Poké, a raw fish salad hailing from Hawaii, is really having its moment in the sun. Not only is the island staple featuring on more and more menus around the city but a number of dedicated poké spots have either opened up or are expected to open in the coming months.
Capturing the flavour of the islands, poké (pronounced “poh-kay”) combines sliced raw fish, sushi rice, and chopped veggies.
Offering a slice of Hawaiian life, here are four fast-casual poké spots that you can find right here in Vancouver:
Poké Time
Photo courtesy Poké Time
Now open on Robson Street, Poké Time offers traditional style poké as well as inventive takes on the island classic. In terms of ordering, customers choose from a range of bases, sauces, and toppings. Expect to find raw seafood selections, as well as tofu and cooked shrimp on the menu. At 900 square feet, Poké Time offers inside bar-style seating for 16 and is open for both lunch and dinner.
Address: 1258 Robson Street, Vancouver
Instagram: @poketimevancouver
The Poké Guy
Wanting to keep with the “island style,” The Poké Guy (projected to open this August) will be a grab-and-go type eatery (offering customizable poké bliss), with seating for about 15 to 20 guests. “Our main focus is sustainability,” says co-owner Jak Quan, therefore, patrons can expect to find Ocean Wise seafood and eco-friendly packaging, utensils, and containers.
Address: 420 Richards Street, Vancouver
Instagram @thepokeguyyvr
Poké Bar
Photo courtesy Poké Bar
Burnaby will soon have its very own poké bar. Located right next to SFU, the aptly named Poké Bar, is projected to open sometime in the fall. Following the build-your-own-bowl model, fresh poké bowls will be available with fish, like salmon and Ahi tuna, and toppings like seaweed salad, edamame, avocado, mango, and pineapple all served over rice or quinoa.
Address: Cornerstone Building – 8931 Cornerstone Mews, Burnaby
Instagram: @pokebarsfu
Pacific Poké
Pacific Poké, a quick-service eatery dedicated to serving creative and delicious poké bowls is gearing up to open in Chinatown in September. While Pacific Poké will offer inside seating for 20, Executive Chef Ryan Mah, says that the restaurant will be more of a to-go type spot. While “build-your-own” poké bowls will be available a range of unique chef-inspired creations will also be up for grabs.
Address: 625 Main Street, Vancouver
Twitter: @pacificpokemain