Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs

Hot dog restaurant · Poipu

Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs

Hot dog restaurant · Poipu

1

2100 Hoone Rd, Poipu, HI 96756

Photos

Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs by null

Highlights

Hawaiian-style hot dogs with tropical relishes & fresh lemonade  

Placeholder
Placeholder

2100 Hoone Rd, Poipu, HI 96756 Get directions

pukadog.com
@pukadogkauai

$10–20 · Menu

Information

Static Map

2100 Hoone Rd, Poipu, HI 96756 Get directions

+1 808 742 6044
pukadog.com
@pukadogkauai

$10–20 · Menu

Features

payment credit card
Tap to pay
reservations

Last updated

Sep 6, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@goop

"So much better than your typical (open-faced) ballgame dog, Puka Dog serves their variation in their own Hawaiian sweet bread, which they toast on custom skewers. Rather than slicing the bread open, Puka serves their Polish sausages and veggie dogs—along with your choice of garlic lemon secret sauce, Hawaiian fruit relish, and mustard sauce—fully enclosed in the roll, which makes them surprisingly easier to eat. All that said, this meal is best followed by an afternoon nap at the beach, as opposed to say, a hike."

The Kauai Guide
View Postcard for Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs

Mitchell Neller

Google
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.

Sara Villegas

Google
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.

Audrey Robles

Google
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!

Ryan Rhodes

Google
Puka Dog is a must-try when in Kauai! It’s a fun, unique twist on a classic hot dog with delicious tropical flavors that make it stand out from anything else. Perfect for a quick bite before hitting the beach. Pros: ✔ Hawaiian-Style Hot Dogs – The soft, toasted bun with a hole in the middle perfectly cradles the sausage and toppings. ✔ Delicious Toppings – The tropical relishes (mango, pineapple, star fruit, etc.) and garlic lemon sauce add a great sweet-savory kick. ✔ Fun & Unique Experience – A great local treat that’s easy to customize to your taste. ✔ Perfect Beach Snack – Grab one and enjoy it while sitting by the ocean. Cons: ✖ Long Lines – It’s a popular spot, so expect a wait, especially during peak hours. ✖ A Bit Pricey – For a hot dog, it’s on the expensive side, but you’re paying for the experience as well. ✖ Limited Seating – Not much room to sit, so it’s best to take it to-go. Final Verdict: If you’re in Kauai, Puka Dog is a fun and tasty experience that’s worth trying at least once. Just be ready for a bit of a wait, and take your meal to the beach for the best experience!

Becca Foust

Google
I'm not a hot dog person (my husband is). But after rave reviews we knew we had to try it. We went 3 different times but the line was always way too long and we had too many other things on our list to do, so we didn't have time to wait. We ended up going on our last day and went about 20 minutes before they opened and was 1st in line. That was the best way to do it, once they opened we got our food within a few minutes of ordering. We got the spicy jalapeno with the mango relish and the lava habanero with the banana relish and Hawaiian mustard. They were both so so good! The Lava one may have been slightly better, but we both love spicy! The passion fruit lemonade was delightful as well. Even if you don't like typical hot dogs, this is a whole new level and worth a try! Great customer service and clean area!

John Bolka

Google
Really liked the hot dog, didn’t love the person line policing - they had someone outside who was mad about everything - the way you were standing the way you were looking and they were pretty excessively sarcastic about anything they’re saying. it made me sad to see her talk down to an elderly woman who had a simple question hot dogs are $12 each and about what you’d expect. like other reviewers say, it’s more bread than a usual hot dog. the relish is not very spicy compared to the way they portray it, so if you’re looking for spice get a level hotter than you were going to. i waited about 20 mins in line (at 2pm) and enjoyed the hot dog. happy i tried it, but not sure i need to do it again

Shahbaz Salehi

Google
We visited based on the hype surrounding this hot dog. To be honest, I found it to be nothing special; in my opinion, Costco's hot dogs are tastier and better. The only difference seems to be the way they prepare the bun and add sauce. It's worth trying once to check it off your bucket list, but I wouldn't wait in line for it again. The price is reasonable, though.

Mike Ropicky

Google
Brenecki’s is where tourists go. This is a great location located right near the beach so it attracts folks purely out of its proximity. The upstairs restaurant has fantastic open air seating w views of the ocean. Good food. If you want a vastly overpriced hot dog, usually with a long line - get a Puka dog. But not sure I can recommend it. It’s an overpriced hot dog that has somehow gotten famous. Maybe infamous is a better word. But I think you can get better food options upstairs or almost anywhere. Not worthy the line or the cost. I would give the Puka dog a 3 and the upstairs restaurant a 4. Kauai has a ton of great food trucks and food options. Can’t recommend the Puka dog. If you are one of the people that needs to try one, get there early so you don’t wait an hour. The line often wraps around the building on weekends.

Kirstie P.

