MICHAEL CHEN
CO-FOUNDER/PRESIDENT
POKEWORKS
PETER YANG
CO-FOUNDER/CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
POKEWORKS
WHY: Partners and co-founders of local poke bowl chain started in 2015; opened the Irvine location in 2016 after proving concept in New York. Peter led the opening of their first location in New York, where Pokeworks went viral for its poke burrito. Now counts over 70 locations across 20 states, Taiwan and Canada.
IN THE NEWS: Co-founders say Orange County is now a key testing ground, “actively seeking” new franchisees to help expand physical footprint. Three new OC restaurants planned for 2025.
NOTABLE: Peter credits his time in Oahu, where he and his brother were developing Little Sheep Hot Pot restaurants while Michael Chen was getting married in Hawaii, for sparking the idea of starting Pokeworks.
QUOTABLE: “The demographic in Orange County commits perfectly to what we’re doing. We have such a vibrant foodie culture here.” —Peter Yang
