Fast-casual seafood has seen huge growth over the last five years. This is even more impressive when many restaurants were cutting back. Pacific Counter is now opening a second location in St. Petersburg, nearly seven years after starting at 660 Central Ave. in 2018.
Pacific Counter is known for its delicious poke bowls, sushi burritos, and bubble tea. These dishes are full of flavor and great value. The new St. Petersburg location shows the brand’s commitment to quick service and fresh ingredients.
The new spot will offer the best poke bowls, bold sauces, and vibrant toppings. It will keep the Pacific Rim vibe that fans love. With this expansion, Pacific Counter is ready to grow even more in Tampa Bay, bringing more options for lunch and dinner.
New St. Pete Location: Address, Timing, and What’s Coming
Pacific Counter St. Pete is opening a new spot in a bustling area. This move makes it easier for fans to enjoy their favorite dishes. Expect fresh poke bowls, sushi burritos, and bubble tea in a place perfect for quick meals or a relaxed sit-down.
Exact address: 210 37th Ave. N., St. Petersburg
The new location is at 210 37th Ave. N., in the Northeast Shopping Center. It’s easy to find, with lots of parking and a lot of people passing by every day.
Projected opening: January 2025
The team aims to open in January 2025. This keeps the momentum going for a place known for quick service, great value, and fresh poke bowls all day.
Former tenant: Island Fin Poké Company
Before, it was home to Island Fin Poké Company. The new spot fits right in, thanks to its similar size and location.
1,300-square-foot fast-casual space with minimal renovations
The space is 1,300 square feet and needs little work. It will have a clean counter, efficient seating, and a design that makes ordering and eating easy.
| Detail | What It Means | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Address: 210 37th Ave. N., St. Petersburg | Corner of a high-traffic retail center | Convenient stops for lunch, dinner, and takeout |
| Opening: January 2025 | Targeted launch window | Short wait before doors open at the new location |
| Former Tenant: Island Fin Poké Company | Prior poke-focused buildout | Faster setup for a fast-casual restaurant format |
| Size: 1,300 sq. ft. | Compact, efficient footprint | Quicker service and steady flow for fresh poke bowls |
Neighborhood Fit: Northeast Shopping Center and Fourth Street Corridor Appeal
Pacific Counter has found a great spot in the Fourth Street corridor. It’s where daily life and local habits meet. The Northeast Shopping Center was chosen for its easy access and strong community feel.
Co-founder Tanner Loebel looked for years to find the right place. The Northeast Shopping Center holds special meaning for his family. This adds a personal touch to their expansion.
From Central Avenue to a growing Tampa Bay footprint
The brand started on Central Avenue and has grown a lot. Now, new areas get to enjoy their quick service and tasty dishes. St. Pete is the heart, but they’ve spread across the Tampa Bay area.
Eighth Tampa Bay location with Apollo Beach on deck
This is their eighth location, with Apollo Beach coming in March 2025. They have spots in Lakewood Ranch, downtown Tampa, and Sarasota too. Each place aims to meet the needs of locals, from lunch to dinner.
Healthy fast casual dining with pacific rim cuisine roots
They focus on healthy, tasty meals with bold flavors. Their dishes are easy to make your own and hard to resist. It’s a perfect fit for the area’s fast-paced life.
Menu Highlights: Poke Bowl, Sushi Burrito, and Fresh Poke Bowls
Pacific Counter focuses on choice and flavor. Guests can mix a poke bowl with fresh seafood and produce. Or, they can roll it into a sushi burrito for a neat bite. The goal is to make the best poke bowls with clean ingredients and bold sauces.
Build-your-own customizable bowl with noodles, rice, or greens
Start with noodles, white rice, brown rice, or mixed greens. Each base pairs well with crisp veggies and chilled proteins. This keeps the bowl light yet filling.
Proteins: tuna, salmon, shrimp, calamari, krab, chicken, tofu, mushrooms
Choose from raw tuna, spicy tuna, salmon, shrimp, calamari, krab, baked chicken, barbecue chicken, tofu, spicy tofu, or mushrooms. This variety includes fresh seafood and smart plant options. So, groups can order together and get what they want.
Mix-ins and toppings: kimchi, masago, mango, pineapple, wasabi, nori
Add kimchi, masago, edamame, mango, and pineapple. Top with wasabi, pickled ginger, and shredded nori at no extra charge. These bright notes enhance fresh poke bowls and make every bite pop.
Sauces: soy, sesame waina, chili aioli, fire water, avocado lime
Choose from soy, sesame waina, chili aioli, fire water, or avocado lime. These sauces bring flavors together. They let a poke bowl land exactly where the palate wants.
| Item | Core Choices | Flavor Profile | Typical Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poke Bowl | Rice, noodles, or greens + fresh seafood or tofu | Clean, bright, customizable | About $12 | Fans seeking the best poke bowls with fast balance |
| Sushi Burrito | Any bowl combo rolled to-go | Portable, bold, saucy | About $12 | On-the-go diners wanting a handheld twist |
| Signature Sauces | Soy, sesame waina, chili aioli, fire water, avocado lime | Umami to citrus heat | Included | Dialing in a customizable bowl to taste |
Pro tip: Ask to roll your favorite build into a burrito when you crave the same fresh seafood flavors without the bowl.
