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    Koko Head Cafe

    4.2 (3.2k reviews)
    Closed 8:00 am - 2:00 pm

    Koko Head Cafe Photos

    Business Info

    KOKO HEAD CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Classy
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - Koko Head Cafe

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    Pork Dumplings All Day Wong
    Carrie K.

    Wow, first visit here on a Monday. We walked in and sat at the bar. It was the perfect seats to see all the dishes coming out of the kitchen. Bi bim bap was so delish as well as the marinated fish and delicately prepared eggs! How do they cook those light and fluffy eggs?? Dumplings were sooo tasty and could not get enough of the dipping sauce! Great service and servers all seemed to enjoy working there! Will be back to try more dishes!!

    Natty skillet
    Mark L.

    Natty skillet: Lots of different ingredients with some pickled veggies. The fried poke was better than I expected. Refreshingly different. The crispy rice on the bottom of the skillet is crunchy. Nice but tasteless. They have a breakfast bimbimbap which has gouchijan would make it so much better. And I did! I ordered a side of go chi Jang and it is so much better with the rice!! The morning milk shake warning - lots of alcohol. With bacon and granola... Not for me. Service was excellent. Our server was very attentive.

    Bottom of the Bowl, a dessert
    Gerry L.

    The world food tour duo reconvened at Koko Head Café in Kaimuki. I learned that this popular breakfast / brunch venue is now open for dinner, so I checked the menu, then made a reservation. We hadn't been in this restaurant since it was it was the 12th Avenue Grill ... The décor looked like it hadn't changed, we were seated at a table across from the bar, which was nice as it was quieter than the tables near the windows. We perused the menu and I ordered a 2023 Non Confunditur, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese from Toscana ($70). It was rich, full of dark fruit, and chocolate ... A surprisingly good wine available in stores for about $25. We opted for the Ulu Fried Feta ($24) and Mothers Mushrooms ($24) as appetizers and Mapo Tagliatelle ($36), Lamb Rendang ($44), and Garlic Rice Skillet ($10) for our entrée. Each appetizer was petite, colorful and flavorful, especially the ulu. It was topped with herb salad, slices of cucumber, candied pistachios and surrounded by a balsamic glaze and pieces of Ka'u orange. Slices of mushrooms were atop smoked goat cheese, topped by a frisee herb salad, kataifi and a soy vinaigrette. We wondered what the Mapo Tagliatelle would look like ... Imagine Mapo tofu with minced pork over Onda tagliatelle pasta, topped with fried shallots and cilantro. It was spicy with a good amount of heat; surprisingly good over pasta. I scooped spoonfuls of Mapo tofu atop the garlic rice. The rice was wonderful, crisped on the bottom and topped with a generous heaping of green onion and what looked like toasted millet. The lamb was so tender and so rich in flavor. It was served with pieces of fried ulu flatbread and came with three dishes of pickles, string bean, daikon, and pineapple (we think). I would have preferred naan bread with the lamb. The ulu flatbread was delicious, but it made a precarious platform for the lamb as it was very crispy. We had lots of leftovers but one must order dessert. We opted for the Bottom of the Bowl ($8). It was a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with fried cornflakes and salted caramel. I cannot eat ice cream, but I took a spoonful ... Yum! I had an Americano ($4.50) as they didn't have coffee. It was too light for my taste; give me real coffee every time. We enjoyed our time at Koko Head Café ... It was nice to see that it was pretty full when we left. The dinner menu is not large, but we were able to find dishes that appealed to us. There was a 5% Kitchen Service Charge added to the bill. I didn't notice it; I might have reduced the tip amount I left. ... Rating: 4.

    Ziang N.

    Koko Head cafe was recommended by many of my local friends, and the foods did not disappoint, I particularly love their specialty menu. We ordered everything and loved every single one of them. Highly recommend and love the friendly roosters wandering around at their outdoor seating, truly an authentic hawaiian experience!

    Bibimbap skillet
    Lisa R.

