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Pono Burger
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Pono Burger
8.2
Hawaiian-inspired organic burger joint grilling grass-fed beef over white oak fire in a converted WWII Quonset hut. Chef Makani's commitment to farmers market ingredients and kid-friendly sliders makes this a thoughtful family destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Piku Fig Burger with Brie, Sweet Potato Fries with House Aioli, Kids Organic Sliders
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Oak-fired organic burgers with Hawaiian soul
Who should go: Eco-conscious families seeking quality burgers
When to visit: Lunch for shorter waits and fresh burgers
What to order: Fig burger, sweet potato fries, milkshakes
Insider tip: Free underground parking in alley off Broadway
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free underground parking in alley off Broadway, fills up weekend evenings. Street parking available on side streets
Dress code: Casual beach town vibes - shorts and flip-flops welcome
Noise level: Lively but manageable - outdoor seating quieter for conversation
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical, no reservations taken
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10 min max
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - black bean burger and grilled portobello options
Vegan options: Limited - veggie burger can be made vegan, ask for no aioli
Gluten-free options: Yes - lettuce wrap option for all burgers, dedicated fryer for fries
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates - the outdoor patio under string lights creates nice ambiance without being too formal. Counter ordering keeps it low-pressure
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations - it's first-come, first-served. Weekday lunches are easy, weekend dinners expect 30+ minute waits
Is it kid-friendly? Very - dedicated kids menu with sliders, crayons provided, high chairs available, and outdoor space where kids can move around
Best For
Better for: Quality-conscious families wanting organic ingredients and unique Hawaiian-inspired flavors you won't find at chain burger spots
Skip if: You want a quick grab-and-go burger or prefer traditional American burger flavors without Hawaiian twists
Pono Burger
8.6
Chef Makani's Hawaiian-inspired philosophy brings organic, fresh-cut french fries cooked in non-GMO California rice bran oil. Every batch is tossed with fresh thyme, parsley, and kosher salt, elevating the humble fry to gourmet status.
Must-Try Dishes:
Organic Fresh-Cut Fries, Grass-Fed Pono Burger, Straus Creamery Milkshake
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Organic ingredients and Hawaiian 'pono' philosophy
Who should go: Health-conscious diners seeking quality fries
When to visit: Weekend dinner for full experience
What to order: Herb-tossed fries, Pono burger, organic lemonade
Insider tip: Underground parking available for free
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free underground parking garage beneath building - entrance on side street, fills up weekend evenings
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - anything from nice jeans to business casual works
Noise level: Moderate - lively but conversation-friendly, quieter booths available
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical, up to 60 min peak hours (7-9pm)
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min during lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple veggie burgers, salads, and sides beyond fries
Vegan options: Yes - vegan patty available, can modify most items
Gluten-free options: Limited - lettuce wrap burgers available, dedicated fryer for fries
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - casual enough to feel relaxed but elevated ingredients show you care. Request a booth for more intimate seating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays yes, weekends risky. Bar seating usually available for walk-ins. Call ahead for groups of 4+.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - kids menu available, high chairs provided. Earlier dinner hours (5-6:30pm) are more family-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Quality ingredients and healthier preparation than typical burger joints - you can indulge without the guilt. Fries are the city's best organic option.
Skip if: You want cheap eats or dive bar vibes - this place takes burgers seriously with prices to match