Hawaiian Restaurants near Kurtistown, HI

“This place is great. Went there for the first time about 2 weeks ago. Stopped on the way home from visiting VNP. Walked in and was a bit surprised as there wasn't much seating as place was small. However the food made up for all that. They serve a variety of Hawaiian plate options, sandwiches, burgers and poke. There were 4 of us. 2 ordered the burgers and 2 the poke. Poke was nice and fresh. The burgers are awesome and for the price $6.99 for single $9.99 for double you can't beat it. Mind you the burgers are just burgers nothing comes with it including any condiments no lettuce tomatoes etc but they do provide ketchup and mustard. Which I don't mind as I'm pretty much a no frills burger gal anyways. Each patty is 4 oz. and they taste great! We were pleasantly surprised and will definitely be back. Folks working there very friendly. I live in Keaau and will gladly take a ride up to Kurtistown just for the burger and maybe a side of sushi.“

“For the rest of my life, the Kalua Pork Spring Rolls will haunt my dreams. These were easily without question the best spring rolls I have ever had and in no way am I concerned that I am overhyping these for anyone reading this review.I'm not usually a "phone eats first" kind of person but for some reason I felt compelled to take some shots of my final lunch on Big Island. Everything was delicious, including the drinks which seemed to disappear before I could get a photo of them *hiccup*There are many many food options in this area but if I could go back and do it all over again I would start here for a solid lunch (just endless spring rolls) before doing a bit of bar hopping around Hilo.“

“After a long awaited visit I was able to stop by Saucy Mama's for a delicious homemade lava cake. The service was superb and the food was very tasty. I am a sticker for food presentation as well and they did this excellently as well. I ate the fresh flowers garnished on the top of my soup and dessert while sipping my smoothie. Go! you won't regret it.“

“Food was good. I had the jerk chicken wrap, and a Mai tai. My family had fish and chips and the pesto pasta dish, and were happy with their choices. Service was friendly and great, and we loved the singer the evening we went. Fantastic ambiance.“

“Great local restaurant with delicious food! It was busy when we arrived and put our names down on the list and waited about 15 before getting in. Staff were friendly and efficient despite how busy they were and being short staffed that day. Joyce was excellent! My partner and I saw the portion sizes and because they were huge, we just ordered the volcano omelette and a side of coconut pancakes. It easy to do one people between two people here. The food was delicious and we highly recommend the coconut pancakes. We will return!Vegetarian options: Volcano omelette was amazing!Parking: Large strip mall with lots of available stalls.“

“This is the first time trying this place. I got the 20 Piece Oshizushi box. At first I thought that it was a bit pricy for the size ? but I changed my mind quick after I tried it. ? It’s beautiful crafted and presented. Really exquisite and meticulously put together. Its beauty was only surpassed by its flavor. Delicious. The sushi chef here really knows his stuff ?. If you really like sushi I recommend trying this at least once. They didn’t tell me what was in it though so kinda sad. I had to guess what I was eating and what was in it. Maybe I just caught them on a bad day, not sure. So no description of what was in there, I ordered 2.5 hours in advance but the order was not ready at the scheduled time (about 15 mins late), the person at the window did not offer to bring the order out to me or call to let me know it was ready. Plus it was raining pretty good so not fun to wait outside or go back and forth to check on the food. It is presently only window service so no shop to enter and look around. A few things to be aware of 1) there is only a small bench outside so I wouldn’t plan on eating there [edit] since I first posted this they added two additional small tables and chairs 2) it is primarily street parking so you may need to hunt for a bit to find a stall if it’s busy. 3) if you order online be prepared to wait for your order as it may not be ready at the scheduled time. But the sushi is awesome here ??“

“Our first time here impressions:: *Friendly, Organized and efficient customer service *Food display case made us want to buy two of everything and I feel like we kinda did. *Cannot beat the prices - we left there feeling like we ripped them off... +All the food tasted as good as it looked Loved it !!! If u guys wanna open a shoppe on Oahu lmk and I'll be your first investor!“

“My favorite breakfast spot on the island. They recently experienced a fire that’s shut them down but I can only hope it’s temporary, this place is excellent. Everything from the food and service to the general vibes. I’d hate to think I’d had my last fruit plate without knowing!“

“Is there a hole in the wall establishment that isn't a true dining experience? Puka Puka Kitchen is such an experience. The staff were friendly, the food was tasty, and the atmosphere was cozy. When you're out all day seeing the rest of the island, you just need a place to serve you something familiar and scrumptious. The curry was piping hot with all the right veggies; paired with a quality chicken katsu it made for a decent meal. Take a load off after wandering around the other shops nearby and treat yourself; satisfaction guaranteed.“

