Poke (pronounced POH-keh) isn't just food in Hawaii—it's a way of life. And nowhere is it fresher than in Hilo, where fishing boats unload their catch just steps from where you'll eat it. Here's where locals go for the best poke on the Big Island.
What Makes Great Poke?
Great poke starts with fresh fish—usually ahi (yellowfin tuna)—cut into bite-sized cubes and marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and various seasonings. In Hilo, "fresh" means the fish was swimming this morning. That's the standard here.
Top Poke Spots in Hilo
Suisan Fish Market
93 Lihiwai St, Hilo (on Hilo Bay)
This is the real deal. Suisan has been serving Hilo since 1907, and their poke counter is legendary. You're literally buying fish at a working fish market—watch the boats unload while you eat. The variety is unmatched: classic shoyu ahi, spicy ahi, tako (octopus), salmon, and seasonal specials.
- Get there early—best options sell out by noon
- Try the limu (seaweed) poke for authentic Hawaiian style
- Grab a plate lunch combo to make it a full meal
Poke Market
Downtown Hilo
A gourmet hole-in-the-wall that's elevated poke to an art form. Their All-Star Bowl combines spicy ahi with yuzu salmon and all the fixings. It's window service only with just two sidewalk tables, but the quality is worth the informal setting.
Poke To Your Taste
Hilo
The local's secret for traditional Hawaiian-style poke. They open at 5:30am on weekdays (yes, really!) to serve the early fishing crowd. The poke here is prepared in the traditional way—simple, fresh, and perfect.
KTA Super Stores
Multiple locations
Don't sleep on supermarket poke! KTA is a local grocery chain, and their poke counter is surprisingly excellent. Many longtime Hilo residents swear it's their go-to for everyday poke. It's also the most affordable option.
Poke at the Farmers Market
The Hilo Farmers Market (Wednesday and Saturday mornings) has several vendors selling fresh poke bowls. It's a great way to combine your market browsing with lunch. Look for the lines—that's where the good stuff is.
Poke Etiquette
- Point and ask to taste before buying—most places will let you sample
- Start with classic shoyu ahi if you're new to poke
- Ask what's fresh today—recommendations vary by catch
- Eat it within a few hours for best quality
- Pair with rice for a complete meal, or eat it straight from the container
Poke Styles to Try
Shoyu Ahi
The classic: soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions. Start here.
Spicy Ahi
Mayo-based with sriracha or chili. Creamy and addictive.
Limu Poke
Traditional Hawaiian style with seaweed. Authentic flavor.
Tako Poke
Octopus! Chewy, flavorful, and very local.
Stay Near Hilo's Best Poke
Island Goodes is just minutes from all these poke spots. Stock up on fresh poke and enjoy it on your private lanai with an ocean view.
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