Poke Market

223

1064

9162

7 years ago

My poke addiction followed me to the Big Island and led me to Chef Ernie Gray's Poke Market in Downtown Hilo. This is a very small business that does not have any indoor seating and would not be able to fit more than half a dozen customers at a time. Plan to take your meal to go or eat your poke bowl on one of the two benches outside of the shop. Chef Ernie Gray's featured poke include Spicy Ahi; Shiitake Salmon described as creamy with a clean, yuzu finish; Hawaiian Style Poke with sweet onions, inamona, and ogo; Tako with ginger sesame soy dressing; and Marlin Ginger Soy. Besides poke bowls, Poke Market makes very pretty sushi cakes, a healthy alternative to a sugary cake for the sushi lover in your life. I chose my usual poke favorites, salmon and spicy ahi. Each poke bowl comes with two choices of Okinawan Sweet Potato, Lomi Tomato, Imitation Crab, or Sunomono (pickled cucumbers). I chose the sweet potato and imitation crab to complete my meal. The total cost of my poke bowl with tax was $14.10. The bowl is very good and the poke fresh tasting. I don't like things that are artificially sweetened, and you won't have to worry about that with the sides. Everything tastes natural and fresh, which is what I love about good poke in Hawaii. There are other good poke shops in Hilo, but Poke Market is the best that I've tried in Downtown Hilo. It is a good and healthy choice for lunch if you find yourself in that area. read more

Poke Market - Outside - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Poke and sides to choose from - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Spicy Ahi, Shiitake Salmon, Okinawan Sweet Potato, and Imitation Crab Salad - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Inside - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

See all

Helpful 20

Thanks 0

Love this 23

Oh no 0

Michelle I.

Elite 20

526

214

241

5 years ago

My sister and I stopped here for lunch. We were very impressed. For the travelers that travel to Hawaii for some fresh POKE, you must make your way here. The price is great. The location is central to the town of HILO. The POKE was fresh and so yummy! I highly recommend this place! We also ordered the KALBI PLATE which was soooooo good as well. The meat helping was more than enough to share with two people and it comes with rice and macaroni salad. read more

Poke Market - POKE - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Kalbi Plate - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Chelsea O.

Elite 25

4

67

50

3 years ago

The first time I had it I was so in love. The potato salad, the imitation crab mixing with the ahi and the rice fabulous. So good I went back and got the same thing. I have to say the second time it wasn't as good. It was about half hour to closing so I don't know if that made a difference or not. It was stilll really good and the best poke I've had on this island but the first time blew me away. read more

Poke Market - All star - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Gerry C.

6

39

3

4 years ago

The Classic Pole bowl was amazingly tasty, fresh and filling! As a first timer I also wanted to try it with the UBE side.... This bowl and Poke Market was awesome and highly recommended! The customer service was pleasant and delivery was super quick! Poke Market is a must stop in Hilo! But don't miss it cause it's a tiny takeout shop! Aloha! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Chachi M.

6

73

38

3 years ago

THE BEST POKE I'VE EVER HAD! If you love poke or want to taste how it should be - go here! I ordered the Tokyo Drift. Customer service is amazing. They didn't have salmon for my bowl but allowed me to taste the fresh Marlin. BOOM! AMAZING! read more

Poke Market - Tokyo Drift! - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Window to poke heaven! - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Alexa D.

Elite 26 All-Star

2443

723

2469

5 years ago

This was the best poke I had in my time in Hawaii! I was looking for a quick, fresh spot for lunch and saw people everywhere carrying this poke so I knew I had to ry. I was met with a smile by a friendly employee through a window. I told him that I LOVE poke but am gluten free, which was very limiting at other poke places who rely on soy suave. He was able to help me build an incredible, gluten free bowl and gave me tons of suggestions on what was the most authentic and what would taste best together. The quality of the fish and ingredients were incredible and it was so fresh. It was also just very aesthetically pleasing- ripe for an instagram picture. If you need a quick, delicious meal in Hilo, this is it! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Emil P.

31

142

157

4 years ago

Very polite staff and incredible fresh and tasty poke. Will come back again for sure. Mahalo! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Chandra L.

