The Poke Market: Tiny But Terrific

Have you ever eaten something and afterward, felt like you were a better person for having eaten it?

Well, that’s an exaggeration, isn’t it? You’re not a better person, but certainly a healthier one. If it also tasted absolutely great, that’s a bonus: virtuous and happy.

Such was the case when I recently visited the Poke Market at 41 Waianuenue Ave. in Hilo. It’s tiny, but inside it’s like a little poke jewelry box—bright, colorful and tempting.

To assemble your own bowl, you get to choose a base, the poke and sides. I didn’t know how on earth I would choose my bowl ingredients, because everything looked so good. I was really happy with my bowl selections, so I’m sharing my choices.

Pick a base. I went with brown rice. Other choices included sushi rice or greens.

Select poke. Who can resist spicy? Poke Market’s spicy is the perfect degree of spiciness, by the way. Other choices that day were Shiitake Salmon, Hawaiian Style, Tako or Marlin Ginger Soy.

Pick two sides. I went with Okinawan Sweet Potato and Lomi Salmon. This was a tough choice, as I also like imitation crab and sunomono (pickled cucumber).

The Okinawan Sweet Potato was stellar. A bowl of that and a turkey leg and that’ll be my Happy Thanksgiving.

You can also select from their list of specials, including a Poke Parfait, an Everyday Joe Bowl or a Rainbowl.

Poke is also available by the pound.

The Poke Market also makes Sushi Cakes, which are truly a work of art. They must be ordered 24 hours in advance.

Another bonus: My order was ready in four minutes, which puts most “fast food” to shame, as it also was much healthier than the norm.

Poke Market is located at 41 Waianuenue Avenue, Hilo. (808) 961-5915. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. No inside seating. Parking: Street. Fast, casual.

Poke Market, 41 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo. PC: Marla Walters

Poke Market menu. PC: Marla Walters

Tough choices at Poke Market. PC: Marla Walters

Custom bowl at Poke Market. PC: Marla Walters