MARIANAS Creations and SAIHI Eats are teaming up to celebrate local art and artists at their “First Friday” event this weekend.
This month they are celebrating culinary art with the introduction of a fusion of Saipan and Hawaii poke, a take on the traditional style of poke with a CNMI twist.
The goal of SAIHI Eats has been to provide the people of the CNMI with craft poke for anyone and everyone who enjoys raw fish.
From a simple poke bowl at the beach to chasers at a barbecue bash with family and friends, SAIHI Eats at Marianas Creations says that it is a one-stop spot to satisfy poke cravings.
The event will also offer an open mic portion for anyone who would like to share their talents through singing, playing musical instruments, reciting poetry, performing comedy, or other art forms.
Located on Micro Beach Road, Marianas Creations will also serve their craft cocktails, beers, and, of course, delicious poke from SAIHI Eats.
The business has been known to support new artists and entrepreneurs, and has collaborated with several different food companies on island in a number of events it hosted since it opened in August 2019.
Introducing new food menus during “First Friday” events has become a tradition for the business, said Marianas Creations co-owner Elina Gharti Chhetri in an interview on Wednesday.
“SAIHI Eats is a new business that we came across and we are excited to collaborate together,” she said.
The event this Friday, she added, is for everyone on island who wants to try something new, especially those who enjoy unique food, cocktails, beers and products locally sourced from or made on Saipan, Tinian, Rota and Guam.
New entrepreneurs or artists are also welcome to attend this event and are encouraged to chat with other artist or producers about their experience.
Several local artists and producers who showcase their work at Marianas Creations will also be in attendance to answer any question consumers may have about their respective creations.
“There will be several artists available on the floor to talk about their products. We anticipate a strong showing from our supporters and community members,” Gharti Chhetri said.
Before Covid-19 public health restrictions were imposed, Marianas Creations would host a “First Friday” event every month.
This Friday will mark the business’ first event since it reopened.
“Marianas Creations shut down for several months due to the pandemic. Since reopening we have been operating at reduced hours. We hope we can return to our full operating hours once tourism resumes,” Gharti Chhetri said.
All event attendees will be required to sign in. Hand sanitizers will be available for everyone. Masks are optional for anyone who is vaccinated.
The event will have free entrance and run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or later.
Local products will be available for purchase at the store. Cash and major credit cards are accepted.
“We are grateful for the continued support of the community and hope people will come to Marianas Creations on Friday for this celebration of local art,” Gharti Chhetri said.
For more information, call 783-1924 or visit Marianas Creations’ Facebook page.
After a brief hiatus, Marianas Creations’ “First Fridays” will be making a comeback this weekend.
