Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs

YOU HAVE TO EAT HERE! I dream of these dang hot dogs, and this is coming from someone who doesn't really like hot dogs at all!! I have forever been changed by this place because it's just that good. I was scared to try out the relishes and whatnot because I'm not usually a very adventurous eater, but let me say to you: DO NOT BE BASIC! Try something new and exciting!! I got papaya relish and the lilikoi mustard--I know it sounds crazy but it was so good we had to go back a second time on our week long trip on Kauai! Again - I'm not usually adventurous, I typically have 2 hot dogs all year, and I hate mustard. But the combo is JUST SO GOOD! You have to try it. While you're there, you need to get yourself a lilikoi lemonade!!! It's so delicious!! There isn't any seating available and the wait can get a lil long, but it is so so very worth it. You can just take your food across the street and eat it on the beach. Can you imagine a more perfect moment?!

Really flavorful dog. I got a veggie dog, and it tasted just like meat! The Hawaiian mustard, pineapple relish, and hot flavor combo was amazing! Their half-sugar lemonade was so good! Highly recommend when you’re at the beach. The wait is somewhat long, but at least they direct it into the shade.

Puka Dog has been a staple for our family for the past 10 to 15 years and every trip to Kauai includes at least a few visits here. We first tried them the year they opened and have been hooked ever since. In our 23 years of coming to Kauai this has become one of those must stop spots that we take all our friends and family to. Their hot dogs are completely unique and unlike anything you would expect from a traditional hot dog stand. I always get the Polish sausage with the spicy jalapeno secret sauce, Hawaiian mustard, and either the mango or coconut relish. I have tried all the relishes over the years — pineapple, banana, starfruit — and every single one is great, but the mango is my favorite. The bread is like a Hawaiian roll that is crispy on the inside and soft on the outside and with each bite the flavors just come together perfectly. The lemonade is another highlight. They squeeze it fresh right in front of you and you can choose half sweet or full sweet. Full sweet is the way to go. It is refreshing and the perfect balance of tart and sweet. The staff and the owner have always been kind and welcoming even when the line is wrapped around the building which it usually is. The place has blown up with social media and Food Network features but even back before all of that it was one of our favorite spots. The new location is also awesome since it is right across from the beach where you can often see turtles or seals while you eat. I cannot say enough good things about Puka Dog. It is hands down one of our favorite places on the island and we sometimes go 10 to 15 times in just a two week trip. It has become a family tradition and I will keep recommending it to anyone visiting Kauai.

The restaurant is divided into two sections make sure you go to the door with the line of people waiting to go inside. The line moves quickly. The hot dogs were really good, and they offer different types of sauces, which were all delicious. After paying, the service was fast. You can also take your food to the picnic tables in front in the beach area which makes for a nice spot to eat.

A bit of a wait, but it was well worth it. Very delicious, definitely something you should try if you come to Kauai. The location is incredible, right on the seafront. Excellent for eating a hot dog by the sea.

Stopped in on a Sunday around 11 AM and almost no line (though a long line seemed to form in waves). Ordered several vegetarian dogs and regular dogs with a variety of fillings - everything was delicious! About $12/dog. I loved the vegetarian dog with spicy sauce, sweet relish, lilikoi mustard, and ketchup - so delicious! Would definitely recommend for a quick lunch!

Came here after our ATV adventure. We had heard about the wait time, I'd say we were in and out within an hour. Thankful they had a parking lot. We opted for the polish beef hot dog with jalapeño sauce and the special mustard. Chips and lemonade. It was good. Definitely worth a one time stop. I did see they offered other items such as shaved ice, ice cream, fruit , yogurts etc. cute shop. Loved the decor. Highly recommend stopping by if you're in town. I'm glad we did!

Ode to a Puka Dog Oh Puka Dog, what happened here? For twenty years, trip after trip, we sought your hollow loaf of bread, your polish dog snug in its cave of dough, a secret tunnel of island joy. Mild was my way— coconut relish whispering sweet, Aunt Lilikoi’s mustard singing sharp and true. Each bite, a memory woven into sand, into surf, into sunshine afternoons. But now— the bread feels tired, the dog too small, the balance lost between bun and bite. I chew, not with delight but with longing for what you once were. And so I drift, to Porky’s smoke and caramelized onions, to a roadside stand with better rhythm, better song. Farewell, old friend. Your hollow bread may still hold a flame for some, but my tradition has folded like yesterday’s napkin. Still, I’ll remember you— not for how you ended, but for the many summers you got it just right.

