Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Prime Roast Cafe

    4.4 (137 reviews)
    ModerateCafes, French, Caterers
    Open 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
    Updated a few days ago

    Services - Prime Roast Cafe

    Allergy-friendly catering

    Gluten-free catering

    Kosher catering

    Prime Roast Cafe Photos

    Business Info

    PRIME ROAST CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed

    You might also consider

    More like Prime Roast Cafe

    Recommended Reviews - Prime Roast Cafe

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    French dip, just ok
    Robert S.

    Well I hate to criticize a small business with very nice owners but I guess I should keep things real. I've had french dips all over Cali including Cole's in LA where they invented it. Anyway, the good is that the potato salad was tasty but I feel like an authentic french dip has to be served with fries. Sadly, the au jus lacked enough saltiness. I understand they are being health conscience but in light of eating fatty red meat I'm not sure it makes sense to sacrifice traditional au jus. Also, the sliced meat had big chunks of white fat I had to pick out. The roll was nicely toasted tho. Overall, for $26 it was dissapointing.

    Cheese steak

    True story . Excellent prime rib . Make the effort to visit . Great owners and service . If you're in Hawaii visit this place . Alooooooha

    French onion soup
    Maya K.

    The most delicious meal we had in Oahu! The food made with love. We ordered the most amazing pear tart that we kept eating despite being full. The french onion soup was 10+, the sandwich to die for. Super recommended!!

    Kurobuta braised pork belly $18
    Wina G.

    Made it for dinner finally! It's been a hot minute! They're open for dinner service Friday and Saturday 5-7, reservations only. Not much foot traffic in the evening being located in downtown understandably but don't miss out on this gem. The Merchant St entrance closes late afternoon but you can access it on King St. ( nearer to Alakea). We park at the USPS building lot. We came for the duck confit $40 (I know they specialize in prime rib which totally tender but we hooked on the duck. Chef is classically trained so the prep reflects that. But I was pleasantly surprised by the use of five spice which really added depth to the flavor. Came with saffron rice, roasted vegetables. Skin was light & crispy and the meat was so moist and flavorful. As an appetizer we had the braised Kurobuta pork belly with cardamom pineapple chutney ($18). It came served on toasted pieces of bread. Loved the crispy crust and the smoky flavor and the tart sweet chutney paired perfectly. Yum! For dessert we had the Grand Marnier chocolate soufflé. $14 Dang! It was the best chocolate soufflé ever!! Beneath the light crust was the most lightest mousse - like eating a cloud. Omg! Why didn't we have these before. It's going to be def a repeat dessert. Make sure you order it early because it takes about 20 minutes Chef Ernesto and Chef Celeste are wonderful warm people. We got to chat with them and they had very interesting stories. They treated us like VIPs but like family at the same time. Check it out for dinner and support a local family business!

    Nice, clean, and cozy inside
    Shannon H.

    I came here for the salmon, which I absolutely love. But they didn't have it that day. I got the philly cheesesteak sandwich instead which was still pretty good. I like this place. It's nice and clean and orderly inside. The staff are always, always very kind and friendly. The chef always comes out to thank you personally before you leave. It's a little pricey, but the food is very good and worth it when I feel like treating myself.

    Ada H.

    Prime Roast Cafe is a small family owned business and the owners are absolute sweethearts! I adore their kindness and love how passionate they are about their food. My boyfriend got the prime rib and the prime rib was seasoned well. The meat was juicy and was delicious with the au jus. The French onion soup was my favorite part of the meal. The soup was umami bursting with flavors. The toasty cheesy bread was divine and held up well even when I drenched it into the soup. Great spot for a relaxed breakfast/lunch meal.

    They even have a holiday cooking & baking workshop!
    Cecily C.

    Prime Roast Cafe - A Hidden Gem in Downtown Honolulu Just when I thought I was running out of sit-down meal options in downtown Honolulu, Prime Roast Cafe came into my life--and what an introduction it was! Tucked away at 212 Merchant Street, this cafe may seem casual at first glance, but don't be fooled. The warmth and hospitality Celeste and her husband, Ernesto (the chef), extend make you feel as though you've stepped into their home. Their graciousness and pride in serving every dish truly stand out, making the experience more than just a meal--it's like having your own personal chef. One of the first things that struck me is how versatile their menu is. Serving all three meals daily, you can enjoy anything from a breakfast bento of the day, candied rosemary bacon with garlic fried rice and eggs, to a prime rib loco moco. For lunch, my friend opted for the Sterling Silver Prime Rib Panini--melt-in-your-mouth tender, with arugula and Swiss cheese. After trying a bite, I knew their prime rib was the star of the show. I, however, indulged in the fresh Atlantic salmon with a miso caper cream sauce, served with saffron lemon rice pilaf and seasonal vegetables. The salmon was perfection, with every bite melting in my mouth, and the vegetables were seasoned with such care that the flavor lingered long after I'd finished. Speaking of prime rib, they offer a dazzling array of options, from a 10 oz portion to a show-stopping 16 oz Sterling Silver Prime Rib of Beef, complete with port wine bone marrow au jus and creamy horseradish. With sides like garlic mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned vegetables, you won't leave disappointed. And then there's dessert. Oh, the dessert! Their French-style Apple Tarte Tatin is something to be savored, caramelized in butter and sugar to perfection. I would happily return just for that sweet delight. Prime Roast Cafe feels like a well-kept secret. Though parking downtown is scarce (understandable for the Central Business District), it's a spot well worth the journey for workers, residents, and any lucky visitor. The impeccable service, food, and overall experience make it feel like you're enjoying five-star dining without the sky-high prices. Celeste even capped off our meal by treating us to some delicious crème brûlée tarts and sugared orange peel, a lovely touch of gratitude that made the meal feel even more personal. Prime Roast Cafe is now a must-visit spot for me, whether for breakfast, lunch, or their exclusive Friday-Saturday dinner service (which I plan on booking soon). Truly a gem in Honolulu's heart, I cannot wait to return!