8

58

11

2 years ago

Ridiculously delicious poke bowls. Service was fast & friendly. We visited this place a few times while visiting the area.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Richard G.

11

0

2 years ago

Still the best on the island, but please please please bring back sunomono and lomilomi tomato, and any other additional items that preceded the summer menu. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 1

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Mark H.

5

50

14

6 years ago

This place is a gem. My kid loves this place and says flavors are all worth trying. If you're not sure what to get, just ask the gentleman at the window to do what he recommends. He made my bowl with spicy Ahi, greens, sweet potato salad and crab salad. Absolutely fantastic. He called it "their whopper" and said it was a signature must-have bowl. Excellent service and top notch poke. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Andy W.

95

13

29

4 years ago

A nice little stop in Hilo, although keep in mind there isn't seating here just a window by the sidewalk to order poke. Luckily, a nice picnic table by the beachside is just a 4-5 min walk from here. I wanted to try the poke bombs, but unfortunately they were out. I ended up ordering two poke bowls - shiitake salmon and the poke special of the day the yellowtail poke. The shiitake salmon was definitely better and I see why it is award winning since the shiitake sauce us really good. Overall, all of the fish was super fresh and we got sides of diced tomato and daikon which was similar to the fermented cucumber u get as appetizers at korean bbqs. I only took off 1 star since the bowls are definitely on the smaller side with alot of extra rice at the bottom so if you are a larger person or eat a lot you definitely will still be hungry after 1 bowl. read more

Poke Market - shiitake salmon and yellowtail poke bowls - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Sharena L.

Elite 23

115

82

127

5 years ago

Of course, when you're visiting the Island, you must get poke. I was venturing around Hilo when I got hungry. I decided to go on yelp and search what poke places are around here. I saw this place and I had to try it. When I arrived, there was limited parking. I was lucky enough to find parking on the street right in front of the store. I got there around noon, so I would suggest try and come early. When I got to the window, the person at the front was filled with positive energy. I told him I was visiting because of a wedding. I asked what he would recommend. He told me I had to get the purple potato salad. NO REGRETS! That potato salad was delicious! It was creamy but still had chunks of potato. I am so glad that he told me to get that. It was something I've never had before. The poke I order was the Hawaiian style, Tako and Spicy garlic. Not one poke was disappointing. The poke was packed with flavor without overpowering the seafood. The pieces were larger than I thought. I assumed they were going to be in smaller cuts, but it wasn't! I would fly back to Hilo, just to go back to this place!! WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND! read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Robert S.

111

17

6

4 years ago

Stopped by for a quick lunch after reading the yelp reviews, and definitely worth a stop in if you enjoy fresh poke bowls. Tried the all star and it did not disappoint. Be sure to grab a cold brew across the street as well! Perfect combo! read more

Poke Market - All-Star bowl! - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Dane D.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Just mopped musubis from these guys, a smoked bacon/roasted onion and a tempura/avocado/smoked bacon. The most fricken mento musubi I ate, the flavors were mean and is a definite game changer to the musubi world. Go check um go, 10/10 recommend read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Cory N.

613

364

291

4 years ago

Just loved it. Had the Hawaiian style on cabbage and sticky rice. They slightly messed up my order, so threw in an extra side of Poke, even though I would not have noticed the error. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ted F.

46

292

208

6 years ago

Top Ted F pick. Here's the move: Grab a PIC and Bang Bang with Suisan. I give the Poke edge to Chef Ernie though. This place is so so good. Fish amazing, sauces bang, toppings bang. Throwing this on my Dopest Eats on the Big Island collection. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Jessica S.

