Looking to try your first poke bowl, or already addicted to the flavorful goodness? Wherever you stand with poke bowls, and if you’re in the Boston area, you have to check out Manoa Fish. Known for its customizable, yet traditional flavors and bowls, Manoa stands out from the rest for its casual, comfortable, and welcoming vibe. Stop by this little joint and say Aloha to your new favorite poke place…
You may drive by Manoa and be a little confused as to where you are. Yet, the sunny rainbow above the sign on the door will definitely invite you in and make you feel welcome. Set up like a Chipotle-for-fish, Manoa makes it easy for customers to pick out just what they want while being aware of what has gluten in it and what doesn’t. You can choose from one of their pre-designed bowls or choose something for yourself.
As far as gluten-free dining goes, you’re in luck at Manoa. While it’s not completely GF (I mean we can’t expect them all to be…), all of the bowls are labeled GF and V for vegetarian if necessary. Their fish is 100% GF, its just the sides where you need to be wary, but its pretty self explanatory given that their homemade mac & cheese did not scream gluten-free (though it did look really good). They even use Tamari sauce instead of soy sauce which is amazing for all the gluten-free sushi loving people avoiding traditional, and often gluten-full, soy sauce. I loved this aspect of the restaurant because it showed that Manoa is truly looking out for its gluten-averse crowd to make their speciality dishes accessible to all with food restrictions. A+.
For specifics, you can choose from three sizes of bowls ranging from one scoop of poke and a side to three. You pick a base, gluten-free rice of kale & quinoa (so good!), then you choose your poke. These all happen to be gluten-free, except for the Soy Boy that has teriyaki in it which can contain gluten. As far as sides go, I indulged in the chorizo slaw and the rainbow salad – both great choices. And guess what, you can even add avocado on the side. Yes, it’s extra, but we’re used to that by now.
All of the gluten-free options at Manoa are clearly labeled, making your visit to this cute poke place as easy as it can be.