    Why haven't I been here before!! This was recently recommended by a friend of mine who recently moved here and Wowww! I have been under a rock for this one! Absolutely am so impressed by the quality and menu choices. The food comes out as pectin and the ideas and curations are so clever. Exactly what I have been wishing for. This is definitely not your local Denny's or IHOP. I am addicted. everything is over the top, delish.. hash browns, pancakes, mandoos , ( pot stickers) bibimbap skillet,the front hostess (Malia) is out standing we met the manager who served us then the second time we had a gentleman and server named JT I believe.. Such a gem of a place ..,will be back at least once a month. Love to all and hats off to the chefs !

    Volcano eggs
    Eowyn K.

    I'm a fan of Top Chef, and I was excited to try Lee Ann Wong's Koko Head Cafe for brunch. Our group went after hiking Diamond Head, so we came hungry. We didn't have a reservation, but they luckily had space and were able to seat us. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The interior is bright and airy, with local decor.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The service was amazing, the service in Hawai'i had been consistently friendly, but it was particularly good at the cafe. We tried a variety of brunch cocktails, all were well made. My friend also started with their rotating biscuit, she got the last vanilla biscuit of the day. It was amazing on its own, but it also came with an amazing butter and mixed fruit jam. I already knew I wanted their take on the loco moco, and decided to split this and the volcano eggs with a friend. Each came in a hot skillet, the volcano eggs reminded me of a Shakshuka. We did a mix of the veggies and sausage. The ingredients were perfectly paired in the right proportions. While it was a great dish, it was the loco moco that will continued to be talked about. The crispy rice, the flavor of the gravy, the right about of spice. It was perfect. Do not miss bunch here if you are on the island, and consider making reservations.

    Steak and Eggs
    Karlo G.

    Excellent brunch spot with a bit of wait. Highly recommend reservations and be prepared for some parking adventures. Our first time at Koko Head Cafe and was completely satisfied. The quoted wait time for a table during our visit was 45 minutes, however we're fortunate enough to secure a last minute availability at the bar. The space reminds me of a diner with bench seating areas. Their menu looked promising and we immediately decided on our entrees. My husband ordered the steak and eggs and I opted for the Koko Moco. The Koko Moco was served in a hot skillet. The crispy rice with the gravy was wonderful! The beef patty was perfectly cooked and topped with a sunny side egg. I tried my husband's steak and eggs which was also delicious. The Australian Wagyu steak was cooked medium rare, topped with hollandaise sauce, and served with a side of hash brown and rice. Drinks were also noteworthy. The queens mimosa was delightful. A perfect blend of sparkling wine, elderflower, and guava juice. Pricing was on the higher end however worth it. Service was excellent and I wouldn't hesitate to return to try other items from their menu.

    Interior
    Ryan E.

    Great place for brunch. We went on a Friday at noon and no wait. All servers were chill and friendly. Nice open feel. They have a good selection of local beers. The Koco Loco was great loco moco.

    Some special breakfast skillet I can't remember sorry!

    Koko Head cafe will probably earn a Michelin star if Michelin ever comes to Hawaii. What started off as one of my favorite brunch places has now become one of my favorite dinner spots as well. I have to try a baked good with my entree every time as the scones are always so unique in flavor. Waitstaff are efficient and friendly, restaurant is clean and has nice outdoor area, the food and drinks are killer. Perfect for a date night or outing with family.

    Kim S.

    We were nearby & on a whim, decided to pop in. My expectations were high due to being an avid brunch maker & the rave reviews. There was no wait for an outdoor table without reservations. Service: 3.5* Friendly, prompt & helpful with the menu. Food: $21 Ricotta Pancakes: 2.5* When they arrived, I was shocked to see them stacked because when I make lemon ricotta pancakes, they are light & airy & would not deflate them by stacking. These were heavy & dense. Not much flavor in the pancakes so a topping is a must. Nothing special. $26 Cornflake French Toast: 3* The French toast appeared to be deep fried. I tried a bite, it tasted good & had a crunchy exterior. Unfortunately the person who ordered the Cornflake French Toast does not care for black pepper, the server said the billionaire's bacon could be replaced with strawberries. Considering the regular (not billionaire's) bacon side is $6, expected a bunch of strawberries...Well, there was only 1 sliced strawberry. The server offered to replace the creamy black pepper maple with haupia syrup. When the bill arrived, there was a charge for the replacement. Overall was not impressed.

