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    Mama Kim’s

    4.6 (251 reviews)
    Open 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

    Order Mama Kim’s Takeout or Delivery

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    MAMA KIM’S ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Outdoor seating

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    Recommended Reviews - Mama Kim’s

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    Mama Kim's favorites
    Nicole I.

    I am a sucker for garlic seared salmon so I loved this!! Everything was super fresh and had the perfect amount of flavor. Nothing too overpowering which made it easier to just keep eating. The free miso soup for dine in was really nice too. Great service! I'd highly recommend!

    Michelle D.

    The photos looked so good that I had to check this place out! They offer both pre-made bowls and a build-your-own option, which I'm familiar with. I chose to build my own since their preset bowls were similar to others I've had. They offer mentaiko ahi and wasabi furikake ahi...both new to me. I wanted to try both, but since it was my first visit, I went with their popular limu option. You also get to pick two sides and all the toppings you'd like. We ordered a hand roll as well, and it was huge for the price, such a great value!! Overall, everything was delicious and definitely worth it. I would for sure come back for the handrollllllls.

    Julya B.

    Built my own boil...sooo yamyyy!spicy salmon and mintaiko ahi on salad base with edamame and seaweed salad

    Neba neba bowl
    Jodi H.

    The best poke bowl spot for variety and options. Mama Kim's is only a short bus ride from the Waikiki strip of hotels. I saw them on my IG reels and was stoked to come for a late lunch before an evening of surf. Their menu is extensive. I was low-key overwhelmed, so just went with the one that caught my eye. I love me some natto, and the Neba Neba caught my eye with that slow-cooked runny egg. I ordered as takeout, and they made my bowl within 10 mins. Super friendly and chill service. They also have local cans of juice and coconut waters for sale. Neba Neba was good, but I think I would try another bowl next time. If you're not a fan of runny texture, I would go for something else. My bowl was so colorful and healthy, I def got good ratio of protein to rice. Hella fresh and didn't leave me bloated.

    Inside
    Jill F.

    @fortunefoodfinds: "You're SHRIMP-ly adora-BOWL! Had to get my Mama Kim's fix. Crunch Bowl: minced spicy ahi, crab salad, shrimp tempura, crunchy toppings, unagi sauce. Cali Crunch Sushi Burrito: crab salad, shrimp tempura, cucumbers, avocado, unagi sauce, wrapped in nori n' sushi rice. With so many ono options to choose from, even more reason to come back for other items n' them some!" Staff: fully staffed [[HIGHLIGHT]]Interior: small, some bar seating[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Exterior: has a few outside tables n' chairs[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Wait time: 10-15 mins Parking: metered street Overall comments: they have a variety of options in poke bowls n' sushi burritos, to handrolls n' sides. Be sure to check out their Specials. Have enjoyed everything that we've ordered from all of our visits. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is something for everyone, including our kids.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] If you dine there you get a complimentary miso soup. The sushi burrito is great for on-the-go. Doesn't fall apart n' is yuMmmy. The crunch bowl has everything you want: the heat from the spicy ahi, crispy shrimp tempura, n' creamy crab salad. The food is really good n' has me coming back for more!

    Matthew C.

    Mama Kim's delivers bold flavors without trying to be flashy, and the spicy habanero trio is a great example of that. Each item had its own personality, but they all shared the same deep heat and seasoning that felt intentional rather than overpowering. The habanero spice built gradually and stayed balanced, letting the flavor come through instead of just the burn. Everything tasted fresh and well prepared, with portions that felt satisfying without being excessive. Service was warm and straightforward. Orders came out promptly, and the staff was happy to explain the menu and make suggestions, which is always appreciated when you are trying something new. It felt welcoming and unpretentious, the kind of place where regulars are clearly known. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambience is casual and comfortable, with a neighborhood feel that encourages you to relax and enjoy your meal.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Nothing overdesigned, just a space that matches the food and keeps the focus where it should be.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Overall, Mama Kim's is a solid go to when you want something flavorful, spicy, and thoughtfully made. I would gladly return to explore more of the menu.

    Kathy A.

    We walked a five mile round trip from Waikiki to find Mama Kim's after reading an article about the best poke on the island. Mama Kim's delivers! The fish is fresh, the rice is perfect and the crab salad is bomb. Didn't try the poke with sauce on it as a sashimi purist but would go back in a hot second! Super nice staff as well!

