Far from a large scale production of a farmers market on Oahu, the Kaimuki Open market definitely isn't one of those. Close friends (if you come here enough times) and deals can be felt here on a daily basis.
It's a very definitely small scale operation that takes up very little room and scores up many delightful fruits and fresh produce for your daily needs. It's not much of a theatrical production, as the larger farmer's markets in various spots around urban Honolulu and across Oahu, but there is some value associated here. It's your usual cadre of local residents that want to enjoy the fresh produce that comes with farmer's markets, but want to be within the reaches of Kaimuki town. The Kaimuki Open Market could be categorized as a small niche of people bartering and selling among themselves, but why do it in the public eye? Not sure about that, but I guess it's the way it is here and buying among friends and family is like that, along with passers by who are also looking for a great deal as well. The overall experience here was definitely pleasant, but weird at the same time. I'd come back here more, if the farmer's market either at Kapiolani Community College did not have the stuff I need.
The Kaimuki Open Market is neatly tucked away in the side streets of Kaimuki town, located on 12th Avenue across the street from the First Hawaiian Bank - Kaimuki branch. They usually operate on Saturdays, Is use you where I see them. Not sure if the do this open market on the week days, but I will be surprised if they do. If they do, it will probably during normal working hours. Usually cash will be king here, since I do not believe they take credit cards at all. Luckily there is a major bank next door or across the street, namely First Hawaiian Bank and Bank of Hawaii. Parking can be plenty for all, if you use the municipal parking lot but you would have to pay money. There's always street parking nearby but there will be some walking involved to get here. Of course, there is no admission fee, so that's always a good thing. Sometimes I will see someone new in the neighborhood buying stuff from here and it's always gratifying to see familiar faces periodically on the weekends.
While you won't find vendors that will cook up a tasting meal, you just find a small assortment of produce that is fresh and compatible with whatever you are cooking / preparing for the day or week. Take this opportunity to venture out in your comfort zone and come here, as the alternative to supermarkets, Costco, and other nearby localized farmer's markets in and around town. Since I do live nearby, I thought it would be a nice gesture to check things out here on a recent Saturday and hit up the Kapiolani Community College mega farmer's market later on. For me, it was the perfect opportunity to get what produce I needed for work and home, while being quite close to home really. I can shop here on the weekends and know that I can get the best price and deal for my hard-earned dollar, as well as seeking other deals for friends and family by shopping here. While Whole Foods and various supermarkets are are very much in the Vinicity, shopping here at the Kaimuki open market can be adventurous and be out of your comfort zone.
It's always nice to look at first. You'd probably would find something you're looking for, but for a better deal.
Support local!
B+
*1400th review and 100th first to review on Yelp! Yeh!! :) read more
