Pittsburgh International Airport welcomes Sambazon as its latest food venue

PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania—Pittsburgh International Airport’s newest restaurant, Sambazon, is giving travelers a taste of Brazil with its fruit-laden Açaí bowls.

Thursday marked Sambazon’s ceremonial grand opening, although the store has been operating for the past three weeks, airport spokesman Bob Kerlik said.

Airport employees handed out free samples of Sambazon’s Berry Açaí Bowl at the grand opening, topped with granola, bananas, blueberries and strawberries. A drum line entertained onlookers with a thunderous melody, accompanied by Brazilian dancers in colorful outfits.

The airport sought to partner with Sambazon after receiving feedback from customers who were in search of healthier food in the terminal, said Vice President of Air Service Development Bryan Dietz.

“Passengers have told us all the types of dining and shopping options that they would like to see,” Mr. Dietz said. “That includes a mix of local, popular options and brands, including our newest brand that we’re welcoming here today.”

Sambazon’s airport location is one of six new eateries the brand has opened in airports recently, said Vito Buscemi, president of Sambazon’s hospitality group.

It is one of 15 new stores and restaurants the airport plans to open alongside its new terminal, including Shake Shack, Jimmy John’s and Bad Egg, a breakfast restaurant.

Sambazon is located just inside of Concourse A and will offer service every day of the week. Bowl options include a mango and coconut combo and a “Protein Bowl” with peanut butter, almonds and cashews. Bowls will range in price from $9.99 to $15.99.

Sambazon will also offer smoothies, oatmeal bowls, Brazilian Cheese Bites and beverages. The restaurant plans to sell cocktails and has applied for a liquor license, said Jess Backhaus, senior vice president of operations for Tailwind Hospitality, which owns the airport Sambazon.

SOURCE: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette