Restaurant Miwa
About
A Slice of Japan in Hilo Town
For those navigating the lush streets of Hilo, Restaurant Miwa stands as a reliable pillar of traditional Japanese comfort food. This isn’t a place for avant-garde fusion; it is a straightforward establishment that focuses on the classics, particularly their expansive menu of teishoku sets and bento boxes. The dining room maintains a modest, utilitarian charm that feels plucked straight from a quiet neighborhood eatery in Osaka.
Savoring the Classics
The kitchen shines when preparing their signature tempura, which arrives with a delicate, shattering crispness, and their sashimi platters, which showcase the bounty of Hawaii’s surrounding waters. Locals often flock here for the misoyaki butterfish—a masterclass in balancing salty miso with a touch of sweetness. The scent of dashi broth greets you the moment the sliding door opens, instantly setting a warm, savory tone for the meal.
The Local Experience
If you are looking for a lively, loud bar scene, look elsewhere. Miwa offers a subdued, respectful atmosphere that serves as a perfect escape from the tropical humidity. It is an ideal spot for a quiet lunch or a relaxed dinner with family. Be aware that the parking lot can get a bit congested during the peak local lunch hour, so arrive with a bit of patience. The service is efficient and unfussy, reflecting a culture that values the food above all else. Whether you are craving a warm bowl of udon on a rainy Hilo afternoon or a hearty chicken katsu set, this spot delivers consistent flavors that locals have relied upon for years.
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Amenities & Features
Location
1261 Kilauea Ave Ste 230, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-4205
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 67 community reviewsKaren SheffGoogle Maps
Recently
The Kama appetizer was tiny and we were charged absurdly… $43. The same item double the size in Kona at Sionos‘s is $13. Yaki soba was very poor quality
Chrystal KitayamaGoogle Maps
Recently
Great place for onolicious Japanese food in Hilo Shopping Center. We had the California roll to share & delicious miso soup🥣. I had the two choice lunch with fresh sashimi & tonkatsu that included Hijiki, koko & small oriental green salad🍱. Tonkatsu sauce was on point😋 My better half & MIL shared the two choice lunch with the shrimp n veggie tempura🍤 & teriyaki chicken. Our niece had the yummers Tekka-Don🐟🍚. For dessert they have a best Green Tea ice cream🍵🍦 (Hilo Homemade) & in house made Dark Chocolate Haupia🍫🥥 pie🤩 Cannot go wrong with this hot spot!🥳
ScottGoogle Maps
Recently
Yum-mazing birthday experience. I went with the specials: fried flounder and oxtail soup. With sake and appetizers, like fried mussels and scallop sushi, plus everything else, I felt like Jackie Chan in Drunken Master with so many delicious plates and bowls in front of me to choose from... and wow, the service here was excellent. So friendly and available for questions, comments, and more food! So many delicious dishes, very impressive, very traditional Japanese feel with some nutritious local additions. Couldn't recommend enough. You won't be disappointed.
Maya AlapaiGoogle Maps
Recently
If you want to eat where the local Hilo families eat, come here!!! The food was an 11/10 all around. The service was lovely. My husband and I shared a dinner combo and got rolls on our own and it was the perfect amount of food. The flavors of everything were perfection. Cannot wait to come back here.
CarolineGoogle Maps
Recently
Great tucked away spot for a peaceful and delicious meal. The service was impeccable and so friendly. We had a great meal and at the end of the dinner hot tea was served. Can’t wait to go back!
AngieGoogle Maps
Recently
The service is always great and the food is delicious. The fried pork belly is one of my favorites. Definitely recommend.
Katherine MelnykGoogle Maps
Recently
If you're into Classical Japanese dishes, this place is worth checking out. They offer a variety of traditional options, and we tried the Chirashi Sushi along with a Dinner featuring Fried Fish, Chicken Katsu, and Pork Shogayaki. The food overall was good, with everything tasting fresh. However, our experience was hindered by slow service – we had to wait quite a while for our dishes and any additional requests. On a positive note, the green tea dessert was a tasty end to our meal.
Maitri SogaGoogle Maps
Recently
I love restaurant Miwa. I always make it a point to head there when I am back in town. Everything on their menu is delicious and their customer service is always on point. I highly recommend!
Philip SuomuGoogle Maps
Recently
Excellent Japanese food. Lunch special for $17.95 (February, 2022) includes choice of 2 protein, rice, miso soup, green tea, salad, seaweed, and cabbage. Most in a bento box. Friendly service. Could be difficult to find but well worth it.
John T.L HulstineGoogle Maps
Recently
This restaurant offers a more traditional Japanese meal. I enjoyed every minute, and found that the food was excellent. It was quickly prepared and the server was able to refill our drinks promptly. I definitely reccomend the miso, and if that dosen't satiate your hunger there many different options to enjoy!
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