When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz
Why Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Pono Hawaiian Grill in Downtown Santa Cruz offers an inviting island-style escape right in the heart of the city. This restaurant distinguishes itself with its authentic Hawaiian street food, crafted from fresh ingredients inspired by the home island of Maui. It provides a vibrant atmosphere where friends can gather to enjoy not only delicious dishes such as fresh teriyaki and poke bowls but also a warm and lively ambiance enhanced by a full tropical island-style bar. The bar features 15 craft beers on tap along with tropical cocktails that perfectly complement the menu's flavors. Beyond dining, Pono Hawaiian Grill serves as a hub for live sports enthusiasts with seven big screens showcasing Bay Area college and professional games, including local favorites like the Santa Cruz Warriors. They also host live music events, notably the popular Aloha Fridays featuring Hawaiian musicians and cultural performances, making it a great lively spot to unwind or celebrate. The spacious layout is well-suited for gatherings, private parties, and special events, emphasizing a community-supported experience with a strong Hawaiian cultural influence. Whether you prefer to dine in, order pickup, or have your meal delivered, Pono Hawaiian Grill provides flexibility and is a welcoming oasis for group meetups or casual dining in downtown Santa Cruz.
Here's what people think of Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz
As of recent, Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1565 reviews.
Customer reviews for Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz generally reflect a positive dining experience, highlighting the restaurant's dedication to authentic Hawaiian cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere. Positive feedback often mentions the freshness and flavor of the teriyaki and poke bowls, the variety of drinks including tropical cocktails and craft beers, and the lively, family-friendly environment. Reviewers appreciate the live music events and sports viewing options, noting how these elements create a fun and engaging community space. Friendly staff and the restaurant's accommodating approach to private parties and group events are also frequently praised. On the other hand, some negative comments focus on inconsistent food quality or value, with a few diners feeling certain dishes lacked depth or flavor. Occasionally, patrons have noted that the space can feel crowded during busy times, which might affect service speed or comfort. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus remains favorable, with many guests expressing a desire to return for the unique island vibe and diverse menu offerings. Summing up the reviews, Pono Hawaiian Grill is regarded as a vibrant, culturally rich spot ideal for friends and families seeking a taste of Hawaiian hospitality and cuisine in downtown Santa Cruz.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
D E
Fantastic restaurant in downtown Santa Cruz! Highly highly highly recommended. They have a fantastic happy hour menu that works out perfectly. But regular prices are very reasonable as well. You literally can't go wrong here. Inside is very comfortable with a lovely bar, and outside as a great casual feel that's great for individual, families, or couples. Awesome they have live music performances which is just the best!!
Erik Hanna
Good food, fast service, unique and not common take on dishes. The combo plate was really good, and if you are looking for fried options, any of their katsu is fantastic. I want to commend the bar tender. He was serving plates, beer, walking around making sure everyone was okay then back to the bar!
A R
Honestly, this place is not half bad! The prices are fairly reasonable, portions pretty generous and service was quick! Expected to wait way longer for food, but it came out fast! Only downside is parking is all metered - but we snagged a good spot and just threw a few quarters in the meter. Also, ordering is a bit awkward as they stack their menus directly at the register, so if you're standing in line you don't have a menu to look at or you gotta run up to the cash register and try and grab one. Would be helpful to have menus more readily accessible or posted. Otherwise, not a bad choice if you're in town looking for a decent and reasonably price bite to eat!
Jo R
Went to lunch here today and it was delicious! We got the teriyaki beef, chicken wings and poke. The menu seems very authentic with all the different spam dishes, and macaroni salad. Everything was very tasty! Service was quick and friendly! The place was much larger than I expected coming in I thought it would be small it was pretty large with an outside patio.
