About

Poke (pronounced poh-kay) originated in ancient Hawaii, where fishermen would slice their fresh catch into cubes, season it with sea salt, seaweed and crushed kukui nuts as a quick, nourishing meal. The name itself means "to slice" or "cut crosswise" in Hawaiian, reflecting its preparation method.

Over time, influences from Japanese, Korean, and Filipino settlers introduced ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil. In the 1970s, modern poke bowls with rice and varied toppings emerged, blending tradition with innovation. Today, poke is a globally loved dish that still reflects its Hawaiian roots.