Paul's Place

Absolutely adorable little spot. Delicious, fresh food. Super cozy. I loved everything about this place! I had the tuna bloom and my husband ordered the eggs Benedict.

Paul's place is a cozy spot especially for brunch! As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by Mr. Paul himself with a bright smile and welcomed us into his place. As we are in October, the place was decorated with fall decor. The interior is set for 3 tables and a direct view as the chef cooks our meal right on the other side of the counter. It was a special experience as he explained each of his dishes on the menu and then interacted with us as he was preparing our meal. We were there fairly early so was able to walk in but highly recommend to call in and set a reservation to ensure seating is available. We ordered the smoked salmon eggs Benedict with his special aioli sauce instead of the traditional hollandaise sauce. Also ordered the pasta de Marco which he stated was his signature dish for breakfast. It was a unique dish featuring noodles pan fried with eggs to create a light crispy base topped with salmon, bacon, tomatoes, capers, mixed greens. It was delicious and would definitely order it again. There is limited parking so may have harder time to find parking. Paul was a phenomenal host and highly recommend others to come visit and enjoy his delicious creations.

Kind service, amazingly delicious food! STRONG COFFEE, fresh smoothie. The mahi and shrimp in my fishbowl was cooked perfectly, delicately balanced with capers, tomato, onion, and olives. Perfectly toasted crustini to sop up all the delicious broth! The bacon eggs benedict included the best tomato I've had in a long time, incredibly fresh greens, watermelon, strawberry and a lightly sauteed zucchini. The bacon was flavourful, crisp but toothsome and portioned just right to balance the creaminess of the egg and hollandaise. Paul was very welcoming, describing each dish we asked about in precise detail, he clearly loves his work!

Mr Paul greeted me and my husband with “Good morning, Sunshine”, this is so sweet 😻 The breakfast caprese and eggs benedict were out of this world. The plates were full of color and flavor, the portions were decent and I loved that they were not too big. All food was organic, prepared with olive oil and egg yolks were orange which is a rare find at food establishments this time. The interior was cozy with lots of flowers and cute pieces artfully combined together. We absolutely loved our experience and will come back. Thank you 🌺

Where do I start?? The food was absolutely fabulous, the quaint restaurant was like a fun museum and Paul and his helper are the sweetest...definitely recommend and please don't be in a rush! Sit, relax, wait and enjoy!

Note: YOU MUST MAKE A RESERVATION BEFOREHAND!! Review: My family and I ate here for brunch and it was phenomenal. The atmosphere of this small café is intimate and absolutely darling. Paul was extremely accommodating and it was obvious to my family and I that Paul cook’s for passion and to truly make others happy. The food was stunning to look at and the taste was even better, absolutely no complaints to be heard from here. Our waitress was super sweet as well (I sadly didn’t get her name). Overall, my family and I will definitely will be back. 💕

(MUST MAKE A RESERVATION) What a gem of a place!! My partner and I have lived here for 3 years and just went today and we are in love! What a beautiful little place and an even more beautiful owner. We came to only realize that you needed reservations, fortunately they had a 12:00 spot available. We were starving, but decided to wait and boy are we glad we did. Paul is incredibly welcoming, so was the sever. And the food was out of this world, we had eggs Benedict, smoked salmon lettuce tomato sandwich and the Belgian waffles!! Wow oh wow was it incredible, best waffles I have ever had in my life. We will definitely make dining there a regular thing. Thank you for the wonderful experience.

If you ever get a chance to eat at this cafe, “do it!” Each meal is individually prepared. The food is outstanding. The presentation is perfect. And Paul, he’s quite the host. Make a reservation! You won’t be disappointed!

Just simply fabulous!! (Is that an oxymoron?). Small place which made it even better ..and the dishes Paul prepared were soooo good! Each was personalized and prepared fresh that one dish came at a time which was fine with us! It was worth ignoring that table etiquette and we dove right in to the food. The flavors were fantastic and blended so there was just the right amount of "yeah, that's a Benedict" and "wow!..didn't know a Benedict could taste like that!". GO! You will not regret it! So... the added strawberry on top of the waffle...hehe..was it was my 60th birthday we were celebrating in Hilo and when Paul and his niece maybe (?) found out, I was given the "queen" treatment complete with a tiara and birthday sash to take with, and presented with a birthday waffle plate that was one of the most special experiences in this 60th year of life so far! Thank you from the bottom of my heart ., to the top of my happy stomach for such a wonderful gift!

