Just wow. Paul & co did a great job making us feel welcome, and the food was fantastic. Definitely a wonderful dining experience. RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST!! Extremely small, 3 table, but great patio dining. read more

Paul's Place - Paul hard at work creating amazing flavors - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

I'm glad that I was able to experience this place before leaving Hilo and coming back to Texas! My cousins made a reservation a day in advance to make sure we'd get a table the next morning (there are only 3 tables). Paul personally and warmly greets everyone, and builds a rapport with every customer that walks through the front door. When you leave he ensures that you had the best possible experience. This place had possibly the best waffles I've EVER had! The waffles had a nice crunch on the outside, yet were still fluffy on the inside. The fish bowl was made with very simple, fresh ingredients but remarkably full of flavor! I'm completely astounded that Paul can make such delicious food in such a small workspace! I will definitely make this a MUST the next time I'm in Hilo! read more

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. read more

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10/10 , actually 11/10 ! The environment is so cute and so intimate ! The food is jam packed with so many flavors , and Paul was the absolute best ! It was so friendly ! They checked on us multiple times and recommended a dish which you should always listen to the chef haha they know best ! I can't wait to go back for the lunch menu read more

Paul's Place - Bacon Benedict Amazing coffee and the smoothie of the day ! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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

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

Food was very fresh and delicious. Paul really spends the time to cook your meal to perfection. The decor was all around cute!

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. read more

Everything fantastic. Best place for breakfast and lunch. Lightest Waffle in Hilo!! read more

Paul's Place - SS BLT & BELGIAN WAFFLES DA BOMB - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

My husband and I enjoyed eating here a few days ago. Reservations are necessary. The service was kind and Paul was very attentive and was sure to let us know that he was working on our order. I had the Eggs Benedict, my husband had the Smoked Salmon Benedict and we shared a waffle which was really three waffles. The waffles were the best waffles I have ever had. So light and fluffy. The Benedict's came with fresh fruit, veggies and perfectly executed eggs. The serving sizes were perfect. The bad reviews were funny to me since you can tell impatient, privileged people wrote them. Paul is the only person who handles the food and he does so with care and love. I'd much rather wait a few minutes for a great meal that was prepared with so much aloha as opposed to eating fast food that is almost always a risk not worth it. We're excited to visit Paul's Place again in the near future. read more

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

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Everyone in Hilo speak of this place so we made reservations (must do in order to secure your table). Matter of fact customers were dropping off flowers, bakery goods with lots of hugs and appreciation. Paul is a smooth operator!!!! Located downtown close to the Farmers Market. The restaurant is small and can only accommodate maybe 8-10 customers comfortably. We arrived and was greeted by the owner and his daughter-so intimate. He reviewed the menu with his recommendations. Flavored water, gold colored cutlery I felt like royalty coffee was so good with the perfect amount of cream. The food was absolutely delicious. There were 4 in or party and we ordered 5 meals. Belgian waffles moist and crispy edges, whip cream fruit topped and warm syrup; lux and bagels with capers, thinly sliced red onions, eggs Benedict with the works my daughter's first time trying it, she did not share. Pasta de Marco...it was an awesome experience. The pics tell the story! read more

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After driving into town to enjoy A good breakfast and finding a closed restaurant, it appears Paul basically shows up at his leisure according to the local out front. Tried calling and got the machine. Their greeting lists the hours which are different then the hours listed here. I know everything is chill on the island but get it together Paul! Take 2 minutes and update your hours! read more

I'm a vegan and eat only plant based food and Paul was so accommodating and kind to change his food to my choice and liking. It tasted really fresh and delicious! I especially like the smoothie. Thank you so much read more

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First things first - call for a reservation! This boutique restaurant only had 3 tables - don't show up expecting to be seated. The menu is limited as each meal is individually crafted by Paul right out in the open. No big fancy kitchen. It is very much an artisan experience- and the food reflects it! The eggs are delicious and meticulously prepared. The waffle with fruit and bacon is beautifully presented. Service was stellar. This is truly a fine dining experience- and so worth it if you want to start your day in Hilo off right. read more

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Amazing hospitality, cool calm and easy atmosphere! Everything literally made 10 feet from your seat. Everything is made fresh one plate at a time! read more

