Ai Ono Cafe — Restaurant in Kauai

We had a 10am flight out of Lihue and the only two food options open were Starbucks and Ai Ono. We chose Ai Ono and went with the Local Boys breakfast. They were out of Portuguese sausage, so we had it with bacon instead. Overall, it was a solid choice—tasty, filling, and gave me the protein I needed before a long Southwest flight (where only snacks are offered).

Like most airports, drinks are pricey—$7 for a Smartwater isn’t fun, but that seems to be the norm everywhere.

All in all, I was happy with the breakfast and glad we skipped the Starbucks line. Ai Ono is a good option if you want something more substantial before...

A bunch of the reviews I saw were complaining about how expensive the beer is and plates being 20 bucks…womp womp maybe sober up and grab yourself a diet Dr Pepper. Look, coming from a half pinto bean boy Mexican man who has been cultured by the fellow Hawaiians this place is good. For the plates I recommend either the shrimp (it’s fresh) or the Katsu chicken. My lil Bro even said it’s the top 3 foods he has had this trip..idk abt that but for airport food it’s pretty good. You get meat, rice and some mac salad. Teryaki chicken was good too just a tad bit try but overall bussin. Stay breezy out...

What I appreciate: reasonable prices for inside an airport (this place is after security - it's one of about three options including a bar and Starbucks). What I don't appreciate: Styrofoam containers. Even for people eating-in (which is most people). On an island in the middle of a global marine plastic crisis, why oh why use Styrofoam? Compostable cardboard would be just as easy for them. Not a good last impression to make on visitors. 1/5 green stars for...