In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for fresh, flavor-packed, and customizable dining experiences is growing rapidly. One brand that has successfully met and exceeded these expectations is Poke Works. Recently, on the Restaurant Technology Guys podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Ha Lee, the head of marketing for Poke Works. Lee shared some insightful thoughts on the brand’s expansion, the essence of poke cuisine, and the strategies they use to captivate their audience.
Introduction to Poke Works
Poke Works has quickly become a household name in the U.S., offering delicious and customizable poke bowls. It began its journey from New York, expanding to the West Coast and beyond. Poke Works specializes in fresh ingredients and build-your-own poke bowl concepts, appealing to the diverse tastes of its customers. Lee explained that the key to Poke Works’ success lies in its commitment to quality and innovation.
The Essence of Poke Cuisine
Poke, a beloved Hawaiian dish, is traditionally made of raw fish cured in various sauces, typically served over rice with fresh vegetables and herbs. Poke Works has elevated this classic dish by allowing customers to personalize their poke bowls with a wide array of toppings and sauces. This approach is akin to the popular build-your-own concepts seen in brands like Chipotle or Subway, providing an engaging and satisfying dining experience.
Engaging New Markets and Customers
Expanding into new markets is a crucial focus for Poke Works. Utilizing strategic marketing efforts, such as visibility through local PR and enhancing street-level visibility, Poke Works ensures that it captures the attention of potential customers. Lee emphasized the importance of delivering high-quality service and maintaining strong visibility on platforms like Google Maps and Yelp to attract hungry guests looking for fresh dining options.
Loyalty Programs and Customer Retention
Poke Works has focused on enhancing customer retention through its robust loyalty program, Poke Works Rewards. Recently revamped, the program aims to reward customers more frequently, fostering a sense of loyalty and encouraging repeat visits. This initiative has seen promising results, with the program growing four times faster than the previous year. The goal is simple yet effective: keep guests coming back with enticing rewards and exceptional service.
Introducing Hawaiian Hot Plates
To diversify its menu and appeal to a broader audience, Poke Works recently introduced Hawaiian Hot Plates. This new offering provides a play on the classic Hawaiian plate lunches, combining mac salad, hot proteins, and fresh greens over rice. This menu addition caters to those looking for an alternative to raw fish while maintaining the same high standards of quality and flavor.
Conclusion
Poke Works continues to captivate audiences with its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal fan, Poke Works offers a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. As the brand continues to grow, Ha Lee and his team at Poke Works are dedicated to serving fresh, flavorful dishes that keep guests coming back for more.
To learn more about Poke Works and find a location near you, visit pokeworks.com and follow them on social media @pokeworksco. Indulge in the delicious world of poke today and experience the exciting flavors that Poke Works has to offer.
