Poki Poki is a Southern California poke chain with several locations, but this was my first time visiting the Escondido location. One of the biggest perks is the parking. There's a huge lot, so stopping in for lunch couldn't have been easier. The staff was super friendly. They worked quickly. They were accommodating while I built my bowl. The restaurant was also really clean, which always makes a good first impression. I ordered a small bowl with salmon and octopus. Both were incredibly fresh. The portions honestly surprised me too. Even the small bowl was filling. One thing I really liked was the customization. You pick your sauce first. Then you decide how spicy you want it. A lot of poke shops don't let you do that, so I appreciated having the option. It made it easy to get exactly what I wanted. For toppings, I went with edamame, corn, masago, mandarin oranges, and pineapple. I'm a sweet and savory girl, so this combination was perfect for me. Everything looked fresh. Everything tasted fresh too. I really enjoyed my visit here. The fish was fresh. The portions were generous. The staff made the experience even better. I just wish it was closer to where I live because I know I'd have this place in my regular rotation. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Inside - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

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I love fresh fish and if I can eat fish everyday, this pussycat over here will be purring up a storm. I was in the mood for poke but wasnt in the right direction to get to the Japanese markets in Kearny Mesa so I fired up my Yelp app to see where along the route home I would find a good poke location. I wanted to go to Hawaiian fresh seafood in Poway but it was going to close right when I arrived, so I chose this place as it has better later hours. This location is in a strip mall but dont let the looks of this place deter you. The regular plate comes with 3 proteins and lots to choose from and I was quite overwhelmed. In the end, I choose tuna, salmon and seared tuna. I liked the tuna and salmon but will choose something else than seared tuna next time. I had half rice and half greens, and I can't do spicy so the guy helping me just added some sesame oil and ponzu for me. I dont know how he knew but I dont like any of my fish drowning in sauce and he knew that without even asking me. I got a bunch of veggie toppings as I love vegetables. Pile on the radish, cucumbers, edamame, corn, masago, seaweed salad, green onions, furikake! Overall, this was a great poke spot and portion size generous but you are paying $20 for the dish which includes taxes and tips. Id def come back again! read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Look at all the colors - healthy and so yummy !! - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

Watch out for the online ordering "glitch" Ordered takeout through their website and had a bit of a frustrating experience. The online menu is a bit misleading since it allows you to select a drink as if it's included in the meal price, but upon pickup, the staff informed us it was an extra charge. It felt a bit deceptive, so I really hope they fix that technical glitch soon to avoid awkwardness at the counter. As for the food, it was decent. I tried the half chips and mixed greens base this time, but it wasn't quite my favorite combo. If you're ordering, I'd suggest sticking with the white rice and mixed greens instead for a much better balance. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Spicy tuna, scallops, and salmon with half chips and half mixed greens Regular Bowl - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

I absolutely love poki poki and always get it, but ordering online vs in store is a completely different experience. In store portions are great and they add everything you ask for. Online portions are minuscule compared to what I'd normally receive ordering inside and they don't get everything correct. Ordered online and half of one of the bowls was missed, no sesame seeds, garlic, furikake, tempura crisp, and missed the extra scoop of imitation crab I paid for. Plus there wasn't any sauce? Extremely disappointing and will not make the mistake of ordering ahead of time will definitely limit the times I visit. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Online orders - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

always drove past this place but finally decided to give it a try since with was hot out. the place is quite spacious, has ac, and good parking. pretty standard for a poke place and i like that it comes in a takeout container. service was good. i did ask for mild but it definitely felt too spicy. the prices were decent for what you get. i really liked the fruit in my poke bowl to help cut the spice and salt. will be back! read more

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A very nice establishment for authentic poke bowls. Lots of choices to provide a personal taste experience of your bowl. The menu and staff guides you through your selection process. You can view what you selected. It's a fast process to out together the bowl of your choice. Poke is healthy. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Hello! - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

I had been to these Poke spot before and wasn't in love with the ingredients the 1st time around. Yesterday, my partner was craving California fish grill which is right next door while I really wanted some poke so I said why not I'll give it another chance. I'm so happy I did, I got a regular bowl with the Hawaiian sauce and OMG the tuna and salmon was amazingly fresh and flavorful with the right amount of sauce and portions. The guy at the counter was nice and the ambiance is welcoming. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Regular Bowl - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

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Poki Poki review - came back to give them another shot after having bad customer service experience. Totally night and day - smiling friendly faces,polite- fresh ingredients and generous potions. The complete opposite from a few years back! im glad there must have been a change in management!! Thank you thank you Poki Poki!! read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

