Uncovering Toronto’s Best Poke Bowl Spots- DIY Poke Bowl

Poke bowls, a culinary gift from the shores of Hawaii, have painted the Toronto food scene with vibrant hues of fresh fish, zesty toppings, and unique flavors. As this delightful dish has sailed from the Pacific islands to the bustling streets of Toronto, it has found a home amidst the city’s rich tapestry of cuisines. But with a plethora of options dotting every corner, where does one find the most tantalizing poke in Toronto? Whether you’re a seasoned poke aficionado or a curious first-timer, our comprehensive guide dives deep into the heart of Toronto’s best poke bowls. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey that promises to satisfy your palate and introduce you to the city’s most coveted poke spots!

Here are the 13 places you can get the best poke bowls from in Toronto: 

1. Poke Guys
2. Poke Box
3. Calii Love
4. Ono Poke Bar
5. The Poke Box
6. Aloha Poke
7. Big Tuna Poke Bar
8. Pokito
9. Poke Wrap
10. Island Poke
11. LUA
12. Poke Eats
13. FreshFin Poke

Poke Guys

Situated at 112 Elizabeth St in Toronto, Poke Guys serves up poke bowls that are both delicious and customizable. With an expansive array of fresh toppings to choose from, diners have the freedom to tailor their bowls to their preferences. But what really sets Poke Guys apart? Their emphasis on quality and flavor. They take pride in sourcing the freshest fish and ingredients to ensure that every bite is a delightful explosion of taste. While they do offer a vast range of options, their signature bowls are definitely worth a try, showcasing the perfect balance of flavors and textures that have made them a favorite among locals.
Specialty: Customizable bowls with a variety of fresh toppings
Location: 112 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON

Poke Box

Nestled at 36 Toronto St, Poke Box stands out for its health-focused options and carefully curated signature bowls. They pride themselves on offering bowls that cater not just to the palate but also to the well-being of their customers. Fresh ingredients, paired with nutrient-rich toppings, ensure that diners enjoy a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. What really makes Poke Box unique is their dedication to sustainability. They make conscious efforts to reduce waste and opt for eco-friendly packaging, making it a choice that’s good for the tummy and the environment. For those who are conscious about their health and the planet, Poke Box offers the perfect poke experience. Just as Toronto’s poke bowls represent a fresh, sustainable approach to dining, you can also embrace eco-friendly choices in your wardrobe with ur guide to the top sustainable fashion brands in Canada.
Specialty: Health-focused options and signature bowls
Location: 36 Toronto St, Toronto, ON

Calii Love

Calii Love draws inspiration from both California and Hawaii, creating a delightful blend of vibrant vibes and mouth-watering flavors. With multiple locations across Toronto, they’ve quickly become a haven for both poke bowl lovers and smoothie enthusiasts. What sets Calii Love apart is their dual focus: nourishing both the body and the soul. Their poke bowls are meticulously crafted, ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of taste and texture. The ambiance, steeped in positivity and mindfulness, complements their food perfectly. Their signature bowls, inspired by emotions like “Joy,” “Passion,” and “Gratitude,” are not just meals but experiences in themselves.
Specialty: Poke bowls and smoothie bowls inspired by the vibes of California and Hawaii
Location: Multiple locations in Toronto

Ono Poke Bar

Located at 1005 King St W, Ono Poke Bar is all about authenticity. They’ve taken the traditional Hawaiian-style poke and have presented it to Toronto with utmost fidelity. They’re known for using only the finest ingredients, ensuring the freshness and flavor of their bowls remain unparalleled. A standout feature of Ono Poke Bar is their dedication to preserving the essence of traditional poke while offering a touch of modern flair. Their bowls boast a perfect balance of seasoned fish, rice, and toppings, making it a favorite spot for purists and newbies alike. If you’re searching for an authentic poke experience in the heart of Toronto, Ono Poke Bar should top your list.
Specialty: Authentic Hawaiian-style poke
Location: 1005 King St W, Toronto, ON

The Poke Box

Situated at 36 Toronto St, The Poke Box is a name synonymous with freshness and customization. Offering a plethora of signature bowls, they ensure that every diner finds something that tantalizes their taste buds. Beyond the standard offerings, what truly distinguishes The Poke Box is their “build-your-own” option, which allows patrons to craft their perfect bowl, choosing from a variety of fresh fish, veggies, and unique sauces. Their commitment to sustainability is commendable, emphasizing eco-friendly packaging and responsible sourcing. A meal at The Poke Box is not just a feast for your palate, but also a step towards a greener planet.
Specialty: A variety of signature bowls and the option to build your own
Location: 36 Toronto St, Toronto, ON

Aloha Poke

Aloha Poke, as its name suggests, welcomes diners with the warm spirit of Hawaiian hospitality. Nestled in the heart of Toronto, this eatery has made a mark with its fresh and flavorful poke bowls. Aloha Poke is renowned for its diverse range of ingredients, allowing patrons to enjoy both traditional Hawaiian flavors and innovative combinations. Their bowls are a canvas of color and taste, with premium fish selections and unique toppings. What sets them apart is their consistent emphasis on freshness, ensuring that every ingredient reflects the vibrant essence of Hawaii. For those seeking a tropical escape in the midst of urban Toronto, Aloha Poke is a must-visit.
Specialty: Fresh and flavorful ingredients with unique toppings
Location: 36 Toronto St, Toronto, ON

