Poke bowls are well and truly established in Berlin, but in October 2021 a new address for this delicious dish arrived on the scene: Jigi Poke. Despite Poke’s Hawaiian origins, you won’t find surfboards or a potted plant jungle at this Rosenthaler Platz eatery. Instead you’re greeted by an elegant, high-quality interior with a light, earthy color palette. Nonetheless, the designers at Vaust Studio who did the interior were keen to recall the origins of Poke, with the likes of photographs of Hawaiian fishermen. The sturdy granite stools you sit on are surprisingly accommodating, thanks to their specially hand-carved surface. As for the food itself, you can either ask the team to recommend their favorite bowl or construct your own as you like it.
My go-to is the Real Salmon Bowl with sashimi salmon, cucumber and pomegranate seeds, though if you don’t eat fish there’s a wide range of vegan options. Whatever you go for, expect an accompaniment of lime, coriander and sushi ginger. Owner Daniel has a Michelin background, something that shows in the quality and regionality of the ingredients used. While this is a difficult task when it comes to fish, the restaurant works with Deutsche See to source more sustainable and responsible catches. The two long concrete tables are particularly impressive and provide a great contrast to the vibrant food. Whether it’s for a quiet work lunch or a feast with friends, this sleek eatery should definitely be on your list.
Text & Photos: Jonas Michel
Jigi Poke, Rosenthalerstr.69, 10119 Berlin–Mitte; map
Mon–Sat, 11h30–21h30