    Prime Rib, ready to serve!
    Alex O.

    I often walk by this spot near my workplace and motice is has varying crowds throughout the daytoodecided to try them out on a whim. Thing to note, they have prime rib and almost every dish is prime rib. I went with the prime Rib French Dip. Prime Rib French Dip: 8/10. This is their prime rib sliced up on a nice bread, with their Au Jus, and a tossed salad with a vinegarette. The prime rib is great but isn't a grilled with cheese and onions type. The Au Jus soaks up nicely and definitely adds to the flavors. My picture doesn't capture how satisfied I was for lunch. This first visit was quite good and now I'm wondering what to try next (and when). Give them a try and support local!

    Acai bowl
    Candace F.

    Who knew that a nice prime rib centric restaurant could be located downtown. From the outside you would think this is another plate lunch place but it's definitely not your average lunch joint. Stepping inside the cafe is an oasis away from the hubbub of the outside traffic. Cool, air conditioning and quiet with the main focus..prime rib. After a year of passing this nondescript restaurant there there is a pleasurable dining experience. The cashier was new however super nice trying to explain the menu. The owner came out from the back to greet me. Super nice lady. Her husband prepared the prime rib French dip sandwich. I also ordered an açaí bowl. I sat at a table and waited while they prepared the foods. It was a nice relaxing wait and i didn't mind sitting in cool muted silence. The French dip sandwich came out and it was hearty! Good too! So much meat! The bread nicely toasty and fresh. The açaí bowl was good! Fresh granolas and berries. Yummy! Everything was good. Food, service, ambiance - five stars! Nice lunch date place or place to meet a friend to chat.

    Prime rib loco moco
    Jeremiah U.

    Prime Roast Cafe utilizes prime rib in their menu. From Prime rib loco moco to Prime rib Ruben sandwich, Chef Robert is creating delicious meals using top-quality ingredients. Celeste provided excellent service with a friendly and welcoming attitude throughout the interaction. The interior is a small seating area that's nicely organized and clean. #top-tier #primerib

    8 oz Prime Rib ($27) Lunch Menu
    Suri S.

    This place is delicious for their prime rib and various sandwiches. Only been here for lunch time, however, the prices keep increasing. I understand since inflation and but it is on the pricey for a lunch. Quality over Quantity here though. Dine in --I would prefer to cut my prime rib with a real knife not the plastic kind. The takeout containers could be better especially for the price. I will still come back to support, but not as often due to price increases. Service has always been nice and friendly! I also do like that there's a slight discount if you pay with cash.

    Rainbow Sprinkles cookies
    Leiko T.

    The Rainbow Sprinkles cookies are a perfect blend of chewy and crunchy! It is not too sweet and tastes just right the sprinkles adding the right amount of sweetness! It's a must try cookie that will you keep you coming back for more!!!

    Prime rib station
    Jerome C.

    Cute little place tucked into the corner. Service was very prompt, and attentive. Meals were all delicious, I had the prime rib french dip, full on slices of real prime cooked perfectly. Combo came with a nice little salad and the desert was the matcha with strawberry, very tasty. Would 100% come back.

    8 oz. prime rib with roasted veggies and mashed potatoes

    See all

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Cheryl K.
    63
    15
    19

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lei L.
    167
    203
    504

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Rob J.
    2
    34
    24

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Larry G.
    430
    150
    4

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Charlie C.
    190
    98
    138

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Crystal S.
    209
    40
    26

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Angelique S.
    137
    64
    106

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Best Host's with the best Prime roast on Island, it doesn't get any better than the Prime Roast Cafe, tellin u brah.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of JP W.
    0
    57
    13

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jeanna G.
    50
    11
    16

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Hyn G.
    86
    317
    180

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of R B.
    0
    75
    56

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Hidden gem! Food was excellent, roast is very good, vegetables du jour are amazing. Very inviting service as well.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    This hidden gem on merchant street is a great place to eat. Food is awesome and service good. Highly recommended.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sam W.
    1
    13
    75

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mari S.
    156
    59
    21

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of J W.
    6
    30
    3

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ted C.
    0
    33
    2

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Cal A.
    0
    22
    1

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Alan W.
    18
    28
    15

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Took tooo fricken long. Waited 30 min for prime rib. Isnt it already cooked? I no can believe

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 3 of 4

    Ask the Community - Prime Roast Cafe

    Do they have a wine list or are they BYOB?

