Hoboken may be small in size, but it sure is mighty when it comes to the variety of eateries and cuisines available. From Italian to Japanese, Mexican to Thai, the options are vast. And now, more of the flavors of Hawaii are also available in the Mile Square thanks to Pokémoto, an authentic Hawaiian-style eatery located at 213 Washington Street in Hoboken. The large customizable menu has something for everyone from meat eaters to vegans. Plus, they offer local delivery. Keep reading to learn all about the big flavors Pokémoto Hoboken is serving up + an exclusive offer for HG students during finals week.
Poké in The Mile Square
Poké is native Hawaiian cuisine, traditionally made up of diced fresh fish served as an appetizer or main course. Modern twists include chicken, tofu, shrimp or salmon with influences of Japanese and Korean cuisine. Deconstructed sushi with all your favorite proteins, mix-ins, toppings, and crunches with a variety of sauces on the side.
Pokémoto cooks up authentic Hawaiian-style food and beverages right in the Mile Square – no long plane ride needed. Their signature bowls and burritos are packed with flavor and fresh ingredients that will leave you satisfied yet already thinking about your next order. Build-your-own bowls are a popular choice thanks to the many combinations available.
The Pokémoto Menu
With a large menu, customers can enjoy poké bowls, Huli Huli chicken, Lei’d up pork, musubis, poke burritos, premium Boba tea, and Hawaiian Suns. The many protein options provide something for every palette – think lobster salad, fresh salmon, ahi ahi tuna, tofu, grilled chicken, and shrimp.
“Poké is native Hawaiian cuisine, traditionally made up of diced fresh fish served as an appetizer or main course. Modern twists include chicken, tofu, shrimp, or salmon with strong influences of Japanese and Korean cuisine,” owner Shrijay Patel shared with The Hoboken Girl. “Think of Hawaiian style poke bowls as deconstructed sushi with all your favorite proteins, mix-ins, toppings, and crunches with your favorite sauces! A customized bowl, salad, or wrap every time!”
And of course, we can’t forget the mix-ins, which add tons of fresh flavor and texture. There’s also a variety of fresh ingredients that can be added on top to add additional flavor such as cucumber, mango, onions, edamame, fresh jalapeno, sweet corn, and more.
For the sauce lovers out there, (we know there are many of you) pick from umami shoyu, pokemoto chojang, creamy miso, sweet chili oil, spicy mayo, wasabi aioli, sesame ginger, ponzu fresh, Himalayan salt, or sweet teriyaki.
“We are proud to deliver exceptional quality ingredients and we never charge for additional toppings and sauces. It’s part of our business philosophy to make sure our food not only tastes great, but is also affordable,” Shrijay told us.
How It All Started
Thomas Nguyen started Pokémoto in 2017 out of New Haven, CT after discovering traditional Hawaiian poké while living in Hawaii. He realized that the New England market (which is known for amazing seafood) was missing poké. Thomas opened a poké bowl eatery in a vacant location across from Yale University and it ended up being a success. That’s how the first Pokémoto shop was born.
In March 2023, Shrijay Patel opened the first Pokémoto location in New Jersey, right in Hoboken. Shrijay decided to invest in a business that wasn’t just delicious, but also healthy. Having worked in restaurants throughout his life, Shrijay understood what goes into creating a quality eatery. Pokémoto ended up being a perfect fit for his goals, and also a perfect addition for Hoboken residents and visitors, who appreciate delicious, healthy, and high-quality options.
Serving the Hoboken Community
Shrijay is proud to provide the community a place to get a more affordable alternative to sushi with many vegan and vegetarian options and choices.
Next month for finals week, Shrijay and the Hoboken team have a special promo for students as they prep for final exams. From May 7th through May 20th, students can receive 50% off a bowl with their student ID (valid in-store only). The perfect way to take a break and refuel while studying — if we do say so ourselves.
“The diversity, the community, the niche little markets in different parts of Hoboken and Jersey City – this young, professional community is all about trying new things and we are excited to offer them that.” Shrijay excitedly told us.
Pokémoto also delivers locally, so you can always get your cravings satisfied, no matter what.
Don’t forget, you can receive 50% off your bowl with student ID from May 7th through May 20th at the Pokémoto Hoboken location (valid in-store only and must show student ID).
Pokémoto is located at 213 Washington Street in Hoboken and is open Monday – Saturday 11AM – 9PM and Sunday 12PM – 8PM. Call 201-942-2952 or place your order online.
