Franchising

Todd Stottlemyre opening Koibito Poke in Ballpark Village

Koibito Poké was co-founded by former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Todd Stottlemyre, who pitched for the Redbirds from 1996 to 1998. Provided

October 31, 2022

Koibito Poke, a poke restaurant influenced by traditional Hawaiian and Japanese flavors and ingredients, will open its second St. Louis location next year in Ballpark Village, an event venue. The restaurant was co-founded by former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Todd Stottlemyre, who pitched for the team from 1996 to 1998.

The 1,500-square-foot restaurant will be adjacent to Bally Sports Live at 601 Clark Ave., in the heart of Ballpark Village and will feature an outdoor patio.

"When I walked through Ballpark Village on a game day, I knew we needed to open a location here," Stottlemyre said in a company press release. "The atmosphere is electric, and I can't wait to be a part of the neighborhood. Pitching in St. Louis and wearing the Cardinals jersey was one of the highlights of my career. I'm excited to be back in downtown St. Louis to serve up our healthy and delicious food to the best fans in baseball."

Koibito Poké opened its first St. Louis location in Des Peres in September, and a third location will open in Warson Woods next year. The word Koibito means "love" in Japanese.

"We are always looking to add unique concepts for the residents, tenants and visitors at Ballpark Village and to be able to do this with a Cardinals alum makes this a natural fit," Mike LaMartina,COO for Ballpark Village, said in the release. "Koibito Poke is the latest addition to our dynamic lineup of restaurants, bars and retail options. It will be a great option on game days, and it will also be another outstanding dining option for people who live, work and visit downtown St. Louis every day of the year."