I checked out the grand opening of the Ala Moana Farmers Market today. Yep, actually woke up at 9ish this morning so I can get there at a decent time since it was only from 9am – 1pm. Why do they make these farmers market times so damn early and short? By the time I arrived, there was already a big crowd.
As I entered, I heard a band playing Hawaiian music. The first thing that caught my eye is a cute guy wearing nothing but a loincloth. Aah, the poi boys are here, I thought–more on them in a bit. I began to work my way through the crowd–the familiar white tents spread all around, a few local news media were there, and moms, dads, keikis, and tutus everywhere. I started taking photos with my mobile as I moseyed on down. I love the colors one sees at a farmers market! Very purrrty. 🙂
My first purchase of the morning? No, it wasn’t fruits and vegetables. It was a popsicle from Ono Pops! I had a Spicy Hawaiian Jam pop and it was ono! You can taste the chili pepper and the fresh cream and it was spicy! When I go back, I’m really hoping he’s there. I also bought my first dragon fruit. I always see this in the market or China Town, but never had the chance to sample it. I had to ask the vendor how to eat it because frankly, it looks a bit intimidating; no brainer–chill, cut in half, and scoop.
After a couple of laps, I had a bag full of, well, farmers market stuff, it was time to go. Before I left, I wanted to check out the poi boys and take photos of them and sample the poi. When I got there, I found out they were charging $1 to taste the poi and $5 to take picture of/with them. What a turn off! What is this, Hollywood Boulevard? Skipped the photos. I did sample the poi. It was good, but then again, I’m no poi connoisseur.
Anyway, poi boys charging for photos aside, I give Ala Moana Farmers Market a thumbs up. It’s not too big and parking is easy. You can find them every Saturday from 9am – 1pm at the outside upper parking level of Ala Moana Shopping Center on the Sears parking lot side (Piikoi St. side).
Felix Point of View 