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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeIllinoisCook CountyChicagoChicago LoopJapanese Restaurant in South Wabash AvenuePoke Poké
Poke Poké ico

Poke Poké

118 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA

4.0
The salmon and tuna is fresh and good quality. The picked radish topping is very good and all of the topping ingredients are good quality as well. Takeout was well packaged and convenient, I would stop here again. - nicole Z
Poke Poké Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Poke Poké Introduce

For residents and workers in Illinois, particularly those in the heart of downtown Chicago, the search for a quick, healthy, and exceptionally flavorful meal can often lead to a desire for Japanese cuisine. Poke Poké, located on S Wabash Avenue, stands out as a premier destination that caters to this demand with its focus on fresh ingredients and customizable options. While the name might suggest a primary focus on Hawaiian-style poke, this establishment offers a broader Japanese culinary experience, including satisfying ramen and other hot dishes. It’s a place where quality meets convenience, making it a highly suitable spot for the bustling urban lifestyle of Illinois locals.

Poke Poké has cultivated a reputation for its commitment to fresh, high-quality proteins like salmon and tuna, along with a wide array of fresh toppings. This dedication ensures that every poke bowl is not only delicious but also a nourishing choice. Beyond the popular poke bowls, the restaurant also serves hearty ramen and other Japanese comfort foods, providing a well-rounded menu that appeals to various tastes. The ambiance, though described as dimly lit with a few small tables, maintains a clean and organized environment, designed for efficient service and a satisfying dining experience. For those in Illinois looking for a reliable and delectable Japanese meal, Poke Poké offers a compelling option right in the city's vibrant core.

Location and Accessibility

Poke Poké is conveniently situated at 118 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA. This prime location places it in the bustling Loop district of downtown Chicago, directly across from Millennium Park and within easy reach of numerous offices, retail establishments, and cultural attractions. Its central position makes it an ideal spot for professionals on a lunch break, shoppers, or tourists exploring the city's iconic landmarks. The address on S Wabash Avenue is part of a lively street known for its retail and dining options, ensuring high visibility and accessibility.

For Illinois residents, particularly those commuting into the city, Poke Poké’s location offers excellent accessibility via public transportation. It is just a short walk from several CTA train stations, including Washington/Wabash (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines) and Adams/Wabash (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines), as well as various bus stops. This extensive network makes it incredibly easy to reach the restaurant from almost any part of Chicago or the surrounding suburbs without the need for a car. While street parking in the Loop can be limited and expensive, numerous parking garages are available nearby. However, relying on public transit or ride-sharing services is often the most convenient way to access this popular downtown eatery.

