Oahu Frankie’s Nursery

Oh my goodness, you have to check out Frankie's Nursery if you're ever on Oahu! I stumbled upon this incredible spot while exploring, and it quickly became one of my favorite local finds. It's not just a nursery; it's a vibrant market overflowing with the freshest and most unique tropical fruits you can imagine, straight from Hawai'i. Walking through their market stall, I was absolutely captivated by the sheer variety. They have everything from common favorites to rare gems. I spotted huge, ripe soursop at $4.00/LB – perfect for making refreshing drinks – alongside creamy egg fruit (canistel) at $3.50/LB for the Saludo variety and $4.00/LB for Trec. And let me tell you, if you haven't tried egg fruit, it's a game-changer! Its unique texture is like a sweet, cooked egg yolk. I also picked up some super fresh Yamagata Avocados for $3.00/LB and the sweet, pear-like Makok Sapodilla at $4.00/LB. Their Nam Wa Bananas at $2.50/LB were a delightful snack, and I even found Seedless Limes for just 50 cents each, which are amazing for cocktails or cooking. For those looking for something truly exotic, they often have Garcinia Forbesii at $2.00 each, and if you're lucky, you might even find mangosteen for $20.00/LB – a bit pricey, but oh-so-worth it for its exquisite flavor. One of the coolest things about Frankie's is discovering new fruits. I saw Lila Cainito (star apple) for $6.00/LB and Kook Lom Krong Mangoes for $6.00/LB. And don't even get me started on the Martin Mangoes! They often have them in big wooden bowls, just waiting to be picked. They also stock Limau Limo in bags for $5.00 – fantastic for adding a zesty kick to your dishes. The staff are always so friendly and happy to share tips on how to enjoy these tropical delights. They'll tell you when a fruit is perfectly ripe and even suggest ways to prepare some of the more unusual ones. It’s such an authentic experience, far removed from regular grocery stores. You truly get a sense of where your food comes from. My tip for visiting? Go early in the day for the best selection, especially if you're looking for popular items like mangosteen or specific mango varieties. Bring a reusable bag, and don't be afraid to ask questions! It's a fantastic place to taste the true flavors of Hawaii and bring home some unique souvenirs for your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned fruit connoisseur or just curious to try something new, Frankie's Nursery on Oahu is an absolute must-visit. You'll leave with a bag full of delicious treasures and a newfound appreciation for tropical produce!