    Be aware that BYOB has a $10 corkage fee PER PERSON.

    Where is the best place to park?

    There's some metered parking in the back (in Merchant St) but there's not much. You can also go further down Merchant St and infront of the Post Office is a metered parking lot.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    You might also consider

    Fukuya - Yummy food fR. Fukuya *8/19/23

    Fukuya

    4.3(402 reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $$

    This was my first time going to Fukuya. I didn't know how it worked, the store was busy, and I…read morewanted to use my full $30 Gift Card. I chose the large bento box and just started ordering. I don't eat meat, so I chose: chow mein ($3.75), spicy eggplant ($3.40), kabocha pumpkin ($3.40), nishime ($3.40), tofu balls ($3.50). To that, I added on a box of sea salad ($4.50) and a box of small chocolate chip cookies ($6.25). My total came to $33. Great! It's a lot of food. If I went back for a normal lunch, I would probably keep it to 3 to 5 items for a lunch costing $11-$18 depending on whether or not I wanted leftovers. I'm glad I was introduced to Fukuya because I really like this style of grab and go food.

    I usually love Fukuya but the taste isn't good anymore. Maki is pretty fishy, small and missing…read moreingredients from their usual recipe. Cone sushi tasted weird, it had little to no taste. Sweet potato tempura was undercooked and crunchy and vegetable tempura was super oily. Overall the taste AND preparation of the food is not good. Other than that though service is always amazing and the fact they take card(but not AMEX....) is great. Having A/C is nice too but parking sucks. Sadly I won't be going back ever again, there are plenty other okazuya that blow this out of the water. I recommend Kabuki, Gulick, or Sekiya.

    Photos
    Fukuya - Large wooden sign

    Large wooden sign

    Fukuya - Inari Cone Sushi, Baked Ahi Belly, Shoyu Hotdog, Potato Hash, Pumpkin Special. IG: @eric_travel_guru

    Inari Cone Sushi, Baked Ahi Belly, Shoyu Hotdog, Potato Hash, Pumpkin Special. IG: @eric_travel_guru

    Fukuya - 0hayō! Fuk-u-ya at 6:00am ya! Inari, Seasoned Green Beans, Korean Chicken, Shoyu Hotdog, Pork Adobo!

    See all

    0hayō! Fuk-u-ya at 6:00am ya! Inari, Seasoned Green Beans, Korean Chicken, Shoyu Hotdog, Pork Adobo!

    Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering - Spicy ahi

    Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering

    4.6(1.7k reviews)
    10.5 mi
    $$

    This place is basically sensory overload in the best way. You walk in (after waiting outside in…read moreline) and there are so many things to look at and choose from that I completely understand why people say to know what you want before you get to the front of the line (and the line wraps completely around inside the tiny little space inside. It's part seafood market, part, part plate lunch spot, and they have SO many things besides poke. There are musubi, bentos, fried chicken, fish patties, shrimp, sushi, noodles, and all kinds of other local goodies. The line can look intimidating, but it moves pretty quickly. The poke is obviously one of the big reasons people come here, and there are a ton of varieties to choose from. The spicy ahi and crunchy garlic ahi are especially popular, and the mochiko chicken gets a lot of love too. We did like the mochiko chicken a lot! This is definitely a grab it and go kind of place rather than somewhere to sit and eat. I can see why locals make this a regular stop because you could come here several times and still have plenty of things to try. My favorite turned out to be the poi mochi!

    Ok...we love coming here up until tonight. You would think that people spend their hard earned…read moremoney here (because of how expensive it can be) to eat their food they'd be a little more careful of how they're preparing their food. As I was eating their spicy marlin poke...I thought it was a bone in my mouth. NOPE! It was a fricken plastic piece from like a price tag!!! I was so shocked! Luckily I didn't give this bite to my toddler! I've reached out to them on their Instagram to just inform them and be mindful of their people making their food but they haven't even bothered to look at my message.

    Photos
    Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering - Fresh poke and more

    Fresh poke and more

    Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering - Limu Ahi Poke Bowl

    Limu Ahi Poke Bowl

    Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering - Da FAMOUS Tanioka's sign!

    See all

    Da FAMOUS Tanioka's sign!

    Prime Roast Cafe - cafes - Updated September 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...