    Chicky and Eggs
    Steal R.

    We had the best time. We came here because we saw Chef Lee Anne Wong on Top Chef and we were so excited to try the good. It exceeded our expectations. We ate here after hiking Diamond Head and it made for a perfect morning. Assistant Manager Juan made us feel so special. Our server Ethan was so personable and really helped us pick out all the best dishes. We got a little of everything and shared. Every dish was delicious. You can't go wrong with anything.

    Mother Mushrooms
    Kawika V.

    We've always loved Koko Head Cafe for brunch, but their new dinner service completely won us over. After celebrating my dad's birthday here recently, we knew it would be the perfect Valentine's spot -- and it absolutely was. Executive Chef Lee Anne Wong truly runs something special at Koko Head Cafe. You can taste the intention in every dish -- layered, bold, and thoughtfully executed. If the dumplings are available, they're a must. Non-negotiable. Brunch here is homey and bustling, but dinner shifts into this warm, cozy vibe that feels intimate yet still spacious. (And yes -- the AC is freezing cold, so bring a layer .) Cocktails are just as impressive as the food -- beautiful presentation, bold flavor, perfectly balanced. Service is genuinely local and hospitable, the kind that makes you feel taken care of without being overbearing. Make a reservation -- dinner fills up quickly and you don't want to miss out. A true must-go in Honolulu.

    Kathleen L.

    The presentation is beautiful and the service is genuinely friendly. Overall, the experience is enjoyable, but for the price, the flavors fall short. They serve one of the better loco mocos I've had, and I appreciated their take on Korean bibimbap, but nothing extraordinary. We ordered the steak and eggs, which tasted great thanks to the sauce and crispy hash brown, but the portion was so small for a $40 dish. The Volcano Eggs themselves didn't really do it for me. All I tasted was basic tomato sauce, and the okra made the texture a little too slimy. I was SOOO disappointed by the French toast. I was really looking forward to it, but it just tasted like old oil. To make things worse, all of the bacon came out cold, like it had just been pulled from the fridge. If it wasn't for the boozy morning milkshake, I would have been more disappointed.

    Bibimbap - perfect balance of textures

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    Koko Head Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Koko Head Cafe

    Do they have happy hour for drinks?

    Yea Thursday and Friday this month

    Do they take reservations?

    They do not. They have a waiting list you can get on online up to 6 persons. More than 6 you have to call and they ask when you plan to arrive and will get you on the waiting list closer to the time you plan to be there. I called that morning for… 

    Menu clearly states "no substitutions" which makes it very limiting for those of us who are vegan. Any plans to offer vegan versions (not fake meat--just using things like tofu or beans instead?

    We have our Westie with us. We were wondering if the 'Dogs Allowed' was only for service dogs or all dogs?

    I am certain they allow dogs on the outdoor patio!

    Do they do takeout?

    yes, you can call ahead!

    Do you need to bring a huge bag of $$$? Asking for a friend.

    Check the menu on line. Prices seemed average.

    See that they have an 18% service charge for parties of five or more...is there an additional 5% service charge for the back of the house on top of that!?

    Yes, that is correct.

    Does anyone know when the restaurant will open? The website is listing both Wednesday the 16th and Friday the 18th as the opening date?

    They reopened on the 18th of March at their new location, just 1 block away (former restaurant was 12th Ave Grill)

    Closed bc they're moving?

    I just saw the sign at their restaurant. They're moving to 1120 12th Ave. tried to scope it out, but only 12th Ave grill seems to be there still.

    Do they deliver?

    I believe they are on Grubhub and door dash for delivery options

    How is parking in this area?

    There is a large paid parking lot in the center of Kaimuki about a block away and metered spaces within a block as well. Pretty decent parking depending on what time of day you go.

    Do they sale Gift Cards?

    Yes they do! I bought one😊

    Do they take Reservations for Mother's Day Breakfast?