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I stopped in after a long day of work, wanting a decent bowl of Poki. Should've taken the hand with the reviews I saw . I've been to other locations of this business and generally haven't had any major issues, which is why this experience was especially disappointing. Unfortunately, this particular location has made me question whether I'll come back again. The biggest concern was the way some of the food was handled. The employee initially put the wrong protein onto my bowl. When I pointed out that it was incorrect, instead of discarding the raw fish, he scooped it off my bowl and put it back into the container with the other spicy tuna. I'm not a food-safety expert, but that didn't seem like an appropriate or sanitary way to handle food that had already been placed on a customer's plate. Later, I watched a piece of my seared ahi slip onto what appeared to be a freezer-burned surface. Rather than replacing it, the employee picked it up and put it back into my bowl. Again, maybe I'm being overly cautious, but I found that concerning and expected better food-handling practices. The portions were also noticeably smaller than what I've received at other locations. The customer directly in front of me received a significantly larger serving, while my bowl was barely filled. I'm not particularly picky about portion sizes, but when I've received substantially more food at other locations for the same price--even after tipping--it was noticeable. On top of that, the service felt indifferent and the employee didn't seem particularly interested in being there. The restaurant was relatively empty during my visit, yet the overall experience still felt rushed and unsatisfactory. I also found it disappointing that this location does not accept American Express. I've had good experiences at other locations, so I'm not saying the entire restaurant is bad. Unfortunately, this specific visit was enough to leave a very poor impression. I hope management takes a closer look at the food-handling practices and customer service at this location, because based on my experience, I don't see myself returning. read more

I come here often but lately the portions have been so small and for the price i'm paying it's ridiculous. Today when i stopped by nearly paying 25 dollars just for my tuna to be frozen still and be given the smallest amount of fish read more

So yummy! It was my first time trying poke and it didn't disappoint. The portions are huge, I really got a bang for my buck! Staff was quick on their feet and attentive. Keep up the good work, Poki Poki. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Regular Bowl - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

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This is my go to place when it comes to Poki. The food tastes fresh, they have a variety of options to choose from, and the staff is generous with the portions. I highly recommend trying out this location! I always get the Large Bowl with Half White Rice, Half Chips, Both Types of Tuna, 2 portions of Salmon, Both types of Imitation Crab, Avocado, Cucumber, Corn, Tempura Crisp mixed together with Spicy Mayo, and a heat level of Spicy. It's delicious! read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Large Bowl - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

I cant even lie this may be the best poke ive ever had. Insanely good portions and flavorful fish. So much bang for your buck, and the dudes at the counter were super nice and helpful. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - I cant even lie this was the best poke bowl ive ever had. Insanely good portions and flavorful fish - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

avoid this place at all cost. Their fish is very old and not fresh at all. I got food poisoning from them. Do not go here, so many better places read more

I love poke and dropped by this place with no expectations. The food was fresh, with many different protein options (the usual plus things like scallops and octopus). Good sauces and toppings. I'll be back! read more

Update: The owner called me to make it right and apologized for the experience and asked me to come back so he could make it right! That's customer service I mean he called after a hour of me posting this. That's great thank you for taking the time to make me feel like I'm important! Please come here because your business is wanted Old review : I've been to this location a few times, but after today, I won't be returning. I called with a simple question to double-check an ingredient due to a potential allergy -- something any responsible business should handle with care. Instead, I was repeatedly hung up on. No callbacks. No apologies. Just flat-out disregard. When someone finally answered, I was met with a dismissive, irritated attitude as if I was a burden for simply asking questions about the food. The employee, who identified himself as Edgar, was extremely rude, unprofessional, and gave off a tone that made it clear he didn't care whether I came in or not. When I asked to speak with a manager, he said, "We don't have one. It's just me and the cook. The manager never comes in." If that's true, it's deeply concerning. Who is holding this team accountable? Who's managing the cash drawer? Who's ensuring customer safety or food quality? Edgar's behavior was completely out of line. I've managed teams in food service and other industries, and if any of my employees acted the way he did, they would be written up or sent home immediately. He spoke with zero professionalism and seemed to feel immune to any consequences -- and if there truly is no manager on site or checking in, that would explain the lack of standards. If ownership reads this, take note: this isn't just a one-off bad moment -- it's a clear sign of mismanagement. Your Escondido location is driving away loyal customers and ruining your brand's reputation. I'll be driving to the San Marcos location from now on, where I've consistently been treated with respect and where I can speak with an actual manager if needed. Time of incident: Monday, April 21 at approximately 7:30 PM Employee name given: Edgar (if false, then whoever was working this shift should be identified) This experience was not just frustrating -- it was unacceptable. I wouldn't trust this location with my health or my money. read more