629

850

3016

6 years ago

Another amazing poke place I've tried since arriving to Hilo! Another one of my all time favorites. It's located in a building that has a small random extension across of Makana's Pineapple Shack in Downtown. It's kind of easy to miss if you haven't been there before. The shop is only big enough where you can walk in and order with no sit ins. There's a parking lot on the side of the shop and free street parking. They offer 6 different poke (ahi, salmon, tako) and 5 sides (cucumbers, crab salad, sweet potato, daikon, lomi tomato). Each poke bowl comes with two sides and either one or two poke choices over sushi or brown rice or greens. When I first saw my order, my initial thought was, "Wow, this looks small for it's price..." It's kind of on a pricier side. But surprisingly, the flavor and freshness of everything was AMAZING. I've sampled a few of them but my all time favorite is their shiitake salmon poke. The taste of this is incredible. The salmon is coated with, what I believe, a shiitake white sauce and then drizzled with a sweetish sauce on top. This is one of the few things I would NEVER be able to find elsewhere. Because it's soooo good, the shiitake salmon ALWAYS run out quick, so be sure to go early! My second favorite is the spicy ahi. It's not at all spicy, and there's the same sauce drizzle on top of it to make a bit sweet. The two sides I always get are the sweet potato (creamy goodness that Hilo's known for) and crab salad (creamy and very flavorful). If you're ever in the area, do come by to Ernie's Poke Market. It's one of the few places you'll never find elsewhere! read more

Poke Market - Left: Shiitake salmon with sweet potato and crab salad Right: Spicy ahi with crab salad and cucumbers - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

r c.

0

40

7

2 years ago

GPS hours of operation are not accurate, but if you catch this stand open, it'll blow your mind! Poke bowls are fast and delicious, people are friendly... don't know what else to say, it's just freakin tasty as h*ll... read more

Poke Market - Salmon - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Spicy ahi - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Samantha C.

7

106

279

4 years ago

- All-Star special bowl with spicy ahi, salmon and sides of potato and imitation crab meat. DELICIOUS and FRESH poke. The best poke I have had on Big Island so far. The unagi truffle sauce was nice and sweet on the cold poke and warm rice. 5/5 We didn't get to try the pickled cucumbers, but I've read reviews that they are spectacular. If you are in Hilo and are craving poke, you HAVE to make a stop here. You will not be disappointed. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

X M.

5

120

93

4 years ago

We first tried Local Favorite (double meat) and we loved it! Spicy ahi poke is fresh, the sides are my favorite- ube salad is the best I've ever had so far; imitation crab is also good. Ordering my second bowl now. read more

Poke Market - Local Favorite - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ruri K.

5

55

209

6 years ago

First thing we noticed was how sanitary this place was! Signs on the floor indicated how far apart people should be from eachother in line. Both personnel working at the time were wearing masks, even though one of them was working in the back the entire time... gloves and masks were a constant. Their service was very friendly, quick, and streamlined in these odd times... The food was delicious, and beautiful. read more

Poke Market - First time here - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Shitake poke (left) and spicy poke (right) - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Cindy W.

1

93

155

3 years ago

Awesome A walk up Poké bowl window. We almost missed it, but glad we found it. The gal was super helpful and friendly, and service was quick! We ordered the All Star and Spicy Dynamite bowls. Hubby loved the purple potato salad! read more

Poke Market - Spicy Dynamite and All Star bowls - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ariana and Christian A.

4

54

114

4 years ago

Favorite poke in Hilo. Incredibly fresh and interesting flavors through and through. Kicking crying screaming to go back and try more! read more

Poke Market - The local and the all star - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

V. C.

207

45

30

4 years ago

Nothing short of amazing! We are big poke fans and we stopped here based on the reviews. It's a cute little place (no inside or outside seating available) for takeout. Super friendly face to take your order. He was helpful in helping us order and made great suggestions. I got the spicy Hawaiian and my husband got the All star. We walked over nearby and sat down to take in all the deliciousness. This is a must stop for anyone who enjoys poke and great flavors. We will 10000% will be back. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Lala C.

0

57

15

3 years ago

Don't let the storefront discourage you, amazing poke. If you want shoyu ... walk on bc no shoyu options here (or as a condiment). Amazing purple sweet potato salad, a must for a side! I could eat here everyday and be happy:) read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jake Z.

4

79

2

3 years ago

It was my favorite poke bowl on the big island. I got the "Every Day Joe" bowl... it was great. Nice blend of flavors and really filling. I would not miss this if you love poke and find yourself in Hilo. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Sara S.

75

57

2

3 years ago

Best poke I've ever had! I wanted to get the all-star but sadly they didn't have salmon. Instead I got the Everyday Joe but had them include the sweet potato salad and it was just amazing read more

Poke Market - Everyday Joe with sweet potato salad and crab instead of double crab - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Stephanie D.