Signature Creations and Best-Sellers for Tampa Foodies
The menu at Pacific Counter has signature bowls that are big hits. The O.G. Bowl is a favorite, with a mix of raw tuna, avocado, and more. It’s a fresh, coastal dish that shows off the brand’s style.
For those looking for the best poke bowls, these bowls deliver. They offer a mix of textures and tastes. They’re perfect for both new and regular customers at a Tampa foodie hotspot.
Guests can enjoy the O.G. Bowl or try other Pacific Counter favorites. These signature bowls showcase the shop’s Asian-inspired dishes. They’re why locals say they’re the best poke bowls at a top Tampa foodie hotspot.
Sushi Burritos and Seafood Fusion for On-the-Go Dining
Pacific Counter makes busy days easier with a tasty handheld. Fans can grab a sushi burrito that packs bold flavor, crisp veggies, and fresh seafood into a portable roll. It’s quick to eat, clean to carry, and built for a walk down Fourth Street or a fast lunch break.
Rolling favorite bowls into handheld sushi burritos
The team takes guest-favorite bowl combos and rolls them into oversized sushi burritos. Think citrusy salmon with avocado and nori, or spicy tuna with crunchy cabbage and pickled ginger. Each sushi burrito keeps the same balance of heat, acid, and texture that regulars expect.
Fresh seafood meets Asian-inspired dishes
This is seafood fusion done with care. Fresh seafood anchors every bite, while sesame, soy, and chili add lift and depth. The format blends Japanese technique with fast-casual ease, so diners get a bright, satisfying meal without slowing down.
Price points generally under $15
Most options land under $15, which makes these sushi burritos a smart pick for value seekers. The price keeps weeknight dinners and quick office runs budget friendly, with portions that feel generous and filling.
Beyond Bowls: Hot Dogs, Sides, and Sweet Treats
Pacific Counter offers more than just poke bowls. They have quick, tasty bites and fresh poke. It’s great for families, office lunches, and afternoon treats.
All-beef hot dogs with creative toppings
All-beef hot dogs are the stars. They come with crisp slaw, spicy mayo, or tangy pickles. It’s a hearty choice for those who want something hot and easy to eat.
Sides: spam musubi, miso soup, seaweed and cucumber salads
Classic sides add balance and texture. Spam musubi with warm rice and toasted nori is a favorite. Miso soup is soothing, and seaweed and cucumber salads offer a fresh crunch.
Desserts and drinks: Dole Whip and bubble tea with jellies or popping boba
Dole Whip adds a sweet touch with its pineapple flavor. Bubble tea comes in taro, matcha, Thai tea, or passionfruit. You can add jellies or popping boba for extra fun.
Tip: Try an all-beef hot dog with cucumber salad. Finish with bubble tea and your favorite jellies or popping boba.
Founders and Story: Chef Tock, Eric Bialik, and Tanner Loebel
Pacific Counter started in St. Petersburg with a dream. Chef Tock Noythanongsay, Eric Bialik, and Tanner Loebel were the founders. They wanted to share fresh flavors in a friendly place, promising good food and vibes.
Chitthasack “Chef Tock” Noythanongsay led the menu with his chef skills. Eric Bialik and Tanner Loebel worked on the brand and growth. They opened on Central Avenue in 2018 and grew across Tampa Bay with a fast-casual model.
The team worked with Hype Group to create a lively brand. They named it, gave it a voice, and added fun mottos. Their brand, shown in this Pacific Counter identity showcase, shows Pacific roots and a quick service flow.
They focus on making recipes better, keeping service fast, and making memories. This approach helps them stay true to St. Pete while growing a community-focused concept.
Community Roots and pacific counter tropicana field Presence
Pacific Counter’s story is deeply rooted in the Tampa Bay restaurant scene. It started in St. Pete and has become a staple at big venues. People love it for the delicious food and welcoming atmosphere.
Sixth season at Tropicana Field and local sports ties
Entering its sixth season at Tropicana Field, Pacific Counter dives into the local sports spirit. On game days, they keep the lines short while serving up bold flavors. Fans seek out fresh bowls that match the excitement of the games.
St. Pete origins at 660 Central Ave. opened in 2018
The brand’s roots are in St. Pete, starting at 660 Central Ave. in 2018. From there, they built strong ties with the community and local makers. They’ve grown alongside the city’s creative spirit.
Serving tampa bay restaurant fans with good food and good vibes
They offer pop-ups, charity tastings, and daily service to the Tampa Bay community. Guests return for the tasty food and friendly vibes. It’s a promise kept, whether it’s a quiet lunch or a late-night snack after sports.
