Blu Poke Shed

Overview

Just a few months ago most of us thought a poké was a just an annoying way to nudge people on Facebook. Since then the Hawaiian staple, pronounced 'po-kay', has popped up all over the show, and it seems Aucklanders can't get enough.

But what is it exactly? Poké is an age-old Hawaiian dish, said to have originated in the days when fisherman would cut up their catch and season it with whatever was on hand. It's a celebration of raw fish. And typically comes served in a wee cardboard bowl rice, vegetables, salty dressing, seasonings and herbs to take away.

Nicholas Chang and wife Jane are the newest poké pushers in Auckland, and they've clearly put a lot of thought into the look of the Blu Poké Shed. It's a small, casual space, including a counter filled with colourful ingredients, light wood panelling, and a nifty looking blue waves painted on the walls. The menu's only six bowls long, but I can confirm that each of them are bloody delightful.

My favourite poké set has to be Blu's signature, featuring super fresh tuna or salmon, a generous serve of mango and macadamia, and topped with sriracha mayo. But the Hakuba Pow isn't far behind. This Japanese-influenced bowl features salmon alongside the punchy flavours of seaweed salad and wasabi mayo. There's also a chicken and tofu option for the fish-averse, and a range of Karma sodas (and other bevvys) if you're feeling parched.

They're all perfect for lunch on the go, come in large and regular servings and leave you feeling a little healthier (even if it's just for an hour or two). Blu Poké Shed proves that these fresh fish bowls aren't just a fad, and we can tell they'll remain popular if they keep serving up the good stuff.