Right off of Perkins Road sits Baton Rouge’s first and only poke restaurant, Southfin Southern Poké.
Poke is Hawaiian for “to cut or dice” and refers to popular street food, which consists of a rice base with fresh toppings and sauces. Southfin adds its own house-made ingredients with a Louisiana twist to this delicious treat.
“We’re introducing Hawaiian food to Baton Rouge, and we’re the first of our kind,” assistant manager Chris Swanson said. “The Baton Rouge community has given us amazing reception, with lines out of the door that have been incredible. Every ingredient is fresh and delivered daily. We want to be fresh and healthy at reasonable prices.”
Customers can choose pre-selected bowls off of the menu with options including the Classic, spicy Wasabi Gras and fruity Luau, or they can build their own.
First, customers must choose their base, which can be rice, greens or gluten-free noodles then select fresh protein, which can range from salmon to Gulf tuna.
Some of the toppings available are pineapple, cucumber, carrots or sweet onion. At an additional charge, special toppings like snow crab salad, avocado and mango can be added.
To finish off the bowl, there are many sauce options and garnishes like fried wontons or sesame seeds.
“The atmosphere was cool with a nautical theme, and the staff was very welcoming and friendly,” international studies senior Ivonne Guzman said. “I decided to make my own bowl since it was my first time there, and I loved it. They have so many options, and the special toppings are worth the extra cash. I will definitely be coming back soon.”
Southfin also offers dessert bowls and a nice selection of juices and drinks for those over 21.
The bowls range from $10 to $13, a reasonable price considering the plethora of fresh ingredients.
This eatery has it all — the food, a convenient location, friendly staff and seating both inside and outside the decorated space. This new spot is a great place to bring friends, family, co-workers or a date.
Southfin Southern Poké is in its soft opening stage with hours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. The restaurant plans to extend hours in the future.

Gallery • 5 Photos

Kim Nguyen

Newly opened business Southfin Southern Poké operates during normal hours on March 30, 2017.