“Great restaurant looking over Hilo bay. We took out two items as we couldn't get a reservation. Hilo sunset sushi was so good with poached shrimp, spicy salmon, gochujang aioli,cucumber,sesame, sweet potato chips and tempura crisps. We also ordered side of crab cakes: it came with nice fresh salad and tasty salad dressings. We loved that too. Next time we would like to sit in the restaurant and enjoy the foods over a good view.“

“We spent the day driving from our home on the Kona side to see some of the beautiful waterfalls on the north east side of the island. A day in the car made us ready for sitting down to a nice meal. Luckily for us, we ended up at Don's Grill. The menu had an unbelievably large number of items to select from. Our waitress Elizabeth was pleasant, helpful and attentive. The food came out very quickly and was delicious. The price was very fair and the desserts were the perfect ending to a nice meal. The only mistake that we made was going too late in the day because the mud pie in this picture was already gone to earlier customers for the day. It would be worth it to drive to Hilo just to eat at Don's Grill again and I will, only next time I'll get there early so I can get that mud pie.“

“Long time resident of Honolulu checking in… this place is amazing, perfect poke, all fresh caught and never frozen, and their lechon loco moco was top tier!!! I’m a sucker for lechon and theirs was crispy and delicious!! Worth stopping by whether you’re shopping at the Market or not“

“Awesome Island Raised Grass Fed Beef Burgers made to order.. one of the last places you can request Medium Rare and you’ll get exactly that. Prepared just right, juicy and hot! The garlic fries are my personal suggestion for a burger companion. These burgers are 4 steps above basic. Don’t pay DOUBLE for a burger at Burger Joint, when you can get a much better burger made with Aloha at David’s Ma’ona Lunch Counter (or Truck)!Parking: Whether it’s at the Lunch Counter in Shipman, or on-site at the Food Wagon, there’s always plenty parking.Kid-friendliness: The kids love these meals!“

“White Guava is tucked away in the corner of the parking lot fronting KTA Puainako in the old pizza places spot. If you can remember that far back. I recommend making a reservation beforehand. The wait can be long. Especially if you have a big group. But let me tell you the wait was definitely worth it. Luckily we weren't dying of starvation of we'd never get to experience this gem. If you want a tossed salad this is the place. I mean you'll have your meal served on the side of the tossed salad. No joke. And you don't even want the steamed rice. Trust me. My friends and I usually order different entree's when we first entice in a restaurant to ensure we get the full spectrum of the menu. Then we share a little of what we've ordered and chow away. This first time we ordered the chicken katsu with tossed no dressing and French fries. The Pastele Burger w/fries, yes I said Pastele. And the Korean Chicken, side salad, side rice. And the rice wasn't even touched and my friend loves rice with everything. The service was slow and the wait was long as they looked short staffed but again it was worth the wait. Oh we also had the pupu mushroom with Korean sauce. Yum, yum, yum! Totally making this at home. The place had a salad island piled and stacked with kitchen stuff and a corner with kitchen stuff which I say should be tucked away somewhere out of sight, everything else was clean and clear. Even the restroom. Definitely will go back. Oh and they don't have anything guava. Forgot to ask why not.“

“I love that there is a Kalo bombs here in Pāhoa! The owner was so nice. It was like talking to someone you knew for a long time. Our kalo bombs were delicious as well! We ordered one cookies and cream one and an ube one with extra pa'iai. So good on a hot day! They have a lot of other specials I would like to try including plate lunches. Definitely will be back for all that goodness!“

“Super friendly staff and a very welcoming atmosphere. If you’re looking for a place to have a casual dinner, or just read a book at the bar, Kaleos has the best vibes. This has become my 2-3 times a week place to just exist around people as I housesit for my dad on the rural part of the island. Food is good, prices are right, and the bartenders are super friendly. Also if you’re a dessert person, definitely try the lilikoi cheesecake.“

“Ten out of ten would recommend food was major, service was great and if I had money I go today and eat! For sure will be back! I really did love the atmosphere it's a nice vibe and the food presentation was great the calamari is so good! Wish I had pictures but I had to rep this place we have dined in once and we have ordered out before! Mahalo Nui loa for the great experience!“

“I haven’t been here in years and the food is still great. I’ve always ordered the cone sushi, Musubi, and tempura shrimp. They have lots of other popular options and usually have a line (food is deliciously consistent in flavor). Get there early before they sell out on the popular items.“

“Hou My People???? dis place get dah mean kine grindz that make you go , " a shet, its ovah when you see dah Katsu Chicken Plate Bok Bahhaaaaaok!!!??? I recommend this place to all my people on dah Big Island of Hawaii?and Mainlanders???????Maikai'i Aunties that Malama? here serving all dayzz??“

“Very nice view of the water. Our waitress Sam was very good, making sure that we were taking care of and explained the menu items very well. The Ono and scallops are outstanding. The wasabi cream sauce was unlike any other I’ve ever tasted. Save room for dessert, and or after dinner drink because they are top-notch. Thank “

