A State-by-State Guide to the Most Iconic Foods in America

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Hawaii: Poke

Hawaii’s most iconic food is poke – a fresh, flavorful dish that perfectly captures the islands’ blend of local seafood and Asian influences. Poke (pronounced poh-KAY, meaning “to cut” in Hawaiian) traditionally consists of raw fish cut into bite-sized cubes and marinated with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. The most classic version features ahi tuna tossed with shoyu (soy sauce), sesame, green onions, and perhaps limu seaweed. It’s often served over warm rice or greens, creating the popular “poke bowl.” This simple preparation has been a Hawaiian staple for generations, long enjoyed by fishermen and locals before it gained worldwide popularity. What makes poke special in Hawaii is the freshness of the fish – tuna or other seafood caught in the surrounding Pacific waters – and the way it reflects the influence of Japanese, Chinese, and Korean flavors on Hawaiian cuisine. Whether grabbed from a grocery deli in Honolulu or savored beachside, a bowl of poke is pure Hawaii: refreshing, healthy, and steeped in local tradition.