What should I order at Pono Market?
Pono Market
Poke
The most frequently praised item in the reviews, repeatedly called fresh, delicious, authentic, and among the best poke on Kauai. Multiple reviewers specifically loved the ahi poke, spicy ahi poke, sesame ahi poke, and poke bowls with rice and furikake.
Fried Chicken
Recommended for its huge portions and standout flavor: crispy but not overly breaded, with just a hint of sweetness. Several reviews singled it out as amazing and one of the best things ordered.
Kalua Pork
Mentioned as excellent and part of the best plate lunches, with reviewers praising its flavor and value. It also appeared as a favorite local Hawaiian dish to try.
Shoyu Chicken
Called out as unexpectedly excellent and even the best item by one reviewer. It was recommended for its strong flavor and satisfying plate-lunch style preparation.
Pork Lau Lau
Specifically recommended by multiple reviewers as a must-try local dish, with one person saying they were still craving it after eating. It was praised as part of the authentic Hawaiian food experience.
Spam Musubi
Described as the best by one reviewer and highlighted as a standout local snack/item. It was recommended as something to get early before it sells out.
Mac Salad
One reviewer said it was the best mac salad they had ever had, making it a notable side dish recommendation alongside the main plate lunches.
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM to 2 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
About Pono Market
Pono Market is a market and restaurant in Kapaʻa, Hawaii that serves poke, fried chicken, musubi, lau lau, mac salad, and other authentic Hawaiian food. Reviewers consistently praise the fresh poke, especially ahi and spicy ahi, along with the fried chicken and plate lunches. It is a takeout-focused small business with onsite service, and many reviews note that it is reasonably priced for the quality. People also mention that it is a local favorite and a practical stop on the way through town or before heading to the airport.
Amenities & services
From the business
- Small business
Service options
- Onsite services
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Pono Market known for?
Pono Market is best known for its poke, especially ahi poke and spicy ahi poke, which reviewers call fresh, flavorful, and among the best on Kauai. The fried chicken and authentic Hawaiian plate lunches are also major standouts, with many people saying the food is excellent for the price.
What dishes are most recommended at Pono Market?
The most often recommended items are spicy ahi poke, sesame ahi poke, pork lau lau, fried chicken, and kalua pork or pork plate lunches. Reviewers also mention musubi, mac salad, shoyu chicken, and fresh sushi rolls as strong choices.
What is the atmosphere like at Pono Market?
The vibe is simple, casual, and unpretentious, with a local deli or hole-in-the-wall feel and no-frills service. It is mainly a takeout spot, so it works best for people who want a quick meal to eat nearby, at a beach, or during a road trip through Kapaʻa.
Is Pono Market good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, reviewers repeatedly describe Pono Market as reasonably priced, with meals often around $10 and good value compared with more touristy areas. Even people who found some items a bit pricey still said the portions, freshness, and quality made it worth it.
When should you visit Pono Market?
Go on a weekday morning or lunch, because reviewers say the market is closed on weekends and can sell out by around 1:30 PM. Several people warn not to arrive near closing time if you want the best selection of poke, chicken, and plate lunches.
Is parking available at Pono Market?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid street parking is available.
Restaurants like Pono Market in Kapaʻa
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