By Jamie Knee
Miami Foodie
Ooh Raw! Brings the Hawaiian Tropics to Miami. As a luxury food and wine travel writer, I love uncovering the flavors that shape a city’s identity. Miami is a treasure chest of global cuisine, and every now and then a spot pops up that captures the spirit of a place far beyond South Florida. That is precisely what I found at Ooh Raw, Wynwood’s breezy, tropical poke and juice bar bringing a true taste of the Hawaiian Islands to the Magic City.
Bright, laid back, and full of island charm, Ooh Raw instantly feels like the kind of place where you gather with friends, share stories, and savor fresh, flavorful dishes that transport you straight to the Pacific.
A Taste of Hawaii in Wynwood
Ooh Raw
Ooh Raw! is led by Chef Dustin Atoigue, a Pacific Islander whose culinary roots run deep. Raised in the kitchen learning traditional preparations from his grandmother, Chef Dustin later trained under legendary Hawaiian chef Sam Choy. His philosophy remains rooted in authenticity, freshness, and respect for the ingredients.
That passion carries into every bowl.
Miami has embraced poke in many forms, but the style here stands apart. Chef Dustin uses authentic Hawaiian seaweed, high-quality seafood, balanced seasoning, and clean, vibrant flavors that mirror the islands themselves. Every bite feels intentional, layered, and beautifully crafted.
It is no wonder Ooh Raw quickly became a beloved stop for those seeking real Hawaiian flavors in the heart of Wynwood.
Q & A with Chef Dustin
(ME) We first tasted your Pokè bowl last year at the SoBe Seafood Festival and immediately fell in love, and have been anticipating your opening for the last year. What makes your Pokè head and shoulders above the rest?
(Ooh Raw! Dustin) Well as a Pacific Islander I grew up making Pokè, helping my grandmother in the kitchen. Then I was trained by Hawaiian Chef Sam Choy, where I would make hundred of pounds seafood in the traditional Hawaiian style. I make mine with Hawaiian seaweed, which is not used here in Miami, and in an authentic Hawaiian style.
During Miami Spice Month you can check out several local restaurants! https://petitewinetraveler.com/its-time-to-get-spicy-miami/
Where Island Flavors Meet Miami Style
While the menu celebrates traditional Hawaiian technique, the atmosphere reflects Miami’s creative, colorful personality. There is a relaxed charm to the space that makes lingering almost irresistible. Fresh juices, bright produce, and the aroma of citrus and soy float through the air, making it easy to understand why this spot became a local favorite the moment it opened its doors.
For anyone curious about Hawaiian cuisine or simply searching for a fresh, feel-good dining experience, Ooh Raw delivers every single time.
(ME) How did you make your way to Miami from the Pacific Islands?
(Ooh Raw! Dustin) I first started in Hawaii and then worked in Los Angeles and Las Vegas for a while. In Miami I worked at the Delano, and then I was offered a job as a Head Chef at the Mondrian.
(Ooh Raw! Michael) I tasted Chef Dustin’s Pokè at the Mondrian and approached him about going into business together. Coming from I recognized this was something unique. It was the best Pokè I had tasted in Miami, and nobody else was doing anything like it.
(ME) You have made your new restaurant a fun tropical vibe. The atmosphere is one where people will want to just hang out, and it seems that a lot of thought went into your design and menu.
(Ooh Raw! Micheal) Yes, our menu was tasted and tested by family and friends for the last year. We want our restaurant to be a reasonable priced place where you can have fun, hang out on Saturday night and grab a Pokè bowl and a beer. Or come in on Sunday for brunch of Salmon avocado toast and Rosè with the family.
The Ooh Raw Experience
(ME) We see you talk about the Ooh Raw! Experience, what exactly does that mean?
(Ooh Raw! Chef Dustin) Ooh Raw! Is a Chef-Driven Hafa Adai (a saying like Aloha) inspired casual dining alternative. But we also provide innovative healthy and authentic Hawaiian style Pokè, fun brunch alternatives, tropical protein packed smoothies and juices. Everything is prepared fresh daily in house.
A Delicious Discovery Worth Adding to Your Miami Dining List
Miami’s food scene thrives because of passionate chefs who bring their heritage to our shores, creating dishes that feel as soulful as they are delicious. Ooh Raw is a shining example. Chef Dustin’s dedication to tradition elevates each bowl into a comforting taste of home, and his warm hospitality makes the experience even more memorable.
If you are exploring Wynwood or craving something fresh and vibrant, this is a must-visit. Expect bold flavors, island charm, and a culinary experience that stays with you long after the last bite.
Cheers to discovering the world one bowl at a time.
(Me) The most important question is when will you be opening?
(Ooh Raw!) We will have a grand opening very soon, and we will also see you at the SoBe Seafood Festival in October.
