Chicago-Based Poke Shop Planning SoCal Expansion

The local influx of fast-casual eateries specializing in poke now includes Aloha Poke Co, which has announced that it will be opening an outpost on Park Boulevard in University Heights. Founded in Chicago in 2016, Aloha Poke Co. has other locations in Illinois and is currently prepping to expand into Denver. The eatery’s West Coast growth includes a branch in Los Angeles, where it will debut in Westfield Century City this fall, and locations in Marina Del Rey, Costa Mesa that will launch in Winter 2018 along with the San Diego shop.

Aloha Poke Co.’s menu features build-your-own, made-to-order bowls based on sashimi-grade tuna, salmon or tofu. Diners choose a base of rice or mixed greens, add on optional toppings ranging from Maui onion to pineapple, cucumber and avocado, and select from a variety of sauces including wasabi-horseradish, yuzu ranch and sesame vinaigrette. A rep for the company says the eatery is working on securing another location in Pacific Beach.