March 1, 2019The Hawaiian culinary scene extends far beyond Hawaii’s ubiquitous ham and pineapples. Oh yes, Hawaiians love their food. While fresh, vibrant tropical fruits paint a fairly accurate picture of the Hawaiian scenery, fresh seafood is readily available and considered a priced treat by locals and millions of visitors vacationing in Hawaii each year.
Traditionally, the poké is Hawaii’s own interpretation of the Japanese style sashimi. Both made with fresh cuts of delicious seafood served raw and doused with a flavor elevation of fresh spices and umami-packed soy sauce. The dish itself gloats in its simplicity while accentuated with bold flavors.
The Poké Company in Des Moines opened its doors to the public early 2019. With it, a most welcome addition to Des Moines’ myriad of gastronomic offerings. This restaurant presents a laid-back casual dining experience with a hint of contemporary charm.
Walking in, you’ll immediately notice the ordering counter where all the magic happens. Ahi Tuna pieces, salmon, shrimp and tofu along with a plethora of mouth watering toppings, spices and sauces, all waiting to be married together over a bowl of rice, kale or cauliflower rice. Behind the counter is a showing of their digital menu highlighting delicious combinations while emphasizing personal creativity when you build your own with whatever toppings your heart desires.
Hawaiian poké is one of my culinary bucket list items that I can’t wait to check off. Everything in it is quite enticing. I am no stranger to eating raw fish over rice. I can’t imagine it being far from any of my other sushi experiences, except this comes in a bowl with many flavor combinations.
What we tried:
Bowl #1
Steamed shrimp over white rice, topped with sweet onions, scallions and crispy fried onions in spicy miso sauce, finished off with eel sauce(sweet teriyaki glaze).
Bowl #2 The Hot One (Customized)
Fresh salmon pieces over white rice, topped with jalapeño peppers, cucumbers, cilantro, citrus ponzu, sweet onion, crispy fried onions in wasabi aioli, black seaweed, finished off with eel sauce.
Two different bowls, two different flavors, both exceeding satisfying. Every bite saturated with amazing flavors and a beautiful textural contrast that makes you long for another bite. Salmon tasted fresh with that delicious creaminess that I adore. Shrimp tasted quite nice with the spicy miso sauce and sweet onions.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re in for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner, a nice healthy bowl of Hawaiian poké salad is sure to hit the spot. Bold flavors accentuating fresh flavorful appeal, that’s what the Poké Company brought to the Downtown Des Moines locale. Even if you’re not a fan of Japanese sushi, or feel quaintly tabooed by the consumption of raw fish, the Poké Company might have the answer to expanding your culinary horizon and appeasing your palate’s cravings.
The Poké Company
Location: 300MLK Bldg., second floor; 300 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy., Des Moines
Hours: Open daily, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Contact: (515) 288-7653
