A growing tropical-themed pizza chain in Washington is preparing to expand through franchising.
Coconut Kenny’s, led by brothers Chay and Lee Tan, operates eight locations across the state. The duo is working to keep up with demand as customers, investors and partners alike want a slice of the action, according to the Puget Sound Business Journal.
“It was the right time,” Lee told the outlet. “We are finding it tough to spread our time and having corporate locations and managing so many people–It’s the reason why franchising systems exist, I guess, to free us up to continue to grow our brand and our business that way.”
When the pandemic hit, Coconut Kenny’s operated six locations but kept business strong by shifting 80% of sales to takeout and delivery. The chain has added two locations since 2020, most recently in Lake Stevens, where guests can pour their own beer and wine from Ferndale-based Downtime Taps, which Chay co-owns.
Now, the team sees franchising as the next step for growth and may include the self-serve taps at future locations. They are exploring sites in central Washington and expect the state to respond to their franchise application within the next six months.
Coconut Kenny’s offers a tropical twist on classic comfort food, with a menu centered around thick, pan-style pizzas and sandwiches served on house-made Hawaiian bread.
The restaurant features more than 20 specialty pizzas with bold flavor combinations, along with a lineup of hot and cold sandwiches available in full or half sizes. Salads round out the menu, including the Baja Salad, which is gluten-free and topped with kalua pork, mango salsa, cheddar and crispy fiesta chips.
Appetizers like garlic cheese bites and wings offer shareable starters, while desserts and drinks—ranging from soda to beer—complete the meal. The restaurant also runs daily specials, including discounted sandwiches on Mondays and pizza deals throughout the week.
What Now Seattle reached out to the Tans, however, they have not yet responded. This article may be updated.
