Aloha Pokē
Pokē has become trendy in Milwaukee and elsewhere. The Hawaiian-rooted dish exemplifies bespoke, healthy fast food suitable for a quick lunch or a carryout. The Chicago chain Aloha Pokē recently opened its first Milwaukee venue (220 E. Buffalo St.) in the Third Ward.
The counter service operation, with tables outside and in, taps the “do-it-yourself” trend by offering a menu of customizable options.
Pick from Ahi tuna, salmon or tofu, served in a bowl of white or brown rice, mixed greens or seaweed salad. You can also choose from a variety of accent ingredients—from pineapple to jalapeños—and fill bowls in three sizes according to your appetite: eight ounce ($7.95), 16 ounce ($9.95) and 24 ounce ($13.50).
Regardless of size, the selections offer spicy kick and lots of crunch, a mix of flavors and texture that can serve as a snack in the smaller iterations or a meal in itself in the largest bowl.