Kawika S.
Yelp
It's a getaway in a getaway. I'd heard about Hula Hulas before I got there, but I was just told it was a great place to grab a drink. What it really was a great place to find serenity. It was an oasis in the middle of a barren desert! Well, maybe "barren desert" is a bit dramatic but considering you would think Hilo is all relaxing, this place is the real deal. I'm only talking about the setting. It's on the ground floor, pool side which is also ocean side overlooking a humble yet gorgeous Hilo bay.
Now let's get to the food. They have a decently sized menu. Just a couple of appetizers, with a couple of main dishes, and a decent amount of pizza selections. While there I tried the pot stickers and calamari from the appetizer menu and the bacon cheeseburger with garlic fries. Everything I had was freshly made. Nothing was ever sitting before it was served. Judging by the temperature, as soon as it was plated it was on its way to me. To speak to that fact, I was always given my food by someone different. Getting the order out to you immediately was a point of emphasis for them and as a consumer, I couldn't be more appreciative. And yes, even during their amazing happy hour rush. When they have live music and the pupus are crazy cheap, your food is out on time and fresh.
They make great drinks. From regular iced teas to Long Island iced teas (and believe me I know, because I always order both).
The staff there is great. Friendly, engaging and every bit the aloha experience you would expect in Hilo. Whether you're local or not. Which reminds me, you have to let them know that you're Kama'aina in order to get a discount (I'm sorry I don't remember off hand what it is, but it's at least 10%).
Also, on a personal note, I love the motif they got going on there. It's like Neo-artisan. It's got beautiful wood work blended with Modern furniture. Plus the art work everywhere is amazingly fitting with the surrounding adornment
But if you need to get away from your room or just want a chill vibe and some great scenery and company the staff and locale of Hula Hulas should be set in your maps and click the fastest route.
With any luck, I'll see you there.