“Stop here when in Hilo. We've been here twice, both times enjoyed their one-pound Lau Lau. Lau Lau is a Hawaiian specialty you should try at least once when in Hawaii, and it's not on a lot of menus. Take advantage of this great, local diner to learn the joys of Lau Lau.“

“Great quick option?. This is take out only however, there is two benches on the side of the building that you can sit and enjoy. Prices reasonable and so many choices. Portions are large. There is parking on the side of the street. However, I did not see a parking parking lot. This is located directly across from pineapples and you could miss it if you didn’t have GPS.“

“Loco Moco was like a thin hamburger steak spread under omelet rice (because it was scrambled).Steak plate is a good food for children to eat.Comes with 2 steaks (smoky flavor) + rice + potato salad, no sauce on the meat.There is no dining area, but there are tables and chairs outside where you can eat even if it rains.“

“This was the best BLT sandwich I have ever tasted. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the food was spectacular. My kid really liked the 'there is a $5 fine for whining.' This cafe had really good french fries too. I highly recommend this cafe for a lunch stop.Kid-friendliness: There was a kids menu too!“

“Poke N Sides in Hilo, Hawaii is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike looking to enjoy delicious poke bowls and a variety of tasty sides. Known for their fresh and high-quality ingredients, this eatery offers a wide selection of poke options, from traditional ahi tuna to unique flavors like spicy salmon or octopus. Customers appreciate the customizable nature of their bowls, allowing them to create a meal that suits their taste preferences.In addition to their poke bowls, Poke N Sides offers a range of delectable sides to complement your meal. From seaweed salad to edamame and kimchi cucumbers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The casual and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant adds to the overall dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving a taste of Hawaii's culinary delights. With friendly staff and a menu that caters to various dietary preferences, Poke N Sides is a fantastic choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal in Hilo.Parking is tight on weekend.“

“Free pupus with karaoke! Say less! Before coming here, I didn't realize pupus were free in most bars in Hilo and Peggy's is no exception. They've probably been around longer than I've been alive because there are regulars who have frequented Peggy's for years. Everyone knows everyone here and they treat everyone like family. Pupus are free, yes, but that doesn't mean they're not good. They served poke, Mac salad, vegetables, noodles, etc and they were Ono!! You still have to pay for their other pupus (like fries, chicken tenders) but the pupus are great and you can ask for more as long as you're drinking. Their drinks are good too. Affordable and not super pricey. This place is not fancy at all and has a more homey feel to it. Highly recommend if you need a night out with friends that's very low key but fun! Karaoke is a dollar per song and you give to the waitress to input your selections. It is a shared/community karaoke so no private rooms here.“

“Awesome drive in walk up window service style food. The best French fries around and tasty burgers. They have local favorites as well including breakfast. Outside dining only or food to go. Popular with the early morning blue collar workers and always seems busy for breakfast and lunch. We went before the lunch crowd showed up so service was pretty quick. It was a little more expensive than I would have expected. Two burgers, 2 fries, and 2 sodas was around $35. However, I will definitely be back and look forward to trying their Loco moco next time.“

“I was tempted to try the spicy version of the beef stew pho (available - you just have to ask for it.) But, I let my better senses prevail and went with the regular, not spicy. Excellent taste. Huge!Will try the spicy version next time. Definitely recommended.“

“Great variety of food, hot and ready no wait. Our go to stop for breakfast and a bento for lunch on a work day. Portions are good, price is reasonable. If your from Oahu and like Marian's fish tempura, Hiro's is better. If you need catering pans, this is our go to place. chicken katsu, fish tempura and nori chicken. You need small to large bentos for your kids sports teams, this is the place to go.“

“Whenever we fly to Hilo there are a few places we must visit before leaving. This is one of them. I'm glad that there are smaller regular size loaves of rainbow bread which make it easier to take omiyage on the plane than the very long ones before. When you cut into the bread you can see the pretty colors. The bread we brought back was way softer than what we got last April. Not sure if it's just me but I couldn't taste any fruit flavor or sweet bread flavor. I wanted to see if there were rainbow rolls but none to be found that day. The inside colors are so pretty. Maybe good to use to make cute finger sandwiches. Maybe I'll experiment and see if it will make good French bread for today's breakfast.“

“The lady was very friendly. The manapua was $2.25 each, and you can have it warm or cold. There is no minimum. They take cash only. It was very fast and the size and taste were good. I'll be coming here more as I crave for my manapua and pork hash I also ordered a lbs of charsui for $7. It was the ends of the crispy burnt parts. It was ono on a bed of hot rice.“

“Since moving from Oahu I've missed poi mochi. Finally decided to try the Poi Balls truck and get my fix. The poi balls were small and well-cooked, crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside. I really enjoyed the haupia balls, too. But the -real- star of the show was the smoked marlin dip! Cheeee! So good I could've eaten the whole container with a spoon. #SoOno.“