CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – While finding a place to surf in Tennessee may prove challenging, finding a place to enjoy some Hawaiian-style cuisine is now a little easier thanks to the Bryant family.
Clarksville’s Island Fin Poké Co. is owned by Jeff Bryant Jr., his wife Chelsea, and his father, Jeff Bryant Sr. Additionally, Jeff’s brother Justin and his wife Sarah are also part owners, helping craft the perfect poké bowls for Clarksville.
“I’m also the highway supervisor for Montgomery County, so that’s what got us started down this path at Island Fin,” Bryant Jr. said.
“When I was on the campaign trail, I noticed that when I wanted something quick and on the go, there wasn’t anything that was very healthy as far as quick and casual. That kind of led us to look for options that we could bring to Clarksville. Last summer is when we stumbled across poké and started researching franchise opportunities.”
According to their website, Island Fin Poké Co. was established in 2016 and features homemade sauces, 25 different toppings, and sustainably sourced fish. The company is based out of Olando, Florida, and has over 25 locations nationwide, with more on the way. Clarksville’s location is the first in Tennessee.
Bryant described poké bowls as “deconstructed sushi,” featuring brown or white rice, veggies, and other items.
“Traditional Hawaiian poké is raw fish. It’s tuna, salmon, and stuff like that. We have some other options for those that don’t really care for the raw fish. We have octopus that’s cooked, shrimp that’s cooked ceviche style, tofu (and) Spam,” he said.
The atmosphere is also another fun aspect of the restaurant, featuring surfboards on the walls and surfing videos on TV screens. Additionally, the establishment features picnic table seating options. Bryant said the goal of Island Fin Poké is to make you feel like you are in Hawaii.
“One of the big things we have going on here at Island Fin is that we want everybody to feel like family. One of our themes is ‘No friends, just family, Ohana,’ so when you come in, you’re treated like family,” he said.
Island Fin Poké Co. is at 2305 Madison St., Suite C., and is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more, visit the Island Fin Poké website.