101

331

238

4 years ago

I left the instagrammers across the street and headed for the little window serving poke. I was not disappointed. I ordered the spicy Hawaiian bowl, which comes with ube potato salad. The service was fast and friendly. The food was delicious. And meanwhile after leisurely enjoying my late afternoon lunch, the IG'ers are still waiting. read more

Poke Market - Spicy Hawaiian Poke Bowl. - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Bob K.

232

1248

2145

4 years ago

Literally the perfect food. Had the Hawaiian poke on greens (basically cole slaw) with sunamono. So amazing I ate it before I could take a photo. The best. Drove super fast to get here before closing and so worth it!!! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Eric H.

153

54

0

3 years ago

This ended up being my favorite poke spot on the island. It's incredible. You've gotta check this place out if you're in the area!

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

George R.

91

87

119

4 years ago

If you like find the freshest most tastiest poke bowl in Hilo town then this is the place! I nevah like post this review because it's like a hidden secret! Lol however we gottah help keep this local business stay in business! Soo worth it! These braddahs & sistahz are awesome!! read more

Poke Market - Every day Joe bowl is all action!!! - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Leo H.

1

71

5

4 years ago

Best poke bowl I have ever had. It was incredibly fresh and the flavors mixed nicely. The guy behind the counter was super nice and chill, and the food came out really fast. I discovered this place because one day I was having lunch across the street and saw people keep lining up in front of this little shack. Now I know why. I went for the All-Star per recommendation from the guy behind the counter, and it was incredible. It was so good the next day I came back and ordered the same thing. If this poke place existed in any big city in the continental United States, the line would be wrapping around the whole block. I saw a family of five checking out the menu and eventually walking away from this joint, and I had never felt this bad for tourists. They didn't know what they had missed out on. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Daniel G.

348

80

64

5 years ago

Amazing poke. Very fresh fish! Super friendly staff- it was my first time there and the person at the counter was so helpful. She recommend the spicy garlic ahi (big yes to this!6 and she also recommended my sides u'ala and radish. Both went well with my poke poke. Great fish, great service and I also like the location. Will repeat! read more

Poke Market - Spicy ahi ajd spicy garlic ahi bowl with pickled daikon and u'ala - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Michael T.

0

26

9

3 years ago

Best poke I've ever had. Everything was so fresh - everyone in my group agreed. I can't wait to go back. read more

Poke Market - BEST poke I've ever had. I'm can't wait to go back!! - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Tommy S.

0

5

0

2 years ago

Best poke that we had on our trip to Big Island. Purple potato salad was delicious. Unique poke flavors that you won't find anywhere else. Would come back for sure. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 1

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Anastasia E.

Elite 18

5

80

90

5 years ago

We stayed in Kona and went for a day in Hilo, I started to look for places to eat and it was the most popular to get take it. I understand why the guy was super nice and we had a great conversation. The poke was amazing, we basically got every single kind between two of us. It was quick and delicious. I would go back read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Haley F.

14

141

368

6 years ago

Literally the only place I go to for poke bowls since the first time I tried theirs. All other places don't even come close to matching it. I always double up on the sweet potato because it's the best I ever had. Went off island for almost 3 months; it was my last stop before I left and my first stop when I came home. Get there early because they run out quickly! read more

Poke Market - Sweet potato salad, imitation crab, ginger sesame soy poke, spicy garlic poke, shiitake salmon poke - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Fifi S.

Elite 24

132

162

492

4 years ago

Stayed in Hilo as visitors for a week and came here twice. The Yuzu salmon simply tasted beyond my expectation and the ube inside made it more flavorful. The dressing was on the light side so you can definitely taste the fresh fish. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Donna N.

