Irvine, Calif. — Pokeworks, a leading fast-casual poke brand, is continuing its strategic growth in New York with the addition of two new franchise partners who will develop locations in Long Island and Manhattan. The new agreements total four initial units with the ability for continued growth.
On Long Island, Pokeworks has partnered with seasoned restaurant operator Joe Magnotta, who brings more than two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry. Magnotta entered the restaurant business in 2001 with the purchase of his first concept, Angelina’s, and went on to own and operate a total of 10 restaurants across Long Island over the next 20 years. Known for his focus on quality, consistency and community engagement, he sold his portfolio in 2023 and is now embarking on his first franchise venture with Pokeworks. Magnotta hopes to develop multiple locations on Long Island, with his first restaurant targeted to open in mid-2026.
In Manhattan, Pokeworks has partnered with Sanchit Sharma, a business leader with diverse experience across retail management, supply chain operations and executive leadership, as well as involvement in several family-owned QSR businesses. He plans to develop locations in central Midtown Manhattan, targeting areas with strong office density and foot traffic, with the goal of opening his first restaurant by late summer 2026, and two more set to follow.
“There’s a clear and growing shift toward healthier, nutrient-dense food options, and Pokeworks is exceptionally well-positioned within that movement,” says Sharma. “I’m motivated to build a meaningful presence in my community and deliver an exceptional guest experience, all while supporting people to make healthier lifestyle choices.”
As consumer demand for healthy, customizable meals continues to rise, Pokeworks looks forward to building upon its existing footprint in New York City with seven successful locations currently operating in the city. The brand’s established business model and emphasis on innovation have made it one of the fastest-growing poke concepts in the country, as well as the best and most reviewed poke chain in the U.S.
“Joe and Sanchit represent exactly the kind of franchise partners we seek as we continue to grow the Pokeworks brand,” says Peter Yang, co-founder and head of development of Pokeworks. “They bring strong leadership and long term mindsets, and we’re excited to continue expanding our presence with experienced operators in New York.”
Founded in 2015, Pokeworks was born from a group of friends and their love for Hawaiian poke. The brand has 72 locations across 20 U.S. states, Taiwan and Canada. For more information, visit www.pokeworksfranchise.com.
SOURCE: Pokeworks