Ono Poke Too - A Taste Of Aloha In Kingston
There is a spot in Kingston, Washington, that seems to capture the very essence of a welcoming island getaway, a place where the spirit of aloha truly comes to life. It's called Ono Poke Too, and it's a place where the food is as comforting as the people you meet there. This eatery, you know, has quickly become a favorite gathering point for many, offering a slice of Hawaiian warmth right here in the Pacific Northwest.
From the moment you step in, there is a feeling of being part of something special, a connection that goes beyond just grabbing a meal. People often mention how they are treated like "ohana," which is the Hawaiian word for family, so that really tells you something about the atmosphere. It's a place where you are encouraged to "talk story," which simply means sharing conversations and making new friends, something that feels quite natural there.
The doors to this particular spot opened on March 12, 2021, and since that day, it has clearly made a mark. The numbers speak for themselves, with thousands of "likes" and hundreds of people sharing their experiences, indicating a very warm reception from the local community and visitors alike. It's a place that, in some respects, feels like a little piece of paradise has been brought closer to home for many.
Table of Contents
- Steven Ono and Leilani Mickelsen - The Heart of Ono Poke Too
- A Glimpse into the Owners of Ono Poke Too
- What Makes Ono Poke Too a Special Spot?
- How Does Ono Poke Too Welcome Everyone?
- The Ohana Spirit at Ono Poke Too
- Is Ono Poke Too Really That Good?
- What Folks Say About Ono Poke Too
- Where Can You Find Ono Poke Too?
- Getting to Ono Poke Too
Steven Ono and Leilani Mickelsen - The Heart of Ono Poke Too
Behind every great place, there are usually people with a vision, and for Ono Poke Too, that would be Steven Ono and Leilani Mickelsen. They have, in a way, created a little bit of Hawaii right in Kitsap County. Steven, it seems, has a history with bringing authentic Hawaiian poke to people, having run a similar, perhaps even a bit bigger, place in Edmonds for some time. This background, you know, suggests a deep understanding of the food and the culture they aim to share.
Their venture in Kingston, Ono Poke Too, is, in some respects, a continuation of that commitment to real Hawaiian flavors. It's a smaller version, which might just make it feel even more cozy and personal. The idea of taking something so well-loved from one area and bringing it to another speaks volumes about their passion. They are, essentially, sharing a part of their heritage and their love for this particular kind of food with a wider group of people, which is pretty neat.
The effort they put into creating a spot that feels genuine, that truly reflects the spirit of the islands, is quite clear. It's not just about the ingredients, but about the whole experience, the feeling of warmth and welcome. Their dedication, you could say, is what makes Ono Poke Too more than just a place to eat; it makes it a destination for those seeking a bit of that island charm, even on a regular Tuesday, or something like that.
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A Glimpse into the Owners of Ono Poke Too
When we think about the people who bring such a special place to life, it's always interesting to learn a little more about them. Steven Ono and Leilani Mickelsen, as a matter of fact, are the individuals who have poured their efforts into making Ono Poke Too what it is. Their connection to Hawaiian culture and their experience in serving up these particular kinds of dishes are, you know, quite central to the restaurant's identity. They seem to have a knack for creating a spot that feels very much like a true extension of their passion.
Steven's background, in particular, with running an authentic Hawaiian poke restaurant in Edmonds, shows a clear history of dedication to this specific cuisine. This experience, you know, means they bring a certain level of skill and understanding to the table at Ono Poke Too. It's not just a new venture for them; it's more like a continuation of a journey they have been on for some time, sharing these wonderful flavors with people. This kind of background, honestly, helps build trust with those who visit.
Leilani Mickelsen, as a partner in this endeavor, also plays a crucial role in shaping the inviting atmosphere and overall experience. Together, they have, in a way, crafted a space that resonates with the idea of "ohana," making everyone feel like a part of their extended family. Their joint efforts really shine through in the way the place operates and the way customers are treated, which is pretty important for a spot like this. It's clear they put a lot of thought into the whole vibe, you know.
| Names | Steven Ono and Leilani Mickelsen |
| Role at Ono Poke Too | Owners and Visionaries |
| Connection to Hawaiian Cuisine | Steven has experience running an authentic Hawaiian poke restaurant in Edmonds. |
| Contribution to Ono Poke Too | Created a "smaller version" of an authentic Hawaiian poke experience in Kingston, focusing on an "ohana" (family) atmosphere. |
What Makes Ono Poke Too a Special Spot?
