GREAT EATS HAWAII: PUKA'S AT WHOLE FOODS KAHALA MALL

PUKA'S
WHOLE FOODS KAHALA MALL
4211 WAIALAE AVE
HONOLULU, HI 96816
808-738-0820
HOURS: Daily 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/honolulu

We had tried to get a seat at Puka's a few weeks back and it was just too packed. There are only a few tables as most of the seating is against walls. You can also sit outside on the patio fronting Whole Foods. If you do get a seat, I think most people may like this place. The first thing I noticed was a large amount of Champagne, Bloody Mary's, Beers and even wine being served on a Sunday around noon. The Bloody Mary's looked really good and the sound of Champagne bottles uncorking was music to my ears. I was drinking water only on this day but would love to come back to Puka's for a cocktail or one of the many craft beers served at the bar. The menu is diverse with everything from Burgers, Tacos and Flatbread Pizza to Sushi. We were sitting near the kitchen and watched food come out. The French Fries, Burgers, Fish n' Chips and just about everything else coming out looked really good. My Daughter only wanted the Wings ($10) so we did not get too adventurous. The waiter recommended the Korean Wings buy my Daughter is a traditionalist. She wanted them Buffalo Style. The waiter said that the Sweet Whisky Sriracha Sauce Wings were the hottest of the three flavors offered. We went with them. The Wings were flavorful but a bit dry. The sauce had no heat at all which disappointed us. I went with the Tacos ($12) and ordered one of each; Fish, Beer Braised Beef and Kalua Pork. The Tacos are small but filled to capacity. They are so filled that when you fold them half of the ingredients fall out of the taco. I started with the Fish Taco and loved it. By far the best Taco of the three. The fish was fresh, heavily peppered and delicious. The Kalua Pork Taco was my second favorite. I liked the flavor but the meat was a bit dry. The Beer Braised Beef Taco was the worst. Really dry meat and very bland flavor. I did like the Pickled Onions and Cheese but the Beef really missed the mark. I like Puka's and think it is a perfect fit for the Kahala neighborhood. Will go back here many times to taste more menu items.