Tako is a Japanese word that means “octopus.” In Hawaii, it is referred to as “he’e.” Most often, tako is served in fish dishes such as sushi and poke. When it is prepared correctly, this tasty meat is considered a delicacy.

Tako in Poke & Sushi 

If you’ve never tried it, tako may seem a bit daunting. But with its subtle flavor and chewy, tender texture, it’s worth a taste. At Poke & Box, an authentic Hawaiian food restaurant in Honolulu, HI, you can create a customized poke bowl with a variety of fresh ingredients, including tako, salmon, and ahi. Preparing this meat isn’t easy, but these poke experts have mastered the art form. 
 
To prepare tako, the chef will wash the octopus with a salt solution to remove the skin’s slippery texture and any remaining viscera. Afterward, they will massage the skin and pound it with a peeled daikon radish to make the flesh softer. If this step is skipped, the meat will taste bland and rubbery. 
 
Tako can be served raw, in which case it is usually dressed with soy sauce and wasabi. When it is served this way, it is usually soft and mildly chewy. However, it can also be boiled before being served. Cooking the meat with seasonings amplifies its subtle flavor and sweet scent. Whether cooked or raw, many people are surprised to find that tako has a pleasant smell and doesn’t taste overly fishy.  
 
If your mouth is watering at the idea of a delicious tako dish, visit Poke & Box for an authentic Hawaiian lunch or dinner. Since opening their doors in January, they’ve earned a reputation as the island’s number one source for fresh, healthy, and delicious eats. You can take a look at their menu on their website. You can also give them a call at (808) 394-7633 for questions about specific dishes.