You have prob heard all the hype of these things and well the hype is real and these hotdogs are damn good. Make sure you get the mustard whether you go traditional or not. Banana relish sounds gross but it's good and was told that it's the employee favorite. If you are here visiting just relish in the moment for one and venture out. The pineapple is delish too. This place didn't disappoint and it's prob the cheapest meal you will find on the island tbh. Overall 5 stars from this guy. I'd go back again and if they sold the mustard by the jar I'd def be buying some. I feel like it would be a good Marinade for steak. If you really want it tho I did find a store for it lmk and I'll post it Pro tip: get two dogs and try two different ones. You will want another and won't want to wait in the line again

Over hyped but worth trying for sure. Ambiance is cute/beachy. Service is nice. You walk right up to the counter and order. I got the polish dog, lava, pineapple relish with auntie's mustard. 7/10 the dog was yummy, the bread was good. Would 100 req getting the lava spice level with any combo, its not crazy spicy at all and the heat compliments the relish really well

This was my second visit to Puka Dog -- the first time was about 10 years ago, and I wasn't a fan back then (maybe because of the sweet relishes). This time, I decided to give it another shot and ordered it more traditional with garlic mayo, mustard, and sweet relish. The dog itself was actually very good! That said, $17 for a hot dog feels pretty steep. The line was also long -- about a 30-45 minute wait, wrapping around the building. Next time, I'll probably skip the dog and head upstairs for a burger instead. Staff was very friendly and attentive (and quick!!) once you order it's pretty much ready. Note: The lemonade is very sweet and tart -- I'd recommend asking for half the sugar.

While not very filling, they are definitely worth the line for their unique flavors and the experience. - line is 40 minutes when it's wrapped around the side of the building. - walking distance straight from the beach.

For hot dog lovers, if you're craving for one in Kauai, this is a nice place to stop by if you're in the south part of the island. Located across from Poipu/ Brennecke's beach area, it's pretty easy to find this place. Notes: 1. Parking: Private lot next to the building. Come early if you want a spot and to avoid a line at Puka 2. Interior: To go only, no seating inside or outside 3. Extensive options for your hot dog lovers~ recommend looking at the menu pics before coming here since there is a lot of choices you can pick for your sauce and such. 4. Puka Dog Verdict: Tasty concept with the dog and sauces wedged into the bun vs the traditional style. Makes it easier to eat without much mess. Taste wise, it was a good solid hotdog. Overall, I would say this is a good place for a quick snack if you have time for it.

This is a fun crazy restaurant on Poipu Beach. All the snorkelers head here! Great vibe. It's an order and wait type service but moved quickly. Try the Puka Dog in those toasted barrel bun, unique! Even better is the shaved Ice! Best we had. Perfect location and worth the wait.

Love Puka dog. The mango relish is my favorite! The line can get long. Luckily when we visited, we beat the line just in time! Lemonade was good too. The beach is in walking distance.

Ode to a Puka Dog Oh Puka Dog, what happened here? For twenty years, trip after trip, we sought your hollow loaf of bread, your polish dog snug in its cave of dough, a secret tunnel of island joy. Mild was my way-- coconut relish whispering sweet, Aunt Lilikoi's mustard singing sharp and true. Each bite, a memory woven into sand, into surf, into sunshine afternoons. But now-- the bread feels tired, the dog too small, the balance lost between bun and bite. I chew, not with delight but with longing for what you once were. And so I drift, to Porky's smoke and caramelized onions, to a roadside stand with better rhythm, better song. Farewell, old friend. Your hollow bread may still hold a flame for some, but my tradition has folded like yesterday's napkin. Still, I'll remember you-- not for how you ended, but for the many summers you got it just right.

We stood in a short line and were ushered in as customers received their orders. It was nice and cool inside and the team was friendly. We ordered the Kaua'i Special and a lemonade that was 1/2 sweet. Polish sausage, garlic lemon secret sauce, mango relish and lilikoi mustard tucked into a warmed bun delight! Tasty and the perfect lunch while exploring the island!

