Hokey Poké & The Chick Shop: Two Must-Try Midtown NYC Eateries
Looking for fresh poké bowls or authentic falafel in NYC? Hokey Poké and The Chick Shop deliver unforgettable flavors in Midtown Manhattan.
When it comes to unique dining experiences in New York City, Nir Kahan has mastered the art of blending tradition with innovation. As the owner of Hokey Poké, a Hawaiian-inspired poké bowl restaurant, and The Chick Shop, a modern Israeli street food concept, Kahan has brought two diverse cuisines to life, each with its own distinct charm and loyal following.
From Israel to NYC: Nir Kahan’s Culinary Journey
Kahan’s introduction to the restaurant industry began 15 years ago when he moved to New York City from Israel. Drawing on his expertise in operations, he managed a friend’s restaurant, where he honed his skills in local customer service. “It was my first real dive into the NYC dining scene,” Kahan shares.
After a stint in finance, Kahan returned to his culinary roots, partnering to launch a sandwich shop before opening Hokey Poké in 2017. Inspired by the rising popularity of poké, he decided to create a space where customers could enjoy fresh, customizable bowls packed with flavor. Later that year, he unveiled The Chick Shop, a personal passion project showcasing the vibrant flavors of Israeli street food.
Hokey Poké: NYC’s Go-To Spot for Hawaiian Poké Bowls
Located in Midtown Manhattan, Hokey Poké specializes in fresh, customizable poké bowls. Patrons can choose from signature bowls like the Smokey Hokey, featuring salmon and a perfectly balanced mix of toppings, or the Big Kahuna, a hearty option that’s a hit with regulars.
For those who prefer a personalized touch, the Build-Your-Own Bowl option is the most popular. “People love the creativity,” Kahan says. “It’s a great way to mix and match flavors while getting real value.”
Although the pandemic has impacted foot traffic in the area, Kahan credits his loyal customers for Hokey Poké’s continued success. “They’ll come from across town just to enjoy their favorite bowls,” he says.
The Chick Shop: Authentic Israeli Street Food in Manhattan
Nestled alongside Hokey Poké, The Chick Shop has become a local favorite for its authentic Israeli flavors. The menu features crowd-pleasers like chicken shawarma, freshly made falafel, and warm pita bread.
“For me, The Chick Shop is personal,” Kahan explains. “I grew up eating these flavors in Israel, and I wanted to bring them to NYC in a way that feels authentic and satisfying.”
The Chick Shop’s glowing reviews on Google and Yelp highlight its standout offerings. Customers rave about the “crispy falafel” and “incredible shawarma,” praising the fresh ingredients and bold spices imported directly from Israel.
Innovation and Quality at the Heart of Both Restaurants
Whether experimenting with Japanese-inspired dishes at Hokey Poké—like a chicken katsu bowl with sesame rice—or perfecting the spices in his falafel at The Chick Shop, Kahan is always looking for ways to innovate. “I’m not afraid to take risks with flavors,” he shares. “It’s about creating something memorable.”
Both menus reflect Kahan’s commitment to high-quality ingredients. Hokey Poké sources authentic Japanese products for its poké bowls, while The Chick Shop uses imported spices to ensure its flavors remain true to their origins.
What’s Next for Hokey Poké and The Chick Shop?
As Kahan looks to the future, he’s focused on expanding catering services for both restaurants while continuing to adapt to the changing dining landscape in NYC. “We’re here for the long haul,” he says.
Plan Your Visit to Hokey Poké and The Chick Shop
Whether you’re craving a fresh, flavorful poké bowl or the best falafel in Midtown Manhattan, Kahan’s restaurants have you covered.
📍 Hokey Poké
Third Avenue, NYC
Instagram: @hokeypokenyc
📍 The Chick Shop
Midtown Manhattan, NYC
Instagram: @chickshopnyc