Big Tuna Poke Bar

Located at 599 Bloor St W, Toronto, Big Tuna Poke Bar stands as a testament to premium-grade poke offerings. They’ve built their reputation around sourcing the finest fish, ensuring that the core of every poke bowl meets the highest standards. Big Tuna is recognized for its expansive menu that offers both classic bowls and some delightful in-house specialties. But it’s not just the fish that stands out; their range of fresh toppings and house-made sauces add layers of depth to every bowl. Whether you’re a seasoned poke lover or someone looking to explore, Big Tuna Poke Bar promises an experience that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Specialty: Premium-grade fish and fresh toppings
Location: 599 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON

Pokito

Positioned at 420 Queen St W, Toronto, Pokito brings to the table a delightful fusion of flavors. While their roots lie in the traditional essence of poke, they aren’t afraid to experiment, leading to some unique and delectable bowl combinations. What sets Pokito apart is their commitment to crafting bowls that are not just meals, but experiences. They emphasize the balance of flavors, textures, and colors, ensuring that every bowl is as aesthetically pleasing as it is delicious. The ambiance is chic and modern, mirroring their contemporary take on poke. If you’re in the mood to explore poke with a twist, Pokito is the place to be.
Specialty: Unique bowl combinations with an emphasis on flavor
Location: 420 Queen St W, Toronto, ON

Poke Wrap

With multiple locations in Toronto, Poke Wrap has redefined the way one enjoys poke by offering not only traditional bowls but also introducing the city to sushi burritos. Their innovative approach to combining two beloved dishes makes them stand out in the crowded poke market. What sets them apart is this unique blend of presentation and flavor. While their bowls are a symphony of fresh ingredients, the sushi burritos offer a handheld, on-the-go version for those looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. Their vast range of fillings and toppings ensures that each visit can be a new culinary experience, making Poke Wrap a favorite among adventurous diners.
Specialty: Both poke bowls and sushi burritos
Location: Multiple locations in Toronto

Island Poke

Positioned at 125 King St E in Toronto, Island Poke has captured the hearts of many with its authentic and fresh offerings. They pride themselves on their classic poke recipes, ensuring that the traditional flavors shine through in every bite. But it’s not all tradition; Island Poke also offers unique bowls that introduce diners to innovative combinations without straying too far from the essence of poke. Their commitment to sourcing fresh, premium ingredients ensures a taste that transports you straight to the Hawaiian islands. For those who crave the authenticity of island flavors combined with the freshness of Toronto’s seafood offerings, Island Poke is a destination unto itself.
Specialty: Classic poke recipes and unique offerings
Location: 125 King St E, Toronto, ON

LUA

Located at 666 Bloor St W in Toronto, LUA is where authenticity meets modern culinary artistry. Specializing in poke bowls that showcase the true essence of the dish, LUA emphasizes fresh and authentic ingredients in every offering. Their bowls are meticulously crafted, with each ingredient playing a pivotal role in the final flavor profile. Beyond the taste, it’s the ambiance and service at LUA that elevate the dining experience. The space exudes a warm, welcoming vibe, making it a perfect spot for both casual lunches and evening get-togethers. For those in search of a place where every bowl tells a story, LUA should be at the top of the list.
Specialty: Authentic and fresh ingredients
Location: 254 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON

Poke Eats

Situated at 4750 Yonge St, Unit 118 in North York, Poke Eats stands as a beacon for customization and freshness. They offer patrons the chance to craft their perfect bowl, selecting from a range of fish, toppings, and delectable sauces. Renowned for their commitment to quality, Poke Eats ensures that every ingredient is fresh, leading to a taste that’s both authentic and invigorating. What truly sets them apart is their emphasis on a personalized dining experience. Every bowl can be a unique creation, tailored to individual preferences, ensuring that every visit is distinct from the last. Poke Eats is a haven for those who value both taste and individuality.
Specialty: Customizable bowls with a range of toppings and sauces
Location: 4750 Yonge St Unit 118, North York, ON

FreshFin Poke

Holding its ground at 354 Yonge St, Toronto, FreshFin Poke offers a curated experience of classic and innovative poke bowls. Their menu is a testament to the rich heritage of poke while also reflecting modern adaptations. FreshFin is celebrated for its commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients, ensuring that every bowl is a delightful meld of flavors. Their sustainability initiatives, like using eco-friendly packaging, set them apart, making every meal not just delicious but also environmentally responsible. With its emphasis on both tradition and sustainability, FreshFin Poke ensures that every bite is not just a taste sensation but also a step towards a greener planet. 
Specialty: A mix of classic and innovative poke bowls
Location: 354 Yonge St, Toronto, ON

