Poke Burgers

Poke Burgers is a viral Toronto food concept that reimagines the traditional burger by replacing standard buns with crispy, deep-fried rice patties. Founded by business graduates Cesar Mandujano and Julian Tangarife Munoz, the venture was born from a simple dilemma: choosing between poke bowls and smash burgers for dinner. After operating as a successful online-only, pick-up and delivery business since July 2025, the brand is transitioning to its first physical storefront at the World Food Market. The concept reflects a growing trend of creative fusion street food in the city, blending the fresh, raw elements of sushi with the handheld convenience of a burger.

Visitors to the new World Food Market location can expect a menu featuring signature protein options like marinated tuna, salmon, or shrimp. Each "burger" is assembled with crab salad, avocado, sesame seeds, and a trio of house-made sauces—cilantro, spicy mayo, and eel sauce—all held together by the signature crispy rice buns. As the stall is a new addition to the bustling Yonge and Gould street-food hub, diners should be prepared for potential crowds and limited seating typical of the market environment. Keep an eye on their social media channels for the most current updates on their official opening date and any limited-time menu experiments.