If you're visiting Hilo, do yourself a huge favor and don't miss brunch at Paul's Place. This tiny spot only has a few small tables (total seating for about 6 folks at a time). Reservations are mandatory, but a visit is well worth it! Paul is a sweetheart and an amazing cook. His secret ingredient is love. He really loves what he does and that passion for his craft really shines through to the entire experience dining at this small hole-in-the-wall. Don't expect to find air conditioning here, but definitely expect a delicious meal. My family sampled several favorites on the menu, including Paul's take on a smoked salmon benedict, his outrageous Belgian waffles, and the breakfast caprese, a really creative dish you'll only find here. Paul, thank you so much for a memorable meal! I hope to see you again if I'm ever back in Hilo :) read more

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I celebrated my birthday at Paul's Place, and it was an experience I'll never forget. When I reached out for a reservation, they followed up and were able to fit me in for my birthday. That alone meant so much. From the moment I arrived, Paul made me feel special. He greeted me with a warm smile, seated me at a beautifully decorated birthday table, and surprised me with a birthday sash and crown. It was such a thoughtful gesture that truly touched my heart and made me feel celebrated on my special day. I enjoyed fresh-squeezed orange juice and the Belgian waffle with bacon. The waffle was absolutely delicious--beautifully presented with fresh fruit and whipped cream, and honestly the best waffle I've ever had. A huge mahalo to Paul and his team for making my birthday so memorable. The food was outstanding, but it was the kindness, warmth, and genuine hospitality that made this experience unforgettable. 12/10 Highly recommend! read more

Paul's Place - Birthday moment with Paul at Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Paul's was one of my favorite dining experiences I've ever had. Yelp only allows for five stars, I would give more if I could. If you are able to visit Hilo, make a reservation. And you need a reservation. The tiny restaurant only has three two person tables (the other party of four had two pushed together). And it is only open Wednesday thru Saturday, 7:30am- 2pm. I made the reservation for my friend's Birthday lunch by text. It is conveniently located by the farmers market, and there is plenty of free parking in the area. The space is airy, and on our visit, decorated for Easter. We were immediately greeted by Paul. The restaurant is staffed by him, and one other employee. The menu is short, and all the better for it. Paul explained the menu and gave us recommendations. I was already interested in the Pasta de Marco, which appears to be a part of a regular menu. Angel hair pasta, lightly fried, tossed with fresh veggies and pesto, and lightly toasted baguette on the side. We also had the tuna, two ways, and papaya salad. Both were perfect, incredibly fresh, all ingredients balanced, beautifully presented. Paul had us end with the Belgium waffle. I've had waffles in Belgium, and these were the best I've had. Crispy, soft, with berries, whip cream, and powdered sugar, it didn't even need the (warm!) syrup. This experience felt like being a guest in the chef's home. Paul treated all customers as a friend, he was funny, relaxed, and personable. I also personally appreciated it is the safest restaurant for me to eat at as he hates bell peppers as much as I do! The only disappointment when the meal ended. Mahalo! read more

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Paul's Place is the cutest little cafe located in downtown Hilo. Despite the yummy waffles and delicious pasta we ate, what made our visit truly special was Paul's hospitality and friendliness!!! Paul makes you feel like you are visiting family and enjoying the most yummy meal everrrr!!! Highly recommend! Be sure to make a reservation!!! Also, HUGE mahalo to Paul for tracking us down in Hilo town after I forgot my bag in his restaurant. You are such a sweetheart! Mahalo NUI!!! read more