Yelp
Good hotdogs... not worth an hour wait. When we got there the line was wrapped around the building. Weirdly got our hotdogs within 3 minutes of ordering, so not sure where the wait comes from. If you feel the pressure from social media to try it and don't feel like waiting, rest easy and know you aren't really missing out ;)
google avatar

Alexis M.

Yelp
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
google avatar

Isaac J.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Shannon A.

Yelp
Had to try it (especially since our crew was going) I had pineapple relish (mild) and it absolutely did not disappoint. Absolutely fire. Smackin', delicious.... All of the above. The mustard (I believe it was the lilokoi one)**chef's divine kiss** You better get 2 because you will spend hella time in line. Very casual, super beach vibe. No frills except for the hotdogs themselves. The relish surely steals the show! Sorry no pics, too busy stuffing my face
google avatar

Jess B.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Bryan C.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Krystle T.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Jenny R.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Jonathan C.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Austin C.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Brian W.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Claudia E.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Eric

Yelp
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.
google avatar

sanjana m.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Lindsay D.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Boj o.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Sherwin C.

Yelp
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!!!
google avatar

Kavita B.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Ramonna B.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Danielle P.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Esh N.

Yelp
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
google avatar

Bob S.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Mae T.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Alice B.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Ashley H.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Alex L.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Audrey R.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Chelsea A.

Yelp
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!
google avatar

Julyana T.

Yelp
It's so good that my husband requested Puka Dog the next day! Our lineups: polish, lava, papaya relish, lilikoi mustard. polish, lava, coconut relish, lilikoi mustard. polish, lava, banana relish, no mustard. polish, spicy, mango relish, no mustard. The garlic lemon sauce combined with the relish are the key!
google avatar

Jordan L.

Yelp
Just one of those iconic Kauai spots! We came here a few times while on our trip. We really liked the mango and pineapple relish hot dogs. All of them are toasted, hollowed out buns with a hot dog inside and some combination of toppings. Line can be LONG and I don't really know if I'd say there's one time there better to go then another. We usually said if there were more than 10 people out the door we wouldn't hit it. So it'll be hit or miss so plan for anything. Good news is, the dogs are yummy and worth it! The lemonade is also good. Having tried all the sugar levels, I'd recommend just sending it with full sugar - definitely tastes the best!
google avatar

Ryan S.

Yelp
Puka Dog in Poipu is one of those spots that feels like a rite of passage when you're on Kauai--and honestly, it never gets old. It's a hot dog, yes, but not just any hot dog. The sweet, pillowy bun, the tropical relishes, that garlicky secret sauce--it all comes together in a way that makes you wonder why this hasn't taken over the world yet. I've been before, and it still totally hit the spot. It's casual, quick, and exactly the kind of quirky local favorite that keeps me coming back. Bonus points for being right by the beach, so you can eat your puka dog in the sun and feel like you're living your best vacation life.
google avatar

Chrisy H.

Yelp
We tried a new location this trip to Kauai (Poipu). Line out the door & around the corner. Auntie standing at the door, directly traffic, taking special vegetarian orders (the hotdogs take a little longer to prepare), taking story with customers in line. Good service, well, organized & friendly. The store is very clean & there is another area inside to buy snacks. Hotdogs were yummy as usual. Walked across the street to the park & ate.
google avatar

Gregory F.

Yelp
Crazy convenient in reference to the hot tourist location of Poipu Beach. Long lines are a bit of a deterrant - but do I think this place is worth the wait? Actually yes - and the line moves faster than you think! I just wish it wasn't $12+ for a hot dog, but maybe I am too used to the $1.50 Costco deal. I went with the Polish Sausage, mild garlic lemon sauce, Kauai special tropical relish, and of course Auntie Lilikoi's Hawaiian Mustard. Gotta get it all, right? Everything kind of blended together more or less - so I am not sure I actually tasted each individual condiment - but nonetheless it was delicious. Definitely unlike any other hot dog I have ever had before - and that's not even mentioning that it was more of a hot dog tube than it was a bun LOL. There isnt a ton else around Poipu that was consistently recommended when I was researching and I certainly see why this place gets the hype - it feels like a hometown favorite, like the Hawaii equivalent of getting a boardwalk funnel cake if that makes sense!
google avatar

Olivia B.

Yelp
Puka Dog totally lives up to the hype!! this isn't your average hot dog stand. The sweet, slightly toasted bun wrapped around the dog is next-level, and the tropical relishes are what really make it special. I got mine with the pineapple relish and the house mustard, and wow. Sweet, savory, and just a little tangy! Great spot to hit while at the beach.
google avatar

Monty D.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Karen S.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

John V.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Shana W.

Yelp
Took someone else's recommendation and got lilikoi mustard & mango relish on the polish dog, delicious and a little sweet. Also homemade lemonade was a must. I even bought a mug to bring home and it makes me happy. Right by the turtles at the Poipu beach too!! Not to mention lots of picnic tables nearby and rainbows that popped up while we enjoyed and a parking lot next door made it all very enjoyable and convenient.
google avatar

Gregg Y.

