This post was updated May 12 at 8:13 p.m.
The Poke Co. & Wings is proving that opposites do attract.
Located in the same vicinity as Trader Joe’s and Ministry of Coffee, the restaurant opened April 5. Expanding upon its traditional menu, The Poke Co. & Wings offers students a one-stop shop for all of their cravings. Despite the unconventional combination of items offered, the restaurant’s speedy service and extensive options will help uphold a status that is likely to take it far in Westwood.
Although the exterior decor may not be particularly exciting, the inviting gesture of the open door and the colorful screens displaying a wide array of food options add an element of excitement to the atmosphere. The stuffed Stitch, sitting contently above the store sign, also offers a touch of lightheartedness among the intenseness of options offered. From individual servings to group orders, the screens meticulously present the perfect amount of food tailored to each guest’s needs. Despite the slight crowding, the offerings are complemented by interactive spice charts and vibrant food cutouts, creating a balanced and visually appealing ordering experience.
In line with this sentiment, the servers exhibited exceptional patience by addressing inquiries about recommended dishes and providing insightful suggestions. Regardless of the bustling nature of the restaurant, the servers extended table service by personally delivering food to customers. Alongside attentive service, the restaurant provides enticing deals like buy one, get one free Milk Tea Mondays to ensure students receive the most favorable prices. Its dedication to customer service fosters an inclusive environment that appreciates every guest that walks through the door.
The first pick of the meal was the star – a tuna poke bowl, layered with cucumber, edamame, avocado and crispy garlic flakes. While flavorful, the toppings fell short of expectations with the absence of options such as mango and pineapple, resulting in a somewhat average offering compared to Westwood competitors such as Sweetfin. Nevertheless, the freshness of the fish shone through, and the portion sizes were notably generous.
In line with its quantities, the Shake It Up fries were substantial enough to serve at least four people, justifying the steep price of $8.50. Opting for the safe choice of garlic parmesan and forgoing the curiosity of the spicy Cheeto fries, the dish fell short because of its inconsistencies in the distribution of spice. While some bites were overly seasoned, others lacked flavor, resulting in a slightly disappointing overall experience. However, the tanginess of the Chick n Dippin sauce made the dish regain its promise.
Transitioning to the main dish, the variety of wing flavors was extensive, ranging from teriyaki to dragon’s breath. Opting for milder options, the lemon pepper and original BBQ stood out as favorites. Consistent with previous items, the seasoning on the wings was slightly uneven, with the lemon pepper concentrated in one spot. The barbecue wings remained a top contender, as the meat was incredibly juicy. Each table was equipped with ample napkins to address any stickiness, ensuring a comfortable dining experience.
Amid an overload of flavors, the drinks provided a refreshing break. Offering a diverse selection ranging from slushies to coffee, the drink menu rivaled, if not surpassed, the variety of food options. The pineapple cream soda reveled with hints of vanilla, complementing the zesty lemon pepper wings and savory parmesan fries quite nicely. Moreover, the milk tea was completely guzzled down, even though the sweetness was slightly overpowering. Delivered cold and fresh, the beverage acted as a perfect companion to the main dishes, balancing the richness of the fries with the lightness of the poke bowl.
The Poke Co. & Wings offers a diverse menu that genuinely has something for everyone. Despite being a new addition to the Westwood area, its strategic location makes it convenient for students seeking a quick meal. From wrapping up a workout at CorePower Yoga or looking for a pre-work bite, the restaurant’s name alone is enticing, while its top notch service will keep people coming back. Although the prices, ranging from $8 all the way to $80, are intimidating, the continuous deals and packages leave customers both satisfied and content with their spendings. With servings catering from one person to 50 people, the restaurant is fit for any occasion.
With some fine tuning, The Poke Co. & Wings can introduce a new way to satisfy customers’ cravings and still leave them wanting more.
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