My favorite poke place in town! Good toppings, love the sauces, and a good amount for the price you pay! I know I get a ton of nori on top so it's hiding all the goodies, but trust me it was great! read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

They used to fill these cups with a good amount and I would only need one or two. But now, it's so little and I have to ask for four or six to even get the same amount as before. Besides that the food and service was good. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

The service is always great. The two young men who seem to always be there when we walk in are quick to greet us. They are thoughtful and kind. The food is fresh, which is important for good poke bowl! I enjoy it each time we stop in! read more

I ordered Poki Poki through Door Dash. When I was about to take my 3rd bite I notice something shiny mixed in with the poke and spring mix. I pulled it out and it was a clear 3 inch piece of plastic. Tried calling the Poke store 5 times but no one picked up. I'm pretty upset about the plastic in the food, but I'm more upset that no one is answering the phone. read more

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Been here multiple times , always has been a good service. Sad to say that the girl with the black hoodie, black hair, with NO name tag had a big ugly attitude. Asked if I wanted my poke in a bag ? Even though it's always bagged with utensils and napkins. Then proceeds to bag aggressively, slamming the poke on the counter with no utensils or napkins. Once I finished paying , she gives back the receipt saying rudely "I don't need the tip, I need the signature". Other than that food was great. Customer service was a big disappointment. read more

We arrived to the store at 8:15-8:20pm ish on Monday night, and we saw two workers came in with the trash bin. The girl spoke in Vietnamese with no idea that I understand it. She said " fuck, customers are coming in". We wanted to try the place out since Im new to the town but to be honest, I would rather not. Bad experience before even we came into the store. read more

Hugh portions of fish and sauces that help to enhance and not overpower your poke, will definitely be coming back

I have been going here for many years. This is my go to spot since there aren't many places here in Escondido for Poki. My dad and step mom decided to get Poki for the three of us today, April 2, 2025. As soon as they came home, they told me about the unpleasant experience they encountered with a female employee making the bowls. As soon as they entered they were not greeted and wasn't asked what can I get you today. The female Latina girl dressed in black was not friendly at all. My dad gave her a piece of paper with our order and she had a disgusted look on her face. She seemed annoyed they would hand her a piece of paper. She proceeded to make the bowls but the entire time she had bad energy and was not friendly at all. She looked like she didn't even want to be there. After they had paid, my dad told her that she should smile. I personally have not had a bad experience and have had great experiences with the old employees but for them to come home and vent about it, something needs to be said. It's a new staff and Poki Poki needs to have better standards and customer service going forward to be a successful business. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Large Salad with 4 proteins - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

I'm happy to say that this place has really turned around since my last review. The portions on mix-ins have kept pace with the increased prices which is rare these days - the poke bowl I received today weighed as much as a newborn. The employees are so friendly and I'm glad to see that they have hired a diverse LGBQT+ friendly staff. It seems like they have really improved since the pandemic challenges. Everything was fresh and the temps were perfect. The whole place was spotless and peaceful for a workday lunch break. Please keep these awesome employees! read more

Already this place is deserving of an update for these reasons: - Tempura crisp topping is back! - My favorite poke bowl artist was working today and made the perfect bowl. I don't think I'll ever get a poke bowl from anywhere else unless I'm far away and desperate for a fix. Please see my original review for all the other positive things you'll experience when you try a poke bowl from Poki Poki. Not if...WHEN. Do your mouth a favor and check this place out. You'll be like, "Dude, Heidi C on Yelp was spot on!" Enjoy! read more

I dropped by after being in the area for an errand. They had good implementations for COVID and served you with a high pane of glass between you and the food while maintaining 6 feet distance. Bowl was reasonably sized but fish didn't taste very fresh. Additionally, their sauces were bland as the entirety of the bowl didn't have a lot of flavor. Toppings were typical - jalapeños, corn, seaweed salad, edamame, cucumbers, crab salad (nice that was not an extra charge). I dropped by a couple months ago and still haven't developed an urge or craving to come back. Instead, I have visited other options when I have craved poke. Service was OK, very minimal. Big parking lot so no issues finding parking. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

Favorite poke place in escondido! The portion sizes have always been large for the price! Never too busy and quick service!

Always the best!! The Friday night crew rocks it! Food is always great! Highly recommend !

