’re open to any suggestions Seminole Heights residents have since this is the first time either one of the sisters has opened a restaurant.
“We’re flexible. We’ve been taking feedback from everyone online; we ask our Instagram followers everything,” says Atheer.
The 4,000-square-foot space offers up limited seating inside, with an outside pet-friendly patio area in the works.
“Everyone is welcome to bring their dogs. We’re going to be pet-friendly so families can bring their pets on the patio and hang out while grabbing a bite to eat,” Athar says.
Harvest Bowl's grand opening event is in the works for next month. It will be open 7 days a week from 7 a.m.-9:30 p.m. in the beginning and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Plans for a Sunday Brunch-inspired menu come at a later date.
“Champagne is usually what draws people in for brunch, but we aren’t serving any alcohol,” he mentions.
The Naif sisters hope one day Harvest Bowl becomes a staple in the neighborhood. Both agree catering to various crowds and the freshness of their food is how they’ll leave a mark.
“There’s nothing like it in the area yet. You won’t find something fast, casual, and convenient that’s open all day in the neighborhood,” says Atheer.
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This article appears in Jan 16-23, 2020.