A Local’s Guide to Shopping at Tamuras: Best Buys Beyond the Poke Bar
Explore the best finds at Tamuras beyond the famous poke bar — from local snacks to specialty drinks, party platters, and hidden island gems.
More Than Just the Poke
Ask anyone in Hawaii about Tamuras, and the first thing you’ll hear is, “They have the best poke.” While that’s absolutely true, locals know the poke bar is only part of what makes Tamuras a must-visit. Step inside and you’ll find an impressive selection of local snacks, specialty beverages, and hard-to-find items that make Tamuras one of Hawaii’s most beloved markets.
This guide takes you beyond the poke counter to discover the hidden treasures worth adding to your shopping list.
1. Local Snacks You Can’t Leave Without
Tamuras is a goldmine for Hawaii’s favorite munchies:
Li Hing Mui Gummies: Sweet, salty, and tangy all at once — the ultimate road trip snack.
Hawaiian Chips: Made from taro, sweet potato, or breadfruit for that authentic island crunch.
Crack Seed: A nostalgic treat for locals, with flavors like dried plum and lemon peel.
2. Fresh-Cut Meats & BBQ Favorites
If you’re planning a beach BBQ or family cookout, Tamuras’ butcher section is stocked with:
Marinated Short Ribs (Kalbi): Ready to throw on the grill.
Teriyaki Chicken: Juicy, flavorful, and prepped for convenience.
Local Beef Cuts: Perfect for island-style steak nights.
3. Specialty Beverages
Beyond its market shelves, Tamuras is connected to Tamuras Fine Wine & Liquors, which means you’ll find:
Hawaiian craft beers from breweries like Maui Brewing Co. and Kona Brewing Co.
A curated wine selection ideal for pairing with local dishes.
Spirits and mixers for tropical cocktails, from mai tais to lava flows.
4. Ready-to-Eat Plates & Party Platters
For those days when you want local comfort food without the cooking:
Plate Lunches: Options like garlic shrimp, furikake salmon, and kalua pork.
Party Platters: Sushi, poke, and hot dishes perfect for gatherings.
Holiday Specials: Pre-order for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations.
5. Hidden Seasonal Finds
Depending on the time of year, you might find:
Fresh mangoes, lychee, or dragon fruit from local farms.
Limited-time poke flavors.
Seasonal wine and beer releases for summer or the holidays.
Pro Tips for Shopping at Tamuras
Go Mid-Morning: Avoid the lunchtime rush and get first pick on fresh items.
Check the Specials Board: Weekly deals often include discounts on wine, beer, and fresh cuts of meat.
Ask for Pairing Advice: Staff can recommend the perfect drink to go with your food.
The Bottom Line
While the poke bar may be the star of the show, Tamuras is full of local gems waiting to be discovered. From snacks and specialty drinks to BBQ-ready meats and seasonal surprises, it’s the perfect place to stock up for beach days, family parties, or just treating yourself to a taste of Hawaii.
So next time you stop in for poke, wander the aisles — you might just find your new favorite island treat.
