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About
A Hilo Morning Staple
Stepping into Kum Yo's Okazuya is like stepping back into a classic Hilo breakfast tradition. This no-frills, counter-service spot serves as the quintessential morning stop for locals and visitors craving authentic, Japanese-inspired comfort food in the heart of East Hawaii. The aroma of freshly cooked short-grain rice and savory shoyu-based sauces fills the air as soon as the doors crack open before sunrise.
The Okazuya Experience
The food display is the heart of the operation, packed with glass-cased trays featuring crispy chicken katsu, spam musubi, and thick-cut omelets. Everything is prepared with a focus on quick, hearty sustenance. The menu shifts slightly based on what’s fresh, but the local favorites—like their teriyaki meat and perfectly seasoned chow fun—rarely disappoint. Expect a line of tradesmen, office workers, and early-bird tourists by 6:00 AM; it is a bustling, communal hum of morning chatter and the clatter of takeout containers.
Local Tips
Be prepared for the fast-paced nature of the counter. It isn't a place to linger over a long latte; it is a place to grab a box of fuel before a day exploring the Hilo side or the nearby volcanic landscapes. Keep in mind that parking in this part of downtown Hilo can get tight during peak morning rushes, so patience is key. Once you have your selection, take your box down to the nearby bayfront to eat while watching the Hilo tide roll in. It is a genuine slice of island life that values substance over flair.
Location
399 E Kawili St, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-5075
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 5 community reviewsYahshua WatsonGoogle Maps
Recently
Both chicken entrees were stringy and overcooked
gary okumuraGoogle Maps
Recently
Came here at 12 and this is what they had left for $16 dollars this is ridiculous and I bought 2 plates and 2 drinks cost me $40 not worth it
bankooferGoogle Maps
Recently
A great pitstop for some simple, tasty food. I had the bittermelon with beans, kimchii, and grilled chicken. It was all tasty. Very friendly staff too!
Fran ColomaGoogle Maps
Recently
Good okazuya they are generous with the sides portions. The egg battered fish was good, popular. Spam musubi had good ratio.
Big Island RecruiterGoogle Maps
Recently
Don’t get overwhelmed with all the choices! They are all good! Very friendly staff and amazing service.
James SteeleGoogle Maps
Recently
The WORST korean food ever. Korean chicken tastes and looks like orange chicken from panda express. Both of my shrimp were so undercooked I couldn't eat them. And one piece of soggy mochico chicken was over $5. What an overpriced disaster. $21 plate and I'm throwing most of it in the trash.
BloNdeChiNeEzGoogle Maps
Recently
I AbSoLuTeLy LOVE Kum Yo's Okazuya! I can say how delectable each and every dish they serve is, because I have eaten them all! When you enter you can select items from their buffet line to create your own local style plate lunch. The mandoo are scrumptious, especially when dipping them into Kum Yo's homemade dipping sauce. Each day of the week she has set entrees in which you have multiple choices of freshly prepared veggies, cold tofu to limu. Fresh, hot onoliscious entrees and massive portions, yet very reasonably priced. Take out or dine in. Kum Yo's is my favorite Okazuya in Hilo! Love you folks and tell David I miss seeing him! Sorry there is no food left to photograph! I ate it before taking pics! My bad!
Sarai N (Rai Rai)Google Maps
Recently
The food taste delicious! Just the prices are high. Other than that, I don't have any bad concerns.
Conor DurdyGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious hot lunch plate. Think like a meat and 3 kinda place or a deli counter. Best to give it a shot if you're looking to take some foods to a beach or back home.
Laura ShermanGoogle Maps
Recently
we were visiting Hilo for day and wanted to try a local restaurant. we were greeted with deliciious food and friendly service! our favorites were chicken wings, homemade kimchee, dumplings and chicken dish!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kum Yo's Okazuya
Common questions from diners about Kum Yo's Okazuya in Hilo.
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