Freshen up with on-the-go poke bowls from Surfers Paradise newbie Poké California
Let’s cut to the chase – poke bowls are making a real splash on the Gold Coast. It all started with just a few bowls dotted across the menus of local eateries, and now we’re seeing authentic, dedicated poke-bowl bars pop up in various spots across the city. Yep, it’s safe to say this fresh and colourful foodie movement has us pretty darn delighted. Just last week, even more fuel was added to the city’s hottest (and healthiest) foodie trend with the opening of Poké California in the heart of Surfers Paradise.
For those that haven’t been paying attention, poke bowls (pronounced poh-kay) feature a fresh combination of raw and marinated fish, rice, fresh vegetables and sauces. Got it? Great. So, as its name suggests, Poké California (located in Circle on Cavill) puts a Cali-style spin to this traditional Hawaiian staple, with ingredients like pineapple, kale and sweet corn adding flavour to the twist. California Poké’s owner Michael Kang, originally from South Korea, encourages poke lovers to build their own bowls – and the choices are endless, so go nuts. Each bowl is served takeaway-style (don’t fret, the containers are recyclable and eco-friendly) so you can grab yours on the run, or sit for a while and savour the goodness.
Start with with your base of rice, salad or seaweed salad, then add proteins like sashimi-grade salmon and tuna, prawns, chicken and tofu. There’s an option of marinated bulgogi beef and chogochujang (red chilli paste with vinegar), which injects a slight Korean vibe to the otherwise Cali-style menu. Whether you choose traditional raw fish, or play it safe with chicken or marinated beef, you’ll then be able to pad out your bowl with mixers like sweet onion, cabbage and fresh chilli, before topping it all off with edamame, pickled ginger or perhaps a smidge of wasabi (if you’re that way inclined). Now, if the thought of designing your own poke bowl really hurts your brain, then there are a handful of signature bowls to choose from as well, featuring all of the tastiest tried-and-tested combos.
Poké California is now open. Head over to our Stumble Guide for opening hours and location.
The Stumble Guide is our comprehensive Gold Coast dining guide with more than 870 places to eat, drink, shop and play.