Honi Poke to reposition Island Poké sites after acquisition

Honi Poke is set to convert several Island Poké restaurants into its own stores and reposition Island Poké as a delivery-focused brand, following its acquisition of the business last year.The group said Honi Poke would remain its main in-store brand from January 2026, with plans to expand across London and other locations over the year.

The first conversions are expected to take place in Shoreditch, Broadgate and Fenchurch. Island Poké’s Bow Lane site will remain open as its flagship restaurant.

Under the new structure, Island Poké will shift to a delivery-first model aimed at evening dining and group occasions, rather than lunchtime trade. The company said the move reflects changes in how customers use in-store dining and delivery services.

Island Poké will introduce a revised menu focused on evening dishes, including sharing platters, group bundles and limited-edition guest bowls, and the menu will be updated over time.

Honi Poke acquired Island Poké in July 2025. At the time, both brands continued to operate independently.

Alongside the brand changes, the group confirmed the appointment of chief executive officer Hilary Brett, effective from January. Brett was previously operations director at the business.

Brett has held senior roles at JKS Restaurants, MJMK and White Rabbit Projects, with experience in scaling multi-site hospitality businesses.

Hilary Brett, CEO of Island Poké and Honi Poke, said: “I’m excited to step into the role of CEO at a pivotal moment for the business. What truly sets us apart is the exceptional talent across our teams and the relentless focus on product quality and innovation that continues to push our brands forward. 

“With two distinct brands, each with a strong identity, loyal following, and passionate people behind them, this evolution gives us greater clarity in how we serve customers across different occasions – while remaining firmly rooted in the values that underpin everything we do.”

She added: “Working closely with Honi Poke’s founder, Volodymyr Martynov, our focus is on shaping the next phase of growth, including exploring franchise partnerships for Honi Poke in the UK and strengthening our foothold in France.”