YOU MUST MAKE RESERVATIONS AHEAD OF TIME !!!!! Reserve ahead of time or you most likely won't get seated. There's very limited seating inside maybe 3 tables at most. Everything is cooked in the small kitchen so dishes come out 1 by 1. I ordered the breakfast caprese and it was quite delicious. Blistered tomatoes with 2 eggs cheese zucchini onion Kalamata olives on a crostini. Very fresh and seasoned well. You can't go wrong with fresh ingredients. Knocking off a star since it was a bit pricey for what you get. Overall it was a lovely experience. Very intimate setting.

The anticipation, building for weeks. Why? Compliment after compliment, all great reviews on social media. I've read it. For a place I've never been to before. Yes, I'll be there! I jumped on the opportunity when an invitation from friends came my way. It was shopping that morning, a crazy one. Bright and early, store after store. After all, it was Black Friday. Reservations were at 11:30am on 11/29/24, party of three. Here's how the story unfolds, at a cozy place called Paul's Place in historic Downtown Hilo. Arriving early, I found a perfect parking spot. On the street, safe and close to my destination. Meandering outside of a wooden yellow building, white accents along with green added a plantation-style look. How nostalgic. And there's even a cute window, I can see people dining. It must be there. Into a swinging wooden screen door, above a sign to a place called Pakalana Inn. Is this how I enter? Clueless with hesitation, I did just that. Enter. Five steps up, warm wood tones immediately invited me into a cozy room with three tables. Two of which were put together for a 4-top, they were already dining. The other was set for three. Hmmmm, it must be ours. It's almost 11:30am. Thinking the extension of this small dining area must be up the remaining stairs, I continued on and found myself in a bit of a confused state. There's rooms up here! So descending back down the stairs, the cozy dining area with three tables appeared again. I asked myself, can this be? This small area be Paul's Place? I was in utter shock and amazement. My two friends arrived. It was time for brunch. THE MENU. Brunch specialties found on a chalkboard by the dining entrance, lunch items on a menu above the kitchen. Beverages are limited to hot coffee or hot tea and a smoothie of the day. ORDERING. Paul took our order. Remembered each item by memory. Explained that since there is only one electric burner w/ one pan, the two identical pasta dishes my friends ordered will not arrive at the same time. Patience is key, worth the wait. Trust me. COOKING + PREPARATION. To my amazement, the kitchen is located in the small dining room. And, Paul cooks everything. Freshly prepared. One dish at a time. I stood up and watched in awe. Like a Chef's Table dining experience, but better. This one doesn't cost an arm-and-a-leg. THE FOOD. "Pasta de Marco". Brilliant angel hair pasta preparation, tasteful with every bite. Beautifully composed, a symphony of flavors done well. Chef's fresh choice of toppings, melted cheese and a drizzle of pesto. Magnifico! "Smoked Salmon Benedict'. Sliced baguette as a base, his take of a hollandaise sauce done dill cream style. Stunning. Warm sliced grapes and cucumbers were a huge surprise. Details that truly elevated a simple, light dish. I was just expecting potatoes of some kind. But then, my starch replacement arrived. My friends ordered the most popular dish on the menu. "Belgium Waffles". Fluffy, buttery, absolutely delicious. Topped with sliced bananas and fresh pineapple, a dollop of whipped cream. Warm maple syrup in a ceramic pot, how aesthetically pleasing. Marvelous in every way. This is a must try to share. As an end dish like we did. The perfect "icing on the cake". AMBIANCE. Cozy and quaint. Yet filled with lots of personality. In everything that's offered, all that's surrounding. You'll find no china and silverware here. Dining kept simple, yet with grace and style in a charming, yet subtle way. A place that feels as if dining at someone's house. A pleasure to be here, lucky to have been invited by friends. SERVICE. Paul delivered each dish to the table with the help from a sweet woman named Sara. She also made sure our water cups were full and table maintenance throughout was extended. Paul conversed with us, even pulled out a couple of jokes. It was laughter and smiles. Serving us as "family" with a warm embrace. Delightful in every way. An extremely charming and captivating dining experience and venue. Tailored to each diner's reservation. Yet, not at all a high-end private chef's dinner or omakase experience. Surprisingly the complete opposite. Simple and humble. None like anything I've ever experienced before in my life. A bold yet extremely honest statement I standby. 100%. As the table of four next to us departed, hugs were exchanged. Not with each other, but with the chef/owner himself. It was hugs with Paul. His positive aura allured them in, so much that a future reservation was in discussion. "Here, take my card. Call me on my cell phone when you have the date and I'll hold a table for you." I smiled hearing that and watched him take an already personalized dining experience to a whole new level in seconds. My experience and overall impression. Deliciously prepared, executed with care. Love and details in each dish. Charming in every way. My heart is content. Personality at it's best. Paul's Place. Reservations highly recommended. See you there....

