Review of Honi Poke - Hawaiian Poke Bowl Restaurant

Most ingredients gf, quick lunch, but hygiene in need of improvement!! I have come here a few times already and tried various options from the menu.With the exception of the falafel, all ingredients are gluten free and (not sure if all are, but the one’s I had definitely) dairy free; crispy onions are available gf upon request.One can choose from pre-set bowls or built one’s own (I did not yet try it, but according to the menu only fish-based protein can be chosen; if vegan, ask if it’s possible to have a non-fish protein), in any case, one can choose the base: sushi rice, brown rice, veggie-slaw. Portion sizes are generous, ingredients fresh, and the pre-set bowls are nicely balanced in regard to spices/seasoning. So far, I haven’t had any issues when I asked for some adjustments to the dish (e.g. I asked to have less of the fruit in my dish as I don’t like my mains too sweet). Prizes are moderate.However, food hygiene could be much better. I have come at different times (lunch/late afternoon/evenings…) and every time I witnessed, that an ingredient was dropped into a bowl with other ingredients, and although the piece that fell down was removed and not used for the dish, the other box on the counter was left as it were. In regard to cross-contamination, this is absolutely not professional. I wanted to say something every time I saw it, but (this may sound like an excuse) at one time the place was so busy that I didn’t have the chance to and another time I had already asked so many questions that I felt to be very annoying already and didn’t want to push the waiters patience any more.I would not say, that their premises unhygienic to the extent that one could not eat there at all, but being allergic to gluten & dairy made me become very aware of things like cross-contamination and food hygiene and therefore I am picky about it.On top of that, for every meal I had here, I ordered a mix of veggie+brown rice base yet every time I had the sushi rice instead. I notified the waitress upon that, but as I didn’t spot it right away, the bowl was halfway done and I took it anyway.If it wasn’t for the hygiene, I would probably rate 4/5, getting the actual ingredients that one ordered would make it a solid 5/5.Customer service has always been friendly, even when the place was busy. I may recommend with reservations to handling of ingredients. However, if one isn’t picky this place offers quick, tasteful food that is satisfying to a reasonable prize.