




Zippy's - Honolulu (Kalanianaole Hwy)
About
A Local Favorite in the Heart of Hawaii Kai
When you find yourself cruising through East Honolulu, the iconic neon sign of Zippy's at Koko Marina Center stands as a beacon for those craving authentic local comfort food. This spot captures the true essence of island dining, where the air smells faintly of sweet Portuguese sausage and bubbling chili, drawing in a mix of surfers coming off the waves at Sandy Beach and families finishing a day at Hanauma Bay.
The Ultimate Comfort Experience
Stepping inside, you are greeted by the steady hum of chatter and the rhythmic clinking of spoons against deep bowls. The atmosphere is unpretentious and bustling, functioning as the unofficial living room for the Hawaii Kai community. Whether you are grabbing a quick booth by the window to watch the marina activity or settling into a larger table for a late-night feast, the service remains brisk and efficient.
Signature Island Flavors
You cannot visit without ordering their legendary signature chili—a recipe so deeply ingrained in the local culinary identity that it often feels like a rite of passage. If you are feeling particularly hungry, the Zip Pac is the standard-bearer for bento-style meals, packing fried chicken, teriyaki beef, and a slab of Spam atop a generous bed of rice. For those who appreciate the quirks of local dining, be prepared for the distinct "Zippy's vibe," where the acoustics can get quite lively during the Sunday morning rush, and finding a parking spot in the bustling marina lot requires a bit of patience.
This location serves as a reliable anchor for residents who need a consistent, soul-warming meal without any fuss. It is the kind of place where your order is familiar, the coffee is always flowing, and the food tastes exactly how you remember it from childhood.
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Amenities & Features
Location
7192 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96825-1800
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 130 community reviewsMichelle BoeschGoogle Maps
Recently
I am sorry to give a bad review but this was challenging. 1 there are no public restrooms and signage and directions were not great so it took us a while and multiple buildings to find it. 2 dining area is closed. 3 a friend and I ordered at the same time and hers was significantly longer to come out. Maybe it was the dish she chose but it made the experience kinda... well, far from great.
Victoria AGoogle Maps
Recently
This location was under renovation when we stopped in, so there was minimal seating available. It seemed like it was mostly a 'grab and go ' location. The burgers were amazing, but the soda had a weird chemical taste. There may be a larger dining area beside this that wasn't open at the time of day we were there
Barry AwapuneGoogle Maps
Recently
I usually wouldn't write a review with a rating under a 4, but I think that Zippy's needs to make some changes. Let me start off by saying that I used to come to this very location when I was a little kid. It certainly wasn't new back then. But it looks like nothing has changed--and that's not a good thing. If anything, is there some of the disrepair around the rest of the aging shopping center. Next, why is the dining room closed? I heard from family and friends that there was a temporary closure during COVID but why is it still closed? It used to have AC and a nice view. It was perfect for families. Lastly, the prices have absolutely gotten out of hand. I can't imagine being more than $20 for a meal here. Some of their meals are even over $30 and they aren't particularly large or filling. Management, if you're seeing this, please take note
SaifGoogle Maps
Recently
They're also a bakery, fyi. Chili Moco Loco is a must try if you desire island food. Otherwise, expect a spectacle in the parking lot depending on what's happening that day. Just be patient and enjoy the day.
Favorite ThingsGoogle Maps
Recently
First time at this location. It's great you get to eat by the water. The menu is great as alway, you can't beat Zippy's chicken and chili, but I'd keep coming back for this location alone, especially after anyone of the great hikes around here
SamGoogle Maps
Recently
Zippy's always hits the spot. Sadly the dining room is permanently closed at this location. I tried the limited edition Korean Fried Chicken & Mixed Chili Plate and it was GOOD! I also ordered the Loco Moco and that was tasty. World definitely recommend and it's close to Koko Head Crater Hike.
Micky KGoogle Maps
Recently
Actually, I really want to visit this restaurant because marina view table from many reviews. When I visit last week, some table n/a due to repair or some other reasons. But in spite of that, the mood of the restaurant was very good. Fresh air, blue marina, white Yacht... Here is not expensive fine dinning restaurant but my family really enjoyed the lunch time in here. Foods are nice and we can enjoy many more in this restaurant. If you want to taste the local mood and food, try this restaurant. I really recommend here. Oh, Zip pac and Loco moco are so nice and beef stew also good. But I want to try chicken menu next time. The people at the next table were eating chicken and it looks so good.
AlexGoogle Maps
Recently
Couldn’t leave the islands without getting a hit from the famed Zippy’s chili. Was passing by and found this location. Very odd mushroom shaped building looked like a UFO at night. Nonetheless pushed forward and went to the order counter to get some large chili with rice. Wow, this was a lot better than expected. Hot, comforting, and delicious. It’s no wonder this place has been in business for ages. Highly recommended and will be back.
Andrew MagnottaGoogle Maps
Recently
We decided to stop here and grab food from Zippy's since it's a local chain. The service was rather slow considering we were the only customers there. The food itself was also hit or miss. The beef was good, but the rice was dry and crunchy. Overall it didn't seem very fresh. It's possible other locations are better, but I wouldn't return here.
MiaGoogle Maps
Recently
My local friends took me here and it’s a little bit of everything including Korean fried chicken (KFC)! And chili fries!! There’s a beautiful outdoor area w views of dock and boats; great place for pics! This is a fast food of sorts but they have everything and even a whole dessert selection! I tried the 3 kinds of chicken combo; was in love w the KFC! Chili cheese fries was also very delicious! Be sure to bring your camera as it’s fun taking a bunch of pics back there. Plenty of seating and everything was super clean when we went. Recommend!!!!
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