




About
A Bold Culinary Collision in Kaimuki
Walking into K-Mex Hi, the first thing you notice is the sizzle—a rhythmic, high-heat dance of searing bulgogi meeting the charred edges of a corn tortilla. Located in the heart of Honolulu’s vibrant Kaimuki district, this spot skips the pretension of fusion dining, choosing instead to lean hard into the messy, glorious intersection of Seoul and Mexico City.
Where Kimchi Meets the Griddle
The menu acts as a roadmap for flavor seekers. The signature tacos are heavy hitters, usually topped with a fermented kick of house-made kimchi slaw that cuts through the richness of marinated meats. You will hear the distant hum of Island traffic mixed with an upbeat, eclectic playlist that keeps the room buzzing. It is the kind of place where you lean over your plate to avoid losing a drip of spicy gochujang-infused salsa.
Practical Notes for Your Visit
The space is compact, meaning seating can get tight during the lunch rush. While the lack of a sprawling parking lot might require a quick lap around the block, the reward is a meal that feels both familiar and entirely new. It is an ideal stop for locals craving a quick, flavor-packed bite or visitors looking to escape the typical tourist-heavy menus of Waikiki. Grab a stack of napkins, pull up a stool, and prepare for a lunch that lingers on the palate long after you head back out into the bright Honolulu sun.
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Location
961 Kawaiahao St, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96814-4102
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Reviews
Showing 8 of 19 community reviewsEmmy HarrisGoogle Maps
Recently
Really kind staff, lovely food. A find!
thomas fariasGoogle Maps
Recently
Wanted to try this place out, this place was super good the burrito and bowls were really good with the asada. The place has an interesting ambiance that makes it feel homey do not skip out on this place it is a must visit.
Julia PuchiGoogle Maps
Recently
The kimchi salsa was amazing! The bulgogi quesadilla was good and we liked trying the different sauces. Recommend coming here for an easy lunch.
Jessika MontoyaGoogle Maps
Recently
food was great, the gal that was at the register was very rude. She had attitude the whole time, and was full on glaring. Not sure what her name was , but she was god awfully rude. I asked her what a specific item was on a picture, and she just treated me like i was stupid for not knowing. will not be coming back here fully based on her service.
Don R CampbellGoogle Maps
Recently
Interesting lunch stop that combines flavors and cultures. Hidden away from the tourist areas makes it even more enjoyable and "chill ." Street tacos were our choice (3 each). My favorite was the Beef Bulgogi tacos with the Kimchi Salsa (yum). Her favorite was the Carne Asada. They're simple, and simply delicious. As you walk down the street it is on, it's pretty easy to miss as it's tucked back in. So I included a picture of the front.
Daniel 4700Google Maps
Recently
Very great taste with reasonable price. Store was clean and staff was friendly. It's great combination between Korean and Mexican food. I got carne asada burrito and it was amazing. Rice was well seasoned and kimchi salsa inside was a hit.
Therese HoweGoogle Maps
Recently
Been walking past their sign on the way to other stores and restaurants on the same street, and finally stopped in with a friend to grab lunch. So glad we finally did - I enjoyed Korean Mexican fusion more than the food truck closer to our work, and the prices were better! I’m not a fan of spicy foods so I asked them to hold the kimchi salsa in my street tacos, and opted to add sour cream and guacamole for extra. These babies were packed with meat and flavor - I got Spicy Pork Bulgogi, Beef Bulgogi and Mojo Chicken (fourth meat choice is Carne Asada Steak, which would be a buck extra). For vegetarians, they gave jackfruit tinga and grilled veggies. Will definitely be back, and will try to save room for the Korean desserts in place owned by the owner’s mom in front!
ROMI ApothecaryGoogle Maps
Recently
Love this place! The food is excellent- good flavor, fresh ingredients, and nice portion sizes. I’ve pretty much gotten everything here and it’s all yummy. My go-to is a steak bowl with lots of veggies. Their guacamole is bomb and I looovve their kimchi salsa! My husband is vegan and says that he dreams about the jackfruit sandwhich- it’s that ono! When we are in town, we go to this place at least 1 or 2x/week because it’s by our house, delicious, and satisfies both our dietary needs. Great vegan, veg, and gluten-free options. The owners Leon and Kim take really good care of the place and their customers. The inside is impeccably clean and so it always feels fresh to eat there. Not to mention, right next door they have the tastiest dessert taiyaki. Check this gem of a place out! #supportsmallbusiness
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Frequently Asked Questions about K-mex Hi
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