Kandi's Drive Inn - Hawaii Restaurant
#114 of 175 Restaurants in Hilo

Kandi's Drive Inn

4.3(4 community reviews)
Budget ($)

About

Discover Kandi's Drive Inn, offering the best Breakfast restaurants experience in Hilo. Enjoy Budget ($) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

A Slice of Hilo Comfort

Walking into Kandi's Drive Inn feels like stepping into the heartbeat of Hilo’s local culinary scene. This isn't a place for white tablecloths or complex tasting menus; it is where the community gathers for honest, straightforward food. The air often carries the savory, sweet aroma of shoyu-marinated proteins hitting the grill, mixed with the faint scent of island rain lingering outside.

The Local Flavor Profile

The kitchen leans heavily into the traditional drive-inn repertoire that Hawaii is famous for. Their plate lunches are the main event, featuring generous scoops of white rice and macaroni salad that hit the spot after a day exploring the Big Island. You will find locals and hungry travelers alike tucking into hearty loco mocos, where the rich gravy pools around a perfectly fried egg. If you are craving something with a bit of a crunch, their fried chicken is a standout, served golden and piping hot.

Know Before You Go

The atmosphere is bustling and casual, making it an ideal pitstop if you need a quick, satisfying meal while navigating the town. Expect a laid-back, utilitarian setup where the focus remains entirely on the plate in front of you. Keep in mind that the parking lot can get a bit congested during the lunch rush, as this is a go-to spot for nearby workers looking for a reliable bite. It is loud, it is busy, and it serves as a reminder that some of the best meals in Hilo don't need a reservation—just an appetite for authentic island comfort food.

Amenities & Features

Location

56 W Kawailani St, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-5668

Directions

Reviews

Showing 10 of 4 community reviews
D

David BoothGoogle Maps

Recently

Finally stopped in at this great little drive-in. First off Miko (sp) at the counter is super friendly and made some great recommendations including the lasagna and she was not wrong! Garlic toasts, big piece of lasagna and fresh salad. Also got two breakfast burgers with ham, 2 for $8 on Monday, and everyday they have an $8 special! They also have an afternoon fry and burger special for $3.99.

J

Jill HallGoogle Maps

Recently

A great local drive-in. Nothing fancy but great food at a great price. We would definitely eat here again!

K

k joGoogle Maps

Recently

Me and my wife ate here a few days ago. She ordered and then I said I will have the same. There was a mistake and I was given saimin. The way the mistake was handled was very professional and friendly I was impressed. I give my thanks to the crew. The only complaint I can give is make sure you have cash as that is all they will take

A

Alexandra TomasinoGoogle Maps

Recently

We had the bacon cheeseburger and chicken loco plate and to say both were delicious would be an understatement. The bacon cheeseburger was so good we even ordered a 2nd one before leaving. The people working at Kandi’s were very nice and welcoming. You could tell that a lot of locals come to eat lunch here as well. Very happy we happened to drive by on our way to the volcano! PS - cash only! Will be coming back

R

ReBecca BennettGoogle Maps

Recently

Quick service, great food, and large quantities, so much that we had to take everything home for a second meal. Do not drive past this place if you are hungry. Kandi's will satisfy that hunger! Who needs fast food when you can have Kandi's!

D

Deaf Girl WalkingGoogle Maps

Recently

Hobo stew- just the right amount of rice...the broth was slightly sweet, which could be because of the large chunks of veggies and meat imparting their graciousness into the mix. Local chicken plate: So much goodness in a clamshell box! The chicken patty was perfectly breaded, not too much and not too little. The gravy was a strong beef gravy, and just enough saltiness to flavor the egg on top and the rice below. Their Mac salad was not too sweet. Everything was just perfect! Dont pass up Kandi's. It's a great local place. Avoid food from across the street and pull in here. You won't be disappointed!

G

Guseva TatianaGoogle Maps

Recently

Recently discovered this place and we are very happy we did. They kept it so old school. You don’t see this low prices anywhere this days and the food is great. Employees are all very nice and the food gets to you in no time.

M

Mike MessickGoogle Maps

Recently

Sweet little hole-in-the-wall type burger joint, did not disappoint. Nothing fancy, but good food and fast, polite service. A few tables outside, they also offer a lot of frozen meals for take out. Apparently there's a lunch special between 1-3pm as well.

S

Shayne ShinkaiGoogle Maps

Recently

I'm a careful eater now, but when I used to eat out(occasionally), it would be at Kandi's. In my opinion, the best sandwiches and shakes in town! Good customer service too. Not sure but I think the owner took orders a few times. Nice lady. Good food and service. What more does one need?

T

Tanya BGoogle Maps

Recently

First timer here and the service was great!! The front worker she’s very nice! The food came out quick. I had the Loco plate, fries and a drink. I was told they have the best fries and they absolutely do! Also if you plan on going, they only accept cash, which thankfully I did have on me. ☺️

Comments & Reviews

Please sign in to write a review.

No reviews yet. Be the first to write a review!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kandi's Drive Inn

Common questions from diners about Kandi's Drive Inn in Hilo.

Kandi's Drive Inn serves breakfast and lunch.

Nearby Restaurants

Vernas III - Island of Hawaii Restaurant Image
$
4.0(3)

Vernas III

Quick Bites

Hilo
Hawaiian Brain Freeze Shave Ice and Ice cream - Island of Hawaii Restaurant Image
$
4.7(3)

Hawaiian Brain Freeze Shave Ice and Ice cream

Hawaiian • Quick Bites • Dessert

Hilo
Papa'a Palaoa Bakery - Island of Hawaii Restaurant Image
$
4.8(3)

Papa'a Palaoa Bakery

Bakeries

Hilo