Brothers Josiah and Sam Bonsey brought authentic Hawaiian poke traditions to Massachusetts after growing up in Hawaii. 🌺
This family-owned gem serves fresh, sustainably sourced seafood marinated in traditional island flavors that transport diners straight to the Pacific.
After a brief closure, Jacob Afoa revived the beloved spot in 2019, keeping the authentic Hawaiian poke bowl experience alive for devoted fans.
With limited hours and a rotating selection of the freshest available catch, Manoa Poke Shop operates more like Hawaii’s local superettes than mainland fast-casual chains.
How Manoa Poke Shop won Somerville’s hearts
Manoa Poke Shop won Somerville’s affection by prioritizing authenticity over convenience in a market flooded with build-your-own bowl concepts. 🏝️
The restaurant’s commitment to serving only the highest quality fish—whatever happens to be freshest that day—creates an ever-changing menu that keeps regulars excited.
The shop’s limited operating hours (just 3-4 days weekly) make each visit feel special, and loyal fans gladly work their schedules around Manoa’s availability. ⏰
Diners who grew up in Hawaii or visited the islands found genuine comfort in dishes that reminded them of authentic island food culture rather than mainland interpretations.
The restaurant expanded beyond poke bowls to showcase beloved Polynesian specialties like mochiko fried chicken and kalua pig that locals couldn’t find elsewhere.
When Manoa briefly closed in 2019, the overwhelming customer demand brought it back—proof that the community deeply valued this rare taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine in Massachusetts.
Food Highlights
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Ahi Shoyu Poke: Yellowfin tuna marinated in tamari with sweet onion and scallion—this classic preparation showcases pristine fish quality and represents traditional Hawaiian poke at its finest🐟
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Salmon Shoyu Poke: Fresh salmon with tamari, sweet onion, and scallion that customers describe as specially marinated and delicious.
- Spicy Limu Poke: Tuna mixed with hijiki seaweed, gochugaru chili, scallions, ginger, and tamari—this sesame and gluten-free option adds texture and umami depth through seaweed while delivering a pleasant kick of heat.
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Mochiko Fried Chicken: Beloved Hawaiian-style fried chicken with a crispy, gluten-free rice flour coating that’s moist inside and crunchy outside. 🍗
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Kalua Pig: Super slow-cooked pulled pork shoulder served with housemade yaki sauce—reviewers describe this traditional Hawaiian preparation as ethereal, especially when paired with mac salad and white rice.
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Spam Musubi: Hawaii’s favorite snack featuring spam steeped in special house marinade with white rice and house furikake wrapped in nori—this gluten-free portable snack brings authentic island convenience food to Massachusetts.
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Chili BBQ Salmon: Lightly charred salmon belly (the most flavorful cut) marinated in-house chili sauce and topped with pepper and brown sugar.
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Mac Salad: House garlic aioli tossed with elbow macaroni that customers call “America’s finest pasta dish”—this essential Hawaiian side pairs perfectly with poke and appears on every mixplate as a creamy, garlicky complement. 🥗
Atmosphere
Manoa Poke Shop creates an easygoing island vibe that makes guests feel transported to a Hawaiian superette or family gathering. 🌴
The casual space features cafeteria-style picnic tables for dining in, though many customers opt for takeout given the limited seating.
Everyone who works there radiates a genuine aloha spirit, treating customers like family and creating an incredibly welcoming environment.
The relaxed, unpretentious setting perfectly matches the restaurant’s philosophy of serving fresh, honest food without fancy frills.
Bottom Line
Visit Manoa Poke Shop for authentic Hawaiian poke prepared with the freshest available fish, beloved Polynesian specialties like mochiko fried chicken and kalua pig, a family-run aloha spirit that treats guests like ohana, a rotating menu showcasing premium seasonal catches, and genuine island flavors you can’t find anywhere else in New England. 🤙
Address:
300 Beacon St, Somerville, MA 02143
🕔 Hours: Mon-Tue Closed, Wed 5:00 PM–8:30 PM, Thu 4:30 PM–8:30 PM, Fri-Sat 3:00 PM–8:30 PM, Sun Closed