A Taste of Hawaii to Close in Pocatello Friday

The restaurant at 200 South Main Street will serve its final meals after a recent court judgment.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Dining Out

Bold vector editorial illustration depicting a stylized desert-town storefront in bright, flat colors; represents a local business closure. — Pocatello restaurant A Taste of Hawaii will close permanently this Friday following a recent legal judgment against its current owner. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Pocatello restaurant A Taste of Hawaii will close permanently on Friday, October 30, 2026. The closure follows a legal ruling against current owner Leilani Nino regarding the business.

Why it matters

The business has become financially untenable for the owner due to the outcome of a lawsuit involving the previous owner. This closure marks the end of operations for a location that previously received an Idaho's Best award for best fast-casual restaurant.

A Taste of Hawaii is located at 200 South Main Street and will operate under normal hours from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. during its final week.

The players

Leilani Nino

She is the current owner of A Taste of Hawaii who purchased the establishment in 2022.

Mark Cruse

He is the individual who received a favorable ruling in a lawsuit against the restaurant owner.

The details

Leilani Nino purchased the establishment in 2022 and later received a Kindness Award in September 2026. Despite this recognition, a judge ruled in favor of Mark Cruse, leading to the permanent closure of the business.

The restaurant was purchased by Leilani Nino in 2022.
Leilani Nino received a Kindness Award in September 2026.
The restaurant will close permanently on October 30, 2026.

Culture Shift

The departure of a recognized business from the local dining scene reflects the volatility of independent restaurants following legal or financial disruptions. This closure alters the competitive landscape for fast-casual options in the city.

Local patrons wishing to visit the restaurant for one final meal must adhere to the 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. operating schedule through Friday. After the closing date, the storefront at 200 South Main Street will no longer be available for service.

The takeaway

When legal disputes arise in business ownership, the resulting financial impact can quickly lead to permanent closures. Residents should plan to visit local favorites before end-of-week deadlines to avoid missing out on final services.