Quick Answer: For the best local food in Kona, my top recommendation is Broke Da Mouth Grindz in the Kona Coast Shopping Center. It’s known for generous portions of delicious Hawaiian and Filipino-inspired dishes like garlic furikake chicken and kalbi ribs, offering exceptional value and authentic local flavor.
Key Takeaways: Discovering Kona’s Authentic Flavors
- Authentic Local Experience: Broke Da Mouth Grindz offers a genuine taste of Big Island local cuisine, a stark contrast to typical tourist restaurants.
- Hawaiian & Filipino Fusion: The menu features a flavorful blend of Hawaiian and Filipino-inspired dishes, creating a unique culinary experience.
- Dan’s Go-To Order: A favorite combination is the garlic furikake chicken and kalbi ribs combo, a hearty meal that often serves two.
- Value & Portions: Expect large, satisfying portions at reasonable prices, making it a smart choice for families or anyone seeking great value.
- Convenient Location: Located in the Kona Coast Shopping Center, it’s easily accessible for a quick and delicious meal while exploring Kona.
Over nearly two decades selling luxury homes on the Kona-Kohala Coast, I’ve worked with hundreds of individuals considering Hawaii as a second home or vacation rental investment. One of the most common questions I hear is: “Where do you like to eat when you’re not showing homes?” Understanding the local lifestyle goes beyond real estate.
The answer is simple. What I call the Kona-Kohala Lifestyle Immersion System is the result of years of experience helping clients not just buy property, but truly integrate into the Big Island way of life. Rather than just explaining the system, here are answers to the most common questions clients ask about experiencing authentic local cuisine.
What’s the best local food in Kona for my Hawaii vacation rental trip?
Quick Answer: Broke Da Mouth Grindz offers some of the best local food in Kona, ideal for visitors staying in vacation rentals who want authentic, hearty, and flavorful Hawaiian and Filipino-inspired dishes.
When clients ask where to find the best local food while visiting, I recommend Broke Da Mouth Grindz. It’s a culinary cornerstone for locals and offers a true taste of island culture, far removed from resort dining. For anyone considering a long-term investment here, discovering these local spots is part of understanding the lifestyle.
The menu reflects Hawaii’s diverse culinary heritage, blending Hawaiian and Filipino influences. It’s where you experience true local “grindz” — good food that fuels the community.
Example: A typical plate lunch with a main dish, rice, and macaroni salad usually costs between $12–$18 and often provides enough food for two meals. By comparison, a single entrée at many resort restaurants can exceed $40.
Which Kona restaurant offers the best Hawaiian and Filipino food near my second home?
Quick Answer: Broke Da Mouth Grindz, conveniently located in the Kona Coast Shopping Center, consistently serves excellent Hawaiian and Filipino-inspired dishes, making it a favorite among locals and second-home owners.
For buyers exploring second homes on the Kona-Kohala Coast, finding favorite local spots is part of the decision process. This restaurant’s central location makes it convenient whether you’re coming from Holualoa or Kailua-Kona.
From savory kalbi ribs to sweet and savory mochiko chicken, the bold flavors make it memorable comfort food. Lifestyle matters just as much as square footage and ocean views.
Example: Many second-home owners report visiting at least once a week. The garlic furikake chicken regularly receives strong reviews on platforms like Yelp, with high overall ratings from hundreds of customers.
What are the must-try dishes at Broke Da Mouth Grindz?
Quick Answer: The garlic furikake chicken and kalbi ribs combo is a standout choice. The mochiko chicken is another highly recommended option for its sweet and savory flavor.
The garlic furikake chicken is crispy and flavorful, while the kalbi ribs are tender and juicy. The combo includes rice and creamy macaroni salad, making it a classic Hawaiian plate lunch. Portions are generous enough to serve as two meals.
The mochiko chicken is marinated, coated in mochiko flour, and fried until golden brown. It’s typically served with rice and pickled vegetables, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.
Example: The combo plate, priced around $18, often provides enough food for two meals, effectively reducing the per-meal cost to about $9 — significantly less than many Kona restaurant entrées that average $25 or more.
The Bottom Line: Savoring Kona’s Local Flavors
Exploring the local food scene is an essential part of experiencing the Big Island, whether you’re considering a second home or enjoying a vacation rental. Broke Da Mouth Grindz represents the authentic, value-driven spirit of Kona’s food culture and offers a genuine connection to island life.
I would not be surprised to see that once you try Broke Da Mouth Grindz, it becomes a regular stop on your visits to the Kona-Kohala Coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Broke Da Mouth Grindz good for families visiting Kona?
A: Yes. The restaurant is family-friendly, offers large portions at reasonable prices, and provides a casual atmosphere suitable for all ages. Families often spend around $50–$60 for a meal that feeds four people.
Q: What are the typical hours of operation?
A: The restaurant typically operates from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, and is closed on Sundays. It’s advisable to confirm current hours before visiting.
Q: Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
A: The menu focuses primarily on meat-based Hawaiian and Filipino dishes. Some side options may be available, but choices for strict vegetarians or vegans can be limited.
Q: Is it dine-in or takeout?
A: It is primarily a casual takeout restaurant with limited dine-in seating. Many locals opt for takeout.
Q: How far is it from South Kohala resorts like Mauna Lani or Mauna Kea?
A: From South Kohala resorts, it is approximately a 30–45 minute drive south to Kailua-Kona, making it a convenient stop when visiting the Kona area.