Yelp
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.
google avatar

Paul A.

Yelp
First time I saw this place I thought no way I'm getting a hot dog in Kauai! Well my friends there is a reason the line heads out the door and wraps around the building. The pineapple relish and Lilikoi mustard are a perfect combination to this stuffed but hot dog. Don't be afraid of some of the spicier options as the kick pairs perfectly with the sweet toppings. No place to sit inside so enjoy an amazing ocean front view from Poipu beach.
google avatar

Sou L.

Yelp
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!!
google avatar

Felipe A.

Yelp
We have heard so much about this location. We made a Point this morning to visit it before we left back home. This is a great twist on a Hawaiian Version of their Hot Dog Style the bun is sealed all around but there is a. Nice sized hole in the middle to put all of the relishes mustard or your choice of relish. It was the best Hot Dog that had a Mango Relish, Mild Garlic dressing and a Polish Dog cooked to perfection. They also have homemade Lemonade. We. Are glad to have been able to eat there.
google avatar

Lizzie P.

Yelp
We were really excited to try this place, and even came back on a different day after we found out they were closed for their company holiday party the first time we tried to go. The polish dog itself had great flavor, and the bun was a nice complement. I enjoyed the pineapple relish with the lemon secret sauce and Auntie Lilikoi's Hawaiian Mustard- it added a unique twist! That said, while the flavors were good, the overall texture, or lack thereof, just didn't hit the mark. By the end, I found myself getting a bit tired of it. The fresh-squeezed lemonade was a letdown too- it tasted more like watered-down lemon than anything else. The real highlight of our visit was the sea turtles across the street. It's a notable, local spot for a quick bite if you're in the area, but it didn't live up to the hype for us.
google avatar

Brittany B.

Yelp
When my Husband made it a point to come here, he showed me photos of puka dog and I was a little skeptical. We got in line around 2pm and in my opinion, the line wasn't too bad. We waited about 45 mins to get to the front. The shop itself is small and it's a shared space with a shaved ice business. Once you get inside, stay to the right. The left line is for shaved ice. My husband got the pineapple relish and I got the mango relish. I'd say mango was a lot sweeter than pineapple and it has a nice balance between the hot dog itself. The first bite has a sort of crunch that is satisfying and I actually liked it more than I thought I would. There are some tables at the beach across from Puka dog that we ended up sitting at which was convenient. A must try when in Kauai!
google avatar

Chau B.

Yelp
Here's the updated review with your additions: Puka Dog in Kauai completely blew me away! The location is unbeatable--right by the beach, offering incredible views. We tried the Polish sausage with lava sauce and Na Pali Cruise relish (Star Fruit Relish), and it was absolutely mouthwatering. As if the food wasn't enough, it's right next to a beach where you can snorkel with turtles--an unforgettable experience! After a day of snorkeling, that hot Hawaiian dog tasted like pure heaven. If you're in Kauai, don't miss this gem. It's an experience you'll savor in more ways than one!
google avatar

Nikka C.

Yelp
These are perfect for the beach! Very unique as well. I've never had a hot dog with these types of toppings (garlic lemon cream that ranges from mild to habanero levels) and a wide variety of relishes (banana, mango, pineapple, etc). The lilikoi mustard was amazing! The bun also added a crunch to it. I had the polish sausage with spicy (jalapeño) garlic cream, pineapple relish, and lilikoi mustard for $11.50 My friends tried the mango relish and diff spice levels too. We all loved them!
google avatar

Rosette T.

Yelp
Puka Dog is a must-try when you're visiting Kauai! The hot dogs here are a delicious twist on the classic, with an array of amazing tropical relishes. My favorite has to be the pineapple or mango relish. Both are a perfect complement. Also the Lilikoi mustard is a must! We loved it so much we bought a jar of it to take back home. They are located right across from the beach which is convenient. The staff are friendly and quick. Just a heads-up--the line can get a bit long, especially during peak times, but it's worth the wait in my opinion!
google avatar

Jorge A.

Yelp
Family favorite. Good place to stop a different style hotdog. Staff is friendly and restaurant is clean. Recommend getting a Puka shirt to get a free lemonade. You also get a free lemonade every time you come back wearing the T-shirt. Will definitely be coming back.
google avatar

Vanessa W.

Yelp
Pricey for what you get. Still pretty good though. My party said it was too saucy. I liked mine saucy, so no complaints on my part. Took them to go and ate it over a plate. Got the traditional with habanero. It was pretty spicy but the spice didn't linger. No lines when we went, but we did go pretty late on a weekday. Lemonade was good but overpriced in my humble opinion. But I think everything has gotten super expensive in the last few years ‍. Glad I tried it.