If you're in Kauai, this is a must-try, and I'm not a hot dog person. Imagine a perfectly grilled polish or veggie dog tucked into a warm, fluffy bun with a "puka" (hole) inside, so every bite is packed with flavor from the inside out. Their tropical relishes and secret garlic lemon sauce make this a unique hot dog worth trying. I went with the spicy garlic lemon secret sauce, pineapple relish, and lilikoi Hawaiian mustard. It's juicy, fresh, and the sauces make it unforgettable. And it's "fame" comes from being featured on Travel Channel and Anthony Bourdain's must-try list. Pro tip: go before closing, I don't think it's worth a huge line for

I heard the hype about this place and i have to say the puka dogs taste amazing ! We had the kauai special & the pineapple field puka dogs, maui potato chips and lemonade. I love how the Hawaiian bread is soft and toasty but paired with the mango/pineapple relish it adds a sweet yet different type of taste. You would think that the sweetness of the relish paired along with the hotdog wouldn't mix well but it actually does. I tended to like the pineapple field relish more than the kauai special. The maui potatoes chips are more like baked lays but slightly worse. The lemonade was actually not that sweet but more on the sour side topped with a lot of sugar. This place is a takeout and go type of place there is no seating inside but there is a nice beach across the street with several benches to sit at. Now let's get to the reason why they didn't get 5 stars for me...... The price & the wait times. No doubt i love me a good dog, but starting at $12 for each dog is pretty absurd. I paid around $40 for 2 dogs, 2 small bags of air chips and 2 sour lemonades. If things couldn't get worse, the lines are very chaotic and long. Is it worth standing 40 mins in line for an overpriced hotdog ? Probably not. But this is not your average hotdog. Puka dog is a very different breed of the usual hotdogs you are use to seeing. Its relish really makes the dogs shine and the flavor is really tasteful and amazing. Overall it's really worth trying, i would totally go back if their wait times got drastically reduced such as if they had some kind of online order system.

Puka Dog was really good. I had the Polish sausage with spicy jalapeño, papaya relish, and lilikoi mustard, which had a sweet and spicy kick. We ended up waiting around 45 minutes, and the vibe wasn't great. There was a female manager (black hair) who was pretty rude to one of the male employees right in front of everyone, which made it super uncomfortable. I felt really bad for him. The food was solid, but the wait and weird energy kind of took away from the experience.

Definitely different concept for the hot dog but it was delicious and the line out the door would agree that it's great. We waited about 15 minutes to get inside to order and it was definitely efficient and fast once you ordered. I got the spicy with pineapple relish and Hawaiian mustard. It was filling and a great flavor combo. I'm sure I'll be back before I leave this island.

We came here to watch the sunset and see sea turtles. Puka Dog is just across the street, and I've seen them mentioned on social media a lot, so we decided to give it a try. The dogs are okay, nothing too special. One thing I didn't like was that they were constantly trying to sell their lemonade. Inside the shop, there's one section selling drinks and shave ice, and another selling hotdogs. The people selling drinks would yell at people in line and tell them to stay outside until the line gets shorter. But they're inconsistent, and sometimes the line gets really long, but they just ignore it. I'm not sure why they yell at people in the first place.

This place is busy but absolutely worth the wait! We tried to stop by twice during our trip last month but they ran out of buns by the time we got there the second day! My order contained polish sausage, spicy jalapeño garlic lemon secret sauce, kauai special mango relish, and auntie lilikoi's hawaiian mustard. Apparently this is the most popular combination and I totally understand why! This is the best hotdog I have ever had! Great combination of flavors and great location! It was a treat to be able to eat at the beach across the street. Puka Dog gets our recommendation and we look forward to stopping by the next time we visit!

Very long line for this dog. When we finally got in, we knew what we were gonna order and had our hearts set on grinding some good hot dogs. It was cool to watch them make it right then and there. The puka dogs weren't too bad. It was super saucy and messy. Wasn't bad at all, but honestly probably not worth the long line and the hype. The hotdog was just bombarded with the so much different flavors that it wasn't eaten a hotdog already. Anyway, I would come back next time if there was a shorter line though.

Puka dog is a great option for lunch/dinner in the Koloa/Poipu area. It's across the street from Poipu Beach so it tends to be harder to find parking in the middle of the day. It is the only location so that just adds to the appeal. The lines get very long and there are many menus showing the options so be ready to order when you get up to the counter. Around the ordering area tends to be very tight so if you can have one person go in to order the food that might be ideal. Food is always hot and tasty. There are many different combos you can get so you could have a different dog each time you go in. Try the lemonade is very refreshing.