Dietary Preferences and Poke

Poke bowls, a Hawaiian favorite, have proven to be an adaptable dish fitting the diverse dietary preferences of Toronto’s cosmopolitan populace. With the rise of health-conscious dining, many poke restaurants have expanded their menus to accommodate various diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Toronto:

The versatility of poke bowls means vegetarians and vegans aren’t left out. Numerous establishments in Toronto offer vegetable-based bowls, replacing fish with ingredients like tofu, tempeh, and an array of fresh vegetables. Edamame, avocado, and pickled radish are among the popular vegan and vegetarian poke ingredients. Restaurants such as North Poke and Calii Love provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly options that don’t skimp on flavor. If you’re craving more plant-based goodness, check out our exclusive guides to the city’s top vegetarian Indian restaurants and the most delightful vegan ice cream destinations for a complete culinary experience.

Gluten-Free Poke:

For those monitoring their gluten intake, poke bowls can be a safe haven, but caution is still necessary. Soy sauce, a common ingredient, often contains gluten, so it’s essential to look for tamari or specifically labeled gluten-free soy sauce. Many Toronto poke spots, including Island Poke and Poke Guys, have recognized this need and offer gluten-free options, ensuring a worry-free dining experience for everyone. Toronto’s poke bowls are a testament to the city’s diverse and health-focused cuisine. For those also interested in gluten-free dining, top gluten-free restaurants in Toronto provides a wealth of options for delicious and worry-free meals.

DIY: Making Your Own Poke Bowl at Home

Crafting your poke bowl at home provides a personalized dining experience, allowing you to control every ingredient and flavor.

Essential Ingredients:

For poke bowl enthusiasts who value the freshest ingredients, Toronto’s surrounding farms offer a hands-on experience. Discover the city’s best fruit and vegetable picking farms with our guide, and enjoy a day of harvesting your own produce, perfect for a health-conscious adventure. At its core, a poke bowl requires fresh fish, traditionally tuna, but salmon, octopus, or shrimp can also be used. Complementing the fish is a base of rice (white or brown) or greens. Toppings range from avocado, cucumber, and edamame to pickled ginger, seaweed salad, and crispy onions. As for the sauces, a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of citrus is a classic choice. Toronto residents can source these ingredients from local markets like St. Lawrence Market or specialty stores such as Taro’s Fish.

Simple Poke Bowl Recipe:

Preparation: Start by cutting 200g of fresh tuna or your choice of fish into bite-sized cubes.

Marinate: In a bowl, combine your fish with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and a dash of lime or lemon juice. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Assemble: Lay a bed of cooked and cooled rice in a bowl. Place your marinated fish on top.

Toppings: Add your choice of toppings – sliced avocado, edamame beans, diced mango, pickled ginger, seaweed salad, and more.

Finish: Drizzle with a bit more sauce, sprinkle some sesame seeds, and enjoy!

Experiment with different toppings and sauces to find your perfect bowl. Whether you’re recreating a favorite from a Toronto eatery or inventing something entirely new, the possibilities are endless!

Key Takeaways

• Originating from Hawaii, poke bowls have become a beloved culinary sensation in Toronto, merging fresh ingredients with diverse flavors.
• Several notable establishments, including North Poke, Poke Guys, Calii Love, and LUA, among others, are offering top-tier poke experiences in Toronto.
• The flexibility of poke bowls ensures that vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten sensitivities have delicious and suitable options available.
• Crafting a poke bowl at home is both feasible and enjoyable, with essential ingredients available at local Toronto markets.
• While many establishments stay true to the traditional Hawaiian poke, others introduce a modern twist, offering unique combinations and flavors.
• Besides taste, restaurants like The Poke Box and FreshFin Poke emphasize sustainability and health, showcasing eco-friendly packaging and fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients.
• Whether dining out or crafting a bowl at home, poke offers a customizable experience, allowing for a mix of ingredients that cater to individual preferences and tastes.

FAQs

1. Are there vegetarian poke options available?
   Yes, many places like North Poke and Calii Love offer tofu, tempeh, and vegetable-based bowls.

2. What if I’m gluten-sensitive?
   Restaurants like Island Poke and Poke Guys offer gluten-free options, especially with sauces like tamari.

3. Can I make a poke bowl at home?
   Absolutely! With fresh ingredients, mainly fish, rice, and toppings, you can craft your own bowl.

4. Where can I buy poke ingredients in Toronto?
   Local markets like St. Lawrence Market and specialty stores such as Taro’s Fish are great options.

5. Is poke similar to sushi?
   While both feature raw fish, poke is usually served in a bowl with various toppings, whereas sushi is rolled with rice and seaweed. If your love for poke bowls has ignited a passion for more Japanese-inspired cuisine, then you’ll be delighted by our guide to the top sushi restaurants in Toronto, where the art of sushi-making is taken to new heights.

6. What’s a sushi burrito?
   Offered by places like Poke Wrap, it’s a blend of sushi and burrito, with poke ingredients wrapped in a seaweed sheet, similar to a burrito.

7. Are there any spicy poke options?
   Yes, many restaurants offer spicy variants using ingredients like spicy mayo or sriracha.