If you’re anything like me, you’re a sucker for farmers markets. Something about the environment of local vendors, delicious foods, and sustainable products all while supporting small businesses makes for perfect weekend plans. This is why I love coming to Kaka’ako every Saturday from 8:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.- to experience that sense of community while chowing down on some amazing foods. This guide to the Kaka’ako Farmers Market gives you insight on what to expect and key spots to hit. Although you really cannot go wrong.
The Kaka’ako Farmers Market offers a variety of options for any and all, anyone from a picky eater to an expert foodie. If you’re in the mood for some awesome Taiwanese food, you got A-Ma's Gua Bao. If you’re craving some salsa and fresh tortillas, head on over to Hawaii OG Salsa. If bakery products are what you’re looking for, look no further than Roscoe’s Sourdough for fresh loaves of sourdough bread or Baker Dudes for pastries and other breads. The Milk Market provides various types of fresh milks like coconut and almond along with coffee and matcha options. As soon as you arrive you are sure to be overwhelmed by an abundance of choices, so here are some of my favorites:
The Corner Rolls
For your first stop, get a little taster and head over The Corner Rolls. They are amazing handmade spring rolls with innovative hybrid flavors. Deriving from the “Asian classic,” The Corner Rolls have anything from a Hawaiian roll with ham and pineapple, to the "B.A.E." roll with bacon and eggs. Of course while having some Vietnamese classics as well like pork, shrimp, and veggies. Some personal favorites were the "In and Out" roll and the "Let’s Avocuddle" roll, both pictured. The "In and Out roll" is essentially a cheeseburger rolled up in a spring roll, need I say more? The "Let’s Avocuddle" roll is a perfect blend of avocado, sun dried tomatoes, and onion. The Corner Rolls is a great first stop to get your tastebuds warmed up and your visit started.
LA 2 HI Grindz
Next, head over to LA 2 HI Grindz for some LA style street food. This place is incredible. LA 2 HI Grindz is the place to hit for street corn, potato balls, and birria bowls. The "Taki Taki" street corn (pictured) is topped with both Tajin and crushed up Takis to create an amazing spicy flavor. The "Rellena de Papas" (potato balls) are seasoned beef inside mashed potatoes and then fried. Yes, you heard that right. They are delicious and deserve all of the hype they get. With Taquitos, horchata, and birria bowls, this place is a must go at the market.
Crepes Hawaii
If you’re starting to get full by now and are ready for dessert, head over to Crepes Hawaii. Or even if you’re not looking for something sweet, no worries, they have savory options as well. "The Greek" is a crepe with tomatoes, olives, and feta for something light where the "Heavenly" has prosciutto, mushrooms, and zucchini for a one stop shop. If you are in fact wanting a sweet treat, I recommend "The Dream" for your go to strawberry, banana, and Nutella crepe. Crepes Hawaii offers such a variety of flavors that you are sure to find something that will have you coming back for more.
Hawaiian Crown
On your way out, be sure to get a beverage for the road. Hawaiian Crown’s array of juices, coffees, and smoothies will have you wanting to order everything on the menu. The Green Juice is a delicious and cleansing juice that leaves you feeling like a better person. The Watermelon Mint juice is a refreshing option after walking around the farmers market all morning. My personal favorite is the Guava Pineapple juice, a super delicious treat. But Hawaiian crown does not stop there, there are so many coffee options like creative lattes and tasty cold brew. Definitely stop at Hawaiian Crown on your way out.
But don’t stop there. There are so many amazing vendors every week and the Kaka’ako Farmers Market. Fawaffle has hybrid falafel waffles and Onda Pasta has some of the best pasta dishes. If you're looking for some good ole’ musubis, definitely check out Crispy Musubi. Journey has some amazingly crafted burgers while Da Seafood Cartel will have you covered if you’re looking for seafood. And if you want some good kane juice, head on over to Sugah Daddies. Even if you’re just looking for some fresh cut fruit, this market has got you covered.
The Kaka’ako farmers market really does have something(s) for everyone and it is a must for your weekend agenda. Check out these delicious vendors and more and support local!