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Trendy Hawaiian-inspired poke shops have taken D.C.'s fast-casual restaurant scene by storm over the last year, and one Irvine, California-based poke brand is planning a major expansion in the city.
Pokéworks, a fast-casual brand with 20 existing locations and over 100 more under development, announced Friday it has agreed to open seven locations in D.C.
The company only announced the address for one of the locations, just south of Thomas Circle at 1110 Vermont Ave. NW, which will open in September. The location will serve poke bowls, burritos and salads with a build-your-own menu featuring a variety of proteins, sauces and toppings. Pokéworks said it is seeking franchise partners, advertising an initial fee of $35K and a total investment ranging from $250K to $850K per location.
“Washington, D.C., is an ideal market to develop the Pokéworks concept in due to its strong demographics and urban setting, which represents vital elements key to our brand,” Pokéworks co-founder Kevin Hsu said in a statement. “We are excited to be able to bring the first Pokéworks location to the area and are confident it will become a go-to spot for the community to enjoy healthy and delicious alternatives, while also feeling great about what they’re eating.”
Three poke shops opened in D.C. last year: Abunai Poke at 1920 L St. NW, Poke Papa at 806 H St. NW and Poke District at 906 F St. NW. In June, Poke Bar opened its first D.C.-area location at Fairfax's Mosaic District.
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