So, what exactly sets Ono Poke Too apart from other places you might visit? Well, it's pretty clear that it’s more than just the food, though the food itself is a big part of it. This place, in Kingston, Washington, has a certain charm, a kind of easygoing vibe that makes you feel right at home the moment you step inside. It's described as having a casual and inviting atmosphere, which is, you know, quite appealing for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a good meal without any fuss. The whole setting just feels very comfortable, really.
The focus here is on Hawaiian cuisine, and it’s served up in a way that truly hits the mark. The dishes are often described as "mouthwatering," which gives you a good idea of the care and quality that goes into each plate. It’s not just about getting fed; it’s about having a satisfying experience, one that leaves you feeling good. This commitment to delivering a great eating experience, honestly, is a major reason why people keep coming back, and why they talk about it so much.
Beyond the delicious food and the relaxed setting, there's a genuine sense of community that you can feel at Ono Poke Too. It’s a place where conversations flow easily, where you can "talk story" with the people around you, whether they are staff or other customers. This kind of interaction, you know, adds a lot to the overall appeal. It transforms a simple meal into a more memorable event, making it a true gathering spot for those in the area, or even those just passing through, which is pretty cool.
How Does Ono Poke Too Welcome Everyone?
The way Ono Poke Too welcomes its guests is, in some respects, a big part of its charm. They make it a point to treat everyone like "ohana," which, as we know, means family. This isn't just a phrase they use; it’s a feeling you get when you are there. From the moment you hear "Howzit and welcome to Ono Poke Too," you understand that this is a place where warmth and friendliness are, you know, quite important. It’s a very open and accepting kind of vibe, honestly.
This sense of family extends to the very core of how they operate. They encourage you to "talk story," which is a wonderful way to connect with people, to share a moment, or just to chat about your day. This kind of interaction, you know, helps create a bond between the people who work there and the people who visit. It’s a simple gesture, but it makes a big difference in how comfortable and valued you feel when you are there, making it more than just a quick stop for food.
Even their schedule has a bit of a unique, local flavor. They mention "When get waves, holidays or no more poke get directions," which is a playful way of saying that sometimes things might change, perhaps due to local conditions or popular demand. This kind of casual communication, you know, fits perfectly with their laid-back, island-inspired approach. It suggests a place that is deeply connected to its surroundings and its community, which is, in a way, very inviting.
The Ohana Spirit at Ono Poke Too
The idea of "ohana" is, arguably, the beating heart of Ono Poke Too. It's a concept that goes beyond just being polite to customers; it's about creating a genuine sense of belonging. When you are treated like family, you feel a certain level of comfort and trust, which is, you know, quite special in a dining setting. This approach helps to build strong relationships, turning first-time visitors into regulars who feel truly at home, which is a big deal for any business, really.
This spirit of family also encourages a relaxed atmosphere where people can simply be themselves. The invitation to "talk story" is a clear sign of this. It’s about slowing down, connecting, and sharing a moment, rather than just rushing through a meal. This focus on human connection, you know, makes the experience at Ono Poke Too much richer. It's about building a community around good food and good company, which is pretty much what "ohana" is all about.
The friendly greetings, the casual conversations, and the overall welcoming vibe all contribute to this feeling of being part of something bigger. It’s a place where you can feel comfortable bringing your loved ones, knowing that everyone will be met with warmth and kindness. This commitment to the "ohana" spirit is, in fact, what makes Ono Poke Too stand out and why so many people feel a deep connection to it, turning a simple meal into a memorable gathering, or something like that.
Is Ono Poke Too Really That Good?
When it comes to deciding if a place is worth a visit, what other people say can often be a good guide. For Ono Poke Too, the feedback from those who have visited is, you know, quite positive. On Tripadvisor, for example, it has received a very high rating of 4.9 out of 5, based on 8 unbiased reviews. This kind of score, honestly, suggests a very consistent level of satisfaction among its visitors, which is pretty impressive for any eating spot.
