Raw fish lovers rejoice -- Knoxville is now getting FOUR new poke restaurants in the coming months!
Earlier this week, the chain Pokéworks announced it would be coming to West Knoxville's Western Plaza in November 2018.
Before that, a local restaurant called Tomo Poke Bowl announced it would be setting up shop at 10756 Hardin Valley Road. The restaurant recently posted it was looking to hire for all positions, signaling it should be opening soon.
It looks like the poke scene will have plenty of competition, as another chain called Poke Bros. announced it is planning to open two restaurants in Knoxville soon: One at West Town Mall, and the other at the heart of Cumberland Avenue along the 1800 block. There is currently no firm date for when those are expected to open.
Pronounced "Poh-Kay," the dish originated in Hawaii and has been heavily influenced by the rise of Asian-fusion cuisine. Many describe it as 'sushi in a bowl," and you can customize it with a number of toppings. Many also come in a 'burrito' or salad form.
The dish has become increasingly popular in the mainland U.S. in recent years, and Knoxville suddenly getting four restaurants is proving its growing appeal.
Pokéworks was founded in New York City in 2015. The restaurant offers mainstream, fast-casual versions of poke, a traditional Hawaiian fish dish.
Poke Bros. also was founded in 2015 in Columbus, Ohio to bring the fast-casual sushi bowl concept to the Midwest and is starting to spread its roots along the East Coast.
Tomo Poke Bowl said it plans on being the first poke restaurant in Knoxville, sharing construction updates on its flagship location in July.