Pokemoto opens two new eateries in Guilford, Berlin

Two more Pokemoto restaurants have opened in the state, in Guilford and Berlin, the chain’s Texas-based parent company announced Wednesday.

The newest locations are at 1065 Boston Post Road in Guilford and 224 Berlin Turnpike in Berlin, according to Muscle Maker Inc., which owns Pokemoto.

The two eateries bring the number of Pokemoto locations in Connecticut to 18. Of that number, 13 are now open and another five franchise locations are coming soon. 

While exact locations have not yet been announced, the chain’s website indicates new restaurants are coming to Danbury, Milford and North Haven.

Across its 16-state footprint, Pokemoto now has 29 open locations and an additional 45 franchise locations sold but not yet opened. 

Poke is a Hawaiian dish, and Pokemoto serves a variety of bowls, salads, burritos and teas. Customers can choose from signature bowls or build their own combination of a base, protein, toppings and sauces. A “Sweet and Spicy Shrimp” signature bowl, for example, comes with shrimp, corn, cilantro, jalapenos and sweet onion tossed in garlic oil and topped with wonton crisps. Vegetarian options are also available.

There is seating for in-restaurant dining and takeout. Customers may also order online via third party delivery apps.

“We’re proud to remain the top poke player in the Connecticut market,” said CEO Michael Roper.

The company recently announced its expansion to two new states, Texas and New York, bringing the total footprint to 16 states. It also has eateries in Massachusetts, Florida, Maryland, Virginia, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, Kansas and California. 

“We’re very encouraged by our recent growth announcements and look forward to sharing more news as it becomes available,” Roper added. 

Dave Monk, an area director and franchise operator of the Berlin restaurant, said, “The Connecticut market, specifically New Haven and Hartford counties, are excellent areas for the brand.”

“They draw in our target audience with all of the local amenities and dining options,” Monk added. “We already have brand recognition in the market from our existing Pokemoto locations so people know what they’re in for when they see our Pokemoto logo go up on a building.”

Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.