Pok Pok Po, Midtown’s newest culinary hotspot, opens on Dec. 2 in the former Artisans location. To celebrate, the first 100 guests will enjoy a free fried chicken sandwich, Balle Balle fries, and a drink from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pok Pok Po, Midtown’s newest culinary hotspot, is set to make its grand debut on Monday, Dec. 2, in the former Artisans location. Known for its bold take on fried chicken, this exciting concept from the creators of Woodlands’ Amrina promises to bring flavor and flair to the neighborhood. To celebrate the opening, the first 100 guests will enjoy a complimentary feast of a fried chicken sandwich, signature Balle Balle fries, and a drink from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Spanning approximately 2,000 square feet, Pok Pok Po is a vibrant, community-oriented eatery celebrating fried chicken with inventive flair. Led by Chef Jassi, this unique venture combines bold, gluten-free recipes with a nod to Houston’s culinary diversity, that will transform the fried chicken experience through modern techniques and exceptional flavor profiles.
Pok Pok Po’s story began in the kitchen of eclectic, modern Indian restaurant Amrina, where an impromptu brunch experiment sparked the idea for this new concept. Chef Jassi’s handcrafted hot sauce and perfectly crispy fried chicken captivated partners Preet and Surpreet Singh, inspiring the team to bring this concept to life. This venture reflects the same dedication to craft and community that has defined Amrina, while embracing a more casual, flavor-forward dining experience.
“At Pok Pok Po, we’re creating something that’s not just a meal but an experience. We’ve taken everything people love about fried chicken and given it a twist with bold, gluten-free recipes and flavors that truly speak to the diversity of Houston,” said Chef Jassi.
Drawing on Houston’s eclectic food culture, Pok Pok Po’s menu showcases inventive takes on fried chicken with a focus on imaginative pairings and unique seasoning profiles, including gluten-free flour and starch batter, seasoned with Indian Kashmiri red chili powder, and a blend of herbs and flavors. Menu highlights include the signature Chicken Sandwich, featuring pressure-cooked, crispy boneless chicken thigh coated in a house-made sauce, served on a buttery potato bun with desi kimchi and fresh iceberg lettuce. Fried Chicken Strips are available in portions of two, four, or six, each perfected for a satisfying crunch. The Loaded Chic Fries bring together seasoned fries topped with either crispy chicken thigh or bite-sized breast pieces, layered with signature sauce and desi kimchi for an exceptional, flavor-packed bite. For a hearty option, the Loaded Rice & Shine combines steamed basmati rice with crispy chicken thigh or breast, house-made sauce, and desi kimchi. Guests will also love the signature Balle Balle fries, crispy and tossed with a bold blend of house spices.
The drink selection offers guests a chance to savor a range of beers, highlighted by Arka Lager, an American-style lager from India that pairs perfectly with spicy chicken dishes and THC drinks in partnership with 8th Wonder Brewery. Also available are energy drinks, fountain drinks and Mango Lassi a traditional and popular Indian beverage made by mixing fresh mangoes with yogurt, water and a sprinkle of sugar for added sweetness.
Drawing inspiration from Houston’s culinary landscape while carving its own distinct identity, Pok Pok Po represents a reimagining of the modern quick-service restaurant. Architects John Tsai and Robert Mazzo have crafted a 55-seat dining space that exudes warmth with its blend of white and light wood tones, accented by subtle pops of color and greenery. The thoughtfully designed environment creates the feel of a welcoming “parlor,” inviting guests to linger. Wooden tables and chairs are complemented by custom banquettes along the walls, while black and white themed seating provides a subtle visual connection to Pok Pok Po’s sister concept, Bol, opening later this month.
Drawing on their fine dining and high-end hospitality background, the restaurant elevates the fast-casual experience by upholding the same exceptional standards—offering delicious flavors in a thoughtfully designed setting that proves quick service can be both efficient and extraordinary. Pok Pok Po will also provide catering options ideal for events of all sizes, from parties to corporate meetings and beyond.
Pok Pok Po will be open Sunday – Thursday from 11 am – 10 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11 am – 12 am. For more information about Pok Pok Po, please visit https://www.pokpokpo.com/.
