Whether you’re a longtime fan or a complete poke novice, if you’re visiting Hawaii, you’ve got to try some poke (POH-kay). This Hawaiian dish features fresh, usually raw, diced fish mixed with other ingredients. There are many different flavor combinations, so try a few and discover your favorite.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
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Feature Image: Tamuras
Like Poke?
591 Haleakala Hwy., Kahului
(808) 757-8402
This little food truck is usually parked just past the Costco. There are outdoor picnic tables with shade, so it’s a great place to stop and enjoy some poke. Plates come with rice and greens, and there’s also katsu: fish rolled in panko, deep-fried and served with a special sauce. Open Monday through Friday 10:30am to 7pm, Saturday 10:30am to 3pm. Closed Sunday. facebook.com/like.poke.1
Takamiya
359 N. Market St., Wailuku
(808) 244-3404
Serving the community since 1946, this little market is best known for mini bentos, Hawaiian food and poke. There are specials every day. We love the sesame tako (octopus) poke but if you like an extra kick, go for the kim chee tako poke. Open Monday through Saturday 5:15am to 6pm. Closed Sunday. danismaui.com
Tamuras
199 Dairy Rd., Kahului
(808) 873-8000
This grocery chain has many locations throughout the islands. It’s a popular stop to grab a few staples, as well as cigars and booze, since their alcohol selection is one of the best around. But most people come to Tamuras for the poke, because it’s really that good. Open Monday through Saturday 10am to 7pm and Sunday 10am to 6pm. tamurasfinewine.com
Tin Roof
Chef Sheldon Simeon and wife Janice are the “mom and pop” behind this humble little eatery that serves a mean bowl of poke. Tucked back from the street, you’ll almost miss if you don’t look for it. While they are not a poke shop per se (they only have one poke bowl on their menu, the fish varies daily), they have earned their mention. Everything here is good — mochiko chicken, garlic shrimp, saimin, kale salad and more. With close proximity to the Kahului airport, it’s a great stop to grab some food after landing or before you take off. Open Tuesday through Saturday 10am to 8pm. tinroofmaui.com
