




Zippy's - Honolulu (Waialae Ave)
About
A Kaimuki Culinary Institution
Stepping into Zippy's in the heart of Kaimuki is a rite of passage for anyone looking to experience true Honolulu comfort food. This isn't a place for white tablecloths or hushed whispers; it is a bustling, high-energy diner where the clatter of silverware and the hum of local conversation create the soundtrack to every meal. Whether you are coming off a long day at the beach or finishing a late-night shift, the familiar neon glow of this spot offers a reliable sanctuary.
The Flavors That Defined Hawaii
The menu remains a masterclass in local consistency. Most regulars don't even need to look at the plastic-covered menus before ordering the legendary chili—a thick, hearty recipe that has gained a cult following across the islands. Pair it with a bowl of Zip Min, where the steaming dashi broth, noodles, and fish cake provide the ultimate savory reset. For those with a sweet tooth, the Napoleon’s Bakery counter near the entrance is impossible to ignore; the scent of fresh butter and sugar often lures patrons into grabbing a box of glazed donuts or a custard pie before they even reach their table.
What to Expect When You Visit
While the service is famously efficient, the layout can feel a bit snug during the dinner rush, particularly when the nearby Kaimuki shops are bustling. You might find yourself side-stepping a crowd near the entrance or waiting a moment for a booth to open up, but that is part of the charm of this island classic. It serves as a true community hub where generations of local families have gathered for everything from post-game celebrations to quiet weekday breakfasts. If you are exploring the culinary landscape of Oahu, this location stands as a genuine pillar of Honolulu’s casual dining identity.
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Amenities & Features
Location
3345 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96816-2632
More to Explore
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 6 community reviewsGrace LaiGoogle Maps
Recently
Food very yummy 😋 😊 the French fries were very crispy.
E SamsonGoogle Maps
Recently
Online orders the best. You know exactly when the food is ready. No standing in line and waiting around. We ordered when we were at the Kaimuki Library and it was ready when we got there in the locker.
Kamilah WellsGoogle Maps
Recently
The food here was extremely delicious with the piece of fish that was included in my meal being super tender and buttery tasting and the Mac salad being the best Mac salad I've ever tasted. I got the Zip Pac meal along with grilled cornbread and the fish and Mac salad was my favorite part of the meal. I liked it all except for the Spam wasn't fried long enough in my opinion because I like it when the edges are crispy. The skin on the piece of chicken was good and crispy just like I like it and the rice was nice and fluffy. I also tried some of my Dad's orange bang drink and it was absolutely delicious! It tasted just like an orange creamsicle and I'd definitely recommend getting that to drink and a meal that has some of the fish in it. If I do back there at all before we leave Oahu tomorrow night then I'd order a meal that has all fish for the protein source, extra island style Mac salad and the orange bang to drink.
AaronGoogle Maps
Recently
The food here is genuinely good, and I would love to enjoy it more if it weren’t for the birds flying into the windows. It’s distracting and a bit unpleasant when they almost land on your meal after falling down. The place really needs better design or prevention measures so diners can focus on the great food instead of worrying about the birds
Robert EGoogle Maps
Recently
Great Zippy's location, consistent with other locations on island. Fast service, tasty food. I usually get their Chicken Trio Plate or the Surf Pac, but today I got the recently revived Garlic Miso Chicken Plate. It was alright…the fried chicken was decent but the sauce wasn’t very enjoyable.
Gimacus BurnsGoogle Maps
Recently
Have you ever eaten at a Zippys? It’s sort of like a KFC, but they also have some delicious pies! I got the crispy chicken and chili with white rice! This is my first time ever trying chili with rice, and I have to say it it is pretty good!! #zippys #foodreview
Robin FangGoogle Maps
Recently
Please bring Zippys to NEW YORK! I literally crave this food every day. The portions are big, everything tastes so good! The service might not be the best but you're here for the food and the good company. MAHALO! Btw my stomach is rumbling writing this review...
Lala LewGoogle Maps
Recently
First time at zippy, you get a lot of food with a regular plate! Got the katsu chicken, lilikoi punch, flaky donut and a mala"z"ada. They have a great little bakery here. Lilikoi cakes and pies and more.
SamGoogle Maps
Recently
Love Zippy's, but a pro tip would be to call in your order or else you'll be waiting for a LONG TIME because the food is made to order! It's not fast food. Late night eats! HUGE PORTIONS!
Juliana KekawaGoogle Maps
Recently
I like Zippys and have been going there for years. I bought $200.00 in benefit chili tickets, cause it was a good cause, and thinking thinking I would use them when I didn't have time to cook. The first 2 times was great but on the 3rd time they didn't fill up the containers. The manager said it was because the containers changed. I would like to accept that reason but this has happened before when we went there for the Kaimuki Christmas parade. My family member got a large chili with crackers and the container was the usual size but only filled half way. He was still hungry and I felt sorry for him. We were having a good time so we didn't complain. This is a really cheap move and will try other locations. Maybe we will have to reconsider going there again.
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