2

57

7 years ago

My family & I made the trek from Kona to Hilo to try the poke bowl. We seriously were looking for local style poke bowl grindz and wanted to get away from tourist traps in Kona. It is a small establishment that is meant for grab & go. All poke is made in small batches or made to order to maintain freshness. The poke bowl comes with your choice of rice, 1 or 2 choices of poke, & 2 side dishes. We sampled all the different types of poke. My favorites were the spicy ahi, salmon, and marlin. Taste and quality were unrivaled. I ended up getting the spicy ahi which had a very unique taste to it. I typically do not like spicy ahi because most places slather it with too much mayo or too much sauce. However, the spicy ahi is definitely onolicious!! The poke bowl comes with 2 sides. I had the sweet potato and imitation crab. Both side dishes were full of flavor and not overpowering. Overall, this place did not disappoint. If I lived in Hilo, I would frequent this establishment. This is not your ordinary poke bowl. As a Hawaii native, I can definitely attest that the poke is authentic and it was good quality. Owner also showed true aloha hospitality. read more

Poke Market - Parking for da chef - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Poke Market - Spicy Ahi w/ sweet potato & crab - Poke Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Stace A.

0

13

0

2 years ago

Tasted ok, but I wouldn't go back. It's not worth the $20 price. It was mostly rice and the poke was minced pieces of fish, generally meaning it's scrap pieces of meat. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Page 4 of 9

41 Waianuenue Ave
Hilo, HI 96720
Directions
(808) 961-5915
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.pokemarkethi.com

Hours

What time does Poke Market open?

Poke Market opens at 10:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Poke Market close?

Poke Market closes at 3:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Poke Market is closed on Sunday.

Mon-Sat 10:00 AM - 3:00 PMSun Closed

Payment methods

Does Poke Market take Bitcoin?

No, Poke Market does not take Bitcoin.

Does Poke Market take credit cards?

Yes, Poke Market takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Poke Market have catering options?

Yes, Poke Market does have catering options.

Does Poke Market have a drive thru?

No, Poke Market does not have a drive thru.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Poke Market have bike parking?

Yes, Poke Market has bike parking.

Does Poke Market have parking?

Yes, Poke Market has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Poke Market wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Poke Market is wheelchair accessible.

From the Business

Specialties

Poke Market specializes in poke bowls with sushi flare!

History

Established in 2016.

Chef Ernie Gray first launched his Poke Market in October of 2016 in Downtown Hilo. Previously located in the red building at the Farmer's Market Kitchen, Chef Gray permanently closed that location on April 5, 2017 and began looking for a new location. (Any resemblance, similarity or imitation of Chef Gray's food at the former location is without permission.). We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new brick and mortar location on historic Waianuenue Ave in Hilo. We were established with a vision of providing sushi quality food in a fast-casual environment. You don't have to get dressed up to have really-good food! We encourage sampling, come taste the difference!

Meet the Business Owner: Chef Ernie G.

Local boy, Chef Ernie, is graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY and has been sharpening his knives for the last 20 years at prestigious eateries such as Nakama Steak House (PA), Nobu (NY) and Sansei (HI). Taste the experience of his culinary point of view.

More Info

Health Score

Review Highlights - Poke Market

“Since moving to Hawaiʻi Island last year, I've been on the hunt for "my spot" to get a good poke bowl.”

Mentioned in 54 reviews

Verify this business for free

People searched for Poke 1,219 times last month within 10 miles of this business.

Verify this business

Explore benefits

Poke N Sides @ the Hilo Farmers Market

We stumped on this place looking for a quick lunch pick up and I was pleasantly surprised because…read morethe poke bowl was so delicious!! Ahi was super fresh and just a right amount of seasoning and spiciness. I had to go back very next day for another poke bowl . They have burgers too and kids enjoyed their food too. Definitely I will be back again when I come to Hilo!

Great poke! Easy to order and great dining space. The poke chunks were big in size which was super…read morepleasant. The crab-cucumber salad was great as well! Everything was super well made and the texture was perfect. The uala was new for me. I think it was a bit too sweet for my taste, but I enjoyed it as a change up in taste! Definitely fitting for other people though. Overall, no complaints! Mahalo

11/19/22 - Poke bowl with Hawaiian style poke, purple sweet potato salad and lomi lomi salmon $15

Inside menu 8/2023

See all

Ellie Girl Poke

3.9

(46 reviews)

2.6 mi

On my quest to eat as much poke as possible, I found this spot. I tried a 3 Choice Poke Bowl with…read moreWasabi Mayo, Chili Crisp, Butter Garlic, Crab Mac Salad, and Pickled Daikon. Wasabi mayo is my favorite kind of poke, so I was excited they had it and it didn't disappoint. I also loved the chili crisp. It was very unique compared to other poke I've had. The butter garlic was good, but I probably would go for other choices. If you're in Hilo give this place a try!

