Today we’d like to introduce you to Julian De Jong.
Hi Julian, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Our Story
It all started with a passion for better health. When my wife Rachel switched to a vegetarian diet, we began experimenting with superfoods and building vibrant bowls at home. Once we discovered how incredibly delicious they were — and felt the real difference in our energy and well-being — we dove deep into research, flavor development, and perfecting recipes. That spark became our true passion.
On April 1, 2023, we launched our food truck in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Strip District. The incredible support from our neighbors and local customers was overwhelming. We returned for a second successful season in 2024 (April through October), and as a true blessing, we were given the opportunity to open our very own brick-and-mortar location just down the street — Aruba Island Bowls Café.
We believe we’ve made it this far through our unwavering commitment to quality. At Aruba Island Bowls Café, we ensure freshness and peak flavor by sourcing ingredients exclusively from trusted local vendors and preparing everything in small batches daily. Every bowl, smoothie, and bite is crafted to deliver the vibrant, island-fresh experience our customers love.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a crazy road for us — full of ups and downs, just like life itself. Pittsburgh weather doesn’t make it any easier, with its unpredictable swings that can challenge even the most dedicated small business.
But we’ve learned that when you stay true to your passion, do the right thing, and remain persistent with a clear vision for the future, you can push through the tough times. This journey has taught us so much, and we’re still learning every day.
We’re excited to keep growing, improving ourselves, and sharing this vibrant, island-fresh concept with the rest of Pittsburgh.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Our Commitment to Community
At Aruba Island Bowls Café, we’re committed to supporting wellness in Pittsburgh by partnering with like-minded local businesses and offering exclusive discounts to their members and supporters. We actively collaborate with health-focused organizations to host yoga classes, wellness workshops, and entrepreneurial meetups — creating a warm, vibrant space where health enthusiasts, creatives, and small business owners can gather, connect, and thrive together.
What Sets Us Apart
What makes our smoothies and bowls special is our unwavering commitment to quality and freshness.
All our recipes are crafted in-house daily using only the highest-quality ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers.
By preparing everything in small batches each morning, we guarantee maximum freshness, vibrant flavor, and optimal nutrition in every cup.
We are known for our fresh smoothie bowls and smoothies packed with superfoods. We ensure every piece of fruit is perfectly ripe, and we take pride in using 100% real fruit in all our menu items. You can truly taste the difference. Every single morning, we bring in fresh produce so that quality speaks for itself in every bowl and smoothie we serve.
We are a local small business in the heart of Pittsburgh striving to become the #1 Acai smoothie and bowl shop in the city. Every single day, we work toward that goal by delivering excellent quality, warm and friendly service, premium superfoods, and perfectly ripe fruit in everything we serve.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I truly believe that the best mentor is life & experience. Some lessons simply cannot be taught — you have to roll with the punches, learn from every challenge, and keep moving forward. Life is a journey, and the key is to make the best of it every single day.
You never stop learning, especially as an entrepreneur. If you have the heart of a tiger and the drive to build and create, know that it’s a tough road — but you have to be tougher. Embrace every experience, learn from it, and keep pushing toward.
Pricing:
- $5 – $10
- $10- $20
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.arubaislandbowls.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arubaislandbowlscafe/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082825587440
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@arubaislandbowlscafe?lang=en
