11 Best Sushi Bars in Kailua Kona

“Rarely do I go to the same restaurant more than once during a vacation. There are just too many good options generally available especially in a place like Hawaii island with such a variety of fresh fish and inventive chefs.  But Sushi Sam is an exception.  We've gone twice during each of our last two visits.  Their menu isn't expansive like some sushi restaurants whose menus are bursting with inventive rolls dominated by gloppy sauces.  But the items they feature have delicious rice and feature the freshest fish you'll find anywhere. My wife who never eats sashimi was devouring the display so quickly I couldn't help but admire her chopstick proficiency.   The Hamachi appetizer with serrano is a winner. Sapporo on tap! Service is professional and efficient.  Reservations required. Highly recommended.“

“The staff are wonderful & their food is incredible.“

“We were pleased to find this place - I had the mapo tofu (with pork, medium spicy) which was VERY good and could feed two with the suggested - and essential - side order of rice for the tasty sauce. Some places in Hawaii have bland food for too much money - this is not like that, which is fabulous. Very tasty, well seasoned, I would totally order this again and look forward to it. She got the seaweed salad and a specialty sushi roll, which were good too.
Fast, friendly service rounds it out.

Definitely recommend!

Parking: There’s a good sized free lot on the next street up away from the waterfront and a block or so away, but it was pretty packed. We got lucky and found a spot. They do validate parking at another parking lot, it’s worth calling and asking where *before* parking your car if you can’t get a spot in the free municipal lot.“

“Our server Angel was amazing! Super friendly, prompt and engaging!“

“My husband got a ninja star roll and said this was some of the best sushi he’s ever had. The wait time said 2 hours when we first walked up, but we only got the 1 roll and only waited maybe 10 minutes, so we were really happy about that.

Definitely a must try when in Kona!“

“Absolutely yummy first stop on our trip so glad we stopped“

“We had our best Sushi ever 🇯🇵 😀👍“

“The food is so incredible for a reasonable price! the owners are very friendly. fav dish is pad thai with shrimp, beef or chicken.“

“Great service! Yummy food! Never disappoints!“

“Food was excellent. Service could have been better. Staff didn't refill our water cups during our visit. Auntie Roxy was on register and needed help on register. It caused a back up with checking out causing service to be delayed. One couple had been waiting to be seated. They walked out and went to another business.“

“Best Asian ribs and sushi ever!“