Thamel Venture Group LLC Signs ADA to Open Pokeworks Location in Queens

Lelin Kandel began his Pokeworks journey in 2015 as the very first employee of the pioneering poke concept’s first location in Bryant Park, N.Y.. Now, nearly a decade later, Kandel will soon open the brand’s newest restaurant in a much different role: owner. Through his LLC, Thamel Venture Group, Kandel is preparing to open a Pokeworks in Long Island City, Queens in early 2024 alongside partners Roshan Gauchan and Nijjwol Lamsal.

“It’s a full-circle moment for me, after working with Pokeworks for all these years,” said Kandel, who rose through the ranks to Senior Operations Manager during his time with the company. “My partners and I are excited to be opening our first location and bringing the ‘Poke Your Way™’ concept to more people in the Queens community!”

This opening marks the first of many locations the partners intend to sign on throughout New York City. This venture with Pokeworks is the latest addition to their quickly growing portfolio, which currently includes the popular Queens nightclub, Thamel NYC.