Ever since visiting Hawaii I have become obsessed with poke. Lucky for me, the poke craze has rolled over the mainland and I can get a little slice of Aloha in a lot of places around New York City. Although Hawaiian poke is different – usually in a deli and very simply dressed, these spots have been great at keeping my island dream alive.
Simple NYC, 109 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002
This is a hole in the wall hidden gem in the Lower East Side. Art and seating are eclectic, some pairs of chairs, one big family style table.
Their stellar bowls are worth cramping in for. Rice, quinoa, or salad base and specific bowl options. Fantastically fresh fish, excellent sauce, and delicate toppings.
Of course there is the traditional raw poke, but also ‘cooked’ poke with seafood/tofu options. There are bento boxes too with red meat for your land loving friends. Have a drink too, they make housebrew coffee and bubble tea.
Sons of Thunder, 204 E 38th St New York, NY 10016
Very fresh fish and good flavors a quarter mile of a walk from Grand Central! The seating area is spacious with a natural skylight.
Poke bowls come with a base of rice, cauliflower rice, or greens and include standard toppings.
You can pick two different kinds of protein and add on extras and make anything spicy. Hot dogs, fries, milkshakes, and soft serve are available for the land lovers.
PokeSpot, 120 4th Ave, New York, NY 10003
All about the bowls, signature styles or build your own. Rice, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or salad for the base – and proteins include more than just fresh raw fish. Crab, chickcen, tofu, and shrimp too. Portions are big!
Can’t wait to come back and try the avocado boat. The Union Square space was a little small, but we found a seat. Another location is open in Soho.
Yes it’s all over. What island(s)?!
Looks tasty, I will be going to Hawaii in September so I will have to check out some of these places, never had it before. Is this something they serve pretty much everywhere in Hawaii?