Beloved and fast-growing acai and smoothie concept enters its first new market outside the Mid-Atlantic as part of a multi-state expansion strategy
Charlotte, NC (Restaurant News Release) South Block, the better-for-you brand known for its handcrafted acai bowls, smoothies and cold-pressed juices, will open its first Charlotte location on Jan. 17 at The Bowl at Ballantyne (14020 Stream Way, Suite 114). The opening marks the brand’s first move beyond D.C., Maryland and Virginia, and the official launch of South Block’s next phase of national growth.
Charlotte serves as the brand’s inaugural entry into a new market as part of a broader, multi-state expansion strategy fueled by strong unit-level performance, disciplined development and a growing demand for better-for-you dining. South Block plans to open 12 additional locations this year (across D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina), with more new markets expected to be announced throughout 2026.
“Charlotte is the perfect place to begin expanding beyond our home market,” said Amir Mostafavi, founder and CEO of South Block. “We’ve spent more than a decade building a brand rooted in community, quality and consistency, and this next chapter is about thoughtfully bringing that same experience to new cities (and blocks). Charlotte’s energy and culture make it an ideal starting point as we scale into a multi-state brand.”
The Ballantyne opening represents a strategic step toward establishing a foothold in North Carolina, with additional Charlotte-area stores planned in 2026 and beyond. The location will offer South Block’s full menu of made-to-order acai bowls, smoothies and cold-pressed juices, along with dine-in, pickup and delivery options.
To commemorate the milestone, South Block will host a grand opening celebration on Saturday, Jan. 17, featuring giveaways and complimentary samples.
South Block currently operates 21 locations across D.C., Maryland and Virginia and has experienced 40% store growth following its partnership with Savory Fund, a private equity firm focused on emerging restaurant brands.
“At South Block, our brand differentiation is really in our mission: ‘Make people feel awesome one block at a time by spreading good vibes and serving fresh food,’” said Steve Heeley, president of South Block. “It’s an experience and a feeling. Our product is a perfect fit for today’s consumers who want to eat mindfully, but demand deliciousness and premium quality.”
Located within The Bowl at Ballantyne, a destination known for its curated mix of food, retail and community-focused tenants, the new go-to spot aligns with South Block’s emphasis on placemaking and connection.
The Charlotte location will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, visit SouthBlock.com.
About South Block
South Block opened its first location in Arlington, Va., in 2011, with a mission to make people feel awesome one block at a time. It specializes in fresh, made-to-order smoothies, açai bowls, toasts and cold-pressed juices. The name was inspired by its first location on the south side of a block in the Clarendon neighborhood. South Block now has 21 locations across D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Mostafavi also started a nonprofit for South Block called Fruitful Planet, which helps provide fresh fruits and vegetables to underserved communities. Learn more at SouthBlock.com.
About Savory Fund
Savory is an innovative private equity firm that combines over $750 million in assets under management with a growth playbook and expertise that has been developed over 18 years of operating in the restaurant industry. Savory is currently invested in the following brands: Swig, R&R BBQ, PINCHO, Via 313 Pizzeria, Mo’ Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food, 86 Repairs, Saigon Hustle, Hash Kitchen, The Sicilian Butcher, Houston TX Hot Chicken, South Block, Bonrue Bakery and Hawkers Asian Street Food. For more information, visit SavoryFund.com.
Contact:
Josiah Kinman
Champion
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jkinman@championmgt.com