A melting pot of cultures, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the most unique foods you'll find in America - and perhaps more so than Hawaiian plate lunches or shave ice - poke is certainly one of the islands' most iconic dishes. Poke, a raw fish salad, usually consists of cubed aku (an oily tuna), he'e (octopus), or ahi (yellowfin tuna) marinated with sea salt, soy sauce, sesame oil, limu seaweed and chili powder. The delicious dish is often served as an appetizer, and is currently taking over the mainland, though Hawaii obviously still does it best.
1. Da Poke Shack, Kailua-Kona
This seaside eatery nestled in a condominium complex is known for their takeout poke, as well as local specialties and salads - and was once considered the best restaurant in America, according to Yelp.
2. Ono Seafood. Honolulu
Rumor has it that the best poke in Honolulu comes from Ono Seafood. The seafood is fresh, and the poke is made-to-order instead of sitting all afternoon in a big container.
3. Pono Market, Kapa’a
Family owned and operated since 1968, Pono Market serves up a variety of poke, as well as manju, musubi, sushi, and seafood plate lunches.
4. The Fish Market Maui, Lahaina
This Maui fish market may be known for their fresh, local seafood catches, but also sells prepared dishes and platters for dine-in and takeout, including some mouthwatering poke.
5. Fresh Catch, Honolulu
This casual, deli-style eatery in Honolulu serves local-style poke, plate lunches, seafood, and even soups.
6. Sun Dried Specialties, Kealakekua
Admittedly, this spot is both a seafood market/wholesaler and restaurant, though that doesn’t mean you can’t get a killer meal here. From standard Hawaiian fare to gourmet dishes, Sun Dried Specialties is a must-visit while on the Big Island.
7. Koloa Fish Market, Koloa
This family owned counter-service joint serves up the best poke, as well as Hawaiian and American plate lunches, perfect for enjoying on a nearby beach (there are no seats here). Could you ask for anything more than an extensive poke selection at an affordable price?
8. Da Hawaiian Poke Company, Honolulu
Opened just last fall in the Safeway Kapahulu Center, this poke-focused eatery has already become a staple of the community, and is even looking to expand to California and Japan.
9. Poke To Your Taste, Hilo
This small Hilo spot is known for serving up a variety of poke and seasonings, with an impressive selection of beer to boot.
10. Kilauea Fish Market, Kapa’a
This local deli serves up daily catches, plate lunches, and poke in a cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating.
11. Coconuts Fish Cafe, Kihei
This seafood joint serves up poke, Hawaiian fish tacos, sandwiches, pastas and plate lunches at affordable prices in a laid-back, family friendly atmosphere with great service and even better seafood.
12. Fish Express, Lihue
Known for an impressive takeout menu, this eatery serves up fresh seafood specials, Hawaiian plates, bentos, and some of the best pupus around - including poke, kimchee, and lomi salmon.
13. Alicia’s Market, Honolulu
This convenience store in Honolulu sells a variety of produce, seafood, and spirits, as well as prepared Hawaiian and Chinese entrees - including some pretty ono poke.
14. South Maui Fish Company, Kihei
Serving the Kihei area is this phenomenal seafood joint that serves up only the freshest poke and grilled fish plate lunches. You can even purchase fresh fillets to prepare at home!
15. Umeke’s, Kailua-Kona
For poke bowls and Hawaiian plate lunches in Kailua-Kona, look no further than Umeke’s. This modest deli-style eatery serves up the freshest seafood around, and even made Yelp’s Top 100 Places To Eat In The US for 2016.
What is your favorite place to eat poke in Hawaii?
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