




Thai Charley's Cuisine
About
A Slice of Thailand on the Big Island
Finding genuine Southeast Asian spice amid the tropical breeze of Kailua-Kona brings you to Thai Charley's Cuisine. This local haunt prioritizes bold, punchy flavors over white-tablecloth pretense. When you walk in, the immediate scent of toasted peanuts and Thai basil hitting a searing hot wok fills the air, signaling that your meal is made to order.
Wok-Fired Favorites
The menu leans into tradition, featuring hearty portions of Pad Thai that balance tamarind tartness with a subtle sweetness. Their green curry is a standout, boasting a vibrant, herbaceous heat that pairs perfectly with the fragrant jasmine rice. It is the type of kitchen that doesn't shy away from authentic spice levels, so don't be afraid to ask for a kick if you enjoy a slow-burning chili heat.
The Kona Dining Experience
Thai Charley's is ideal for those who finish a day of snorkeling or hiking and crave something deeply savory and satisfying. The atmosphere is casual and unhurried, reflecting the laid-back pace of the Kona coast. Keep in mind that space is intimate; during the dinner rush, the room can get quite energetic and loud. It’s a popular spot for locals looking for a reliable, no-frills dinner that hits the spot every time. If you are exploring the main thoroughfare of Kailua Village, this offers a refreshing change of pace from the typical tourist-heavy menus found nearby.
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Amenities & Features
Location
74-5586 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740-3119
More to Explore
More cuisines in Kailua-Kona
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Reviews
Showing 8 of 56 community reviewsRishi ManjrekarGoogle Maps
Recently
Amazing Thai place on the big island. My wife and I went there again because the fried rice was amazing. Spring rolls and Penang curry were good as well along with the Thai tea but the drunken noodles were not as great as the fried rice. Overall highly recommend if you are in Kona.
Douglas KinnearGoogle Maps
Recently
After years of driving by this restaurant, I finally stopped in and found out three important things. There is parking behind their building, their food is delicious and the service is warm and welcoming. The first dish I tried was Sweet and Sour Chicken including Jasmine rice, at a fair price, with fresh pineapple and perfectly cooked veggies swimming in a 5-star sauce. I had Chicken Satay as an appetizer and it was thick, juicy and full of flavor with sides of peanut and cucumber sauce, both beyond tasty. The second visit, I had the Ono over a bed of Asparagus and other veggies with a delectable sauce and a huge plate to hold and display it all. The ring of sauce around the perimeter of the plate and the deliciousness of the fish told me there was a passionate chef involved. What can I say? It took me years to finally try Krua Thai Cuisine, but I did find golden food and service at the end of this restaurant rainbow making it my Kona “go to” Thai food place, from this point on. Do yourself a favor and don’t wait, like I did, to give Krua Thai Cuisine a try. You will be happy you did!
Drasti VadharGoogle Maps
Recently
The food was so good! The veggie spring rolls were perfectly thin and crispy, and the basil fried rice tasted fresh with really flavorful vegetables.
Su PGoogle Maps
Recently
We came here in 2019 and really wanted to go back for pad thai and fried rice that we loved. So now in 2025, we couldn't remember the name.. looked up some restaurant in the area, guessed this is the place, and we were spot on! 😅 Loved it as mucb as the first time!! Love the food and atmosphere!! Pad thai is sooo goood here! Highly recommend 👌
Mo MoGoogle Maps
Recently
Nice place to have a meal. Dong yum soup with rice noodles is so good. Mango sticky rice was sold out this time:( will definitely try it next time.
Chelle TGoogle Maps
Recently
Table for two, we were near the window and the AC was blocked by a wall so it was warmish. We ordered lunch specials veggie with chicken, pad thai with tofu and panang curry with beef. All had rice and salad. We requested mild. It was pretty good. The mango dessert with sticky rice was market rate $15 so we didn't get it. The Thai tea with choice of half and half or coconut milk didn't really taste differently. We just paid cash to avoid 3% credit card fee when we were approached again to pay by another waitress, communication error.
David OyGoogle Maps
Recently
Great Thai spot. Really liked the Lard Nar, a very unique dish in a delicious gravy. The pad thai was very good, though not too vegetable-heavy. The Panang Curry was also good, though so rich and heavy. Huge portions for decent prices. Good ambience and service. Visited a few times during our trip for the clearly labeled vegan options and solid value. A solid choice for Thai food!
Ramya ReddyGoogle Maps
Recently
Absolutely loved this place. Perfect taste portion and spice level! Couldn’t recommend more. Every dish we ordered was delicious. One of the best Thai food we had in Kona. If possible we would want to come again. We went during late lunch hours but they were happy to accommodate. Since we were running late we placed order on the phone and by the time we reached there lunch was almost ready . Staff was friendly. The fresh rolls were huge. Biggest we had till date. Wings can be cooked better. But still they were nice. Panang curry and fried rice were the best of best. Must try place ! Thanks to the chef !
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Frequently Asked Questions about Thai Charley's Cuisine
Common questions from diners about Thai Charley's Cuisine in Kailua-Kona.
