Pokeworks is reaching new heights in the Greater Houston region. After opening its tenth Houston-area location in The Woodlands this past June, the brand is embarking on another opening in the region. The fast-casual poke chain is planning to open in Cypress next year, according to the Houston Business Journal.
What Now Houston briefly chatted with Pokeworks co-owner Peter Yang via text message. Yang confirmed that the Cypress location is signed with development delivering in summer 2027. The Houston market is served by four franchisee groups, many of which run more than one Pokeworks in different territories in the region. Tony Shanar of Shanar Holdings is one of those franchisees. What Now briefly spoke with Shanar, who confirmed he will be the franchisee for the upcoming Cypress location, and shared that the opening is planned for Dunham Pointe. Unfortunately, Shanar was unable to share further details by the time of this publication.
“It is a vibrant community, and one of the fastest-growing suburbs,” Yang said.
“We look for synergistic co-tenants and believe the community’s demographic will appreciate the premium, healthy, and fresh offerings that Pokeworks is known for.”
Dunham Pointe, the master-planned community, is located roughly 30 miles northwest of Downtown Houston at 20419 Via Casa Laura Dr. The multi-lifestyle development is uniquely positioned near major roadways like US-290 and the Grand Parkway (TX-99), making commuting and accessing the greater Houston area highly convenient.
Pokeworks was founded in Midtown Manhattan in 2015 by Yang and his brother Micahel Wu, along with Kevin Hsu, Kasper Hsu, and six other co-founders. Pokeworks pioneered the fast-casual Hawaiian poke trend and the viral “sushi burrito“. Inspired by trips to Hawaii, the brand rapidly expanded across North America and internationally by popularizing customizable, chef-driven bowls made with sustainably sourced seafood.
“At Pokeworks, we believe that great taste starts with great responsibility,” the Pokeworks website reads.
“Our menu is crafted with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, bringing authentic Hawaiian flavors to every dish. Beyond taste, we’re dedicated to sustainability—sourcing responsibly, supporting ocean conservation, and incorporating eco-friendly practices in our locations.”
There are now more than 80 Pokeworks locations across 22 US states, Canada, and Taiwan. There are currently 26 open Pokeworks locations in Texas, with an additional six under construction across major cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso. As of now, there are 10 Pokework locations open across the Greater Houston area, including the new opening in The Woodlands.
“Every bowl at Pokeworks tells a story—of tradition, innovation, and a commitment to quality,” the Pokeworks website reads.
“As we continue to grow, we invite you to be part of our journey, savoring the flavors that started it all.”
The team recently launched the High-Protein Surf & Turf Bowl, bringing together premium ahi tuna and chicken breast and Poke Bombs, featuring sweet inari tofu pockets filled with white rice and topped with fresh poke. The Poke Bombs that will be offered include Ahi Tuna, Fresh Salmon, the California Poke Bombs, and the Dynamite Lobster Poke Bombs.
“Fresh and healthy offerings, nutrient and protein-rich bowls, and most importantly, delicious and craveable poke bowls,” Yang said.
Pokeworks is anticipated to open in Cypress in the Dunham Pointe master-planned community at 20419 Via Casa Laura Dr. in 2027.
