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: South Shore Maui
The fresh ahi poke tacos in crispy wonton shells are worth coming here on their own. Monkeypod also has a hefty selection of beers on tap, delicious locally sourced small plates, and hand tossed kiawe wood fired pizzas. The daily happy hour is one of the best on the island and the sunsets aren’t half bad either.
22 Alahele Place, Kihei
808.419.8980
With a motto of “Shop Local, Eat Local, Spend Local,” you know this food truck means business when it comes to sustainably caught fresh fish. It’s so good and popular, they often sell out. Go for the half spicy/half traditional poke bowl featuring the day’s locally caught fish and rice with house made pineapple coconut slaw — it’ll hit the spot.
At this beautiful open-air restaurant, the poke is served either as tacos (perfect for a snack) or as a poke bowl (more of a meal). Whichever you choose, alongside their handcrafted piña colada, it’s the right choice.
