SAIPAN — Despite the uncertain economic times, several brave souls on Saipan have taken the leap to set up their own businesses — from electronics and pet grooming to poke bowls, barbecue, and smoked meats.
Nervonics
Nervonics electronics store opened its doors on the first floor of the Seda Blanca Building in Garapan. The business, rebranded from its initial name Electronics Pacifica, aims to provide affordable consumer electronics on island.
The shop carries a growing inventory of more than 150 products, ranging from laptops, tablets, TVs, and phones to gaming consoles such as the Switch 2 and Steam Deck. Nervonics also offers solar generators and unique items not commonly found on Saipan.
Each purchase comes with a 30-day warranty and a seven-day return policy.
“Our vision was to bring fair pricing and real value to the community, especially in a tough economy,” said Mark Heiphetz, president. “The reception so far has exceeded our expectations.”
Nervonics can be reached via WhatsApp at (670) 287-0662, by email at info@nervonics.com, or on Facebook at Nervonics.
Nervonics electronics store has opened in Garapan. Photo by Mark Rabago
Pawpaw LP
Pawpaw LP pet grooming and supply shop officially opened on May 20 in Chalan Kiya.
The store was launched to fill a gap in the market for professional grooming services and quality pet products.
“Most pet parents here are very busy, and without grooming services, many animals end up with matted coats or other health issues,” said Chrystal Li, owner.
The shop offers grooming services starting at $55 for small dogs with normal coats, with prices adjusted for size, coat condition, and handling needs. Pawpaw LP also sells select pet supplies. Li plans to expand the store by the end of the year into a larger complex that will include grooming, supplies, a puppy school, and a pet hotel.
Customers can reach Pawpaw LP on Facebook (Pawpaw Pet Saipan), Instagram @pawpawpetsaipan, or by phone at (670) 484-0520.
Pawpaw Pet Grooming and Supply opened on May 20 in Chalan Kiya. Photo by Mark Rabago
Niao’s Poke Deli
Niao’s Poke Deli opened May 1 in San Jose, offering poke bowls, wraps, and seafood-inspired plates. The menu highlights Classic Ahi Poke, Spicy Ahi, Spicy Salmon, and specialty “Poke Bombs” — a ginger rice inari wrap topped with poke and tobikko.
For non-raw seafood options, the deli serves “Smoky Poke” with smoked salmon, wahoo, and pork, as well as a smoked fish dip.
Owner Curtis Dancoe, who previously lived in Hawaii, said he wanted to bring a healthy, wholesome, and low-carb dining option to Saipan. “I opened the deli because I wanted to share a lifestyle change that helped me lose 70 lbs.,” he said.
Niao’s Poke Deli is open Monday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm. Customers can call (670) 235-POKE (7653) or find the deli on Facebook and Instagram.
Ben Ki Food Truck
Following the closure of its physical store in July due to high utility costs, Ben Ki has shifted operations to its food truck, now primarily based at the Garapan Fishing Base.
The truck offers barbecue rib plates, beef short ribs, shrimp dishes, nachos, burgers, hotdogs, and a range of Chamorro side staples such as red rice, mac salad, and kimchee. Family trays and desserts such as madoya and bonelos are also available.
“Even after closing the store, our customers from Dandan still drive down to support us,” Teregeyo said.
Customers can contact Ben Ki on WhatsApp at (670) 785-7373 or through the Saipan food truck group on Facebook.
Golden Valley Resto Bar
Golden Valley Resto Bar, located across from the Flag Memorial in Oleai, offers a mix of Filipino and Korean cuisine in a casual setting.
The restaurant seats up to 48 customers at 14 tables. It doubles as a bakery in the early morning before serving meals until 2 p.m. daily. On weekends, Golden Valley offers a buffet for $13.50.
“I wanted to create a place where people can enjoy good food with good company,” owner Lawrence Tolin said. “This was my long-time plan despite the tough economy.”
Golden Valley Resto Bar can be reached at (670) 235-6128.
Golden Valley Resto Bar offers a mix of Filipino and Korean cuisine. Photo by Mark Rabago
Divine Essentials Food Truck
Divine Essentials Food Truck — named after the owners’ daughter, Divine — serves smoked meats and Chamorro specialties at events across Saipan.
Best sellers include smoked pork butt, ribs, chicken, smoked chicken kelaguen, and tamales gisu with smoked pork. The menu changes per event but always features smoked options.
The truck has seen strong demand, with sellouts at recent gatherings. “We believe that in tough times, good food brings people together,” Kanemoto said.
Divine Essentials Food Truck can be reached at WhatsApp (670) 287-7837, email admin@decnmi.com, or via @decnmi.foodtruck on Facebook and Instagram.
According to the CNMI Department of Commerce, 291 new businesses were registered, including 111 LLCs, 69 corporations, 54 non-profits, 51 foreign entities, and six partnerships. At the same time, 109 businesses closed, 84 voluntarily and 25 administratively. mbj
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