Robert
Some of the best Hawaiian food I've had outside of Hawaii. Arrived around 4:45 (parking in the back), got a beer and sat down outside whilst I figured out what I wanted to eat. Finished the "Socks and Sandals" beer and went back to order food. In that short time, a line had amassed out the door and around the back towards the parking lot. Took about 12 to 15 minutes to get to the ordering station (10 feet directly from the main entrance). In hindsight, I would happily wait twice that long in line just to order. Everything was so fantastic I forgot to take pictures of most the items. I ordered a Chicken Katsu, Braddah Timmy's Ahi Bowl with extra Ahi, wings, and Kal-Bi Short ribs. The environment and service were both as equally phenomenal as the food. I ended up going back a few days afterwards to pickup another order of the Kal-Bi short ribs and the "Mama Kathy's Teri chicken". Not one thing I saw, smelled, or tasted fell short. Can't recommend this place enough. Must visit 🙌🤤 Update: 3/20/25 Been here and it's other location, multiple times since writing the above review. Still FIVE stars!!!!!!!
How to reach Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz
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Why Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz with your friends? Because this vibrant spot offers more than just a meal — it creates an experience that's perfect for gathering with family and friends. With its unique Hawaiian vibe, you instantly feel transported to the islands, surrounded by tiki décor, leis, and an inviting patio space that encourages relaxation and connection. The atmosphere is fun, lively, and family-friendly, where you can enjoy great food alongside entertaining live music or catch your favorite sports games on multiple big screens. Whether you are craving authentic Hawaiian-style poke bowls, hearty teriyaki plates, or traditional spam musubi, Pono Hawaiian Grill delivers fresh, flavorful dishes that satisfy a variety of palates. This combination of delicious food, a welcoming environment, and entertainment options makes it an ideal meeting place for groups wanting to share good times in downtown Santa Cruz. Add the benefit of friendly staff and affordable pricing, and you have the perfect recipe for a memorable meetup that everyone will enjoy and want to return to.
What makes Pono Hawaiian Grill perfect for a group meetup? The space is designed to accommodate diverse group activities, making it more than just a restaurant. For starters, there’s a lively stage where Hawaiian musicians perform regularly, especially on Aloha Fridays, offering an authentic taste of island culture through music. The venue often hosts karaoke sessions, sing-alongs, and reggae nights, turning a casual dinner into an interactive and festive event for friends or family. For sports enthusiasts, Pono features seven large screens showcasing Bay Area games, including local Santa Cruz Warriors basketball matches, allowing groups to rally behind their favorite teams together. The full island-style bar serves tropical cocktails alongside craft beers and classic drinks, perfect for raising a toast or just sipping something special. Moreover, the restaurant’s layout includes a cozy photo booth corner that encourages fun memories and group photos during your visit. The combination of engaging entertainment options and the Hawaiian-themed ambience makes it suitable for casual gatherings, celebrations, or simply a relaxed night out with your favorite people.
What activities can you do at Pono Hawaiian Grill Downtown Santa Cruz? Beyond dining, the grill provides a hub of entertainment and social interaction. The biggest draw is the live music scene, featuring Hawaiian artists and bands, which brings an authentic cultural experience directly to Santa Cruz. These live performances create a vibrant mood and cultural immersion that stands out compared to typical group venues. The karaoke nights invite everyone to participate, making it easy for any group to bond by sharing songs and laughter. For those who enjoy watching sports, the restaurant’s seven big screens turn the venue into a prime spot for game days, uniting friends over shared excitement. On top of that, the tropical cocktail bar complements these activities perfectly — one can indulge in island-inspired drinks while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The outdoor patio offers an additional space to mingle, enjoy fresh air, and take in the surrounding downtown energy. Such variety of activities ensures Pono Hawaiian Grill is versatile enough to cater to different group dynamic preferences, from quiet dinners to festive parties.
