Build-your-own bowls, Dole Soft Serve: Chain restaurant Island Fin Poké opening in Bay County

PANAMA CITY BEACH — A popular Florida-based fast-casual concept known for its build-your-own Hawaiian-style poké bowls soon will plant its roots in Panama City Beach.

Kurt Fadden will start his journey as a franchise owner of Island Fin Poké Co. later this month. As an entrepreneur, he grew interested in owning a franchise two years ago and was almost instantly attracted to the food concept that offers fresh and healthy food options. Fadden and his wife, Eve, will co-own the restaurant location, Island Fin's first location in Northwest Florida.

Downtown restaurant: St. Joe Company unveils Harrison's Kitchen and Bar in downtown Panama City. Take a peek!

Want to eat like a local?: These 7 iconic Bay County restaurants have you covered

“I never really had intentions to operate in the food service, but I was intrigued by the concept,” Fadden said. “The restaurant brand speaks for itself by its high-quality food, and it’s very simple to replicate. I just fell in love with the idea, and we started planning to open one in this area.”

The newest Island Fin Poké, which is slated to open on May 30, sits at 15500 Panama City Beach Parkway, Suite 320, across from Pier Park. It will offer third-party delivery options, indoor seating and an outdoor patio shared with the Fresh Market next door. Scheduled hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Poké is a popular Hawaiian dish consisting of proteins and healthy toppings served over lettuce or rice. Guests can choose from various fresh ingredients and create their customized poké bowl, with a selection of more than a half-dozen protein options, 25 toppings, nine gluten-free house-made sauces, and specialty mix-ins. The ingredients are made to fit keto and vegetarian diets. The restaurant also includes options of Dole Soft Serve, a dairy-free frozen dessert.

Fadden said he hopes Island Fin Poké will become a place that locals and tourists love visiting. He plans to continue the reputation of a quick-service healthy restaurant that creates a friendly atmosphere. In addition, he will continue the loyalty rewards program and host regular outreach events for the community.

“When I went to verify the brand for myself, I was shocked to know that its service is truly a part of the brand's culture,” he said. “I’m excited to bring something like this to Bay County. It would be nice for people to have a place to go where they can count on a friendly atmosphere, affordable food and a nice environment.”

As the operator of his first franchise, Fadden said he has had overcome many challenges, including issues with supply chain shortages, equipment taking months to arrive and searching for contractor developers. Through it all, Fadden said he is grateful that things have fallen into place and is excited for the restaurant’s opening in the next few weeks.

Fadden said he believes Panama City Beach Parkway is the perfect starting location for Island Fin Poké, and depending on its success, he anticipates expanding the franchise into Panama City.

“I didn’t typically know how the community would react to this type of food concept here, but we’ve received a lot of positive feedback, and we’re not even open yet,” Fadden said. “I hope we can open another location across the Hathaway Bridge because I’ve noticed a lot of people living in town would love a restaurant there as well.”

Founded in 2017 in Orlando, Island Fin Poké has more than 20 locations, with another 20 locations in various stages of development expected to open by year's end.

Fadden said he is looking to build his Panama City Beach team. He plans to host several hiring events before opening. For more information, visit the Island Fin Poké-Panama City Beach Facebook page.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Island Fin Poké planting roots for first location in Bay County, Florida