Very popular spot in Poipu. I like the way that they grill their buns as it makes the inside nice and crispy. The jalapeño mayo was very subtle and not spicy at all. It didn't add much so I would try the habanero next time. The pineapple relish was tasty. Overall, a nice creative way of combining Hawaiian flavors with the standard hot dog. Not sure if it's worth the $12.50 price tag. No seating area, but Poipu beach is right next door. Pro Tip: While you are waiting in line, have someone swing by inside to the left to grab a shave ice or spam musubi.

We visited Puka Dog near Poipu Beach yesterday--and we totally get the hype! Would we wait an hour in line for one? Probably not. But a 15-20 minute wait? Totally worth it for these unique Hawaiian-style hot dogs. The standout for us was the crunchy mango relish paired with honey mustard--a tropical flavor bomb. I was especially happy to see they had a vegetarian option (I don't eat beef), and even my husband, who had the meat version, said the veggie dog was surprisingly good. Major bonus points for that. We also loved the freshly squeezed lemonade--super refreshing and the perfect complement to the warm, savory dogs. Best part, they do half sugar so you can choose your sweetness. While mango relish is the crowd favorite (and our pick), they offer a range of Hawaiian-inspired relishes if you're in the mood to mix things up. Just a heads-up: there's no seating, but you can grab your food and eat at the park or beach right across the street--honestly, a pretty great setup. Also, veggie dogs take about 10 minutes, so be a little patient if you're going the meat-free route. Overall, fun, flavorful, and worth the stop!

I almost feel bad writing this review, but I'd be doing the Yelp community a disservice by not speaking my mind: Puka Dog isn't good. Charging $13 for a hot dog on top of a long line is criminal - especially for something that isn't special. The relish is nearly tasteless and there's almost no difference between the star fruit and mango. I will admit the heated rod they use to heat the buns is pretty cool. If you want to visit a hyped food establishment, then this is definitely for you. Otherwise, I'd go elsewhere for a good hot dog.

Lived up to the hype and worth the wait! That said, EXPECT TO WAIT. We waited outside about fifty minutes, then another ten minutes once inside. There may be someone there to help direct the line - it goes better when there is. Once you get the goods, however, it is AWESOME! Got the Polish dog, mild, Pineapple relish, and with Hawaiian mustard. SO GOOD!! I did not want it to end. The full sugar lemonade was great also (you can get half or no sugar, but who wants that??). Service was nice and the place was nice and clean. Just the wait is the only downer. Take your dog across the street to the park. Lots of shaded benches and some cool turtles.

This place has become iconic. The bread is really great and the hot dogs themselves are great too. The things that really make them special are the garlic sauces and the mustard. The sauces vary from mild to habanero, my preference are the middle two, spicy and hot. The mustard really makes the dog, it is a mix of sweet and spicy that perfectly finishes it all. The service is actually quite good and a long line doesn't usually mean a long wait. I had a big order and it arrived in about 5 min. The ambiance is pure beach counter service but it is clean. I have, and will repeat most every time I am back

This place is busy!!!! The line is out the door, their menu is the hot dog and a lemonade. I think it was a very tasty hot dog, Do I like spending $14 on a tasty hot dog, well that is for me a big no! So even though it was a good bite, I can't say it is worth while bite.

Had to try it while in Kauai Dog itself was good(polish) Bun was crunchy fresh delish Needs more flavor tho as the papaya relish took over. Aunty Lliokoi mustard was good but wish there was more.

Great Hawaiian style hot dogs. Line moves pretty quick and is worth the wait - we got 2 dogs, one with hot and one with lava (honestly wasn't thqt spicy just habanero) and I think we did the Hawaiian mustard in both. Good spot would definitely eat again. At the end of the day it's a hot dog but a dam good one. Lemonade was great too. We got it half sweet and it was plenty sweet.

Puka Dog has been a staple for our family for the past 10 to 15 years and every trip to Kauai includes at least a few visits here. We first tried them the year they opened and have been hooked ever since. In our 23 years of coming to Kauai this has become one of those must stop spots that we take all our friends and family to. Their hot dogs are completely unique and unlike anything you would expect from a traditional hot dog stand. I always get the Polish sausage with the spicy jalapeno secret sauce, Hawaiian mustard, and either the mango or coconut relish. I have tried all the relishes over the years -- pineapple, banana, starfruit -- and every single one is great, but the mango is my favorite. The bread is like a Hawaiian roll that is crispy on the inside and soft on the outside and with each bite the flavors just come together perfectly. The lemonade is another highlight. They squeeze it fresh right in front of you and you can choose half sweet or full sweet. Full sweet is the way to go. It is refreshing and the perfect balance of tart and sweet. The staff and the owner have always been kind and welcoming even when the line is wrapped around the building which it usually is. The place has blown up with social media and Food Network features but even back before all of that it was one of our favorite spots. The new location is also awesome since it is right across from the beach where you can often see turtles or seals while you eat. I cannot say enough good things about Puka Dog. It is hands down one of our favorite places on the island and we sometimes go 10 to 15 times in just a two week trip. It has become a family tradition and I will keep recommending it to anyone visiting Kauai.

