THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Pono Burger

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Pono Burger Restaurant Review:

Santa Monica's Pono Burger has brought its organic, island-inspired burgers to The Frank in Venice. Wood posts and lots of greenery adorn the sidewalk patio. The rustic-yet-chic look carries over to the interior, where guests will find communal tables, counter/bar seating and an open kitchen. The restaurant's name comes from the Hawaiian concept of "pono" --- doing things "the right way." For chef/owner Makani Carzino, who was born and raised in Hawaii, this means making burgers with organic, grass-fed beef and sourcing ingredients from local farmers markets. Choose your own toppings or go with one of the signatures such as the Piku "Fig" Burger with house-made drunken caramelized fig jam, Fermier brie cheese, Niman Ranch bacon, crushed hazelnuts, organic arugula and balsamic vinaigrette. Rotating seasonal creations might include the Sassy Wahine, a beef patty topped with wasabi mayo, pickled ginger, avocado, pea shoots, Okinawan sweet potato chips and sesame ponzu dressing. Exclusive to the Venice location is a quinoa burger featuring a house-made quinoa patty, tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, coleslaw and chef Makani's signature crunch made from house-made Russet potato chips. Beverage options abound, from freshly squeezed organic lemonade and milkshakes to craft beers (both on tap and bottled) and a brief selection of wines. There are also several cocktails, each highlighting an ingredient (coconut, hibiscus, etc.) from chef Makani's Hawaiian heritage. Also located at 829 Broadway, Santa Monica, 310-584-7005, and 8830 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 424-666-0845.