All store front great food make reservation nice small cafe everything made to order friendly staff home feel

You need a reservation or some luck. This place is minutes from Hilo airport and a remarkable place to eat... if you can get in. The food is remarkable and Paul, the owner/chef is a treasure. The problem is the restaurant has only three 2-person tables. I had their Smoked Salmon Benedict. It was soooo tasty. Everything was fresh. I also tasted some of the lightest-yet-still-with-some-crunchiness Belgian Waffle I've ever had. And the coffee was remarkable, even for Hawai'i. If you're flying into Hilo, you're minutes away from Paul's Place. Do yourself a favor and make this place your first stop on the way to Volcanos National Park (or whatever you're doing). It's a great way to start your day.

My love, my soulmate said (after dining at Paul's Place) "This is the best meal he ever had in Hilo" & I agree with him. Paul's Place is a GEM in downtown Hilo. All thanks to my coworker, we were talking about Hilo and how he looks forward to his visit at Paul's Place, he recommends this biz. I searched Yelp and bookmarked PP. During February, I had no luck with getting a reservation but luckily a last minute trip to the Big Island this past weekend, I got a 1 pm time slot, Yay, I'll take it. Which was perfect as I got more time to explore Hilo before breakfast and got to check out the shops and farmer's market nearby. I love it when the stars aligned! Keep in mind, the restaurant is very small & cute, only 3 tables and run by chef/owner Paul, reservations are totally recommended. Love the fun, charming decor Paul mentioned the decors are done by his girls. while waiting for our meals, I noticed Paul prepares meals with just 1 skillet and 1 burner, in his cute little kitchen space. Wow. he got great cooking skills! Since we already had breakfast and were still stuffed, we tried and opt for lunch options, a few of the items on the menu were sold out, got 2 entrees: Pasta De Marco and Fish Bowl and they were Amazing dishes. Pasta de Marco ( $24.95) I've never had anything similar to this entree ever, I loved it. Everything on this plate went so well together and cake noodle but Italian style, wow! Fish Bowl is market price ($29.95) reminds of a stew/cioppino, comes with shrimp and fresh fish of the day which is Mahi Mahi, on bed of pasta and bread. As I was eating this, it brought back memories of Mama's Fish House, everything taste so fresh in that bowl of goodness! The famous waffles, we were super stuffed and only could have a few bites! Omg, fresh crispy Belgium waffles with fruits and just the right amount of sauce, not too sweet. I loved this, never had waffles for the longest time and it hit the spot. The last waffles I had was the frozen Belgium waffles from Costco, hehe years ago. Thank you Chef Paul & his one staff team, it was really nice meeting and chatting with you! He is super friendly, before dining at Paul's I was kind of scared/shy due to me being anti social at times but don't worry he is really a cool super nice guy! Totally recommend, you can THANK me later as I will be thanking my coworker for the recommendation, when he is back from Summer break! As of now, I am texting Chef Paul to get me in for next month, hehe. I want to try the benedict, need more Pasta De Marco and waffles tooooo!!

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED to this tiny restaurant with just two tables! Really enjoyed the fantastic breakfast here at Paul's Place. I had a stack of Belgium waffles that were topped with lots of fruit and came with heated syrup. I added on bacon and it came out just like I like it, extra crispy! My wife had the eggs benedict that Paul admitted was non-traditional, but the egg was poached perfectly and was paired with lots of veggies and fruit. Best part of our breakfast was the service. Paul and his staff engage with everyone like they're family or longtime friends. Prices are a tad high, but each dish is hand made fresh and he takes his time to make sure you're satisfied with your meal. Please remember to text him for reservations so you aren't turned away, I believe he takes up to a week in advance.