Just came in today around 1:15pm and WOW this might just be the best poki bowl I've ever had! Staff was friendly and fast, food is fresh (and so good!) and place was so clean, 10/10 poki poki! Will be back! read more

I'm not sure what the gentleman's name is that served us but he has such a pleasant vibe. He made sure we were happy with our lunch and went out of his way. The food was fresh and delicious. But it doesn't matter how yummy food is if the service isn't good. The folks working here have good attitudes. The place is always spotless including the restroom. I eat here often. Check it out!! read more

I love this place!! I'm a FedEx driver and this place is on my route area so I come buy to get food here all the time. service it's amazing and the food it's always fresh read more

I came in for the first time and the younger boy with glasses asked me what I wanted. I didn't know what I wanted yet so I asked him to give me a minute as there wasn't anyone behind me waiting. He repeatedly asked me "what can I get for you" and I felt so rushed to order, pay and get out. Probably won't return if he's the one making my bowl again. read more

These awesome Poki stops that are popping up in San Marcos/Escondido area are what I live for. Good food close to work but never far from comfort So this is what I ordered: Regular Bowl with brown rice With two scoops of Salmon/one scoop of shrimp I got it mild with spicy mayo Added imitation crab, avocado, seaweed salad, masago, onions, cucumbers, GREEN onions (what can I say, love my onions!), tempura and fried garlic. It's a bad breath waiting to happen, but when I am off work I just dgaf. I give the place 4 stars because the inside was super clean, the staff was super friendly and helpful AND, of course, the food was spectacular!! Fresh fish, nothing too smelly or "fishy", and the ingredients are delicious!! I couldn't give the place 5 stars because the serving size was a bit small for it to be $12 in the end...... a little hiked but overall the food is bomb!! read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

Love it. Go nearly daily from work. portions can be a bit small but still they give plenty im just a big back. Workers are chillers, Decor is incredibly nice good vibe. Go if you like poke read more

My experience at this poke spot really depends on who's working that day. Sometimes, I get an amazing bowl that's great value for money with a decent amount of protein. Other times, the staff seems to rush, and the portions are lighter because there's one person waiting who I guess can't wait two minutes to be served. One employee, in particular, doesn't engage much. They don't ask questions or speak unless absolutely necessary, making it feel like you're just barking orders and hoping your bowl turns out the way you want unless you already know the process. That said, the poke itself is delicious and definitely worth checking out if you love poke. It's become my go-to spot, but I do avoid it sometimes depending on who's working that day. read more

I will admit when it comes to Poke, I am very biased when it comes to Poke as Bristol Farms Poke has almost ruined me from eating it anywhere else!.. The pricing here is about average, I think it was $13.99 for a large bowl which included 4 scoops of fish, I think they use a melon ball scoop for the fish. I had 2 scoops of Scallops, 1 scoop of Albacore, and 1 scoop of Ahi Tuna. Choice of white or brown rice, and an assortment of condiments such as green onions, sesame seeds, onions, different sauces and spice levels etc. The people here were super friendly, and very willing to offer suggestions etc which I always find incredibly awesome, they will run you down each and every item on the menu and absolutely do not rush you through the experience. I will say it was very very hot inside here on a hot day, and there was also a very strong cleaner type smell, so we decided to get our meals to go. The portion overall was quite a bit, however the majority of the filling was rice as most tend to be. I gave it a go here and I don't feel that I will be back, it was just not that amazing in my opinion! read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

Best poke bowl! Great servings and lots of toppings are included with the price. Quality seafood options too! Other places might sound cheaper but they usually make you pay for each topping or don't have many options! read more

This place was soo good! I came to place an order to go and I was definitely blown away by how fresh and tasty their poke bowls were. And also the portions were perfect! They have a lot of options and toppings too! I am a fan over their spicy tuna! I can't wait to come back! read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Poke to go. Regular poke bowl - spicy tuna - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California

As the Poke fad keeps swimming along, Escondido now gets their own poke palace.. As a poke novice I really wish some of these places would post pre-configured options making it easier to order. I always feel like I've matched the wrong flavors or missed out on something good. Anyway, I tried my best... My creation was white rice, Ahi Tuna, Spicy Tuna, mild sauce, eel sauce, masago, seaweed salad, and ginger. I chose the two scoop bowl and it was good enough for dinner. Overall it was pretty good. Tip - Just grab an ordering checkbox sheet, fill it out, then hand it to the cashier. - Cool concrete floor. - Avoid the avocado. Completely brown.. read more

Poki Poki - Escondido - Asian Fusion Near Me - Escondido, California