Brisbane, it’s time to say “aloha” to the poke bowl – the healthy, delicious Hawaiian favourite that has captured the hearts and tastebuds of diners around the world in recent times. Taking over the space from Dell’Ugo on Grey St, Southbank’s 60-seater alfresco newcomer Suki is poised to introduce Queenslanders to the dish that is as vibrant as it is versatile.

Rhyming with “okay”, the Hawaiian word poke translates as “cut or sliced into small pieces”. While getting the name right is a cinch, choosing between the many combinations on the menu is not quite as easy.

The centuries-old dish traditionally includes pieces of raw or cured fish, sliced or diced, and produce native to Hawaii’s Big Island.

But it has since evolved to incorporate Japanese-style condiments such as ponzu, wasabi mayo, sweet chipotle, sriracha ponzu or chilli oil, along with fresh, colourful elements like bean sprouts, edamame, tomato, corn, red onion, carrot, cabbage and kale – then topped with wasabi peas, fried shallots, sesame seeds, tobiko, soy egg or seaweed salad.

Executive chef and co-owner Neven Vanderzee said he is excited to be bringing the concept to Brisbane. “It’s a great fast food option that’s not fast food – the perfect balance of tasty and healthy, whether it’s lunch or dinner,” Vanderzee says.

Everything on the menu at Suki can be customised, and along with the traditional marinated fish, alternative proteins include braised beef, chicken karaage, tempura prawns and tofu. Also on offer is the sushi burrito – wrapped in either seaweed or a tortilla. With similar fillings to the poke bowls, these can be as light or luscious as you choose.

Suki is the latest venture by the Ole Group (Mucho Mexicano, Ole Restaurant, Downtown Istanbul) and will be open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.