Sushi burritos and poke bowls are taking over St. Petersburg, and Pacific Counter is leading the charge. The local fast-casual restaurant is set to unveil its newest location in the Northeast Shopping Center, bringing Hawaiian-inspired flavors to a new corner of the city.
A Neighborhood Dream Comes True
For co-founder Tanner Loebel, this expansion is more than just another restaurant opening. The new spot at 210 37th Ave. N. has been in the works for quite some time.
“We’ve been looking with our brokers and agent for a spot somewhere on the Fourth Street corridor for years. It’s a difficult place,” said Tanner Loebel, co-founder of Pacific Counter. “Not a lot comes up available, and when it does, it usually goes quick.”
More Than Just a Meal
The new approximately 1,300-square-foot location in the Northeast Shopping Center will take over a former Island Fin Poké space, which Loebel notes will simplify their buildout process. The restaurant aims to open by the end of January, bringing their signature Hawaiian-style cuisine north of downtown.
A Culinary Journey
Founded by three restaurant industry veterans – Loebel, Chef Tock (Chitthasack Noythanongsay), and Eric Bialik – Pacific Counter has grown from a single downtown St. Pete location to eight restaurants across the Tampa Bay area. Their menu offers:
- Build-your-own bowls and burritos
- Pre-designed “Counter Creations”
- Options for vegan, gluten-free, and cooked food preferences
- Most items priced under $15
Looking to the Future
Despite challenges like supply chain issues and inflation, Loebel credits their success to a hands-on approach.
“Myself and my partners are involved in every aspect. There’s not a single day that the three of us are not in a store somewhere, doing something,” he explained. “This is our only venture, and this is our passion. I think that’s what has kept us going.”
With national franchising on the horizon, Pacific Counter is set to bring its unique flavor to food lovers far beyond St. Petersburg.