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Such a lovely little place. First of all they have only three tables and they only seem to take the volume they can serve well. Now that is something I completely appreciate! I ordered the eggs Benedict and Paul served with the rosemary aïoli and also gave me some vegetables since I wasn't having bacon or salmon with some anchovy dressing which was amazing. He kept asking me if all these things that he was doing for me they would go with my palate. I wish there were more restaurants like these, which served with so much passion read more

Outstanding food, atmosphere and customer service. Highly recommend the Breakfast Caprese. My favorite place in Hilo. Thank you Paul. I will be back again soon. read more

Paul's Place - Outstanding food, atmosphere and customer service! Highly recommend the Breakfast Caprese. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

This is a very nice place to eat. Although it is a small establishment and only take reservations it is worth a wait! They are very sweet people! We had breakfast and it was Delicious! Would definitely come back here again! read more

Found this little gem on Yelp and had breakfast there this morning. Let me first say, omg! Paul has got to be the kindest person in Hilo! We just got back from Mauna Loa State Rec place to view the eruption and been up since 3am. Got to Paul's at around 7:40ish. He greeted us and said it will be an hour wait but if we can't wait...he then pointed at another establishment to get fed or kill time at the Farmer's market which is across. We said we'll wait. When we got back (it was a rainy day) he greeted us and then he said let me take your jacket and I'll hang it here to dry....I'm like whaaatttt? So sweet! You will die from this place's cuteness! It only has 3 tables that can accommodate maybe 7 the most 8? They were small tables good for 2. It was nicely decorated with Christmas things and table wares and utensils also very festive. I think the young lady is his daughter (it was just the 2 of them working the establishment). I had the waffles with side crispy bacon and hubs had the salmon benedict. He warned him that it's not the traditional kind but his own spin and we're ok with that. I like that the waffle stayed crispy (parts that I didn't drowned with syrup) even after for a while coz hubs ate the rest after devouring his dish (he said everything on his plate tasted very fresh). The syrup is served piping hot which I really like and top with slices of banana and strawberries. Coffee was really good but a bit strong for me but hubs loved it cos it had a kick. It's not the best waffle and salmon we've ever had but definitely up there but what made it so special is I think it's the love that he put into making it because it shows on how he treats his customers. It's like being in your dad's kitchen and just making sure your food tasted great and you're ok. We said our goodbyes and while writing this review I can't help but wonder........is Paul the nicest and kindest person on the Big Island? On this trip he is for me! read more

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Absolutely a fantastic little splendid cafe'. Definitely worth looking for and finding!!! They only have 3 tables and if you have a big party or are in a hurry reservations are a very good idea. Food is made to order and Paul is an accomplished Chef. He is fabulous with his dishes and is open to adjusting for allergies (he wanted to make sure I didn't want to go elsewhere that might be easier or have more options for me.) I am so in Love with his style and flare with food, creativity and attention to customers. Definitely will work to get back to visit when in town. Thank You for the wonderful experience and magnificent feast for the eyes, spirit and tummy Blessings read more

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The coziest brunch places in Hilo! The Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict is my all time favorite! And you have to pair it with the Belgian waffle! The crunchy but soft texture keeps you wanting more! read more

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

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If you ever have the opportunity to visit Paul's place while you are on the big island, it is well worth the time. Paul delivers amazing flavors from a tiny kitchen. This place only has 3 tables so make sure you have a reservation. We drove over from Kona and it was worth the drive! What an amazing treat. read more

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

Five times five stars is not enough to describe this establishment. In a small entrance and up a few stairs, you enter into the very small and quaint dining area (three little tables that sat two people each). The menu is almost as cute and small as the location. We were welcomed by the owners. The chef actually took our order and informed us that we made great decisions. Little did we know that there were no bad choices to be made. We started off with coffee and that provided us with what to expect of the remainder of our breakfast, perfection! The Belgian waffles were light and airy making the mouth water with each bite. The salmon eggs Benedict was a delight to the senses. The flavor of the hollandaise sauce was exquisite and I had to know what the flavor was that tickled my fancy so I asked the proprietor. It was rosemary and it added to the already flavorful meal. To top off the two meals, we shared a "smoothie of the day" while we awaited our food. I wish we would have got not just two of them but two each. There were several fruits blended perfectly into the drink and after the first sip we could not stop drinking it until it was gone. The food came out wonderfully presented and perfectly prepared. Next time we are on Hawaii Island, we are going to attempt to stay in Hilo Town at the small Inn that this Paul's shares a location with so we can enjoy the food even more. Love, love, love this place!!! read more

