Hawaiian poké specialist Honi Poké has cemented its position as the UK’s leading poke operator with the acquisition of rival Island Poke, for an undisclosed sum.
The deal adds 18 Island Poke sites to Honi Poke’s portfolio, nine in London and nine in France, significantly expanding its geographic footprint. Honi Poke currently operates 24 UK sites and three in Cyprus, bringing the new combined total to 45 sites across the UK and Europe.
Honi Poké, which was founded by Vladimir Martynov and Kosta Varesko in 2017, said that the integration of Island Poke sites into the Honi Poke network will begin immediately, with Honi Poke continuing to operate them under the Island Poke brand.
It said that under the culinary leadership of Richard de la Cruz, formerly of Coya London and Arros QD, the brand has developed a “bold, flavour-forward menu rooted in sustainability”.
Martynov said: “This is a landmark moment for Honi Poke. Island Poke has played a huge role in popularising poke across the UK and Europe, and we’re incredibly proud to bring our two brands together.
Honi Poke has experienced phenomenal growth over the past few years, opening nine new sites last year alone, and with this acquisition, we’re projecting annualised revenue of over £20m in the UK alone. Our ambition is clear: to reach 50 sites within the next year.”
Island Poke first opened in 2016 in Soho’s Kingly Street and grew to have 16 restaurants across the capital, as well as a branch in Brighton.
Last summer, it was acquired out of administration by IP Topco, a subsidiary of WRP Holdco, the White Rabbit Projects and McWin joint venture, which holds shares in the business, for £150,000.
Honi Poke said that Island Poke, known for its “fresh Pacific flavours and vibrant island-inspired interiors”, has carved out a distinctive identity within the poke space since it opened its first restaurant.
It said: “With a strong following and a focus on customisable bowls, premium ingredients and efficient service, the brand has become synonymous with high-quality, fast-casual dining rooted in Hawaiian tradition.
Its signature house sauces and fusion flavours have been key to its loyal customer base in both the UK and France.”
Brandon Elmon, of Genius1 Group, acts on behalf of Honi Poké.