Always make reservations in advance if you want to eat here. I saw at least 10 groups of people get turned away. This place is a gem and Paul is such a nice and creative fellow that cooks with heart. On our table of three, we had the Belgian waffles, pasta de Marco and the Caprese breakfast. The waffles were nice and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside - served with whipped cream, banana and strawberries. Chef's pasta de Marco is such a different dish for breakfast, but a wonderful surprise - angel hair pasta cooked with olive oil and held together with an egg; and topped with pesto, Mediterranean green olives, bits of bacon, salmon and more (comes with 2 pieces of bread). The Caprese breakfast had assorted tomatoes, mozzarella, fried egg on a crostini with bacon and assorted fruits and radish. Overall, service is always excellent, food is so delicious and I love how small and intimate this place feels. I look forward to coming here again when visiting Hilo.

We had such a beautiful experience here for breakfast! The service, the ambiance & the FOOD hands down one of the best. The plates of food are so fun and different than your average breakfast! Would go again and again. Good thing to know is that it's a small place with 3 tables of two.

What a great find! Paul is an amazing chef and each meal is prepared with love and kindness. He gets my best review ever. I'm taking a friend there for her birthday. You have to have a reservation since he only has room for 3 small tables. It's an awesome experience!

Went to Paul's Place with a group of 5 for breakfast. The place only can fit two groups so make reservations ahead of time. This small cozy spot is the perfect place if you want something more intimate. The food is always good and the owner Paul makes the experience so enjoyable. We ordered the Belgian waffle, salmon Benedict, breakfast caprese, pasta Marco, and the smoothie of the day. Nothing but perfection if you ask me. I'm such a fan of this place and you definitely need to check them out if you're in Downtown hilo.

By chance, I ended up with my daughter-in-law's reservation since she couldn't make it--lucky me! I haven't been able to book my own because of my constant traveling. But, oh my goodness, Paul's cooking never disappoints. The waffle is always a winner, but let me tell you, the Pasta de Marco was absolutely delicious!

Amazing and truly unique twists on popular entrees! Paul and his lovely staff are very funny and friendly. Reservation required!

Tip: Make reservations! You can either call, text, or DM through IG. You won't be able to dine without one and will be politely turned away. There are only 3 tables and a small kitchen area. Cute decorations. Very small, quaint cafe located inside an Inn. Close by to the Saturday farmers market too. The owner Paul is probably one of the nicest people I've ever met in my life. Very personable and genuine. Megan the waitress was awesome and funny! Service was very attentive. We came to visit a few months ago, but still wanted to show some love and support for this local cafe. The food was amazing!!! Everything we tried was delicious and we cleaned up all the plates. The Belgium Waffle is a MUST. Perfectly crispy with fresh fruits. The Salmon Benedict was a different spin without the hollandaise sauce, he tops with a unique aioli that was tasty. The Chef's recommended pasta was very good as well, different take on it. I highly recommend dining here if you're in Hilo! I can't wait to come back next time I am visiting.

Very friendly owner, but the place is very small, and you need reservations which the owner arranges by text message.

Paul is a wonderful human being. He made me feel like I was in my favorite uncle's kitchen. He took care of me like family. The breakfast was spectacular, unlike anything I ever had. I had a pasta and egg breakfast called pasta di Marco. Also shared the caprese breakfast. Everything was amazing. I'm highly recommend the tiny restaurant with the kind soul who owns it. Gracias Paul.

Always a special dining experience at Paul's. I think his food taste good because of Paul's smile. My favorite is still his Belgian waffles. Wow, brok da mouth! Limited seating, so make sure you call in or text for reservations.

Reservation required and no takeout available! Okay, now that's out of the way, the owner is super friendly and personable. The food tastes so fresh and the ingredients are definitely high quality! It is right next to the Hilo farmer's market, so it is easy for them to run across and get fresh ingredients. I went with my mom and fiancé and we all loved it. My mom really cleaned off her plate (which she usually never does) and said it was the best food she had on the Big Island during our trip!