First time visiting Paul's Place and I can't speak highly enough. Staff is extremely friendly. Quaint space with four tables (will need reservation). Food was beyond my expectation. Everything was fresh, came out quickly, and presentation of food was impeccable. Looking forward to returning! read more

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

Fine dinning for breakfast with a unique local vibe, nothing is like Paul's place in all of Hawaii so if you haven't been there go add him on Instagram @paulsplacecafehi and make a reservation it's worth it Start with the Belgium Waffle's everything is just as good but I like the Fish Sandwich and Eggs Benedict with added bacon It's the perfect breakfast/lunch spot for a special occasion or date read more

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What a wonderful find on the Big Island! This quaint restaurant only seats 8, so you should plan to make a reservation. The owner is the chef and cooks one entree at a time, so the food will be delivered in stages to your table. This worked perfectly for me and my husband, because we always share our food. The plate presentation was spectacular, and the flavors were even more special! read more

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You will need many trials and days in advance for reservations... we went in and was told no tables... On the website, it said takeout available, but we were told by Paul that there was no takeout.... We left our phone number to make a reservation, we were told that someone will call us to confirm the time... which we did not receive any call back.. We then tried to call the cafe, sent a text, and called the other phone number on the cafe's recording specifically that we needed to call to make reservations, we left a message....all in all, we made 11 different attempts.... When we showed up the next day at our requested time, we were told that there was no reservation... I asked Paul if he remembered me and remembered our conversations, he said yes but he did not know what happened. But there was a table at 11 AM... we were leaving at 11 AM and will no longer be at Hilo again... I am sharing my experience and you be the judge read more

Delicious, beautiful food. Excellent atmosphere. Loved the fun halloween decor. Spotlessly maintained. Loved everything about this spot. Not vegan friendly, but able to accommodate dairy allergy. read more

My fiancee has been wanting to go and eat here for a while now and all I can say is is wish we have gone sooner. Paul and his staff are friendly, fun and very mindful of their guests. We will absolutely be back more often from now on. This meal will definitely stick out in my memory! read more

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Okay I'm not going to lie, I haven't been here in a while but I'm binge-reviewing everywhere I have been recently and this came up and I couldn't just bypass without giving 5 stars because I LOVE THIS PLACE. For all I know, they could be closed for COVID, but I hope the owners/workers come across this and know that they were appreciated. Easily my favorite brunch spot in Hilo. Back in the olden days (maybe a couple years ago), me and my best friend would walk in between classes and have a grand ol time and then this place got popular and we had to start making reservations but we didn't mind because we were always greeted with the same friendly faces. Food/Drinks: Great on all accounts. I'm sure if I scroll through my IG I can find a picture of their waffles and FRESH fruit. LIke fresh fresh not fresh out the freezer. Even their water went above and beyond with fruits. Atmosphere: Perfect. I've never been to France or anywhere with cutesy balcony brunch spots but I imagine it would feel like this. Cute little balcony looking over a single lane street. If you didn't pay attention to the ukulele shop across the street you would forget that you were in HIlo. Service: A1 service! There were really only 3 tables with 2 people per table but the Uncle in there made sure that he was attentive to everyone and was so animated in the "kitchen" with his kitchen helper. Gosh they seriously are the best. read more

I don't write many reviews but this place definitely deserves one. First off, reservation is required, so just give them a call and they will work with you! I was a little skeptical about coming here since I usually like big breakfasts and seeing the menu before hand I was worried I wasn't going to be full. But let me tell you, Paul is a *chef's kiss* magical chef! Although the breakfast menu is a bit smaller than I hoped, he makes up for it with an explosion of flavor wanting me to move to Hilo just for his food. I got the eggs Benedict and man I tell you I was ready to lick that plate clean of the hollandaise sauce. My boo thang got the waffles and were honestly the best Belgium waffles I've had ever! Super rich and buttery. The waffles looked so amazing that the man next to us asked to take a picture of it haha. The meal left us full for a full day of hikes and beaches. Make sure to bring cash for tips! Them grindz definitely broke da face read more

Paul's Place - Belgium waffles and eggs Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Paul's place is my nanas favorite spot ever! Every time we come to visit her we'll bring her here for brunch. Probably my favorite lox and bagels ever!!! Such a cute place and uncle Paul is the nicest man ever!! read more

