Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
#20 of 108 Restaurants in Kailua American

Big City Diner (108 Hekili St)

3.9(209 community reviews)
Fine Dining ($$$$)

About

Discover Big City Diner (108 Hekili St), offering the best American experience in Kailua. Enjoy Fine Dining ($$$$) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

A Windward O'ahu Staple

Stepping into Big City Diner on Hekili Street captures the essence of a true neighborhood gathering spot. Located in the heart of Kailua, this is where the local community drifts in after a morning session at the beach or a hike through the Ko'olau Range. The air inside is consistently filled with the hum of lively conversation and the clatter of silverware, punctuated by the savory scent of their signature Kim Chee Fried Rice hitting the grill.

Island Comfort Food Done Right

This spot is built for those who crave hearty, no-nonsense portions. They are widely recognized for keeping the spirit of the classic diner alive, offering a menu that leans heavily into Hawaii's unique culinary fusion. Whether you are ordering a thick, juicy burger or a local-style breakfast plate, the kitchen prioritizes consistency over pretense. It is the kind of place where you come to refuel, not to be pampered.

The Local Experience

Be prepared for a bustling, high-energy environment. On busy weekend mornings, the energy is palpable, and while the parking around Hekili Street can sometimes test your patience, the trade-off is a seat at a table that feels like a home away from home. It is best suited for families, casual hangouts with friends, or anyone looking to escape the tourist-heavy zones and eat like a resident of Kailua. The service moves with the brisk efficiency you would expect from a diner that has become a pillar of the Windward side, making it a reliable waypoint for anyone exploring the rugged beauty of the eastern coast.

Photos

Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image
Big City Diner - Kailua Restaurant Image

Location

108 Hekili St, Kailua, Hawaii, 96734-2848

Directions

Reviews

Showing 10 of 209 community reviews
R

Ryan TGoogle Maps

Recently

Standard diner atmosphere and offerings. We had breakfast and everything was perfectly prepared and delicious. service was fast. The macadamia nut pancakes are definitely worth a try.

S

Susan KehneGoogle Maps

Recently

Epic fried rice and yummy edamame, prepared and served with Aloha. So local, so ono, comfy benches and always lovely staff. So lucky we live Hawai’i.

N

Nate CGoogle Maps

Recently

In a strip mall next to Foodland, this is a family friendly diner with a welcoming vibe and nice staff. Paniolo Chicken Salad and Loco Moco were favorites among the dishes we ordered. Next time we want to eat the Kim Chee burger. Portions were a decent size, kids meals were awesome too. We plan to be back soon.

R

Ronya H.Google Maps

Recently

Update - Ever since the pandemic, we’ve done take out a few times. Our favorite is the meatloaf. Today we visited for breakfast. Service was okay and the food was good. Only downfall was there was lots of flies in the restaurant.

D

DERRICK JUANDAGoogle Maps

Recently

Had the bacon ham and cheese omelet ( I prefer cheese on top of the omelette as well as in) bacon could have been cut up better so half pieces weren't coming out during each bite. Best part was seeing pictures of Denver Broncos players around the bar as I am from Denver and a big fan. Go Broncos. Will definitely go back.

C

Chelle TGoogle Maps

Recently

Our favorite spot for breakfast this trip. The items we ordered were great. Loco moco, eggs with beef hash and hash browns, steak and eggs and macadamia nut pancakes with coconut. Service was nice and food tasty. We liked the small town feel of it.

D

David HubbardGoogle Maps

Recently

I'm really happy that we decided to eat breakfast here. Nice combination of local favorites and traditional breakfast. There are TVs outside on the patio area. Prices are slightly high, which is to be expected: $4.79 iced tea, $6.99 side of bacon...two people= $49 before tip.

J

Jamal BlackwellGoogle Maps

Recently

Came here for a birthday breakfast and this pace did not disappoint! I got the salmon eggs benedict and it was delicious. The atmosphere is super laid back and the staff working there were funny and a joy to be around. Will definitely be back next visit!

T

Tabitha PGoogle Maps

Recently

Such a Great Local Vibe with Local Food!! It’s Always Wonderful when the Presentation AND Flavor is on Point!! Grandma’s Fried Rice & Kimchee was 🫶!! Hubs had the Kalbi Steak and it didn’t disappoint!! The Cinnamon French toast…also 👌!! Definitely a place to Revisit Over and Over and Over!! The Outdoor Bar area is Adorable and Really gives the Beach Feel!! 🌺

C

Cris TayzaGoogle Maps

Recently

First time after covid lock down dinner and outdoor seating was great. The staff are so friendly. My full rack was so delicious fall off the bones, got 2 meals out of it. Fish and chips are good also. Must trying the ribs once you are in town. Mahalo.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Big City Diner (108 Hekili St)

Common questions from diners about Big City Diner (108 Hekili St) in Kailua.

Yes, we are a family-friendly restaurant offering a welcoming atmosphere and a dedicated kids' menu that guests love.

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