Pokeatery, the Bay Area-based build-your-own poké concept, announced that its first franchised location will open by year’s end in Walnut Creek, California. The store is the first of three locations set to open in Northern California as part of a multi-unit deal with franchisees Gary Zhu and Julie Ren.
Pokeatery has gained much notoriety in Northern California for its authentic Hawaiian flavors and customizable poké bowls, brought to the mainland by restaurant industry veterans and founders Joann and Derek Chung. The husband and wife duo built Pokeatery’s menu on a commitment to offering fresh, responsibly-sourced ingredients in all of their menu items. A few standouts are the build-your-own poké boxes (customer’s choice of base, proteins, and unlimited mix-ins, sauces, and toppings), pokecado toast (whole wheat toast loaded with avocado, fresh poké, and a variety of topping options), and Dole Whip floats (pineapple soft serve in pineapple juice).
“We feel very fortunate to be expanding into new cities, like Walnut Creek, that are close to where Pokeatery got started,” says Pokeatery owner and founder Joann Chung. “While our plans for expansion extend beyond California, it’s wonderful to be well-received at home and to have local franchisees like Gary and Julie who are excited to be part of our growing company.”
Pokeatery is partnered with Fransmart, the franchise development company behind the explosive growth of brands like Five Guys Burgers & Fries and Qdoba Mexican Grill, as their exclusive franchise development partner. Pokeatery is currently looking for experienced multi-unit foodservice operators to develop franchise territories in major markets.