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

Inside this unassuming building is a hidden gem! The helicopter tour place we went to recommended this place, and my husband and I enjoyed a super fresh, delicious breakfast! (Smoked Salmon Benedict and Breakfast Caprese - both super tasty!) As other reviews mention, there are only three small tables, and we were lucky enough to drop in at 8:30am and get a table without a reservation, but a few parties tried to drop in after us and were politely turned away. The kitchen is really small (it's really feels like homecooked food!) so they don't do take out either. Definitely best to make a reservation! The waffle also looked amazing - topped high with fresh fruit and some bacon. If you don't like poached eggs or benedicts, go for the waffle! read more

Paul's Place - The front of the building. Hidden gem! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Excellent service and a wonderful experience! The owner serves up delicious waffles & awesome coffee. He is so pleasant & made our time great. Get your reservations! read more

Paul's Place was a gem and a pleasant surprise! We had made reservations and thank goodness we did, because this place seats 2 parties only, with one table for 2 and the other for 4! Staff of 2, Paul and the waitress, you can see the kitchen and out the window into the street. So cozy....but boy oh boy, breakfast is amazing and that's all that matters. Hungry after taking taking a 4 am lava boat ride, we came here ready to chow down. Tip: Get the french pressed coffee a large ($7) has enough for 4 cups. This Kua coffee is so smooth you don't really even need milk or cream- it tastes fantastic and I'm not a coffee drinker. Yum. The signature of the house is the egg and salmon benedict, we ordered these and the belgian waffles. Paul's belgian waffle was amazing. Hands down, I have never eaten waffles that were this crispy yet light and tasted amazing with fresh fruit. It was perfect! The benedicts were poached perfectly with a special sauce of Paul's concoction. Not the traditional hollandaise. Yum Yum Yum. I will be back the next time I'm back on the Big Island. What a find! Tip: The parking is located behind the restaurant. read more

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You know that I just had to try Paul's after just flying in. Small little cozy Cafe with three tables for two inside. Located in Hilo town, it was real easy to find and parking was available behind the building. Nice healthy appetizing options are available as far as sandwiches and salads are concerned ,but I was here for Brekkie and read that his benedicts and waffles were bomb. Ordered up "The Benedict" which a lot of Yeeps raved about. Beautiful presentation and loved the freshness of the ingredients he uses. It was a nice change up from a traditional benedict, because Paul makes his with bacon. Verdict,being a Benny dude.. Ono Stuff! Note that if you're in a rush this Quaint little Cafe is not for you, but if you want to really treat yourself to a relaxing enjoyable meal.. Then this is the place! This is what Yelp is about,helping you find local Gems like this,Great job and service Paul! read more

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Another thank you to Yelp! Finding this gem in the small town of Hilo was so delightful. We strolled in on a Tuesday around 8:45am. It's extremely tiny and I recommend reservations, they stay booked. Not to mention, they have only two tables, a 4 seater and 2 seater. Some may complain it isn't big enough and makes it a downer. I on the other hand think it makes for such a sweet, warm, and intimate setting. Just plan well and call ahead for reservations, simple and well worth it. Paul has such a sweet personality, it was a pleasure to support such a wonderful establishment. The waitress was also very sweet. I love how they work so well as a team. So the food...EXQUISITE! These are masterpieces made from the heart! We had the smoked salmon eggs Benedict, classic eggs Benedict, waffles, and a coffee. Every last ingredient is fresh and of the highest quality, really I was very impressed by this place. The fruit was very fresh, with the farmer's market next door, he has access to the finest ingredients and really takes time to pick the best! We loved everything about our meal. The waffles have to be the best, perfect crisp, perfect fruit combo, really, perfect! The coffee with the adorable creamer to come with it; I felt like I was in a romantic French restaurant in San Francisco. My dad and I enjoyed it so much, we made plans to have he and my mom come for Mother's Day and then my husband and I on our next trip to town. Paul, thank you for your hospitality, quality dishes, and warmest aloha spirit! Can't wait to come back again! :) read more

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My husband and I landed in hilo and were starving. We saw Paul's recommended on yelp and stopped by. This place is such a gem, it's small but we were able to be seated quickly even without a reservation. The food was cooked to order and delicious. We ordered just about one of everything but the waffle and eggs benedict were the stars. Friendly owners, great food, hot coffee, delicious. read more

We had the best experience for breakfast in Big Island Food delicious, Paul is very friendly. Spent 50$ on breakfast for 2 read more

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

Outstanding breakfast. Fresh food and friendly service. Had the lox & bagels. Coffee was great as well. Very yummy. Highly recommend.