We tried Sweetfin’s new Cali Bowl by Vanessa Hudgens and Oliver Trevena; here’s how the tuna, ponzu, and Caliwater pairing actually taste.
Sweetfin’s new Cali Bowl, a collaboration with Vanessa Hudgens and Oliver Trevena’s Caliwater, is one of the better limited-time poke offerings to hit LA this summer.
The base is line-caught yellowfin tuna over sushi rice, dressed in a house-made pineapple ponzu that ties the whole bowl together. It’s bright and well-balanced, cutting through the richness of the fish without overpowering it. Creamy avocado adds body, while pickled Fresno peppers bring a gentle heat that plays nicely against the sweetness of fresh pineapple mixed throughout. Toasted macadamia nuts round it out with a satisfying crunch that holds up well, even toward the bottom of the bowl.
What stands out most is the balance. Sweet, tangy, spicy, and rich all show up in the right proportions, and no single flavor overwhelms the others. It’s a well-composed dish that reflects real thought in the pairing of ingredients.
The suggested drink pairing is a can of Pineapple Caliwater, designed to complement the ponzu’s flavor profile. I wasn’t able to try the pairing on this visit — as the location (Beverly Hills) was sold-out of the Pineapple flavor that day — so I enjoyed the bowl on its own instead.
It held up well without it: the ponzu already brings the acidity and freshness a drink pairing would typically add, so the bowl doesn’t feel like it’s missing anything if the can isn’t available when you go.
If you’re specifically hoping to try the intended pairing, it may be worth calling your local Sweetfin ahead of time to check stock.
The Cali Bowl is available through the end of September at all 16 Sweetfin locations across Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.
What’s in Sweetfin’s Cali Bowl by Vanessa Hudgens and Oliver Trevena?
Line-caught yellowfin tuna over sushi rice with pineapple ponzu, avocado, pickled Fresno peppers, fresh pineapple, edamame, and toasted macadamia nuts.
How long is the Cali Bowl available at Sweetfin?
It’s a limited-time item running from August 4 through the end of September 2026.
What’s the suggested drink pairing for the Cali Bowl?
Sweetfin recommends pairing it with a Pineapple Caliwater, a cactus-water beverage designed to complement the ponzu’s flavor profile. Availability varies by location.
Where can I find Sweetfin locations serving the Cali Bowl?
All 16 Sweetfin locations across Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego are carrying the bowl; a full list is available at sweetfin.com/locations.
