WanderFood Wednesday: Kauai Poke
Sounds like a dance, doesn’t it? The Kauai Poke!
Actually, poke is a generic term to describe the way a fish is prepared (think ceviche from Central America) and is a popular dish in the Hawaiian islands. While there are many variations on this theme, poke is served raw and often includes a bit of sea salt, soy sauce, seaweed and some chili pepper. You might find it with tuna, squid, clams or any other seafood the locals can get their hands on.
It seems some of the best kinds are those found in the deli section of little markets but you can find it in the larger grocery stores as well. We picked up a variety (above) of pokes from Ishihara Market and ate at a picnic table across the street.
Above is a container of tuna poke. This, I believe, was smoked with some very light flavoring and was the favorite of our group.
Ishihara isn’t hard to find. It’s right along the main highway in Waimea on Kauai. When you stop in, just pop into the back of the store where the deli is and choose from the many options.
Ishihara Market
9894 Kaumualii Highway
Waimea, HI 96796
(808) 338-1751
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Wow, this brings back some great memories from my time spent living on Kauai. Poke might sound icky but it is actually melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
I’ve never had Poke…but it looks really refreshing…and good for you too!
Thanks for inviting me!!
That all looks so tasty. I’m just thinking about lunch now. This has made me doubly hungry!
Never had this before… need to try it!
I don’t think I’ve ever had Poke, either. It looks good, especially the tuna poke!
I will definitely put it on my list of things to try!
Well, I guess you learn something new every day. Looking forward to trying this out sometime.
I’ve never had poke but that smoked tuna looks fantastic!!
If poke is anything like ceviche, I’m in!! 
I’ve actually been there! I don’t remember what I ate (it was two years ago, so that would have been a little weird), but we loved it. All these kauai posts are giving me a serious urge to go back sooner rather than later. After all I did miss all that candy/chocolate you’ve been sharing with us!
This looks delicious! I love all the various seafood; so many different textures and flavors!
Memories of Hawaii, yum! It looks like you tried some amazing dishes on your visit.
Wow, that tuna looks delicious! Mmmm….
Looks refreshing! Ceviche is one of my faves and I recently had a Hawaiian ‘walu’ prepared in what sound like a similar method. It was just this side of heaven!
Late to the post but hope you have a chance to check it out! Thanks for hosting! – Mariana
I love raw fish and Beef TarTare. You don’t get that heavy full feeling after eating it. Just pure satisfaction, light.
Lisa Wilcox
Owner, Wilcox Angus Beef
Heavenly! Nothing in the world like eating same-day fresh poke on a Hawaiian beach!
I admit I don’t find this dish visually appetising. But I am intrigued by the flavours, particularly that of the smoked tuna. I think it would taste better than it presents.
ok now I am so ready for a vacation!
We totally missed out on poke during our trip to Maui. Maybe next time!