First off, the line was long BUT it moved fast!!! We tried the Na Pali (star fruit) and Waimea Canyon (banana) relishes along with the Auntie Lilikoi's Hawaiian Mustard and it was great!!! Wish I grabbed a shirt with get free lemonades for life, but not sure when we're coming back. But would definitely come here again. Recommend!!!

This is not an ordinary hot dog! Featured on Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations on the Travel Channel, you know you're in for something special! The word is out, because the line was wrapped around the building when we arrived. Only two options: polish sausage or a veggie dog and the veggie dog takes 10 mins to make, so they're usually checking the line to see if anyone plans to order those. These are served in a wraparound bun, and it was cool to watch them slide the buns down on cylinders on the grill to warm them up from the inside. The dogs themselves are roasted so they have a slightly crunchy skin. My daughter ordered a traditional dog with ketchup and relish. I opted for the spicy jalapeño garlic lemon secret sauce, the Polihale Sunset Papaya Relish and the Auntie Lilikoi's Hawaiian Mustard. It probably sounds like there was a lot going on there, but it works and it was totally delicious, or Ono! We both devoured our dogs! And we also each got a fresh-squeezed lemonade to wash it down! Prepare yourself for a wait and there isn't a ton of shade available around the building, so put on sunscreen. They try to keep the line moving quickly. If you're just there for shave ice or snacks, there's a separate line.

My husband and I loved this place so much that we went twice during our trip! There is public parking in the back. Walking distance from Poipu Beach! I got the polish sausage, mild garlic sauce, mango relish, and lilikoi mustard! My husband got the same thing but spicy garlic sauce. We both loved it! The bun was so satisfying. When I took my first bite, I was in disbelief in how much I loved all the flavors together! The second time we went, I tried the veggie dog! It was still good, but the polish dog is bigger/ more meat. We got lucky that every time we went we didn't have to wait in a long line. But as we were leaving, there was a line. They try to get the line moving quick. Workers were super nice. Would highly recommend!

Came on a Thursday at 1:15pm it was an hour wait. Be prepared to wait in long line in the sun bring an umbrella. Two choices Polish Sausage or Veggie dog. Then they have Garlic sauce in mild, spicy jalepeno, hot and Lava, then come the flavored relish, pineapple, mango, banana, papaya, star fruit, lilikoi mustard or regular mustard, or Dijon. Also have normal ketchup. Fresh lemonade, I think it could use some more sugar. And chips. It's in the same space as a Shave ice joint no line for the shave ice just for Ouka Dog. Parking can be difficult. Across the street from the beach.

I wouldn't recommend this place. Not worth the hype. The hot dog itself was ok, but didn't like the sauces. The fresh lemonade was ok as well.

Was it worth the hype? Depends on who you ask. The wait is about 30 minutes. People get ecstatic and form a line around the building. Once inside, you're corralled like sheep, heel to toe until you order. However the wait after ordering is about 3 minutes. They sure have a unique way of heating up the buns, adding their special sauce, and ultimately the glizzy. The food was ok, I got the spicy pineapple and barely tasted the bold flavors. Overall, I'd say it's a cool experience. Would I do it again for a $13 glizzy? Prob not. Lemonade was delicious.

A lot of hype brought us to check this place out. The concept was unique. Did it deliver? It was good. The sauce and flavored relishes delivered all kinds of flavor. It was a fun Puka Dog. It's a little pricey. Inside was small and the menu was easy to follow. We loved their lemonade! There's no dining area inside or outside. Across, there's plenty of places to eat. You got to watch out for the roosters and birds. They will steal your puka dog lol!

