Everyone wants everything to fit their needs, and in the rise of build your own, “I want it my way” food options across many food chains (yes, Subway and Moe’s, we’re talking about you), the newest addition with a Korean flair did not disappoint. Gwinnett’s new Top Poke is like a Korean Chipotle. ** It’s pronounced ‘pok-kay’, not ‘po-kee,’ or the awful mispronunciation of ‘poke,’ as in “I will poke you if you pronounce poke wrong!!”
In the former location of Tom + Chee across from the Mall of Georgia, Top Poke provides an array of options for the Korean foodie and poke lover. The word poke simply means “chunk” in Hawaiian, not a super appetizing nor descriptive word. Poke is typically any meat or seafood that is cut into small pieces and marinated. If you are a novice at the poke bowl game, at first glance when you walk up to the counter to order the options for the Bibimbap bowls or poke bowl can be a little intimidating, but the friendly staff can help walk you through the “build your own bowl” options while you watch your bowl come to life. Other menu options are made in the back of the house.
Poke Bowl Suggestion: Start with a good base of sushi rice and salad, followed by your choice of two proteins like spicy tuna and salmon (or you can double up on your favorite). Next, pick from a variety of toppings such as edamame, pickled ginger, cucumbers, scallions and seaweed salad, then drizzle with delicious sauces. They even have the coveted sauce that everyone asks for extra of at Japanese restaurants, “yum yum sauce.” I’d suggest going for a spicy mayo and ponzu combo, and finish it off with tempura flakes and masago for an added layer of texture.
The bowl is deep in flavor combinations and super filling. While the bowls are surely the star of the show, don’t be afraid to try unique offerings from their other menus. Go with a friend and try a little of everything from one of their set menu combos including poke bowl, fish cakes, kimbob roll
(sushi roll), omurice (fried rice omelet) and Korean fried chicken (sweet chili, soy garlic or spicy). It’s a quick culinary trip that won’t take you too far out of your comfort zone.
Top Poke
3350 Buford Dr NE Suite A160
Buford, GA 30519
www.toppokekorean.com