Finally got some legit poke on my last day in Hawaii. Just what I had been hoping for. Went all out…read morewith the 3 choices and 2 sides and an order of the poke nachos. Definitely couldn't finish the rice, but didn't let a single bite of the poke go to waste. Very fresh and we enjoyed it all! Only disappointment was that they didn't have the crab Mac that I had seen in other reviews, but did enjoy the seaweed salad and kimchi.

Rice- poke bomb-sweet potato salad- kimchee taco & California poke!

Interior

See all

3 Choice Poke Bowl with Wasabi Mayo, Chili Crisp, Butter Garlic, Crab Mac Salad, and Pickled Daikon

Hilo Farmer's Market

The fruits and veggies in Hilo are huge and vibrant that may be from all of the rain. I love that…read morethis farmers market is here and open daily. The farmers market has good variety, multiple booths with a little something different--from mangosteen, multiple varieties of mangoes, egg fruit, soursop, and jackfruit to seasonal local favorites. I always make it a point to visit during Sharwil avocado season. They're rich, buttery and string-free, definitely my favorite avocado. And don't miss lychee season. It's an open market that is shaded that creates a cool environment while you shop. parking available across the street and directly in front. The vendors are very helpful and will allow you to try a fruit on the spot. Most are cash only.

This market was a blast. Everybody was super friendly and nice and holy guacamole. Did you see the…read moresize of those avocados? I will say everyone was super friendly and kind. I was happy to get to try a couple of samples from some of the vendors and some educated me on a lot of different things that I didn't know about the island. There are multiple species that you don't ever see outside of Hawaii or often at least. Was happy to know that I'll never see an avocado of this size in Alaska, but it still made me sad because it did taste delicious.

Rambutan

At Hilo Farmer's Market

See all

At Hilo Farmer's Market

Suisan Fish Market

Amazing service and good selection I like it especially when they bring in uni. Great whole fish…read moregood price.

Dropped by here for lunch, super friendly staff!…read more Handful of poke options, I got the 2 choice poke bowl with ahi Taegu and ahi honey garlic. Both soo good! Will be back next time I'm in Hilo and try the other ones.

See all

Hawaiian Style Cafe

Service is amazing and the food is great! Great local place to get good portions of breakfast,…read morelunch or dinner!

All in all amazing place to go both as a individual and as a fam they accommodate and have a team…read morethat do very well customer service creating a uplifting atmosphere and vibe daily/nightly. & the Food flavor- check! Service time - fast asf gatta sample if u in Hilo

Kulua hash and eggs with my choice of pancakes AND hash browns.

Inside

See all

Special: Mama's fried noodles - Korean chicken, Kalbi, wonton, and fried eggs on a bed of fried noodles.

Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill Hilo

Lobster tail, risotto and ribs were excellent. Great Service. Perfect place to spend my son's…read more16th birthday.

When we lived in Kona, we would frequent the Jackie Reyes there. The food was good, but for the…read moreprice, the entire experience - not even the old, nonfunctional classic car out front - was worth it. BUT, the Jackie Rey's in Hilo has now become our go-to fine restaurant in Hilo town. The building is classic. An old town Hilo bank, with the vault intact. High ceilings, comfortable tables and decore and an artistic antique wooden bar that would be a gem in the crown of any European city. The management and personnel are the most wonderful people. Always happy to accommodate you in the best way they can. After one kamaaina visit the servers will know your name. They'll make you feel welcome and that you are a part of their experience too, something that is nearly impossible to find in other town dining. They have rewards programs for kamaaina which includes a point system that gives you significant savings on your next visit. The food is first rate, from the pupus to the main dishes to the desserts. Sauced and presented in five star fashion, without feeling pretenious. We will be their peskiest and most loyal customer as long as we are in the area. Kudos to Jackie Rey's Hilo.

Clean and inviting. This is a historical bank building.

Ahi Tartare Happy Hour. Amazing. I could eat ten more.

