Ratings and reviews
Ai Ono Cafe Photos
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
| Thursday | 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
| Saturday | 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
| Sunday | 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
Ai Ono Cafe Reviews
Cafe inside Lihue airport serves yummy loco moco entree which hit the spot before we board our flight to the mainland. Mahalo!
This cafe is located inside Lihue Airport. As soon as you go past through security it is across to the left. We came around 9:15pm and ordered the roast pork loco moco. The price had jumped significantly after one year. This plate is now $22.xx. It was just $16.xx a year ago! The portion is generous though. Enough for 2 people to share. The pork was slightly dry though. Took about 10 minutes to receive my order. We were the only diners at this time.
I was highly surprised at how good the crispy chicken sandwich was from this cafe. The French fries need salt. The pork loco moco was good but fatty. They have a lot of local treats, food, drinks and alcoholic beverages that need to be consumed inside the cafe. There is seating for those eating that gets shared with the other restaurant. There is hot and ready made food and cold sandwiches, yogurt, pasta salad, and salad. Not the cheapest of places but nonetheless a place to eat while you wait for your plane.
Ai Ono Cafe
Located conveniently at 3901 Mokulele Lp, Lihue, HI 96766, Ai Ono Cafe offers a delightful escape for travelers passing through Lihue Airport. Known for its local charm and diverse menu, this cozy cafe provides a refreshing break for anyone in need of a satisfying meal before their flight or simply while waiting for their next connection. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast or something more savory, Ai Ono Cafe has you covered.
Menu Highlights at Ai Ono Cafe
The menu at Ai Ono Cafe brings together a perfect mix of traditional Hawaiian and American breakfast and lunch dishes. Popular breakfast options include the Local Boy Breakfast, The Classic, and the Teriyaki Beef & Eggs French Toast. For those who enjoy a savory and filling start to the day, the Breakfast Croissant offers a deliciously buttery experience.
If you're in the mood for something a little different, the cafe's offerings of loco moco stand out with a twist—Traditional Loco Moco, Roasted Pork Loco Moco, and the plant-based Beyond Loco Moco. Another standout is the hearty Portuguese Bean Soup, known for its savory and comforting flavor. Those looking for a satisfying lunch can indulge in the Kauai Fried Rice, a dish that has earned its place as a crowd favorite, offering a perfect balance of rich flavors and textures.
Convenient Services at Ai Ono Cafe
Ai Ono Cafe distinguishes itself with a range of convenient services that make dining there both hassle-free and enjoyable. Whether you're on a tight schedule or looking to unwind, this cafe provides a few key offerings. Takeout and delivery options make it easy for those on the go to enjoy their meal elsewhere. Additionally, the cafe accepts reservations, allowing you to plan ahead, especially when it's busy during peak hours.
For those traveling with family, Ai Ono Cafe is good for kids, offering a welcoming atmosphere with waiter service. The full bar is a nice bonus for those who want to relax with a drink, while free Wi-Fi and TV provide a pleasant way to pass the time. The outdoor seating gives you the chance to enjoy the beautiful Hawaiian weather, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your meal.
The cafe also accommodates those traveling with pets, as dogs are allowed on the premises. If you're cycling around the area, don't worry—there's even bike parking available. The combination of diverse dining options and versatile services ensures that Ai Ono Cafe can meet the needs of almost any traveler.
Customer Experiences at Ai Ono Cafe
Customer reviews consistently highlight the unexpectedly high quality of the food and service at Ai Ono Cafe. Many travelers, like Eric C., shared that their experience exceeded expectations. Eric, while on a layover, was pleasantly surprised by the grilled shrimp combo and the roast pork loco moco, both of which turned out to be flavorful and well-prepared. This sentiment is echoed by Jasmine P., who praised the delicious loco moco dish as the perfect meal before boarding her flight to the mainland.
The experience of Vinkin Ken T. also stands out, as he notes that although the prices had increased over the year, the roast pork loco moco remains a generous portion that easily satisfies two people. Despite a slight dryness in the pork, the portion and overall taste made it a worthwhile choice, further emphasizing the consistent quality of the meals served.
These positive reviews not only underscore the cafe's ability to provide great food but also highlight its ability to cater to travelers who might not have expected much from an airport cafe.
Ai Ono Cafe is more than just a pit stop—it's a destination in itself for those who appreciate great food, warm service, and an inviting atmosphere. Whether you're here for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack, it’s clear that this cafe offers a memorable dining experience.
While here on a layover flight to Honolulu, we decided to have a grub while waiting for 2 hours on to our next flight. Mind you, we did not have high expectations coming in to this place but we were hungry nonexistent. We ordered the grilled shrimp combo with macaroni salad and rice and the roast pork loco moco with a side of fried rice. Surprisingly enough, they were really good and tasty. We actually enjoyed it and it would be the start of our hawaiian food adventure. The cafe has a busy vibe and the big windows oversee the planes coming and going on the tarmac.