Services Offered
  • Dine-in Service: Poke Poké provides a cozy dine-in experience with a few small tables available. The interior is designed for efficient ordering and has a relaxed atmosphere, suitable for a quick meal.
  • Build Your Own Poké Bowls: This is a cornerstone service, allowing customers to fully customize their poke bowls. Patrons can choose from a variety of bases (like white rice, purple rice, or spring mix), select multiple scoops of fresh proteins (salmon, tuna, shrimp, crab salad, etc.), and then add up to eight toppings and two sauces from a wide array of fresh ingredients. Regular bowls come with 3 scoops of protein, while large bowls offer 5.
  • Signature Poké Bowls: For those who prefer curated combinations, Poke Poké offers pre-designed signature bowls such as the Tsukiji Bowl, Osaka Bowl, Kuromon Bowl, Suki Bowl, and Umi Bowl, each with unique ingredient profiles.
  • Ramen and Hot Food: Beyond poke bowls, Poke Poké features a selection of hot Japanese dishes. This includes various ramen options like Tonkotsu Ramen (creamy pork broth), Vegetarian Ramen, and specialty beef noodle soups such as Gyu-Udon and Braised Beef Noodles Soup. They also offer Gyu-Don (simmered beef rice).
  • Appetizers and Sides: The menu includes popular Japanese appetizers like Gyoza (pork or vegetable dumplings), Miso Soup, Wonton Soup, Edamame, and Seaweed Salad. Small sides like Braised Pork Belly, Soft Boiled Egg, and various types of rice are also available.
  • Desserts and Snacks: Customers can enjoy Japanese desserts and snacks such as Dorayaki Pancake and Soy Milk Daifuku.
  • Beverages: A selection of drinks is offered, including Japanese teas (like Ito En Unsweetened Tea), Ramune, Aloe Drink, and various sodas and bottled waters.
  • Takeout and Pick-up: The restaurant is well-suited for takeout orders, with food noted for being "well packaged and convenient." Customers can place orders for pick-up directly.
  • Delivery Service: Poke Poké partners with major food delivery platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub, ensuring that their delicious meals are accessible to a wider audience across Illinois.
  • Catering: Poke Poké offers catering services, including individual poke bowls and platters of appetizers, making it a convenient option for corporate lunches or events in the Chicago area.
Features / Highlights
  • Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: Customers consistently praise the freshness and quality of the salmon, tuna, and other proteins, along with the variety and quality of the toppings. This commitment to fresh ingredients is a major draw.
  • Highly Customizable Poke Bowls: The "build your own" concept for poke bowls is a significant highlight, empowering customers to create their ideal meal with extensive choices for proteins, toppings, and sauces.
  • Generous Portions: Reviewers often note the generous portion sizes, particularly with the protein scoops and overall fullness of the poke bowls, offering excellent value.
  • Diverse Menu Beyond Poke: The inclusion of well-received ramen, udon, and other hot Japanese dishes means that Poke Poké appeals to a broader audience than just poke enthusiasts, offering comforting options for various cravings.
  • Efficient and Quick Service: Despite being a busy downtown spot, the service is generally quick and polite, making it an efficient option for those on a tight schedule.
  • Clean and Organized Setup: The display of poke bowl ingredients is neatly labeled and organized, facing the customer, which contributes to a transparent and appealing ordering process.
  • Self-Service Amenities: The availability of free water, utensils, napkins, and soy sauce packets, along with clearly marked bins for self-bussing, adds to the convenience and streamlined experience.
  • Central Downtown Location: Its placement on Wabash Avenue in the Loop makes it incredibly accessible for a wide range of customers, from office workers to tourists.
Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, regularly rotating promotions for Poke Poké at 118 S Wabash Ave are not always publicly listed in detail, it's typical for fast-casual dining establishments in a competitive market like Chicago to offer various incentives. Illinois locals looking for special deals might find:

  • Lunch Specials: Given its strong appeal as a lunch spot, Poke Poké might offer specific lunch combos or discounted poke bowls during weekday lunch hours. It is advisable to check their in-store signage or online menu for any advertised lunch deals.
  • Loyalty Programs: Many quick-service restaurants implement loyalty programs through their own apps or third-party platforms, offering points or discounts for repeat visits.
  • Delivery Platform Promotions: Poke Poké partners with major delivery services, and these platforms frequently run their own promotions, such as discounts on first orders, free delivery, or percentage off deals. Checking Grubhub, Uber Eats, or DoorDash for specific Poke Poké offers is recommended.
  • Seasonal or Limited-Time Offerings: Restaurants often introduce new ingredients or special bowls for a limited time, which can sometimes come with an introductory price.
  • Social Media Announcements: Following Poke Poké’s official social media channels is often the best way to stay informed about any new promotions, flash sales, or special events they might feature.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any promotions or special offers, customers are encouraged to inquire directly at the restaurant or check their official website or online ordering portals.

Contact Information

Address: 118 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA

Phone: (312) 631-3380

Mobile Phone: +1 312-631-3380

For any inquiries, placing pick-up orders, or seeking details on their catering services, the provided phone number is the most direct point of contact. Further information, including their full menu and online ordering links, can typically be found on their official website or via popular food delivery apps.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents and workers across Illinois, particularly those in the Chicago area, Poke Poké at 118 S Wabash Ave offers a uniquely appealing dining experience for several compelling reasons. Its prime downtown location makes it exceptionally convenient for a quick and healthy meal, whether you're on a lunch break, exploring the city, or commuting through the Loop. The ease of access via multiple CTA lines solidifies its position as a go-to spot for many.

What truly makes Poke Poké suitable for locals is its blend of customization and quality. The "build your own poke bowl" concept empowers diners to craft a meal exactly to their liking, ensuring satisfaction every time, while the consistent freshness and generous portions of ingredients provide excellent value. Furthermore, the inclusion of comforting Japanese hot dishes like ramen and udon means that Poke Poké isn't just for poke enthusiasts; it’s a versatile option for anyone craving authentic and delicious Japanese fare. It's a place where you can get a quick, satisfying, and nutritious meal tailored to your preferences, all within a welcoming and efficient setting in the heart of Illinois.

Poke Poké Photos

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Poke Poké Location

Poke Poké

118 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA

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