Arthur L.
Yelp
If you're cruising down Kuakini Highway in Kailua-Kona and blink, you might miss this unassuming little gem of a diner. No neon signs, no flashy gimmicks--just a classic local spot where the vibe is chill, the food is real, and the coffee is as Hawaiian as it gets.
This place is pure old-school, tucked into a small outdoor shopping center that feels like it hasn't changed since the '70s--in the best possible way. Walk in, and it's all family-style seating, warm aloha spirit, and that unmistakable smell of comfort food sizzling away in the kitchen. It's the kind of spot where locals hang out, chatting over plates piled high with food that feels like a hug. Tourists? Rare. That's your first sign you've struck gold.
I thought to try their loco moco. Let's start with their loco mocoa quintessential Hawaiian classic that feels like breakfast, lunch, and dinner rolled into one. The waitress bought this huge plate of white rice (fluffy and perfect), topped with a juicy hamburger patty, two perfectly cooked sunny-side-up eggs, and smothered in savory brown gravy. It's rich, hearty, and hits every comfort food note you're craving. Every bite is a reminder that simple, well-done food can be downright transcendent.
I couldn't resist also ordering their Chantilly Belgian waffle. This thing deserves its own billboard. It's not just a waffle; it's an experience. Golden brown, light yet substantial, topped with sliced bananas, a generous sprinkle of diced macadamia nuts, and a drizzle of chantilly cream that's decadently smooth without being overly sweet. Add a cloud of whipped cream on top, and you've got a breakfast masterpiece that's indulgent without feeling over the top.
And of course, the Kona coffee. Bold, smooth, and with that unmistakable nutty finish that only Kona beans deliver. This is the kind of coffee that makes you want to linger and order another round, just because you can. So when the waitress came around asking if I wanted my coffee, all I could do was nod, as my face was constantly stuffed with food.
In a town known for beaches, sunsets, and tourists looking for the next big spot for selfies, this diner is refreshingly authentic. It's not trying to be anything but what it is--a spot where you can roll in, grab a plate of soul-soothing local food, eat and talk, and leave happier than when you arrived. For someone like me--a foodie who appreciates eating like the locals--it's exactly the kind of place that makes travel worth it.
Whether you're chasing nostalgia, looking for a hangover cure, or just wanting to eat like a local, this diner delivers. This is Hawaiian comfort food at its finest--no pretense, no nonsense, just really good food. If you're in Kailua-Kona, it's a mandatory pit stop. Don't overthink it; just go. I highly recommend.
