Cheng's Chop Suey House
About
A Legacy of Local Comfort in Hilo
Stepping into Cheng's Chop Suey House feels like walking into a time capsule of Hilo’s culinary past. Located right in the heart of downtown, this long-standing establishment maintains a no-frills, utilitarian aesthetic that prioritizes function over flash. You won't find modern décor or ambient lighting here; instead, expect the steady hum of floor fans and the rhythmic clatter of a high-heat wok echoing from the kitchen.
The Taste of Tradition
The menu serves as a straightforward list of Cantonese-American classics that have anchored this community for generations. They are widely recognized for their generous portions of chop suey, which arrive steaming with a distinct aroma of toasted sesame oil and savory soy sauce. The texture of their vegetables remains crisp, a clear indication of a kitchen that has mastered high-temperature stir-frying over decades of service. If you are looking for a quick, reliable plate lunch that feels like a home-cooked meal, their ginger chicken and sweet and sour pork are local go-to options.
The Hilo Experience
This is the kind of spot where you go when you want to disappear into a bowl of noodles without the pretense of fine dining. Be prepared for the reality of urban Hilo parking—it can be a bit of a dance during the lunch rush, so patience is a virtue. The service is brisk and efficient, mirroring the fast-paced energy of the neighborhood. It is the perfect stop for those who value historical authenticity and deep-rooted flavors over trendy plating. Whether you are a long-time resident or passing through the Big Island, a stop here offers an unfiltered glimpse into the island's mid-century Chinese food scene.
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Amenities & Features
Location
138 Hualalai St, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-3825
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 11 community reviewsChadd CastanedaGoogle Maps
Recently
Online prices are not correct as it says on the menu, food prices are very high and expensive. Ordered food over the phone, the Chinese lady was very adamant, rude, quick to get off the phone when ordering food. Picked up the food and asked for the food prices for three orders that was for $54.99. When it supposed to be under $40.00 from the online menu order. Never again coming here.
Michele K AyalaGoogle Maps
Recently
The best Chinese food in Hilo, my new favorite restaurant. Plate was full for $14, worth it!
Craigs ListGoogle Maps
Recently
The food here is awesome exact same food at lings. However last time I went in for my sons birthday party she overcharged me almost $300. My wife got really upset and wanted an itemized receipt So she gave us one and that’s when the $700 bill went down to $400. Will that stop me from going there? No but after that experience I check my receipt all the time.
Val MendozaGoogle Maps
Recently
Just moved to Big Island, looking for some really good Chinese food and was greeted with insults from the lady taking our order. She kept correcting our order to her liking and would not look us in the face while doing it. Ended up leaving and will not be back again.
David L.Google Maps
Recently
Take out only, worst Chinese food ever. Bland food, chicken didn't taste fresh, we just about tossed it out the window. Front lady was nice. We had cashew chicken, white rice, fried wontons, and egg rolls. All of it was no bueno.
Joan IonaGoogle Maps
Recently
The owner always ripping the people off. When you question, she says online menu not up to date. I ordered 2 of orders of crispy won a few days ago, $9.50. Today ordered a single order $9.50. She been ripping off the people for way too long. She gives a total then charges your card $2-$3. More
JGoogle Maps
Recently
Great service and actually great price for the amount of food that you get I definitely well be coming back..
Sweet LoveGoogle Maps
Recently
All the food, taste the same. I couldn't enjoy it. The waitress is cool though.
SeriouslyBrandeeGoogle Maps
Recently
This is the place for oyster chicken! So clean and fast service! I also like the pork tofu. I think they r closed on Monday or Tuesday tho...throws me off lol
Olivia PennGoogle Maps
Recently
This dam lady who runs the restaurant is always trying to rip me off! EVERY time i order over the phone and go in to pay she tells me this crazy insane price. So now i grab the menu and do the calculations in front of her. She wanna act like oh i made a mistake. Shes perfectly aware of what shes doing. Her excuses are so dumb. Good food but the lady dose fraud at that place. CHECK YOUR BILL! i can guarantee theirs an extra 5-10 dollars sometimes more added.
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