RESERVATION REQUIRED!! It was sad to see all the people being turned away :( I ordered the Belgian waffles and they were the best waffles I can remember ever eating. They were incredibly light which I enjoyed because it meant I could finish the whole plate and not feel sick or over full later. The waffles had a nice hint of lemon flavor and the exact right texture I wanted as a person who does not enjoy heavy breakfasts. The restaurant only has 2 tables and is cozy and inviting. The decor is really cute and there is a lot without it feeling overwhelming. Paul was so so nice and friendly throughout the meal. He said he doesn't have plans to expand because he likes having conversations with his guests and I enjoyed his presence.

Such a nice, cozy little place Paul has. He is an amazing host and chef. I got Tuna Bloom the first time I dined there, and Salmon Eggs Benedict for the second time. They were both excellent!! They only have 3 tables so must make a reservation. It's worth it!

Hidden gem in Hilo! Must make reservations. Paul was so lovely to work with in securing our reservation, which I made a few weeks in advance. Our flight was cancelled and moved to a later time, and thankfully, Paul was able to move us to his last seating at 1pm. Parking is located across the street on a gravel lot. You can see your car from the restaurant. Entering the restaurant you feel taken back to an Aunt's house who you haven't visited for a long time and missed. Clean and homey feel throughout. Now let's get to the food! Pasta de Marco (angel hair pasta) and Fish Bowl Pasta (spaghetti pasta) dishes were exactly what we needed after a long morning of cancelled flights and not eating since the night before. The fish was cooked PERFECTLY. The pasta was cooked PERFECTLY. Belgian waffles (there was more than one waffle) dessert tasted like a waffle, funnel cake, and beignet had a baby. So DELICIOUS! He also topped it off with some vanilla ice cream, which we did not mind at all. His menu options also include salads, sandwiches, and various Benedict options. A nice mix of food and flavors. We learned a few things about Paul throughout our meal, which he may share with you when you go in and dine. His assistant was also very sweet and worked hard keeping everyone's water filled and tables cleared. This place is a definite must eat when you are in Hilo town. Please consider supporting this small business.

Truly Hilo's best! Everything is delicious! A little spendie but, a nice treat every now and again!

There is a reason why Paul's Place really only has stellar reviews--because it is exactly THAT good. I try to come at least once a month because I cannot go too long without devouring his delicious waffles! Paul's Place never fails to deliver fresh, quality, and unique dishes without overwhelming customers as his menu isn't too extensive. The place really only has three tables so making a reservation is a MUST here but TRUST me when I say to do the pre-planning as you will regret not coming here at least once. It is a cozy, intimate setting with Chef Paul creating his amazing dishes to order. I recommend eating as soon as you get your food as I believe he only has two burners. Do not miss trying the waffles, fish bowl, and his unique take on the salmon Benedict! His aioli makes my mouth water every time. It has never been a bad time at Paul's Place. Thank you Paul for your food and the heart you put into all your dishes :)

Pauls Place takes you into a different dimension. His small and quaint space is comforting and welcoming. Almost feels like you're home. His food is exquisite EVERY TIME. His staff is kind, friendly and the perfect match for the ambiance.

Small and cozy spot with a fresh and tasty menu. Service is super personalized because there's a limited number of tables. Best coffee and brunch I've ever had while dining out

Great , cozy , personable place. Perfect name for it too. It's an intimate 3 table place. Food presentation is beautiful and unique, I love the touch of creativity and outside the box serving. Thank you for taking us in as walk ins! We loved it!

Deserves 10 stars on a 5 star scale. Worlds best hollandaise sauce - try the salmon Benedict. Super tasty smoked salmon on the salmon blt. Paul is a true gem and a pleasure to talk to. Small place. Only takes 6 people at a time. Reservations are mandatory. Just go!

My husband and I throughly enjoyed Paul's Restaurant, he was a gracious host with incredible food that was presented beautifully...it was a work of art. We will definitely be coming back~

Thanks Paul. Great meeting you and your niece. Our breakfast was wonderful. The waffle was light and fluffy and the breakfast Caprese was creative and memorable. Both were delicious and we'll definitely be back to try some of your other offerings. If anyone is interested in experiencing his delicious food and gracious hospitality, make sure to call in for reservations. 5 out of 5 shakas for you brah.

