Freshii, the Canadian health-forward fast-casual restaurant chain known for its nutrient-rich bowls, wraps, and smoothies, is making a bold move into one of the most globally beloved food categories—poke. In a significant expansion of its menu, Freshii has launched its first-ever lineup of premium poke bowls, now available at participating locations throughout Canada. This marks a new chapter in the brand’s journey to bring global, health-conscious cuisine to Canadians in a convenient and affordable format.
The new poke bowl lineup is comprised of four thoughtfully crafted options, each featuring either sushi-grade salmon, ahi tuna, prawns, or tofu. The bowls are served with an array of fresh toppings, including sliced avocado, mango, pickled onions, and crispy wonton strips. Customers can further customize their bowl experience with signature sauces like Sriracha Mayo and Wasabi Aioli—bringing a dynamic depth of flavor to each dish.
Chris Cann, Brand Leader at Freshii, expressed excitement about the new offering:
“We’ve absolutely fallen in love with our new poke bowls. We’ve been working on this product launch for well over a year, and the results are exactly what Freshii customers love—quality meals with unique flavours that satisfy your hunger and need for convenience and value.”
A Natural Fit with Freshii’s Mission
Poke, a Hawaiian dish that traditionally features diced raw fish served over rice with various toppings, has soared in popularity over the past decade, earning a place on menus worldwide. Its appeal lies in the combination of freshness, customization, and nutritional balance—all qualities that align closely with Freshii’s core values.
Founded in 2005, Freshii has built a strong reputation for offering accessible healthy meals that cater to modern dietary preferences. The brand’s philosophy—making healthy food convenient and affordable—resonates clearly in this latest menu innovation. By entering the poke space, Freshii also becomes the largest national restaurant chain in Canada to offer a full lineup of poke bowls.
Chef-Inspired Flavors with a West Coast Twist
The new poke bowls were developed under the guidance of Chef Jason Baker, Director of Culinary for Freshii’s quick-service restaurant division. A native of Vancouver, Baker brings a personal connection to coastal cuisine and a professional commitment to creating flavorful, wholesome dishes.
“As someone who grew up on the West Coast, I’ve always been inspired by the way food can be both nourishing and bold in flavour,” says Chef Jason. “With our new poke bowls, we wanted to bring that sense of balance and freshness to every bite using quality ingredients and global influences to create something that feels vibrant, satisfying, and true to Freshii’s mission.”
Chef Baker’s influence is apparent in both the attention to ingredient quality and the diversity of flavor profiles. The bowls are available in two styles—Teriyaki and Ponzu—each tailored to suit different protein preferences. The Teriyaki bowl comes with either salmon or tofu, while the Ponzu bowl features either ahi tuna or prawns.
These carefully composed bowls rest on a base of rice and fresh greens, then layered with toppings like creamy avocado, sweet mango chunks, tangy pickled onions, and crunchy wonton strips. Final garnishes include toasted sesame seeds, fried onions, and furikake—a Japanese seasoning blend—offering a vibrant mix of textures and umami notes.
Made Fresh Daily, In Every Store
Unlike pre-packaged alternatives, Freshii’s poke bowls are prepared fresh in-store each day, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to quality and freshness. The decision to craft each bowl onsite was made in collaboration with Freshii’s chefs and franchisees across the country.
This approach ensures not only consistency and quality control but also gives each location the flexibility to bring out the best in local ingredients where possible. Staff are trained to prepare all toppings and sauces daily, creating a restaurant-quality experience for dine-in and takeout guests alike.
The launch also demonstrates Freshii’s ability to respond to shifting food trends and consumer demand. With growing interest in clean, protein-rich meals that don’t sacrifice flavor, poke bowls represent a compelling addition to the health food landscape—and a smart strategic move for the brand.
A Competitive Price Point for Premium Ingredients
Priced at $16.99, Freshii’s new poke bowls aim to deliver premium value at a competitive cost. While similar poke offerings at sit-down restaurants may come at a higher price, Freshii’s bowls provide a convenient and portable option without compromising on quality.
This pricing strategy makes the bowls accessible to a broader range of customers, including busy professionals, students, and health-conscious families looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. With their customizable format and variety of proteins, the bowls can also accommodate dietary needs ranging from pescatarian to plant-based.
A Step Forward in Menu Evolution
For Freshii, the poke bowl launch is more than just the addition of a trending dish—it represents a deliberate evolution of the brand’s menu, one that’s grounded in culinary innovation and consumer feedback. With Canadian diners increasingly seeking globally inspired, health-conscious meal options, Freshii’s introduction of premium poke bowls signals a timely and thoughtful response to this demand.
The new lineup complements Freshii’s existing offerings, which include salads, burritos, soups, and smoothies, further expanding its position as a leader in the better-for-you dining space.
As the popularity of poke continues to rise, Freshii’s move into the category positions the brand at the forefront of fast-casual innovation in Canada. By delivering high-quality, chef-crafted poke bowls at a national scale, Freshii is not just following a trend—it’s setting a new standard for what quick, healthy meals can look and taste like.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of poke or a newcomer curious about the hype, Freshii’s new menu additions offer a deliciously modern take on a beloved Hawaiian classic—now just a visit away.