    Grant H.

    First stop to get poke, etc. For good parking in the side street. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's right in the business district on King St., so probably super busy on the weekdays.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We got lucky! Food was good, and it was a good so before going to Waiks.

    Kilauea bowl
    Kylie S.

    I love Mama Kim's. My uber eats history will confirm this lol I've literally ordered from them two days in a row.. My go to is always a two choice poke bowl, usually with spicy ahi and shoyu ahi. Comes with 3 sides, I usually go with avocado, crab salad and takuan. Definitely add on the toppings such as furikake or garlic chips! Bowls have the option of regular white rice or sushi rice (always get the sushi rice)! The fish is always fresh and good quality! I've also tried the Kilauea bowl which was seared salmon and spicy salmon with toppings like crab salad and unagi sauce. So yummy!! No question that I will continue to support them!

    Celine L.

    One of the top poke spots we went to. I love all the customizations they do to their poke and everything was perfect. Customer service is great, [[HIGHLIGHT]]seating is small, but the food was phenomenal.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Their fish and tamago egg is great and get all the toppings. Just delicious. I still dream about this place from time to time.

    Marissa K.

    Love their poke bowls! I got their spicy ahi with avacado poke bowl! This hit the spot! One of the best poke bowl spots on the island! Sooo good!

    Seared Garlic Salmon Poke- delicious!
    Michelle C.

    Delicious! Garlicky and fresh- perfect combos. Worth a bus ride from our Waikiki hotel.

    Poké with a view
    Sarah G.

    Mama Kim's famous poke was a delicious last meal in Honolulu. We got a half salad, half sushi rice bowl with soy salmon and tuna sashimi, seaweed salad (extra seaweed), cucumber salad, crab salad, garlic chips, furikake, Bubu Arare, and a spicy Ahi handroll. The poke was fresh, flavorful. The Pokéman were super friendly and we received a top notch service! A perfect goodbye to the island's food scene.

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    4 years ago

    Super friendly staff, fresh poke and great side options. They also have a ton of other options if you don't want a poke bowl.

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    5 years ago

    Had spicy tuna bowl, and it was fantastic! It's not a fancy place, but the food was fresh and delicious. We highly recommend!

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    5 years ago

    This place is kinda hidden. But highly recommend! The garlic seared salmon is yummy. Will definitely go back again.

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    Page 7 of 7

    Ask the Community - Mama Kim’s

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    Chao

    Chao

    4.4
    (404 reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$

    Went here on a Thursday night which was more like a Friday because Friday is an observed holiday…read morefor us, around 7:45pm and was expecting it to be super busy but luckily for us, it wasn't. We walked in and the hostess was super sweet. She informed us that they were wiping down a table and we got seated within 10 minutes. It was our first time here and we've both heard and saw good things but we asked for extra time to look over the menu and our server was patient and gave us more time and offered some recommendations as well. We chose a handful of small plates and the softshell crab pasta with all the extra stuff and it was the perfect amount of food for us. We were more wanting drinks and pupus so our selections fit that but I'm sure if we wanted an actual dinner, we would have also be satisfied with the offerings they have. My only complaint about our overall meal is that the cocktails didn't complement the food. The drinks on its own were good and the food on its own was good, very good but together, bleh. The bone marrow had a slight sweetness to it that I didn't care for too much but it wasn't horrible and it was cooked perfectly, not over done including the crostini's. The octopus was cooked good (I would prefer it be a little softer) but still very enjoyable and the flavors were really good. The pasta and soft shell, cooked perfectly and flavors on point. So much so that I need the recipe so I can add this dish into my dinner rotation! The decor is nice.. when we first walked in, I thought we were gonna get a table right by the door, along the window, and I didn't want that, but we ended up getting a table closer to the bathroom (I think it was the bathroom?) and I liked that area. The area by the bathroom gives off chill, classy vibes, but the other area was giving me, fast food, sit down area vibes.

