When the poké craze struck Brisbane with full force a few years back, it was Cheeky Poké Bar that helped cement it as more than just a passing fad. Since first opening at Newstead’s Haven precinct in 2017, owner Sam Demetriou and his family have built the brand gradually, opening locations in West End, Greenslopes and Upper Mount Gravatt. In February 2021 the crew added Brisbane City to that list, opening a quick-service location in Ulster Lane, just off Elizabeth Street. Although equipped with seating for 35 guests, this spot is perfectly geared to servicing the time-poor crowd, with two production lines helping pump out orders at a cracking pace. Despite its diminutive digs, Cheeky Poké is serving its entire range of eats, from its signature poké bowls and tacos (including build-your-own options for both) to its larger share-style plates (sashimi tuna nachos, anyone?) and slurp-worthy soups. The spot is licensed, too, with a tight wine list, clutch of beers and selection of signature gins available for those that need something stiff to accompany their feast – although non-alcoholic sips like kombucha, HRVST ST juices, and batch-brew coffee from Five Senses are also on deck if desired.