Grand Opening Plans, Prizes, and Social Media Updates
Pacific Counter is ready to make a splash in St. Pete. Get ready for a fun atmosphere, new flavors, and lots of surprises. It’s all part of their lively brand vibe.
Giveaways planned to celebrate the opening
The team has exciting giveaways and prizes for the grand opening. Early birds can find cool swag, special menu items, and extra treats. It’s a chance to win big right from the start.
Follow on Facebook and Instagram for announcements
Stay updated on Facebook and Instagram. They’ll share countdowns, daily specials, and behind-the-scenes peeks. You won’t miss out on any fun or prizes.
Local delivery and full-service on-site event catering
There’s more than just dining in. They offer local delivery for quick meals and easy dinners. For bigger events, their catering brings the fun with bowls, sushi burritos, and desserts to any gathering.
- Launch perks: grand opening giveaways and pop-up surprises
- Stay in the loop: real-time posts on Facebook and Instagram
- Convenience: fast local delivery and flexible event catering
Franchising and Expansion: Tampa Bay and Beyond
Pacific Counter’s latest move in St. Pete is a big step for Tampa Bay. It’s the eighth location, showing the brand’s growth. They plan to expand carefully, keeping quality and speed in mind.
The new Apollo Beach spot is set to open in March 2025. This comes after strong demand in St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Pinellas Park. It shows how Pacific Counter can grow while keeping its unique flavor.
Starting in 2025, Pacific Counter will offer franchises. They want experienced people to join their system. The goal is to bring the brand to places like college towns and coastal cities.
Even with high supply costs and logistics challenges, Pacific Counter stays flexible. They focus on quick prep and smart buying. This confidence will help them expand nationwide while keeping their local roots.
The path forward blends neighborhood trust with scale-minded discipline, linking everyday convenience to a wider footprint.
| Focus Area | Current Status | Near-Term Goal | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay growth | Eighth location milestone | Strengthen Fourth Street and Northeast St. Pete reach | Builds brand density and lowers delivery times |
| Apollo Beach location | Opening targeted for March 2025 | Activate South Shore audience | Extends access for commuters and families |
| Franchising | Framework set for 2025 | Recruit operators with fast-casual experience | Accelerates responsible expansion plans |
| Nationwide franchises | Market research underway | Identify cities with high fresh-casual demand | Scales the concept to new regions |
| Operational readiness | Streamlined kitchens and training | Maintain speed during growth | Protects guest experience at scale |
Why It’s a Tampa Foodie Hotspot for Healthy Fast Casual Dining
Pacific Counter is a hit by mixing island flavors with quick service. It’s a top spot in Tampa because of its bright tastes, fast service, and customizable meals. This mix is perfect for those who want healthy, tasty food without sacrificing quality.
Hawaiian cuisine influences with pacific rim cuisine flair
The menu combines Hawaiian flavors with Pacific Rim touches. You’ll find diced fish, bold toppings, and a mix of sesame, citrus, and chili. The bowls and sushi burritos are fresh and full of life. Clean, beachy flavors meet familiar ingredients that locals love.
Options for every diet: seafood lovers and non-seafood choices
There’s something for everyone, with seafood and non-seafood options side by side. You can choose from raw tuna and salmon to barbecue chicken, baked chicken, tofu, and mushrooms. This variety makes it easy for groups to find something they all like, whether it’s classic poke or a veggie-packed dish.
Value, speed, and customization for lunch and dinner
Most dishes are under $15, with many bowls around $12. This makes it a great value. The service is quick, but you can customize your meal from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, blending healthy eating with vibrant Pacific Rim flavors.
Pacific Counter stands out in Tampa with its balanced menu, wide range of options, and fair prices. It’s a true favorite among food lovers in the city.
Conclusion
Pacific Counter is opening in St. Pete in January 2025. It will be at 210 37th Ave. N. in a 1,300-square-foot space. The space was once home to Island Fin Poké Company.
This move shows Pacific Counter’s commitment to staying local while growing. It’s a big deal for those following St. Petersburg restaurant news.
Starting in 2018 on Central Avenue, Pacific Counter has grown to eight Tampa Bay locations. Their menu is simple yet satisfying. You can choose from poke bowls, sushi burritos, and more.
They also offer hot dogs, Dole Whip, and bubble tea. Their presence at Tropicana Field keeps the community spirit alive.
Next, they’re heading to Apollo Beach and planning to franchise nationwide in 2025. The new location in the Northeast Shopping Center is perfect for busy lives. It offers quick, customizable meals at great prices.
As Pacific Counter expands, it reflects the growing interest in Pacific and Indo–Pacific food and culture. This is discussed in a policy and strategy overview.
For diners, it’s all about balance and convenience. Enjoy a poke bowl for health or a sushi burrito for a quick snack. And now, there’s a new Pacific Counter in St. Pete to try.
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