Rainbow Cafe
About
A Relaxed Corner of Kailua-Kona
When you find yourself wandering the sun-drenched streets near the historic Kailua Village waterfront, the Rainbow Cafe serves as an unpretentious stop for a quick meal. It is the type of place where the salt air from the Pacific drifts through the open-air seating, mixing with the aroma of freshly brewed Kona coffee. The atmosphere is resolutely low-key, catering to locals looking for a reliable breakfast or travelers needing to fuel up before a snorkel trip.
Island Comforts on the Menu
The menu highlights traditional Hawaiian-style comfort food. You will often find local favorites like generous portions of loco moco, where savory gravy meets perfectly fried eggs, and plate lunches that lean heavily into island staples. Expect to hear the clatter of ceramic plates and the hum of casual conversation rather than background music. It is a functional, straightforward space that values efficiency over flash.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
While the cafe captures the laid-back spirit of the Big Island, keep in mind that parking along the main Alii Drive thoroughfare can be competitive during peak morning hours. If you are planning a visit, arrive early to secure a spot. The interior aesthetic is simple, focusing on functionality rather than decor, making it an ideal spot for those who prefer to prioritize a hearty meal over a curated dining environment. It is a genuine slice of Kailua-Kona daily life, stripping away the resort-style polish for something much more grounded.
Amenities & Features
Location
73-5612 Kauhola St Unit 4, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740
More to Explore
More cuisines in Kailua-Kona
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 30 community reviewsDr. Anthony J. “Quantum Minister” ToledoGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious and fairly priced food with friendly service.
Leon NitrogenGoogle Maps
Recently
The other choices looked good but for some reason I chose the roasted duck. It was a poor decision. The duck was dry and some of the pieces were chopped up poorly that the bone splints were everywhere at the bottom. Most of it was bone other than the leg piece on top. Service was average and the prices were high for a small portion.
Nathan PrescottGoogle Maps
Recently
Some of the best General Tso chicken I have ever had. The restaurant is very clean with friendly service.
Michelle PorterGoogle Maps
Recently
This is a nice family owned business with convenient hours and location. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I'm a vegetarian, so I tried the Vegetable Fried Rice. It was decent. The portion was extremely large. I was able to get two meals out of it. Based on this experience, I would be willing to return and try other menu items. Service was very polite and the atmosphere was comfortable. I love the way they use their windows to display their menu!
Pranav BhounsuleGoogle Maps
Recently
Good fried food if you like it. Fast service.
AGGoogle Maps
Recently
The restaurant is located near Kona Airport, and the front desk is run by a pair of twin brothers. It serves typical Hawaiian-style American Chinese food with very generous portions. Everything is served with disposable tableware, which I find convenient. The taste leans toward the local Hawaiian flavor and is quite good. Next time I come to the Big Island, I’ll definitely stop by here after landing—have a meal and then head to the Costco next door for shopping.
Peter LaneGoogle Maps
Recently
Found this little gem by mistake. Pretty much local but I would highly recommend. I had the salt and pepper fish filets. Outstanding!! Excellent flavor and spices. Great French fries. Very reasonable prices. I will go back !!
LauraGoogle Maps
Recently
The food was delicious, and the serving size was huge. Clean restaurant and fast service. When ordering, the young gentleman explained what other choices there are. And you aren't rushed when ordering. Since first posted, my family has been to Rainbow Cafe 2 other times, and I will be adding more pictures as my family and I try out more new dishes.
kiana laalaaGoogle Maps
Recently
Been wanting garlic shrimp since no where on big island ever has the garlic shrimp you crave from the trucks on oahu. Went here, wanted to try there's... and they serve literally everything all day!!! So awesome. It's not exactly what in was hoping for... but it was SO GOOD. I love garlic and this is what I've been wanting forever. Glad to have finally stopping by after passing by it forever. Their menu is amazing since it has so many options. I would defs try their noodles as well. Service is great, food came out fast, wide open area. Quite a few seats. Great food. A must try!
Ro A PGoogle Maps
Recently
We came here for the first time and ordered Kalbi ribs, salt and pepper shrimp and ala carte orange chicken. The food is tasty and reasonably priced. The staff here are very friendly. We went around 7:30 pm and you can tell it's a go-to spot for the locals. We'll be back after our next shopping trip at Costco!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rainbow Cafe
Common questions from diners about Rainbow Cafe in Kailua-Kona.
