A family-owned Hawaii restaurant known for slow-roasted kalua pork is growing beyond its North Shore roots and now selling franchises — good news for local food fans and would-be operators.

• Kono's Northshore started in Haleiwa and now runs locations in Kailua, Waikiki, and Las Vegas.
• The draw is kalua pork roasted overnight for 12 hours and pulled fresh daily, served in burritos, plate lunches, and sandwiches.
• Stores open at 7 a.m. for the early surf crowd, with closing times ranging from mid-afternoon in Haleiwa to late evening in Waikiki.
• Milkshakes are invented by the mostly college-age staff, and the best ones get named and added to the menu.
• The company is now taking franchise applications through its website.

Outlook: Expect more locations as the franchise push brings the brand to new markets beyond Hawaii.