Luquin’s is located in the town of Pahoa, in the Puna District of the Big Island. For this area, it is a big establishment, with a large number of tables and booths.
We think that the quality of a Mexican Restaurant is defined by two things: its salsa and its margaritas. We did not try the margaritas at Luquin’s, but we did have the salsa. It was poor, even by bottled salsa standards. It appeared to be a simple tomato purée with some chopped onions and cilantro tossed in. So, by the salsa yardstick, Luquin’s did not measure up.
As suspected, the salsa was a good indicator of the food. We both had their large burrito, made vegan, with green sauce, and with guacamole and lettuce on the side. The portions were respectably large; but the food was average in quality, at best. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the best, we would give it a 5. An average cook could do much better at home, with minimal effort.
So, should you try Luquins? Well, there are a few other eateries within a block of Luquin’s. Perhaps you should start with them, first.