Here’s some big news in the world of poke, the culinary trend spreading across our city. Restaurateur Jon Alexis, owner of TJ’s Seafood, has teamed up with entrepreneur brothers Ben and Eric Kusin, Shark Tank-featured venture capitalists with roots in Dallas and Los Angeles, to open Malibu Poke in fall of 2017. The restaurant, which will be at 3888 Oak Lawn Ave. in Turtle Creek Village, will carry a Southern California casual vibe. The project has been in discussion since December 2015.
Of course, Malibu Poke will not be just an average poke joint. “Malibu Poke is a quick-serve restaurant, but we will serve expertly sourced and handled fresh seafood,” Alexis says. “This is not a fast food model. Quite simply, it’s a better bowl of poke—the ‘fishmonger’s poke.’ Our emphasis is on freshness, nutrition, and sustainability. And we will utilize cutting-edge self-ordering tech to minimize lines and deliver the freshest bowls.”
Official details: Malibu Poke will feature a unique tech-based ordering system minimizing waits, educating guests on unique ingredients and making customized bowls easy. For guests who prefer a human touch, a Malibu “Poke-Pro” will always be on-hand to guide guests through the ordering process.
The concept will also emphasize healthy eating with 100 percent gluten-free, vegan options alongside a beverage program including both Texas and California beers, wine on tap, sake, kombucha, teas, and fresh juices.
Poke (POH-keh) is a common fast food in Hawaii. It’s like deconstructed sushi, with raw fish eaten either on its own or over a bowl of sushi rice.