See all

Passion Flow

Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine

from one tourist to another, this is the perfect lunch/dinner place. We got the grilled chicken…read morewrap with mango coleslaw and grilled chicken sandwich with fries. Both have amazing flavors. highly recommend! friendly staff and open concept which lets a lot of fresh air in!

Busy Friday afternoon. Raining. Starving…read more Ordered the Dynamite Fish Bowl and it was very flavorful. Chucky pieces of fish and delicious sauce. We were a party of 19. Nicole handled us like a champ! Energetic and lively! Thank you for the exemplary service! Thank you for the birthday plate for our party!

Bar with loads of fresh pineapples

Hilo Local Plate

See all

Dr. Pepper

Sweet Cane Cafe

This community cafe offers vegetarian fare from fresh ingredients sourced from their farms…read more The jalapeño ulu burger was fantastic (add the mango hot sauce they offer). The lunch was so good we bought the carrot cake and a French press coffee for desert. Highly recommend!

Sweet Cane is a health-conscious, organic, farm-to-table cafe, offering sandwiches, fresh…read morejuices/smoothies, and vibrant acai bowls. My favorite items are the acai and pitaya bowl as they are loaded with fresh banana, granola, coconut flakes. I also chose to get the omega add on for bee pollen, honey, chia, and hemp seeds for extra fiber! I am so happy to see that their bowls are still amazing as always. Highly recommend their fruit juices and bowls for nature's dessert to give you a boost for the day.

Nutter butter smoothie special, 20 oz...super delicious! Organic Pecan pie balls

See all

Dragon fruit, strawberry and mango smoothie

Kula Shave Ice

Good little shave ice spot in Hilo. Right next to the (basically, in) the Hilo Farmer's Market…read more Yummy house combos, good variety of make your own choices and friendly service. Excellent spot for a treat downtown.

The best shaved ice I've ever had…read more Food 5/5 The Lava Flow is absolutely to die for. The haupia cream and lilikoi butter at the top with the strawberry infused ice was like heaven. The textures were all there. Service 5/5 Standard, nothing special. Ambiance 3/5 Outdoor seating area for all of the restaurants in the area. It was pretty crowded and the area isn't that clean. There's also lots of horseflies.

Half orange and half blueberry

The Hapa (choc, coconut flakes, haupia ice cream) & The Local (love the local - lilikoi, soursop w ice cream

See all

Their many accolades!

Makani's Magic Pineapple Shack

Food: 5/5 Portions: 5/5…read moreCleanliness: 5/5 Customer service: 5/5 Speed: 5/5 Price: $$ Takeout: yes Outdoor seating: yes ADA access: yes Dogs: yes- outside Kid Friendly: yes Vegetarian options: yes Vegan options: yes Ambiance: casual Pros: delicious fruit, friendly staff, super large portions

Ice Cream 5/5 Not usually what I go for but it was delicious…read moreand different! I ordered the Unicorn which is the ube & dragonfruit combo. They're more on the icier side than creamy. Service 5/5 Standard, nothing special. Ambiance 5/5 Indoor seating. We were the only customers so it was a nice peaceful treat for us. It was raining that day and humid so my ice cream was melting faster than I could eat lol.

Unicorn ice cream in pineapple bowl

Soft Serve Ice Cream: Unicorn (Ube and Dragonfruit) on a Pineapple from 8.23.2024

See all

Cookie monster

Hawaiian Style Cafe

Service is amazing and the food is great! Great local place to get good portions of breakfast,…read morelunch or dinner!

All in all amazing place to go both as a individual and as a fam they accommodate and have a team…read morethat do very well customer service creating a uplifting atmosphere and vibe daily/nightly. & the Food flavor- check! Service time - fast asf gatta sample if u in Hilo

Kulua hash and eggs with my choice of pancakes AND hash browns.

Inside

See all

Special: Mama's fried noodles - Korean chicken, Kalbi, wonton, and fried eggs on a bed of fried noodles.

Ola Brew - Hilo

Locally owned & operated

Women-owned & operated

Had lunch here And everyone was happy…read more Cobb salad, fried mahi sandwich, and 2 kid burgers.

