Pokéworks, a fast-casual restaurant known for its customizable poké bowls inspired by Hawaiian cuisine, is getting ready to open in Mississauga at 6045 Mavis Road within Heartland Centre.
The new location is expected to open in early December 2025, joining another Pokéworks that will debut at Toronto’s First Canadian Place the same week, according to veteran franchisee George Heos. The restaurants are operated by Eat Up Canada Inc., led by Heos and Alex Gerzon, who are spearheading the brand’s entrance into the Canadian market. Customers can expect Pokéworks’ signature build-your-own bowls, featuring sustainably sourced fish, premium proteins, rice, or greens, along with a wide variety of sauces and toppings.
Pokéworks’ arrival in Mississauga follows a 50-unit master franchise agreement signed between Eat Up Canada and Pokéworks in 2023. The deal marks one of the largest international expansions for the U.S.-based brand, which currently operates over 65 locations across North America and internationally. The Heartland Centre location will serve as part of the first phase of Eat Up Canada’s Ontario rollout, with additional restaurants planned for major cities across the province.
Heos and Gerzon bring decades of restaurant experience to the concept, having previously built a 50-unit Firehouse Subs portfolio in Ontario before selling the business in 2022. The pair’s background also includes leadership roles with Boston Pizza and Recipe Unlimited Corp., where they helped develop some of Canada’s most recognized dining brands. Their extensive industry knowledge and local partnerships position them to accelerate Pokéworks’ growth in the region.
Pokéworks’ menu features fresh, customizable poké bowls, burritos, and salads, catering to a range of dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Signature creations, such as the Spicy Ahi, Hawaiian Classic, and Sweet Sesame Chicken, showcase the brand’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and balanced flavors. Customers can also build their own bowl with a choice of proteins, bases, and house-made sauces.
With its expansion into Mississauga, Pokéworks continues to strengthen its presence in Canada’s growing fast-casual dining scene. The Heartland Centre location aims to attract a diverse customer base, drawing on the area’s substantial foot traffic and mix of retail and dining options. According to Pokéworks leadership, the company plans to open dozens more locations across Ontario over the next few years as part of its long-term Canadian growth strategy.
