Nicole Sophabmixay and her nephew, Benny Chen, expect to open Pokenori, a restaurant serving poke — a blend of Hawaiian cuisine with sushi — in the 2,700-square-foot space at 119 N. Church St. next to Growler Haus, in the coming weeks.
Slideshow: Pokenori
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Photos by Will Crooks
Pokenori’s menu features eight signature dishes for $8.95.
The options include the Pokenori Classic: ahi tuna, romaine lettuce, sweet onion, cucumber, sesame seeds, and fresh ponzu sauce; and Umami Poke: salmon, romaine lettuce, mango, carrot, cucumber, masago (roe), and spicy ginger.
Tofu and chicken options are available for customers who might not be in the mood for sushi.
Diners can also choose a poke burrito, poke bowl, or poke salad for $7 and customize it with a selection of eight proteins, such as tuna, shrimp, or chicken, for an additional $1.95 each.
The eatery will occupy space in the historic Palmetto Building across from Morgan Square.
The restaurant’s interior blends modern and industrial-chic styles with the historic character of the building.
Sophabmixay and Chen said the eatery’s light fixtures were imported from a variety of different vendors in Taiwan. The restaurant also features a blend of custom-made furniture, including a family-style dining table lined with stools made by Kevin Belue of Spartanburg-based K Riley Designs.
Pokenori’s main counter is comprised of a concrete top with a stacked stone tile façade. The floor is a mix of poured concrete and brick.
The restaurant has an accent wall beside the main kitchen area featuring chalk art that has been sealed so it can’t be erased.
The owners have accentuated some of the building’s historic charm by incorporating exposed brick, wooden beams, and coffered tin ceiling panels.