Close to the most perfect burger in my life. I go home to the main land and crave this burger…read more There is only one problem - while tasty, the bun is a ticking time bomb of disintegration. You then enter a race against savoring every bite or switching to eating the burger remnants with a knife and fork. Please get a sturdier bun, and I might move here and then request a frequent burger-er punch card. PS, also come here for some of the best beer and service on the island.

Dark chocolate orange hard cider : slightly bitter with subtle orange notes pairs well with the shrimp.

Brussel Sprouts

See all

Suisan Fish Market

Amazing service and good selection I like it especially when they bring in uni. Great whole fish…read moregood price.

Dropped by here for lunch, super friendly staff!…read more Handful of poke options, I got the 2 choice poke bowl with ahi Taegu and ahi honey garlic. Both soo good! Will be back next time I'm in Hilo and try the other ones.

See all

Two Ladies Kitchen

Two ladies kitchen has a small service area and what looks to be a big kitchen in the back…read more There are two lines, Phone Order Pick Up Line and To Go Order Line. I didnt want to take up too much time being in the service area with everyone waiting outside for their turn so I just asked for what I wanted and paid. I ordered a dozen fresh fruit, strawberry mochi. When I got home, I opened the box and there was about 20+ pieces in my box. A pleasant surprise because now I had a LOT of mochi and didnt have to worry about how I was gonna divide the dozen amongst family.

Delicious and generous business!…read more Food 5/5 We ordered lilikoi, strawberry x2, tangerine, red bean, apple, and pear. They gave us two extra strawberry mochis, which were our favorites! My least favorite was the tangerine. The tangerine tasted good on its own but it tasted like an odd combination with the mochi. Service 5/5 Super nice and friendly folks. Ambiance 5/5 Small inside with a waiting bench. There are two lines outside for walk-ins and phone orders. I've had mochi from many different places in San Francisco, Little Tokyo in LA, and Japan and this lives up to the hype.

Fruit mochi - Cherry Mochi, Rainier Cherry Mochi, Mandarin Orange Mochi, Grape Mochi, Peach Mochi, Strawberry Mochi, Li Hing Mui Apple Mochi

For a limited time their new li hing mui apple mochi!

See all

Butter Mochi, Lilikoi Mochi, Kamato Mochi, Nantu Mochi, Shiso Mochi, Azuma Yaki Manju, Furusato Manju, Okinawan Sweet Potato Mochi

Hilo Coffee Corner

4.6

(32 reviews)

0.9 mi

Hilo Coffee Corner is an absolute gem. The coffee is consistently amazing, but what really sets…read morethis place apart is the staff. Every single worker is friendly, welcoming, and genuinely happy to be there. You can feel the aloha the moment you walk up. My favorite is The Tiffany and you HAVE to try the matcha. Parking is also incredibly easy. Curbside parking right out front makes it so convenient to pop in, especially if you're on the go. Can't recommend it enough!

Super cute spot, friendly staff and delicious drinks. Loved the matcha, tasted flavorful and…read moresmooth. Quick service and an easy grab and go spot. It's located on the first level of a larger building and there is ample guest parking up front.

Outside of Hilo coffee corner

See all

The Booch Bar

We stopped by the Booch Bar on our way into Hilo before a day of adventuring, and it was a great…read morelittle stop for breakfast. We tried the simple breakfast plate and a breakfast sandwich, and both were tasty and really hit the spot. Since we went on a weekday, it wasn't too busy inside, which made for pretty quick service. Overall, it was a solid breakfast stop and a nice place to grab a bite before heading out for the day.

From the moment we walked in, we had a wonderful experience. The cashier was incredibly…read moreknowledgeable and kind, offering great recommendations when we asked. I also appreciated that she mentioned they have smoothies after my kids asked for one, I hadn't even realized they offered them! The food was absolutely amazing. The beet salad was delicious, and the seared tuna on top was perfectly seasoned and cooked just right--tender without being too firm. The fish burger was also outstanding, and the bánh mì was just as delicious. I've been buying their Jun kombucha from the store for a while and have always loved it, but finally dining here made me appreciate this place even more. Everything we tried exceeded our expectations. I'll definitely be coming back every time I'm in Hilo!