    I've been dying to go here & we finally made it for date night!…read more My Ranking so far: #1 - The beef carpaccio was a highlight of my visit, this is a must! #2/3 - My bf got the Whole Moi + chicken fat rice & he was a big fan! #2/3 - I personally preferred the Chicken wings w/ caramalized fish sauce. It was good but also on the smaller side in terms of portions. #4 - The Soft Shell Crab Pasta was very buttery & garlicky, nothing super crazy. I highly recommend adding spicy sauce (on the table) in there, it was much better after! Next time I really want to try the duck breast salad!!

    Photos
    Interior dining room with bamboo-like lighting
    Interior dining room with bamboo-like lighting
    Fried Spring Rolls - Ch Gi
    Fried Spring Rolls - Ch Gi
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    Roy's Waikiki

    Roy's Waikiki

    4.3
    (3.6k reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $$$$

    Three of us ate at Roy's on Friday night May 29, 2026. The waiter took drink orders and he seemed…read morelike a little distracted. Came by with the wrong drink. He apologized and ran off and then brought my friend's mai tai. Dinner was very good. The Cesar salad with bacon was excellent, crispy baby romaine . My husband and I shared the 4 fish tasting. Was very good. We preordered the pineapple upside down cake. The presentation was not as good as the Roy's Eating House at the International Market place. This one looked like it 'fell' . Coffee: we all ordered decaf coffee and it was Luke warm. Waiter apologized and brought 3 more cups, it still was not hot enough. We offered to have regular, thinking that maybe that would be hotter. Waiter said that there must be something wrong with the machine, because the coffee he brought was just out of the machine. Still not hot. We will probably go back because the food is good. Hope they fix the coffee machine.

    I made a reservation for 9 and asked if we could increase by 2. They had no problem. What an…read moreawesome night was spent by all. The ambiance was fantastic. The service was excellent. They kept all of the drinks refilled immediately and in some cases before they were actually empty. Alcoholic drinks were delivered in a timely manner so the bar was really busting their buns because the place was packed. Our sever was awesome and everyone else who helped service our party. The food was spectacular. The butterfish over black rice was one of the best dishes I have ever tasted. Everyone who order it said the same thing. Many had the swordfish encrusted with macadamia nut and it was also a big hit. Several appetizers were ordered and all were delicious. The standout appetizer was the ahi tuna. Great night. Great food. Great service. Perfection!!!

    Photos
    Bar area happy hour
    Bar area happy hour
    The all time classic here and still one of the best
    The all time classic here and still one of the best
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    Carte Blanche

    Carte Blanche

    4.5
    (80 reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$
    Locally owned & operated
    Luxury

    Took our friend here for her birthday and what a hidden gem this place was. Tucked away in the…read moreheart of Kaimuki, Carte Blanche was definitely a delightful surprise! When our party first walked in, we were a tiny bit skeptical because of the empty room (which was beautifully decorated). However as each course came out, we were blown away and didn't know how the restaurant was not way busier for a Saturday night! Each dish/course was well thought out and prepared to perfection. We were all taken by surprise in a great way. The head chef Anthony was very passionate and excited about his work and that was very refreshing! Overall a wonderful experience and we will be back!

    If you're looking for Kaimuki's most romantic date night spot, look no further than Carte Blanche…read more We recently experienced their summer prix fixe menu (which changes twice a year), and it was one of those meals you remember long after the plates are cleared. The progression of dishes felt thoughtful and creative-- * Crispy Salt & Vinegar Chicken Skin (the perfect starter crunch) * Soupe de Poisson (deep, comforting flavors) * Pina Colada Granita (a refreshing palate cleanser) * Pan Seared Scallops (my personal favorite--perfectly caramelized and tender) * Double Cut Rack of Lamb (succulent and cooked to perfection) * Lemon Crème Brûlée Tart (a sweet, bright finish) Every plate was elegant, well-executed, and beautifully presented. The atmosphere strikes a balance between sophisticated and welcoming. Dim lighting, intimate tables, and quiet elegance make you feel like you've stepped into a hidden gem in the middle of Kaimuki. Honestly, I felt like a celebrity dining here. Service was polished but never pretentious--our server was attentive, knowledgeable about the courses, and kept the pacing of the meal just right. For the level of creativity and execution, Carte Blanche feels like an affordable luxury in Honolulu's dining scene. Perfect for anniversaries, date nights, or anytime you want an elevated experience without flying to the mainland. Highly recommend booking a reservation--you'll want to savor every moment here.

