




Kusina Ni Emma (75-1027 Henry St)
About
A Taste of the Philippines in Kailua-Kona
Tucked away near the busy Henry Street corridor, Kusina Ni Emma brings a home-cooked warmth to the Big Island’s culinary landscape. This is where you go when the craving for authentic Filipino comfort food hits—think savory adobo, crispy lumpia, and pansit that tastes like it came straight out of a family kitchen in Manila. The space is modest and utilitarian, prioritizing flavor over fancy decor, making it a perfect quick-stop for locals on their lunch break or those seeking an honest meal away from the resort-heavy tourist traps.
Savoring the Classics
The air here is often thick with the scent of garlic and soy-braised proteins. Chef Emma has built a reputation for consistency, particularly with the signature pork adobo, which strikes that perfect balance between tangy vinegar and deep, savory soy sauce. Don’t overlook the dessert selection; the sweet, creamy halo-halo is a vibrant, colorful necessity if the Kona afternoon sun is beating down on you. It is the kind of place where the menu changes based on what is fresh, so don't be afraid to ask about the daily specials written on the whiteboard.
What to Expect
Parking in this specific Kona commercial pocket can be a bit of a dance, especially during the midday rush, so bring your patience. The atmosphere is casual—no reservations needed, just walk up and get ready to eat. It is loud, vibrant, and smells like a proper Sunday dinner. Whether you are a local who grew up on these recipes or a visitor curious about Filipino culture, the generous portions and down-to-earth service make this a standout spot for anyone roaming the Kailua-Kona district looking for a substantial, flavorful bite.
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Location
75-1027 Henry St, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740-3154
More to Explore
More cuisines in Kailua-Kona
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Reviews
Showing 5 of 1 community reviewsM MomGoogle Maps
Recently
The last 5 orders (over the last couple of years) have been problematic. Wrong food items given that we had to drive back to return, taste either lacking or too salty, ingredients were either missing or just poor quality. Last night the beef sinigang meat was not edible - tough, chewy, weird texture and sadly lacking in vegetables and taste. It had some semblance of sinigang but just horrible. The halo halo ingredients were cheap and poor quality. I gave up on ordering my favorite pancit because the last 2 orders were just bad. The prices are ridiculous for the amount and quality of food and service. It’s sad that this well loved restaurant has become such a disappointment.
Miracle Holmes-TaetunaGoogle Maps
Recently
Fell in love with their Pork Adobo Lau-Lau! Food is great, service was great 😊
Joey CanlasGoogle Maps
Recently
Not a place to eat solo, if you wish to order a variety of Philppine cuisine, you'll spend too much $$$ if you do. The pinakbet: skimped on the bittermelon and sqush, no shrimp and it was "cut" with too much onion and long bean. Salty too, no need fish sauce. At least it came with rice when the menu didn't say so.
Miranda TaoGoogle Maps
Recently
Cute little Filipino cafe with delicious food. We ordered Pinakbet mixed plate and Korean fried chicken and you can replace rice with stir fry rice noodles in mixed plates which is a nice option. Things to beware: The lady at the front doesn’t seem to know English very well but still friendly. Food is on the salty side, would be better to reduce sodium a bit. Price portion ratio could be better as well. But otherwise recommend to give it a try!
Christine Ricardo (astrochristy)Google Maps
Recently
I wanted to order everything on the menu!! We ended up ordering the pancit bihon and lechon. Lechon was SO crispy and delicious! Cooked perfectly! The pancit had so much flavor and both boxes were filled to the brim! We can't wait to come back and try the desserts too 😍 Lots of Ube goodness, bakery items, banana lumpia, and delicious looking boba! Highlights: *Plenty of free parking *Big portions *Inexpensive *Outdoor or Indoor dining options *Delicious Filipino food!!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kusina Ni Emma (75-1027 Henry St)
Common questions from diners about Kusina Ni Emma (75-1027 Henry St) in Kailua-Kona.
