Est. 2017 · Central Florida

Our Story

Kona Poké was founded in Central Florida in 2017 by partners Matt Ting and Ernie Falco III with a simple goal: bring fresh, healthy, and exciting food to our community in an environment people love.

Why we started Kona Poké

Raw fish has been celebrated around the world for centuries. Japan has sushi and sashimi, Latin America has ceviche, Italy has crudo, Scandinavia has gravlax, and Hawaii has poké.

The first time we experienced poké on the West Coast, we were hooked. It had everything we loved about sushi, from fresh fish and bold flavors to quality ingredients and endless variety, but served in a fresh, customizable bowl that was approachable, convenient, and satisfying.

Kona Poké restaurant exterior with its signature tropical mural

At the time, poké was still relatively unknown in Central Florida. We saw an opportunity to introduce something different: food that was fresh, flavorful, healthy, and made exactly the way each guest wanted it.

What started as an idea between two partners quickly became a passion. Today, Kona Poké serves handcrafted poké bowls, tacos, and other island-inspired favorites, along with house-made boba tea and our famous Dole Whip soft serve, while staying true to the principles that inspired us from the beginning: quality ingredients, genuine hospitality, and a place where people enjoy spending time.

Our Mission

To create food and an environment people won't want to leave.

We believe great restaurants are built on more than great food. They are built on great people, meaningful connections, and memorable experiences.

Every day, we strive to:

  • Serve fresh, high-quality food with consistency and care
  • Deliver exceptional hospitality to every guest
  • Create a positive workplace where our team can thrive
  • Continuously innovate and stay ahead of food and hospitality trends
  • Build lasting relationships within the communities we serve

At Kona Poké, food and people are our passion, and always will be.

Visit a Kona Poké Location

Come see us at any of our three Central Florida shops, open daily from 11am to 9pm.

Melbourne, FL →1675 W New Haven Ave · On 192 by Melbourne Square Mall Sanford, FL →1813 W.P. Ball Blvd · Serving Lake Mary & Longwood Apopka, FL →3030 E Semoran Blvd #236 · On 436 by Hunt Club Publix

Hosting an event? Explore Kona Poké catering →