About Pokemoto®
Pokemoto was founded in 2017 by Thomas Nguyen in New Haven, Connecticut. While living in Hawaii, Thomas discovered authentic Hawaiian poké and quickly became passionate about the fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and customizable nature of the cuisine.
Recognizing that New England was known for great seafood yet lacked a dedicated poké concept, Thomas took a leap of faith and opened the first Pokemoto location across from Yale University. What began as a single restaurant quickly developed a loyal following, leading to expansion throughout the Northeast and beyond.
Today, Pokemoto has grown into one of the largest poké franchise systems in North America, serving guests across multiple states while continuing to introduce new consumers to fresh, customizable Hawaiian-inspired cuisine.
What Makes Pokemoto Different
At Pokemoto, we believe great food starts with great ingredients. Our menu is built around fresh, high-quality proteins, vibrant produce, bold sauces, and nearly endless customization options.
Guests can create their own bowls, wraps, and salads or choose from a selection of chef-inspired favorites. Beyond poké, our menu also includes cooked protein options and a popular lineup of boba beverages, helping us appeal to a broad range of tastes and preferences.
Our mission is simple: provide fresh, flavorful food in a welcoming environment while delivering an exceptional guest experience.
Our Culture
The values that helped build the first Pokemoto location continue to guide the brand today.
Entrepreneurship
We believe in taking calculated risks, embracing innovation, and continuously looking for ways to improve.
Accountability
We hold ourselves accountable to our guests, franchisees, team members, and business partners.
Collaboration
Great ideas can come from anywhere. We value input from our franchisees and work together to strengthen the brand.
Caring
We are passionate about food, but even more passionate about people. Building lasting relationships is at the core of everything we do.
A New Chapter
In December 2025, Pokemoto was acquired by MARV Brands, a restaurant company focused on building strong franchise systems through operational excellence, franchisee support, and long-term growth.
The acquisition marked the beginning of a new chapter for the brand. MARV's focus is on strengthening operations, investing in technology, enhancing marketing initiatives, and creating additional opportunities for franchisees throughout the system.
Leadership
Matteo Gentile, CEO
MARV Brands is led by Matteo Gentile, a franchisee and multi-unit restaurant operator with more than 37 years of experience in the restaurant industry.
Throughout his career, Matteo has built and operated restaurants, developed teams, navigated economic challenges, and experienced firsthand the realities of restaurant ownership. That perspective shapes how MARV supports franchisees and approaches growth.
When the opportunity arose to acquire Pokemoto, Matteo saw a concept with tremendous potential. The combination of strong consumer demand, operational simplicity, and broad market appeal made Pokemoto a natural fit for MARV's long-term vision.
Today, Matteo remains actively involved in the restaurant industry and is committed to building a franchise system focused on franchisee success, operational excellence, and sustainable growth.
Growing the Pokemoto Brand
Pokemoto continues to expand across North America with franchise partners who share our passion for hospitality, quality, and entrepreneurship.
43 Locations Open
5 Locations in Development
12 new units signed via Development Agreements
As we continue to grow, our commitment remains the same: deliver exceptional food, support our franchisees, and create memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.
Whether you're a guest, franchisee, landlord, supplier, or potential business partner, thank you for being part of the Pokemoto journey.