Okay, we are suckers for lines. Whenever we see a restaurant with a line, it usually means the food is good or unique. For our final Kauai meal, we did breakfast at Puka Dog. When we arrived at 10:10am, we beat the line. I ordered the Polish Sausage, Spicy Jalapeño Garlic Lemon Sauce, Kauai Special Relish and Auntie Lilikoi's Hawaiian Mustard. It's definitely tasty and unique, especially the bun toasted from the inside. So glad we tried one! The fresh squeezed Lemonade was awesome. We walked across the street to the park to munch on our dogs. We definitely needed more napkins as they get messy when you bite into them. But, oh so worth it!

Simple menu, executed well, requires patience. Good things come to those who wait...in the line that wraps around the building. Lol. The line moves a lot slower than expected and maybe because I hit it right at the lunch hour on a Thursday afternoon after several days of rain so people were happy to be enjoying the sun and beach. Today we had three polish dogs (veggie dog was sold out); one traditional ketchup and mustard for the kiddos, and two with spicy jalapeño sauce and mango relish (we were told the mango was the crowd favorite) with lilikoi (passion fruit) mustard which is a bit tangy and sweet. My favorite part of it all was actually watching them make the food - their grill has a unique shape that allows them to toast the inside of the buns while the other side cooks the sausages. I was sad to see that anytime they overcooked a roll it was tossed into the trash...there has to be a better solution, either for those in need, a food kitchen, offering them to customers at a discount like Jimmy John's does or even for the chickens outside is better than just garbage. Anyhow, I digress. The dogs themselves were very unique and flavorful but mine had a bit too much sauce for my liking and I'm typically a sauce queen. My husband even looked at me weird when I said it had too much sauce, lol. I think it's because some of the flavors fought themselves and I would have liked a bit more mild flavors and not so many sweet elements. You live, you learn. Aside from sausage dogs they have fresh squeezed lemonade which was spectacular even at 50% sweetness. We even added a shot of lilikoi to one and that was the best one. They also sell small bags of chips for a side but that's about it for the menu. Cute, trendy place that apparently was on the Travel Channel at some point. Worth a try just remember to bring your patience because the line takes a long time to get through.

The hype was not worth it, neither was the line. Overpriced hot dogs and it wasn't that even that good. Ended up with stomach issues afterwards. Service was mediocre and the quality wasn't that great. Save your money and go to Costco instead. No joke.

10/10 worth the wait!!!! We waited maybe 30 mins max but once you order your food comes out within minutes so it's very quick. Service was really good and attentive and fast paced. I got the jalapeño salsa (not spicy at all) with the pineapple relish and mustard YUMMMMMMM. We also got the fresh lemonade with full sugar and a lilikoi shot 10/10 recommend getting the shot gives it a nice flavor! Definitely recommend puka dog if you haven't tried it it's 100% worth the wait!!!!! Fyi no seating but it's across the road from the beach soo we just sat across the road!

Puka Dog was another "must" on our trip and everytime we drove by there was a long line. Waited outside but it moved along. Maybe waited about 20 minutes and it was worth it! They have merch for sale as soon as you walk in. We ordered 3 dogs - plain mild, spicy traditional & spicy with pineapple relish & lilikoi mustard. We also ordered 2 lemonades. I like that they offer regular, 1/2 sugar & no sugar. We got one regular and one 1/2 sugar. It is a take out spot. Staff was friendly and service was quick. The pineapple relish and lilikoi mustard went so well together. The lemonades were so refreshing. I get why the long is always out the door!

I wish I would've been able to order every variety of Puka dog possible but the one I tried was so big and delicious that I got full so quick. What a great place. Right across the street from Poipu beach. Plenty of parking and the shaved ice was delicious too. Overall a great stop and a must if you're ever in the area

We were hangry after the beach and needed a snack to balance the blood sugar. I was kinda skeptical because it's just a hot dog, how does it have such good reviews? I was totally surprised, the tropical mustard and relishes make this polish sausage/ hot dog another level. The mustard is sooo good as well, the garlic sauce got a little lost and wasn't spicy even though we tried the first level. We tried the coconut relish & the banana relish. They were on the sweeter side and my husband wasn't as impressed as I was. He doesn't like his hot dog that sweet. I typically don't have ketchup with a hot dog and wouldn't think I liked it sweet, but the flavors really came through and completely elevated the hot dog game. We were so hungry and inhaled it before we got a picture. I want to try more! I kinda wish we went twice.