    As far as I know they do not take reservations, easiest way is to send someone ahead to put name on list. They do sit quickly though even when busy. Normally no more than 20-30 min wait at it's busiest

    Any vegan options?

    Yes Avocado toast!

    View All 18 Questions

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    Plantoem

    Plantoem

    4.7
    (187 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $
    Locally owned & operated
    Boutique

    We need more plant shops like this on island!…read more I love coming here to get my plant fix. The plants are so beautiful and every time I go, an employee has helped me. It was also very nice because I wanted a specific plant and they took my name down so they can let me know when it comes in. One of my favorite plant shops on island!

    Iniital visit the other day to Plantoem...a cafe / plant nursery. It's been open for awhile on…read moreWaialae Avenue in what may be the smallest two-story shopping plaza in town, Lafite Plaza. Go up the ramp to dedicated parking stalls for patrons; avoid the stalls demarcated, reserved. There are street metered stalls along Lafite and, the adjacent structure, Kaimuki Plaza. Plantoem offers a relaxing ambiance upon entrance. Navigate the jungle of plants to access the cafe counter. I requested the Yerba Mate which is only available for in-house. A container with filtered straw was provided alongside a thermal carafe...there was enough hot water for 2.5 servings. The barista was a bit bemused when I ( humorously ) mentioned I swallowed some sediment from the straw...not being used to drinking yerba mate in this traditional way. I felt a little less of a gringo after that beverage. The main dining area is to the left. A nook to the back of the counter is a laptop/device free zone...and I sat in that hideaway...perused a book on interior design ( a few books are available) ...and enjoyed the yerba mate. Hours are from 700a till 500p - Mondays thru Thursdays. Fridays are 700a to 700p. Saturdays are 1000a - 700p. Sundays: 1000a until 500p.

    Photos
    Excellent Macchiato coffee and canelé pastry at Plantoem Café in Kaimuki Honolulu Hawaii
    Excellent Macchiato coffee and canelé pastry at Plantoem Café in Kaimuki Honolulu Hawaii
    Great music and drinks at Plantoem Café in Kaimuki Honolulu Hawaii
    Great music and drinks at Plantoem Café in Kaimuki Honolulu Hawaii
    Plantoem Café in Kaimuki Honolulu Hawaii hosts many local artists events for the community .

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    Plantoem Café in Kaimuki Honolulu Hawaii hosts many local artists events for the community .
    Lotus Cafe

    Lotus Cafe

    4.1
    (48 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $

    Matcha latte with raspberry syrup. Matcha was a deep green and raspberry was a good flavor. Not too…read moreoverpowering but an extra flavor. Cafe has adequate tables though. It is quiet here with soft music. Note that 20% tip is automatically selected when paying by card. I wasn't paying attention and just advanced forward. So pay attention if you want to adjust tip amount. Paid parking in the lot behind and easy entry through the back door.

    The Lotus Cafe is located in the heart of Kaimuki and well represents the small-town vibe in which…read moreit sits. The space is clean and comfortable with couches, tables, small chairs, and counter space for a variety of patrons. I went on a weekday, and it was comfortable and quiet, and there was plenty of space to find a seat. The bathroom was accessible and incredibly clean for a town bathroom. Whether you're studying, hanging out with friends, doing work, or just listening to music as I was; the space is proper, and the coffee is even better. I had chosen a hot chai latte with almond milk for this rainy day and sat near the window to just enjoy the vibes. It was delicious and perfect for the weather. Not too spicy and a great foam on top. Pricing is reasonable, and they even offer food items that you can munch on with your coffee. Perhaps I'll have to try the food during a future visit. The staff was friendly and quick with my order and even brought it to my table after ordering. I never felt rushed at all, and it was nice to have found a comfortable space to enjoy a nice cup during the rainy weather. I'll most certainly be coming back again next time I'm in the area.

    Photos
    Great atmosphere
    Great atmosphere
    Bruschetta on Housemade Focaccia
    Bruschetta on Housemade Focaccia
    Matcha Latte and Yogurt and Fruit Bowl with Granola

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    Matcha Latte and Yogurt and Fruit Bowl with Granola

    Koko Head Cafe - breakfast_brunch - Updated July 2026

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