Why is the food at Pono Hawaiian Grill ideal for group dining? The menu focuses on authentic Hawaiian street food presented in approachable, shareable portions. Their signature dishes like fresh Teriyaki plates, substantial poke bowls, and the iconic spam musubi are not only delicious but also accommodate a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, including vegan options. This diversity ensures every member of your group finds something satisfying. The food is prepared fresh and with a distinct island flair, offering bold flavors without overwhelming complexity, which is ideal for social settings where conversation is key. Many reviews mention the generous portions and quality ingredients, emphasizing that guests leave full and happy. Moreover, the casual ordering system, where you place your order upon entry and have it delivered to your table, allows gatherings to flow smoothly without the interruption of traditional waiter service. Whether sharing multiple plates family-style or each ordering their favorite dish, the menu supports communal, relaxed dining, contributing to the overall social vibe that defines Pono Hawaiian Grill.
How does the atmosphere at Pono Hawaiian Grill enhance group gatherings? The restaurant captures the essence of a Hawaiian "ohana" (family) with its décor and welcoming spirit. Inside, the presence of tiki statues, bright leis, and colorful accents mimic the festive and relaxed spirit of the islands, setting a cheerful and casual tone for meetups. The venue’s lively but comfortable environment makes it suitable for all ages, promoting inclusivity for family reunions or friendly hangouts. The back patio provides a semi-outdoor space ideal for those who want to chat under the open sky or enjoy warmer days with a tropical ambiance. The friendly staff add to this atmosphere by being approachable and helpful, creating a sense of personalized service that makes groups feel genuinely valued and cared for. The party-friendly vibe with no cover charge means gatherings can be spontaneous or planned, large or small, without pressure or formality. Such an inviting space naturally encourages longer stays, conversations, and collective enjoyment, making it a top choice for hosting your group activities.
What are the benefits of Pono Hawaiian Grill’s location in Downtown Santa Cruz for group meetups? Positioned conveniently on Union Street, Pono Hawaiian Grill provides easy access to parking and is close to other downtown attractions, making it a strategic meetup spot. Its proximity to theaters, shops, and hotels allows groups to combine their dining experience with other activities—like catching a movie or exploring the city before or after dinner. Being in the heart of Santa Cruz also means the atmosphere is lively and dynamic, with the urban energy complementing the laid-back island vibe inside Pono. For locals and visitors alike, this makes coordinating group events simpler because transportation and accessibility are straightforward. Additionally, downtown Santa Cruz attracts a diverse crowd, so your group can enjoy a multicultural environment enriched with local art and culture alongside their Hawaiian feast. Overall, the location supports easy logistics and broader social opportunities, enhancing the overall meetup experience.
How does Pono Hawaiian Grill accommodate large groups and private events? The restaurant offers catering options ideal for private parties, allowing groups to enjoy authentic Hawaiian dishes either at the venue or off-site. This flexibility supports everything from casual hangouts to special celebrations like birthdays, reunions, or office gatherings. The staff are experienced in handling group orders and accommodating specific requests, ensuring a smooth and satisfying experience for larger parties. Inside the restaurant, the communal seating arrangements and spacious layout allow for comfortable gatherings without feeling cramped, crucial for group cohesion and interaction. Furthermore, the presence of live performances or the possibility of karaoke can be incorporated into private events, adding entertainment to your occasion. This combination of food quality, service adaptability, and cultural programming establishes Pono Hawaiian Grill as an excellent choice for group hosting beyond the usual dining experience.
Why do customers rate Pono Hawaiian Grill so highly? With a strong rating of 4.4 based on over 1,500 reviews, the restaurant is clearly beloved for its quality, value, and atmosphere. Customers regularly praise the flavorful and authentic Hawaiian menu items, especially the generous spam musubi and fresh poke bowls. The friendly, accommodating staff and vibrant Hawaiian ambiance earn consistent compliments for making diners feel welcome and relaxed. Reviews highlight the fun entertainment options, including live "Aloha Fridays," karaoke nights, and multiple big screen TVs for sports viewing, which transform a simple meal into an event. Many mention the pricing as reasonable given the quality and portion size, reinforcing Pono Hawaiian Grill’s reputation as a venue that delivers both taste and value. This strong community approval underlines why it’s considered a top spot for meetups, balancing excellent food, a festive environment, and attentive service that keeps guests coming back.