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The cafe is very small and cozy, we had to have reservations in advance to get in as Paul has very limited seating, about 3 tables. He is always busy and has a rule with no Togo orders as far as I know. The service is good, and the servers and Paul himself is very friendly, laidback, and easy to talk to. Be respectful of his rules, he's a nice guy and it felt like he really cares about the food he makes. Playing is very nice and simple in a good way, has a very clean aesthetic. The food itself is extremely fresh, every single thing felt very refreshing to the palette and not heavy. It was one of the pricier spots me and my partner went to in Hilo, but it is extremely popular and the quality of the food is nice, as I said, I think this is the place in Hilo so far that I've eaten at with the "freshest" tasting food. I had not yet tried his Belgian waffles, but I saw they were served to another customer and they looked fantastic. After our meal, Paul also highly reccomended them for next time. Definitely would like to come back next time we are in Hilo, it was one of my partner and her Uncle's favorite spots (they are local to Hilo, so it's gotta be good haha). They both vouch for the ingredient quality. read more

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We are staying upstairs and hoped for breakfast. But it is closed Monday and Tuesday. ok on to plan b. This is a cute 3 table cafe below our Stay. The prices on the chalkboard are a bit high for my blood. But they open tomorrow for the week and we ll be on the Road. Very romantic ambiance here. read more

My husband and I are visiting Hawaii for the first time, this has been the best restaurant we've been to by FAR ! Paul is there cooking everything himself. We've come back 3 times in a row and it just gets better and better. Paul cares about the food he is serving and is creative as none of the dishes are traditional. Make a reservation, there are only 3 tables. Places like these are extremely rare and authentic !!! He also whipped out this crown and birthday sash when he found out it was my birthday!! So sweet. Don't miss this spot. read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Still amazing as always. Paul is wonderful and suggests great recommendations to add to the dishes. The coffee was top tier this time, my husband loved it, great taste even for someone like me who typically avoids high caffeine. If it's anything I can hammer down on, please please please text to inquire on reservations! read more

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Everything is always perfect!!!! Cozy comfortable and very welcoming Been a go to for 10 years read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Great food!! So fresh and delicious. Made to order. Paul cooks everything, so awesome. 1st time here, small cozy place. Super cute. Reservations required but well worth the personal service. We enjoyed everything. Ate a little of everything. Lots of variety and big menu read more

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Top notch, fresh ingredients. Our meals were yummy! Paul was very accommodating of our requests. Service was very attentive and friendly. The ambience was super cute. Only like 8 seats in the small space. The decorations were very welcoming and interesting. I recommend making a reservation as it's such a small spot. You'll definitely be impressed! read more

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. read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast Caprese - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

This is my favorite restaurant for breakfast of all time...ever!! I had the Belgian waffles and they were the best waffles I ever had. Ingredients were fresh and you can taste that everything is made with love and care. Service was excellent and the ambiance is unpretentious and cozy. Limited hours, so definitely check before making reservations. read more

Very nice place, delicious food; make sure you book in advance. There are only 3 tables there. read more

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Dining at Paul's Place felt like a very special treat each time we ate there during a recent visit to Hilo. The food was creative, delicious, healthy, and beautifully presented. We enjoyed the Breakfast Caprese, Pasta de Marco, and Smoked Salmon Benedict. The table settings were charming in a country cottage way, reflecting the same careful attention to detail as the food and the service. Paul's warm hospitality and delightful sense of humor made us feel at home and well cared for, leaving us with not only satisfied tummies but also happy souls as we started our days. Dining here was definitely a highlight of our trip, and we look forward to coming back. read more

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A year ago we came to the island and walked into Paul's place. Without a reservation, we didn't eat but it was the kindest rejection of our lives. Paul is as personable, kind and genuine as they come. This year, on Valentines's we were able to enjoy his restaurant after making a reservation. The experience was above and beyond what we could have ever imagined. Threes tables and one hot plate. Every meal is cooked to order and delicious. I joked he ruined every other restaurant for us. The waitress is also the best manners and kind. When we visit another island my husband and I already said we'd island hop just to see Paul again. read more

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Simone sandwiches made with extremely fresh ingredients by a friendly owner. Highly recommended! The chili is also excellent as are the pastries. read more

