Tempe's Top Poke Restaurants: Fresh Hawaiian Bowls and Must-Try Spots
Poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish meaning "to slice" or "cut," combines fresh seafood with vibrant ingredients. This customizable meal has surged in popularity across the Valley, with Tempe at the forefront. Poke spots operate like an assembly line—similar to Chipotle—where you select a base (rice, greens, or both), protein, sauces, and toppings. Bowls typically cost $10-$13, depending on portions and add-ons.
Tempe boasts several standout poke restaurants. Here's a curated guide with locations, contacts, and highlights based on firsthand visits.
Ahipoki Bowl
1015 S. Rural Road
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 248-9834
Situated in a new complex near ASU Tempe campus, Ahipoki offers white or brown rice, mixed greens, or a half-and-half base. Customize with multiple proteins like shrimp, scallops, and octopus. Toppings include green onion, edamame, crab meat, and avocado, plus house sauce. End your meal with their signature macaron ice creams—perfect for hot Arizona days.
Aloha Poki Co.
325 W. Elliot Rd., Ste. 101
Tempe, AZ 85284
(480) 912-3437
This recently opened spot in south Tempe features a spacious, open layout with ample seating. Build your bowl with diverse toppings like masago (salmon roe) and seaweed salad. (Sister location in Ahwatukee.)
Poké Wave
9920 S. Rural Road, Ste. 111
Tempe, AZ 85284
(480) 582-3377
In south Tempe, Poké Wave simplifies choices with chef-curated "wave" bowls, such as the Aloha Classic (ahi tuna with classic toppings) or Wasabi Shrimp and Scallop (with onion, edamame, pineapple, masago, furikake, and wasabi aioli). Adjust as needed or create your own. Led by sushi experts with over 25 years of experience, everything is prepared fresh daily, including proteins, mango, and sauces. Expect generous portions and exceptional freshness.
Pokedon
1753 E. Broadway Road, Ste. 103
Tempe, AZ 85282
(480) 556-1431
Another south Tempe gem, Pokedon pairs rice or salad bases with unique wonton chips. Beyond poke, try steak, salmon, or chicken bowls for variety.
Poke2U
414 S. Mill Avenue, Ste. 114
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 773-7454
Bringing poke to Downtown Tempe, Poke2U fuses it with BBQ. Choose poke on rice, greens, soy paper, or seaweed wrap, or opt for BBQ beef/chicken bowls. An array of toppings adds crunch, texture, and flavor.
Tokyo Joe’s
4715 S. Rural Road, Ste. 104
Tempe, AZ 85282
(480) 307-8868
Ideal for poke newcomers, Tokyo Joe’s offers made-to-order sushi, salads, proteins, and poke. Select from three proteins and a concise toppings list to avoid overwhelm—great for groups.
