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| - So good, I came back for a second visit - and it won't be my last!
Best Poke in area. I've seen new Poke or sushi burrito spots pop up around town, and they're good, but the quality, creativity, and authenticity of Paina stands out from the rest. I feel like I've locked in my go-to spot for this dish, and let me tell you why...
Great location: It's right at the intersection of two major streets, Rainbow and Spring Mountain (NE corner). Plus, there's a huge lot, so parking is never an issue.
Authentic atmosphere: I haven't stepped into the adjacent businesses, but I can say Paina's got the cleanest, patron friendly, comfortable environment. It's all attributed to the Hawaiian music in the background, Disney's Lilo & Stitch playing on the tv's, USB outlets for your charging needs, and all the simple Hawaiian decorations that all exist to transport you to the islands. (It all makes sense too, because this Vegas location is their first mainland venture after years of business in Honolulu)
Friendly staff: Now I haven't been to Hawaii in a while, but I know the moment your plane touches down there, you're welcomed with a smile by the community. It's no different at Paina. The owner (I've met one of them), individuals taking your order, and preparing your meal execute a fantastic dining experience whether dining in or taking it to go.
THE FOOD: So delicious. On this visit I went with my first choice, Hawaiian Poke Bowl ($9.95) which is simply choice of poke (I chose Spicy Tuna), along with Lomi (a type of salted) Salmon and Kalua pork, over choice of white or brown rice. Customize it more with several choices of toppings for $.60 each - I added shredded nori (seaweed) and furikake (chopped sesame, and more nori seasoning). And it was oh, so good.
I want to also mention, on my first visit I had the one of Paina's signatures, the Kimura Ahi Katsu Bowl ($10.25) and today tried my friends Poke Crunch Bowl ($9.95), another signature bowl, and both were so good it's tough to choose a favorite.
To top it off, they have these recognitions from the Hawaiian community:
One of "The 17 Most Important Restaurants In Honolulu"
- Thrillist.com, on July 27, 2015
One of "America's most amazing meals for $10 or less"
- Cheap Tickets in 2015.
"Hawaii's favorite poke" in 2016
- featured on OC16's television show, 6 Picks, and selected by Hawaii celebrity hosts
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