Dublin, Ohio (November 1, 2022) — North Market is pleased to announce the addition of Hai Poké, the newest merchant to join the community of "best-in-class" businesses at North Market Bridge Park in Dublin, Ohio.
Owned by Nile Woodson, the new North Market business will serve Hawaiian inspired poke bowls. Poke is diced raw fish served either as an appetizer or a main course and is one of the most popular dishes in Hawaii. The signature Hai Poké recipe includes a bowl with sticky rice, raw tuna, and a variety of crunchy vegetables topped with spicy soy sauce. The Hai Poké vision has been and continues to be to bring the authentic island inspired street food to central Ohio communities and create a company culture that aligns with their values, work ethics, and fun energy. The team behind Hai Poké love creating unique experiences for customers and their passion for food, creativity, and commitment to community makes them an ideal match for the North Market Bridge Park merchant mix.
“It has always been in my and Hai Poké’s vision to be a part of the North Market and join our cuisine with that family that brings so much delicious and rich food to Columbus. Not to mention, has such historic roots in the food scene that makes up our city. We’re also particularly excited to reach a new area of Columbus that is so fresh and vibrant, just like our cuisine! We feel like we will be a great accompaniment to the awesomeness that is Dublin Bridge Park and we hope you will too! Come check us out when we open in the market, as always we will be slingin rice and we’re excited to announce a few new tasty items to be added to the menu. Dublin here we come!” -Nile Woodson, Hai Poké
Hai Poké began as a pop-up kitchen takeover in August 2015 at Oddfellows Liquor Bar in the Short North, they added a food truck to have a presence at local events and festivals. The team later opened their brick and mortar restaurant in 2017 at 674 N High Street in the Short North.
"I've known these guys from their earliest of days. I am so glad we were able to find a home for them in North Market. I'm a big fan of their food and their drive." -Rick Harrison Wolfe, Executive Director + CEO, North Market
Hai Poké will occupy the merchant space between Dos Hermanos and Gallo's Pizzeria on the west aisle of the building. Construction will begin in the coming weeks with an opening date estimated for this winter. An announcement will follow when an opening date is finalized.
About Hai Poké
Our vision for Hai Poké is to serve authentic island-inspired street foods. We love creating experiences for people that turn an ordinary meal into a memory. Supporting us is supporting Columbus, adding value, and creating change in all our lives.
About North Market
In operation in downtown Columbus, Ohio since 1876, North Market Downtown is Central Ohio’s historic public market. 2020 brought the revolutionary opening of North Market Bridge Park, a new public market located in the City of Dublin at the Bridge Park development.
Downtown, more than 30 best-in-class merchants uphold the standard of excellence in product and services residents have come to expect from Columbus' last remaining public market. North Market Bridge Park currently has 14 open merchants, pop-up vendors, and will soon feature approximately 18 of the finest tastemakers in the region. Both Markets offer a wide variety of fresh produce, meat, poultry, seafood, flowers and other specialty food items. The Markets also provide an international selection of freshly prepared foods, distinctive gifts, and personable service from owner/operators.
The two locations are managed by the North Market Development Authority, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. The North Market Development Authority has made it its mission to provide an authentic Columbus, Ohio experience with local merchants, farmers, and makers serving the community and its visitors. As central Ohio’s oldest public market, North Market highlights the diversity and vibrancy of our community, both economically and culturally by promoting and incubating “best-in-class” local, independent businesses.