The Burger Bus
About
A Nostalgic Stop on the Puna Highway
Parked right in the heart of Keaau, The Burger Bus isn’t your typical sit-down joint. It is a literal converted bus that serves as an open-air kitchen, filling the tropical air with the unmistakable scent of searing beef and toasted brioche. For those driving the route toward Volcano or coming down from the lush landscapes of Puna, it serves as the ultimate pit stop for a quick, heavy, and satisfying meal.
The Flavor of the Road
The menu focuses on classic, no-nonsense Americana. Expect thick, hand-pressed patties that get a perfect crust on the flattop grill—the kind that leaves your fingers greasy in the best way possible. Their signature burgers are served with generous layers of fresh local produce, a nod to the surrounding Big Island agriculture. You won’t find any pretense here; just hot food served out of a window to hungry travelers.
Know Before You Pull Over
The experience is quintessentially casual. You are likely eating on a nearby bench or back in your car, listening to the hum of traffic and the occasional drizzle of Keaau rain. It is loud, vibrant, and moves at the speed of island traffic. While parking can get a bit tight when the lunch rush hits, the accessibility from the main highway makes it a convenient choice for locals and tourists alike who want to grab a bite without the fuss of a formal dining room.
Why Choose This Keaau Staple?
If you prefer a stainless-steel tablecloth and hushed voices, keep driving. But if you appreciate honest, salt-of-the-earth cooking that honors the tradition of the American roadside burger stand, this repurposed bus is a mandatory stop. It is functional, flavor-forward, and provides that hit of comfort food you need after a long day of exploring the island.
Amenities & Features
Location
15-1660 32nd Ave., Keaau, Hawaii, 96778
More to Explore
Reviews
Showing 10 of 2 community reviewsJulia EvenrudGoogle Maps
Recently
Best burger in the area! We found this place looking for some burgers in the area and now we can't stop going back. Owner is very friendly and kind. The only thing you have to worry about is getting too addicted 😋.
Andrew JordanGoogle Maps
Recently
Really great time, me and my girlfriend tried it recently, the burgers were so yummy and the owner is so kind, he was running low on ingredients towards the end of the night and decided to throw in some free sodas for us as well as working so hard into the night! For sure would recommend.
Cristian de GiorgioGoogle Maps
Recently
Just had a crazy burger with my broski, really good and delicious patties. The bus’s chef is very outgoing and made me feel at home. To recap my review: FULL GASS
Kayla AfnerGoogle Maps
Recently
Delivers the best burger every time. Friendly staff and the owner is the coolest dude, always willing to chat with you if he has time. My husband and I always fight over each other's last bite because its thats good. Get the original double and you won't be disappointed!! Also, the new outside set up is looking great and a nice spot to get out of the rain. Looking forward to the new additions of booth seating and tabletops coming soon.
EXRO SwamperZGoogle Maps
Recently
I went during a bit of a rush and ordered a side specialty of the puma fries to get a measly small box yet I was charged for the bigger one. It already took over 30mins to get our order out waiting on the fries. not doing that wait again. not coming back.
Stacey DuhaineGoogle Maps
Recently
We love this place! Burgers are delicious, fries are seasoned well and crispy! Love the special sauce. Chris is amazing and checked on us to make sure we were happy with the food! We will definitely be back again! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
matt mcmahonGoogle Maps
Recently
Awesome burgers and fries! Great service with a smile. Everything tasted amazing. Might be my regular stop on the way home for tasty burgers! Thanks can wait to return!
Crystal GordonGoogle Maps
Recently
Very disappointed. Paid $21 and some change for the combo B, listed for $7.75. We asked for an explanation of why the price difference and she said she would give us the fries free. But the total was still $21! We received the smallest burger they offer, a small fry, and a can of pepsi. Menu prices don't make since. We will not be back.
Mina FGoogle Maps
Recently
Regret not buying two, this burger was one of the best burgers I’ve had in my life. Forgot to take my aesthetic burger picture before biting into it because it smelled THAT good. Mind you, we just ate haha 😆 The burger wasn’t soggy from the sauce, the flavor was delicious, the sauce, crisp lettuce and grilled onions complimented the burger beautifully. Service was great, we went at 3:45-4pm and there was only one or two other people ahead of us. Wait was about 10-15 min. 10/10 would eat again.
Steve IngalsbeGoogle Maps
Recently
We ate lunch here on a Thursday afternoon in February 2025. This is a lunch wagon (food truck) with a parking area and covered picnic tables. We both ordered the Double Patty Double Cheese Combo with thin fries and a soda. We were able to see our food being prepared and nothing was precooked which added a few minutes to the order but was well worth the wait. The meat patties were thin so I would not recommend a single burger. We also asked for all the fixings so there was lettuce, tomato and sauce on the burger. It was a very tasty burger. The fries were very thin and quite crisp and I will try the ‘steak fries’ on my next visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Burger Bus
Common questions from diners about The Burger Bus in Keaau.
