Pictured: The Acai Overload bowl at BARE Blends is a refreshing summer treat that is packed with nutrients and clean ingredients. There's nothing guilty about this pleasure! Provided photo.

BARE Blends got its start in Albany, New York five years ago as a fast-casual healthy food cafe focusing on gluten-free, vegan fare. It has now expanded to ten locations throughout the country, with more shops opening in upstate New York, Boston and Colorado. Sue Collett already owned a franchise in Saratoga, New York before deciding to bring BARE Blends farther south.

“I go down to Sarasota a lot because I have a place down there, and I thought the concept would be great in Florida because people are so health-conscious,” Collett says. “I opened up my Sarasota location about a year and a half ago, and then about a year ago I opened my Tampa location as well. I just love the food. I love the concept. I’m a very picky eater, but as I tried it I was like, ‘Wow, this stuff is actually really good and it’s good for you.’”

Everything served at BARE Blends is vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free, and there are also an extensive array of gluten-free options available. The menu changes seasonally: the current summer menu features grain bowls, salads, sweet and savory mini waffles, smoothies, fresh-pressed juices and coffee drinks. For a refreshing summer treat, try one of their smoothie bowls. One of the bestselling bowls at BARE Blends is the Açaí Overload. Always blended to order, this bowl boasts a thick, creamy base of açaí, bananas, strawberries and almond milk that is sweet but not overpoweringly so. For toppings, you can choose your own combination of bananas, strawberries, granola, coconut, peanut butter and agave.

BARE Blends, 1425 2nd Street, Sarasota, 941-487-8456, www.bareblends.com/sarasota.

Pictured: The Acai Overload bowl at BARE Blends is a refreshing summer treat that is packed with nutrients and clean ingredients. There's nothing guilty about this pleasure! Provided photo.