Alyssa and Ritchie Hart are bringing poke, a raw fish salad that is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, to the Port City.
 
While poke has made its way on to a few menus in town, Nakedfin Poke Bowl, 420 Eastwood Road, will dedicate its full menu to various styles of poke.
 
“Poke is a big trend right now in California and New York,” Alyssa Hart said.
 
Nakedfin will offer several signature bowls as well as a create-your-own option. Guests will select a base of rice, mixed greens with kale or taro chips, then select a protein, raw tuna or salmon, cooked shrimp or tofu, then select a sauce, a variety of fresh mixed vegetables and toppers such as sesame seeds, seaweed salad and fresh fish roe.
 
“Some people think of poke as a Hawaiian interpretation of sushi,” Hart said. “We try to stay true to the Hawaiian tradition but with some East Coast flair.”
 
Bowls will be available in small and large sizes, ranging from $8.99 to $11.99.
 
Poke is traditionally a grab-n-go type meal, but Nakedfin will have seating for about 20 guests, including a long community table. The interior will be decorated with reclaimed wood, custom surfboards and lots of succulents to lend a tropical vibe.
 
Nakedfin will also offer several varieties of kombucha as well as an infusion bar with coconut water and infused waters and teas.
 
“In California many people pick up poke on their way to the beach so we’re excited about our location and its proximity to Wrightsville Beach as well as the university and some of the central shopping areas in Wilmington,” Hart said.
 
Nakedfin Poke Bowl is expected to open in Unit 113, 420 Eastwood Road, by mid-September. Check the restaurant's Facebook page for updates on opening day. 
 
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