Hidden within the clam shell that is Capitola-by-the-sea there is a pearl of a poke place. If you want a fantastic bowl of poke while enjoying the bounty of our beautiful ocean then this is the place for you. From their tangy Turmeric Ponzu sauce, to their poke tacos, ceviche and chips everything is fresh. Nestled between a psychic and a parking lot lays the small but mighty poke heaven right across from Mr Toots Coffeehouse. As you enter the  poke hot spot you will find that it is but a tiny kitchen with room for one and a lovely seating area. The master chef is owner Brook Penquite who makes each and every bowl himself. The beautiful menu holds itself above the walkway and you must gather your hungry wits about you to order.

Looking up you will find an array of healthy options and at $15 a bowl you can feel good knowing not only that, you are consuming quality ingredient which are “environmentally and source-conscious” according to an interview with the Goodtimes. The bowl I had chosen was vibrant in color and even more so in flavor. I choose Turmeric Ponzu and Spicy “Kewpie” Mayo as my sauces and I couldn’t imagine a better pair. The sweet tang of the Tumeric Ponzu married to the sweet and spiciness of the mayo all blending with the fresh Salmon, Tuna and Yellowfin. Each bite I had of each fish had a butteriness that only happens when raw fish is fresh. It was a merry go round of flavors and textures that each new explored area of the bowl gave me a new palette experience. The crunchy cucumbers, the warm Brown Rice Quinoa, the slippery Yam Noodles each gave the bowl a key texture. It was balance at its finest.

If you are looking for a new healthy local spot to try this is it! If you make the trip on a Wednesday a portion of the profits go to Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. They can sell out before closing! So don’t wait!

115 San Jose Ave., Capitola. 854-2888. santacruzpoke.com.