Being ranked as the #8 out of 27 restaurants in Kingston also tells a clear story. It means that out of many choices available, Ono Poke Too stands out as one of the very best in the area. This kind of recognition, you know, doesn't come easily; it's earned through consistently providing a good experience, from the food to the service. It points to a place that is doing many things right, and people are definitely noticing, which is good for them.
The sheer number of "likes" and mentions on social platforms also reinforces this idea of widespread approval. Thousands of people have shown their support, and hundreds are actively talking about their experiences. These numbers are, in a way, a testament to the positive impact Ono Poke Too has had on its community. It’s clear that this place has captured the hearts and taste buds of many, making it a truly popular choice for those seeking a great meal, or something like that.
What Folks Say About Ono Poke Too
The top reviews for Ono Poke Too paint a picture of a place that consistently delivers on its promise of delicious Hawaiian cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere. People often mention the quality of the food, how fresh it tastes, and how well it's put together. This kind of feedback, you know, really helps to build confidence for new visitors, letting them know what to expect. It's pretty much a guarantee of a good eating experience, in a way.
One person, for example, shared details about their specific meal, which included rice, seaweed salad, seasoned tofu, edamame, and cucumber kimchi. This description, you know, gives a glimpse into the variety of options available and the kind of fresh ingredients they use. It also suggests that the menu might change a bit, offering new and interesting combinations, which keeps things fresh for regulars. This flexibility, honestly, is a nice touch.
Beyond the food itself, the comments often highlight the friendly service and the welcoming vibe, reinforcing the "ohana" concept. People appreciate feeling like they are part of the family, and this personal touch is, in fact, a recurring theme in the reviews. It shows that the experience at Ono Poke Too is about more than just the meal; it's about the feeling you get when you are there, which is, you know, quite important for a place that aims to be a community hub.
Where Can You Find Ono Poke Too?
If you are looking to experience the warmth and flavors of Ono Poke Too for yourself, finding it is quite straightforward. The restaurant is located in Kingston, Washington, at a specific address: 25960 Central Ave NE, Suite 102, Kingston, WA 98346, USA. This detailed information, you know, makes it easy for anyone to plug it into their navigation system and head straight there. It’s pretty much all you need to get started on your visit.
For those who like to plan ahead, or perhaps have questions before they visit, there are various ways to get more information. You can find their address, phone number, and hours of operation online, typically on sites like usarestaurants.info. This kind of accessibility, you know, makes it very convenient for people to check things like opening times or to call in an order, which is quite helpful in today's world, or something like that.
Having access to reviews and photos online also helps people get a feel for the place before they even arrive. Seeing pictures of the dishes and reading what others have said can, in a way, build excitement and help you decide what you might want to try. It’s all part of making the visit as easy and enjoyable as possible, from the very first thought of going to the actual experience of being there, which is pretty much what most people want.
Getting to Ono Poke Too
Making your way to Ono Poke Too in Kingston, Washington, is a simple process once you have the address. It's located at 25960 Central Ave NE, Suite 102, which is, you know, a clear and easy-to-follow location. This means that whether you are a local or just passing through the area, you can likely find it without much trouble, which is always a good thing when you are looking for a place to eat, or something like that.
For those moments when you might need a little extra help, perhaps "when get waves, holidays or no more poke," as they playfully put it, knowing how to get directions is key. While the specific phrase is a bit of local charm, it points to the general idea that sometimes, you know, you might need to check their current status or simply get the best route. This kind of practical information is readily available, ensuring a smooth journey to their door.
Having the full address, along with access to phone numbers and hours, means you can plan your visit effectively. You can check when they are open, make sure they have what you are looking for, or simply confirm details before you leave. This level of information, you know, helps to make your trip to Ono Poke Too as convenient as possible, allowing you to focus on enjoying the delicious food and the warm welcome that awaits you there, which is, you know, pretty much the whole point.
This exploration of Ono Poke Too has covered the welcoming "ohana" spirit that greets every guest, the opening day that marked its beginning, and the strong community appreciation shown through online feedback. We've also touched on the location in Kingston, Washington, and the delightful Hawaiian food served in a casual setting. The people behind it, Steven Ono and Leilani Mickelsen, and their connection to authentic Hawaiian poke, were also discussed. Finally, we looked at how reviews highlight the quality of the dishes and the overall experience, along with practical details for finding this special spot.
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