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    Carte Blanche
    Carte Blanche
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    Morimoto Asia Waikiki

    Morimoto Asia Waikiki

    4.1
    (1.1k reviews)
    1.9 mi
    $$$

    I WISH I COULD GIVE MORE STARS!!!! WORTH THE PRICE! FOOD AND SERVICE IS OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!…read more Okay seriously, I've been to a ton of expensive high end restaurants and none have impressed me like this Morimoto's. When I tell you everything that came out was amazing.... Holy moly it was SO TASTY. EVERYTHING! I was even impressed with the fried rice with how much they served and how much was in it. I personally loved the fish carpaccio, rib eye, hamachi kama, wok vegetables and malasadas for dessert. The orange chicken was my least favorite but it was still good. Oh and the STICKY RIBS...... you HAVE to get them. So crispy yet tender.... I loved how everything we had bursted in my mouth with flavor and was something I couldn't make to that level at home. Service was amazing like any other fine dining restaurant, but for the first time, I felt like this one was worth the money for how good the food was. I will definitely be back!

    My bad review is entirely based on how terrible the food was. For context, we ordered Tonkatsu…read moreramen and Tsukemen dipping ramen. Ramen, according to the server, was the most popular thing on the menu, so how likely could it get messed up? Tonkatsu: Rich, but lacked any salt or had very little. We requested some salt and that instantly made the ramen better. The noodles had enough salt to carry it, but the broth was not great. It tasted like the broth was watered down or reconstituted, however no seasoning was added to re-adjust the broth. Broth: Had little salt and lacked punch, umami, and was brown instead of white. Noodles: Had enough salt to taste good, but was slightly overcooked Pork: Extremely bland. Tasted like zero salt was added during cooking. Toppings: Greatly lacking in toppings Tsukemen: The Tsukemen had a lot of the same issues. Now being a dipping ramen, the broth should be even richer and more flavorful than any normal ramen. Tsukemen -- no matter where you have it in Japan, should be richer and saltier than most broths, but the broth here was severely lacking. For $26 a bowl this was worse than your DIY frozen ramen packs. Now I'm not asking for Japan-level of ramen mastery here, this is after all, just a tourist spot -- but if your Tonkatsu is the best selling item, you have to step it up. Our server did mention that some people complained about the amount of salt in ramen, so they adjusted it. But dare I say, instead of diluting the normal salt/seasoning amount for everyone, couldn't you just add a separate, flavor-light version for people inexperienced with ramen, instead of diluting the original for everyone else? If you're reading this Mr. Morimoto, I would highly encourage you to fly here and order the ramen. I think you and I would share the same opinions. P.S. I've also been to your other Morimoto spots and it was not this bad.

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    Interior
    Interior
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    Lucky Belly

    Lucky Belly

    4.2
    (2.2k reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    So glad we ate here! Looks like there are lots of hip options in Chinatown, and we would have…read morewalked around and tried even more if we had had more time. We had a 4 hour layover in Honolulu and it was a quick 15 minute Lyft ride here to Lucky Belly. We were the only party here right at 5:30 pm. Loved the art and clean simple elegance of the exposed brick wall and wood tables. We were greeted and served by a very friendly host. We had the duck tacos, plus the special dim sum appetizer combo of pork belly bao, lobster dumplings and oxtail dumplings. We could not pick a favorite. The variety of textures was fantastic and each of the meat fillings were perfectly seasoned and tender, delicious! Each had a different sauce- just enough, not too much. Nothing was spicy but there was chili oil on the table if you wanted to add more heat. We got 2 nonalcoholic spritzers, one lilikoi and one hibiscus, which were each refreshing and complimented the meal. Since the service was so efficient, after eating, we still had time to zip over to Magic Island to stroll around, take in the scene and enjoy the sunset before heading back to the airport. Our last evening in Hawaii was really special thanks to this delightful restaurant!

    We love everything about this eatery!!!! We were looking for an open spot open after 9pm. We…read moredecided to give it a try; oh boy, WHAT AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE! Great good, the cool ambiance, and the service super chill and well executed. Delicious food! Duck tacos to die for, the octopus, equally delicious and the RAMEN bowl .... The BEST! Definitely, our new spot in Honolulu.

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    Interior bar and dining room.
    Interior bar and dining room.
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    Mama Kim’s - poke - Updated July 2026

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