Pauls Place is truly the best food you will taste in Hilo. The food and the service is off the charts. A reservation is a must as tables are limited. I have been here before and wanted to have breakfast at Paul's place celebrating my birthday and I was not disappointed. The owner and chef, Paul is a very kind and thoughtful person. He always comes out and checks on you and answers questions about the menu. He is also great about talking story and likes to get to know his customers. The menu might look limited but has everything you could possibly want and more. The food is always fresh and delicious, best Belgium Waffles and Eggs Benedict I have ever tasted. The quality of the food is amazing and dining experience is unmatched in Hilo. Mahalo Paul for the amazing experience and making my birthday memorable.

Fabulous food in a small cafe. Reservations are a must. But they lose two stars for so much single use plastic.

Everything was perfect. Paul, the friendly owner/chef n Sora, the server, were wonderful hosts. The Salmon Benedict, the best I've ever had. Fun, holiday decor. You need reservations. Best breakfast in the State.

What a perfect find! This place is special. Be sure to call or stop in for a reservation ahead of time because everything here is done to perfection. Being here during a rainstorm was a blessing and I only wish the loft was a cozy dining spot where I could stay a while! Come hungry because not only is the menu super-tasty, it's all super fresh and perfect for all your IG pics.

Second time going there today and everything was perfect! The food was amazing and unique 10/10, full of flavor and fills you up. Highly recommend their Belgian waffles and breakfast pasta Uncle Paul and the girl running the place were super sweet and welcoming. You can tell Paul is very passionate about his restaurant and the vibes are always so good! Ambiance is very bright and open. There are only three 2-seater tables so get there quick or call for reservations. Overall such a good experience and would definitely go there again.

After walking two miles to come for breakfast bc of the high rating, i walk in to find 3 tiny tables. On the first floor. A second floor closed off by a chair. You need a reservation is what i was told, but i get the impression it's a "reserved for locals" kind of place.

Best fish in Hilo was absolutely delicious please please make a reservation for this place you won't regret it! Not to mention the owner has so much character and heart. His small restaurant is quaint and homey with big flavor!

Went there for Mothers Day breakfast and had some creepy guy walk in and start flirting with my wife.....she hated that. Then the dude puts some cheap plastic princess crown on her head...asked me if it's ok to kiss her to which I said "absolutely NOT" and the dude did anyways. ...she wanted a nice Mother's Day breakfast so I made the choice not to kick the guys ass right there and be nice. The food, crappy, mediocre cooked on a Walmart portable electric stove. The coffee, $5 for a nespresso pod. The service...some poor girl that is probably made to feel creeped out every day by that guy....some old man that hires young girls to perv out on I bet. The 5-star ratings have to be bought as this place is -5 stars and should be shut down. Avoid this dump if you want a nice meal and good service. McDonald's is better than this joke of a restaurant.

Paul's Place is my favorite breakfast, lunch/brunch spot. Not only is the food always so incredible Paul and his girls are always so friendly and personable. I can't rave about this place enough. My personal favorite is Pasta De Marco and the waffles but you really can't go wrong with anything from here.

Second time here in 2 days and WOW yet again!! We felt at home, comfortable, not rushed and the breeze was nice. Paul is family now, he exudes the aloha life and draws you in not only by feeding you but getting to know you!! We had the fish bowl and the tuna bloom and..wait for it..the most amazing Belgian waffles we've ever tasted! Wish we were staying on island as originally planned but heading to mainland again. We will take this place with us in our hearts and Paul will forever be family!

Paul's Place is unique and quirky. With only 3 tables for 2 a reservation is mandatory. Paul and his server are only a few feet away in a mostly open kitchen. The service is friendly, attentive but not overly pushy. The food is very good, working from a limited menu he serves up about 6 to 8 breakfast items. He also serves lunch but we've never been. All in its by far the best breakfast place in Hilo. With tax and tip we spent about $35 each. Certainly not cheap but well worth it. Thank you Paul for a memorable anniversary breakfast.

Love this place. Such a quaint and personal atmosphere. Not only is Paul a chef, he's also an artist and lovely personality. Highly recommend the eggs Benedict and Caprese - will definitely try his lunch next time

I enjoyed the food here. Good place to check out. Trying to get enough characters to finish the review is ridiculous

While a three-table restaurant may sound daunting, Paul's Place is the perfect place for breakfast or lunch in Hilo. The food is fresh, imaginatively served, and delicious. Not to be missed!

