If you’ve ever savoured a vibrant, colourful poke bowl, you’ll know it’s a delicious celebration of fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and wholesome goodness. But have you ever wondered where this culinary sensation began?
At Umami Sushi and Pan Asian, we love exploring the stories behind the dishes we serve, and the origins of poke bowls are a fascinating journey through the rich traditions of Hawaii and beyond.
Poke (pronounced *poh-kay*) means “to slice or cut” in Hawaiian, and it perfectly describes the dish’s simple, yet exquisite base: cubes of fresh, raw fish, traditionally ahi tuna, dressed with a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed, and local seasonings. It has its roots in the native practice of fishermen seasoning the freshly caught fish with sea salt and seaweed before eating it on the spot.
The magic of poke lies in its adaptability. Over time, it evolved with influences from Japanese, Korean, and other Pacific Islander cuisines, enriching the flavours and expanding the ingredients to include rice, avocado, edamame, pickled ginger, and a mix of crunchy toppings.
At Umami, our menu features a range of delicious options paired with crisp, seasonal vegetables, fragrant rice, and a house-made sauce to satisfy every taste. Whether you prefer protein-free or the classic salmon, the rich, melt-in-the-mouth tuna, chicken katsu, or prawns, each poke bowl bursts with freshness, flavour, and that signature Umami twist!
Umami Sushi and Pan Asian’s poke bowls promise a vibrant, mouthwatering journey that honours the origins of this beloved dish while introducing modern tastes.
Try the Umami Poke Bowl experience through Umami DM!
