Johannesburg’s summer food scene is getting a taste of Brazil. On 27 November 2026, international açaí brand OAKBERRY will open its first Johannesburg store at Melrose Arch, introducing Joburg residents to one of Brazil’s most recognisable food experiences.

But this isn’t just another international food brand arriving in the city. It’s an introduction to a food culture built around fresh flavours, personal choice and bringing people together.

With colourful bowls, customisable toppings and an emphasis on organic açaí, OAKBERRY is looking to make its mark on Johannesburg’s increasingly adventurous food scene.

From the Brazilian Amazon to Johannesburg

Açaí (pronounced ah-sah-EE) comes from the fruit of a palm tree native to the Brazilian Amazon. Known for its deep-purple colour and distinctive berry-like flavour, the fruit has become a global favourite, particularly among people exploring healthier food options.

OAKBERRY was founded in São Paulo in 2016 and has since expanded to more than 900 stores worldwide.

The brand’s approach centres on organic açaí sourced, frozen and packaged in Santa Izabel do Pará, Brazil. The frozen supply chain is maintained throughout transportation to preserve the product’s quality and flavour.

For Johannesburg customers, that means experiencing a product with a direct connection to its Brazilian origins.

More Than a Bowl: A Different Kind of Food Experience

Part of OAKBERRY’s appeal is the experience of building your own bowl.

Customers can choose from signature combinations or create something more personal using different toppings, including strawberries, bananas and crunchy additions. Those looking for an extra nutritional boost can also explore protein options.

It’s a concept that fits comfortably into a lifestyle where convenience, personal preferences and food discovery increasingly overlap.

Whether it’s a quick breakfast before work, a post-workout stop or an afternoon catch-up with friends, açaí offers something different from the usual coffee-and-snack routine.

And there’s a social element to it, too.

In Brazil, açaí is part of everyday social culture, enjoyed at different times of the day and shared among friends. OAKBERRY South Africa CEO Leah McCrae hopes to bring some of that energy into the local experience.

“In Brazil, açaí is how friends meet up, any time of day,” .

says McCrae

That idea of food as a meeting point could be just as relevant in Johannesburg, where new food destinations often become spaces for social connection and discovery.

Melrose Arch Gets a Taste of Brazil

The new store opens at 42 High Street, Melrose Arch, on Friday, 27 November, with trading hours from 07h00 to 20h00, seven days a week.

Ahead of the official opening, OAKBERRY is also creating an opportunity for its earliest supporters to experience the brand.

On Thursday, 26 November, the first 50 people on the Purple Waiting List can each bring a guest to Founders Night. The experience will include an early taste of the menu, DJs and an opportunity to connect with fellow açaí enthusiasts.

Everyone who joins the waiting list will also receive an opening-day spoil. Interested customers can join by scanning the QR code displayed on the Melrose Arch hoarding or emailing marketing@oakberrysa.co.za.

Johannesburg Is Just the Beginning

OAKBERRY’s South African ambitions extend beyond Johannesburg.

Cape Town is next on the expansion list, with a Sea Point pop-up planned for December 2026, followed by a permanent store at the V&A Waterfront in early 2027.

For a brand that has grown from São Paulo into an international network, South Africa represents another opportunity to introduce Brazilian food culture to new audiences.

And as Joburg welcomes another global food concept, the interesting question is how local consumers will make it their own.

One thing is certain: summer just got a little more colourful.

OAKBERRY Johannesburg Opening Details

• Where: OAKBERRY, 42 High Street, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg
• Opening date: Friday, 27 November 2026
• Opening hours: 07h00–20h00
• Trading hours: Monday–Sunday, 07h00–20h00
• Founders Night: Thursday, 26 November 2026 (first 50 Purple Waiting List members, each with one guest)
• Waiting list: marketing@oakberrysa.co.za
• Instagram: @oakberrysouthafrica