My mom, husband, and I tried Paul's Place this morning for breakfast after receiving a recommendation from a dear friend. Wow! Paul's Place is a "hidden gem" in Hilo! My husband and I moved back to Hilo after living in Southern California for 38 years to take care of my elderly mother. Paul's Place reminded us of The Ivy in Los Angeles. The atmosphere exudes charm and warmth with its cheery table settings, whimsical Japanese lanterns hanging from the ceiling, and fascinating collection of pictures on the wall. The food is amazing! Paul explains each dish if you ask him. My mom and husband had the Belgian waffles, and my husband added the crispy bacon. I ordered the Pasta de Marco, which is pan-fried angel-hair pasta with mozzarella (?) cheese, smoked salmon, bacon, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh arugula, and a dollop of pesto. It was spectacular! My mom and husband loved their Belgian waffles. It is topped with whipped cream, fresh bananas, blueberries, strawberries, and pineapple. The Belgian waffles are incredibly light, crisp, and fluffy. The coffee was also heavenly. It is frothy and delicious. Every dish is prepared with love and care by Paul. He is an amazing "one-man show" in the kitchen. The most important reason for visiting Paul's Place is Paul himself. He is an amazing person. Paul lives and breathes the "Aloha Spirit." One can feel his warm personality and kindness. We got there at 7:30 am and enjoyed talking with Paul. He was very kind to my elderly mother and helped her as she walked up the five steps. I can't recommend this place enough! We will definitely be back! Please note that you must make a reservation via text (808) 280-8646 since the place is very small.

This is my 5th time at Paul's since 2018-19 and it's a unique and wonderful experience. There are only 3 tables w/Paul seating you, taking orders and cooking. There's one assistant who helps w/beverages/ bills/questions. His menu is phenomenally unique and wonderful. BUT, because he's the only cook, each plate is served in succession and your meal will get cold if you wait to eat them at the same time. Also, be patient! And enjoy the experience (he's as nice as he is a great cook)! If you can avoid being "time urgent", you'll be so happy you went. & Make your reservation well in advance! (Only breakfast/lunch, , open 7:30-2, closed Sun/Mon/Tuesday)

The food is amazing!!! I love their Fish Bowl and you gotta try the waffles!!! I always have the intention of trying something else on the menu, but since I don't go there as often as I want to, I go to my favorites! The service is always on point! Love Paul and whomever is there serving. I have all good experiences here!!! I love that it's a very cozy little place to eat. A couple of tables, not for a big group of people.

Paul's Place is incredible. You can feel it. Genuine, intimate, the people, the presentation. Quality all the way around. The food was everything I hoped for. The options are plenty, each carefully crafted with purpose. I cannot wait to come back. I was extremely lucky with timing, you will need to call for reservations or stop by to do so in advance. The experience was more than good food, they made me feel like we were old friends, and when I come back I'll know we are. Good stuff, I'll see you next time Paul. Ward

What a great place! Paul is wonderful and the food is amazing! Make your reservations.

Heard so much about Paul's Place that I needed to try it out and see for myself. Since we were planning a trip to Hilo to participate in the return of the Merrie Monarch Festivities, I decided to book a reservation several months ahead at Paul's Place. As soon as we walked into this quaint little restaurant my husband and I were immediately greeted by Paul and Megan. Their hospitality comes so naturally we immediately felt at home and comfortable. It was quite a coincidence that my husband and Paul are the same age and they had the same friends. They seemed to have had a great time reminiscing about their childhood memories of growing up in Kona! Now let me say that the food is absolutely wonderful and delicious! Paul does wonders with his magnificent creations. I chose the Belgian Waffle which literally melted in my mouth! I've never tasted anything like it before which I can honestly say is totally amazing! His presentation of the dishes are such a delight to your senses that we could not wait to taste them! My husband ordered the Smoked Salmon Benedict. He raved about the hollandaise! Paul put his own spin on the sauce which came out amazing! If you're ever in Hilo, visiting and eating at Paul's Place is a must-do! It's best to make reservations ahead of time in order to secure a table at the time and on the date you select. As the saying goes, " you snooze, you lose" if you don't try out Paul's Place. It's an amazing epicurean adventure! We will definitely be back!!!