Pokeatery, the popular San Mateo-based fast casual poké restaurant, has signed their first franchising deal for the Northern California market. The deal is for three units and real estate options are currently being explored. The first location is expected to open in Quarter 4 of 2017.

Pokeatery was founded in 2015 by husband and wife team Derek and Joann Chung. With 20 years of experience in sushi restaurants, the couple decided to bring their favorite Hawaiian food, poké, to the mainland. Pokeatery serves fresh and responsibly sourced poké with authentic Hawaiian flavors. All poké boxes are packed with proteins and flavorful toppings that allow endless customization for each customer.

The franchise locations will also serve Pokeatery’s newest menu item, the super popular Pokecado Toast. Artisan whole wheat sourdough topped with avocado, poké, and toppings, has gotten national attention as a new and delicious way to eat avocado toast.

New franchisees Gary Zhu and Julie Ren visited Pokeatery and loved the concept and food. They quickly inquired about franchising and were eager to join the team.  “We love that Gary and Julie are as enthusiastic about our brand as we are and we know this will make them a great franchisee,” said Joann Chung, Pokeatery Franchisor.

“Pokeatery offers clean, nutritional, and healthy food. The stores are modern and attractive and the service is fast and offers multiple food choices for customers to create their own unique meal. Every time we went there, we saw lines out the door. With the quality of food, service, and strong business model, we decided to join the franchise,” says Gary Zhu.

Fransmart is the franchise development company behind the explosive growth of brands like Five Guys Burgers and Fries and Qdoba Mexican Grill, and will serve as Pokeatery’s exclusive franchise development partner.