Quaint cute brunch place in Hilo next to the Farmer's Market. Make a reservation in advance as there are only 3 tables in the restaurant. Paul is a one man show! Felt like I was a guest in his house. Friend and I shared the Belgian waffle and his specialty Pasta de Marco. Waffle was crispy, fluffy and light topped with strawberries and banana. Pasta de Marco was a crust of angel hair pasta with smoked salmon, tomato, capers, olives, feta topped with arugula. Very unique and tasty dish! read more

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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!! read more

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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. read more

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New favorite breakfast spot in Hilo. Paul is so nice and friendly, and the food is amazing. Seating is limited but it is absolutely worth it. The decorations and overall vibe are so cozy, welcoming, and feels like home. He was very accommodating to my vegetarian diet and was able to make me delicious scrambled eggs with feta and pesto. read more

Outstanding food and service. Quaint place with an excellent menu selection. You are sure to find something to enjoy.

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. read more

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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. read more

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We are heading to Hilo. And, of course, we are going to Paul's. If you are down on humanity right now, there is a way to feel better. Go to Paul's. Is it worth the air fare. You better believe it. Yes, the food is amazing. The service is top notch. The place is warm and comforting. But what makes it worth the trip is Paul himself. He is what a human being should be. read more

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! read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Wonderfully unique spot with great food and fun company. The owner/chef is wonderful.

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. read more

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Have had only good experiences here! The waffle crispy and delicious. Look forward to returning it's been several years. Mainly because need to reserve it ahead of time. read more

Best breakfast spot in Hilo, hands down. Uncle Paul is so personable and really takes the time to connect with everyone who walks through his doors. You can feel the love in every dish he makes. The food is amazing -- my favorites are the Belgian waffles and the fish bowl. And every season, his spot is decorated so festive. It always feels warm, welcoming, and full of good vibes. read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

AMAZING Experience!!!! Hands down best meal in Hilo. From the time you enter to the time you leave - we were in all of the whole experience. read more

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Paul is the host with THE MOST! I don't know where to begin! The food is amazing. The Salmon Benedict is a MUST HAVE! So fresh, so much more than my expectations. It's truly a magical experience. It's like going to a friend's home and having them cook for you, but much better than any of MY friends! :) I would give this 10 stars if I could. read more

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

Paul's Place - Belgian waffles - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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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. read more

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This place is a hidden gem!! Just happened to wander in during my first trip to Hilo and was lucky enough to get a seat. Paul and Seth were both warm and welcoming. The coffee was fresh brewed, smelled amazing and tasted just as good. Ordered the Salmon Eggs Benedict which was somewhat untraditional but in a delicious way. Would've got a pic but I ate it too fast. I would recommend you call ahead for a reservation as there's only three tables. Definitely recommend you check this place out. read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Dine in by reservation only! No take outs or phone orders! Food is always amazing but a very small place! read more

Paul's Place - Menu - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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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. read more

Paul's Place - This is their Breakfast Caprese!!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

We both had the ahi tuna blossom - excellent! The ahi is local, cooked nicely and flaked. The tuna salad has lots of surprises - apple, capers, celery, onion and a light mayo to hold it all together. Served in a nice tomato "Blossom" with a couple of grilled baguette slices and a fresh green salad with Kalamata olives, strawberries, red onion and feta cheese! Perfect lunch! Service is friendly and the space is super quaint with only three two-tops. We were here years ago and it didn't disappoint! Paul is a gem! read more

We come to Hilo to see family 4 or 5 times a year. I have written about this amazing place before. All are welcome, visitor and local alike, but, because it is small, reservations are highly recommended, whether you are local or out of town. What I wanted to add to my earlier comments is the spirit, the humanity, the caring, the generosity that is Paul. Given the times, I appreciated this part of Paul's emotionally during this recent visit. In this place, you are cared for by Paul and his assistant. It is an experience we treasure deeply every time. read more

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. read more

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