Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo

Nestled in the heart of Hilo, Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo serves up an unforgettable island dining experience that embodies the very best of Hawaiian comfort food with a flavorful twist. This beloved local restaurant and cafe is celebrated for its hearty portions, welcoming atmosphere, and an eclectic menu that bridges classic Hawaiian favorites with savory Asian influences.

The vibrant menu at Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo boasts a rich variety of dishes designed to satisfy every craving. For starters, the Boneless Korean Chicken and Pulehu Lamb Ribs stand out as crowd-pleasers, each bite delivering a perfect harmony of smoky, succulent flavors that linger delightfully on the palate. The Ahi Poke Nachos and Kalua Pork Nachos offer a tantalizing fusion—crispy chips layered with fresh, marinated poke or tender, slow-cooked pork, smothered in luscious toppings that elevate these snacks to a must-try status.

Breakfast here is nothing short of legendary with the Punalu'u Sweet Bread French Toast and the Huge Pancakes drawing visitors back time and again. Imagine stacks of fluffy, golden pancakes that welcome buttery syrup and fresh island fruits or the unique, caramelized sweetness of the local sweet bread transform into a decadent French toast. The Mauna Kea Iced Coffee complements these dishes perfectly, cooling and invigorating in equal measure.

For those seeking heartier fare, the steak and chops offerings are remarkable. The 16oz Fat Ass Rib Eye Steak, adorned with aromatic garlic butter and grilled onions, is a tender, juicy delight, while the Pulehu Beef Short Ribs and Grilled Pork Chops bring bold, smoky flavors that showcase expert Hawaiian grilling traditions. House favorites like the Lechon, a crispy roast belly pork served with tomatoes, onions, and a savory patis sauce, provide an authentic taste of local island cuisine that invites you to savor every bite.

The atmosphere matches the food’s warmth—casual, inviting, and bustling with friendly staff who understand the importance of genuine aloha spirit. Whether you’re stopping in for a laid-back breakfast or a satisfying dinner, expect generous portions that ensure you won’t leave hungry, as many thrilled diners have attested. Tony Segura calls Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo “a great find” where the burger patties and chicken cutlet in gravy are highlights, while Lauren Neel raves about returning twice in one visit for breakfasts and dinners that impressed her taste buds every time.

Customers consistently praise the enormous servings, with Dakota Takeno emphasizing the “INSANE” amount of food and the friendly, attentive staff. Jean Du loves the “hulk size pancakes” and highly recommends the grilled cheese made with a perfectly toasted brioche Japanese-style bun—a testament to the cafe’s creative touches on classic comfort foods. Shak Em’s glowing review of the Korean fried chicken and ribs plate captures the spirit of dining here: generous portions, delicious flavor, and a warm local vibe that sets it apart.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor eager to taste authentic Hawaiian flavors with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo promises a gratifying culinary journey. Be prepared to dig into plate after plate of island-inspired goodness that’s crafted with care, served with aloha, and poised to keep you coming back for more.