Puka Dog is hands down the only hot dog I'll ever eat from now on. The experience is totally unique and absolutely delicious. The bun is warm and pillowy, almost like a soft roll, and the variety of tropical relishes and sauces is amazing. I went with the pineapple relish and garlic sauce--easily the best flavor combo I've ever had on a hot dog. Sweet, savory, garlicky perfection! The only downside? The line. It can take an hour or more, especially during peak times. But honestly, it's worth it. That said, I'd love to see them roll out a mobile ordering app to help manage the crowd and wait time. The staff was clearly busy and under pressure, but still friendly and doing a great job keeping things moving. Overall, Puka Dog is a must-visit if you're in Kauai. Just pack your patience--and your appetite!

Puka dog was quite the wait! We wanted to see what all the hype was about. Seen videos all over tik tok / YouTube. We waited in line I would say almost 30 mins and waited another 10 for our food. In all honestly, I don't think it was worth the wait. Pretty overrated to be honest and over hyped. Call it what you want but it was literally just grilled polish dogs and some good sauces. I had the mango relish with their famous sauce. It was good don't get me wrong, I just don't think I would wait in line again. If there wasn't a long line I wouldn't mind at all. Just a hot dog with a some good sauces.

What's not to like at a beach side, super small hot dog joint called Puka Dog (really it's a Polish Sausage - but when you're at the beach, does it really matter)? This is an incredibly friendly, easy access and welcoming joint. We arrived right after opening (we had been there a previous day with long lines and those in line assured us the line moves rapidly - BTW, super friendly customers) and we received our order quickly - they have the system down. They share their unit with another restaurant so make sure you get in the correct line. As you can see from my pic, the dog come in all wrap around bun with their spicy garlic lemon secret sauce. While I was very skeptical of their sauce, it was very, very mild and added more moisture than anything. The relishes were served on the side in little containers and were quite good. I'd recommend getting a few and trying combos of them. We also had their fresh squeezed lemonade - it was fairly good, as well.

Loved the polish dog. Never had anything like it. The buns are like a small loaf of bread. They place them on these spikes over the grill and they are toasted from the inside out. Then they fill the heated bun with the topping you choose, slide the dog in and add more toppings. I had the Kauai special, spicy with mango sauce and Hawaiian mustard. Washed it down with a 1/2 sugar lemonade. We walked across the street to the Poipu beach park and sat at a picnic table to eat. A must when you are on the south shore.

We got here and there were only a few people in line which was fantastic. We got one veggie dog and shared it which was the perfect amount. At first I didn't really understand why these are so popular but they really do a great job at complimenting the hot dog with the sauces. We walked down to the beach and ate our veggie dog while enjoying seeing the Honu's. This would definitely be a beach day go to if we lived local.

Good spot! This was probably one of the most hyped spots we heard about while visiting Kauai. For lunch on a Thursday the store was packed with a line out the door. Still moved along quickly. I got the polish dog, lava habanero garlic sauce, and a mango relish. Very good! Definitely spicy. The house mustard is also a must--its sweeter than most mustards so you'll like it even if you're iffy on mustard. Overall a good experience. Worth a try but I wouldn't say its a must-have.

The concept here is not just interesting--it's downright brilliant. Toasting the inside of the bun, creating a cozy, crispy cavity for the toppings, and then sliding in the grilled hot dog turns the ordinary into something reminiscent of a hot pocket, and I love it. I opted for a Polish Dog adorned with Mango Relish and Passion Fruit Mustard. The result? A harmonious blend of saltiness, fruity sweetness, and a hint of sour, all wrapped up in the subtle crunch of the inverse toasted bun. 10/10 would try again.

Got the polish dog, mango and pineapple "relish", and mild garlic sauce. Dude, it's like $12.50 for a hot dog. You're paying for the convenience for the fact that it's located right in front of Poipu Beach. It's a cash grab for sure. Don't get me wrong it tasted good, and my husband and I agree that the bread is good, but not like $12.50 for a hot dog good! The polish dog is basically a Costco hot dog. The mango and pineapple "relish" is not actually made with pickles. Just a mango and pineapple sauce. I could literally get apple sauce and toss it on my Costco hot dog and I'd only pay like $2 for that. Personally don't think it's worth the money and you're better off grabbing a spam musubi from literally any other small business (e.g, Sueoka Market) but this one. If you want to beat the lunch rush, it's best to go before 12pm.

The line is long! That means the dogs must be good!! It's our first time here and this place is such a vibe! The staff are friendly and the service is friendly! We ordered the polish sausage, with starfruit relish and the lillikoi mustard! The flavors were on point!!