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Kailua-Kona › Kailua-Kona › 808 Grindz Cafe Kona
808 Grindz Cafe KonaC+Worth Trying
75-5660 Kopiko St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
· Restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Cafe
· 4.4/5 Google (1624 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Popular counter-service Hawaiian breakfast spot with big portions, fast tickets, and low prices, but very casual dine-in with to-go packaging and mixed consistency.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
808 Grindz Kona delivers reliable value and standout pancakes that justify its loyal following, but quality swings across visits—from fluffy, praised plates to bland gravies and undercooked proteins—prevent higher marks. Isolated but concerning food handling reports and a no-frills strip-mall setup with to-go containers further limit appeal beyond budget-conscious breakfast seekers. Best approached as a casual, hit-or-miss neighborhood spot rather than a destination.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels no frills and bustling in a strip-mall setting where you order at the window, seat yourself, and food lands fast. Reviewers rave that the pancakes are “fluffy and huge,” while others note the dine-in experience uses to-go containers and plastic cutlery. One diner summed it up: “Come early, it is packed by 8:30.” The cooking leans classic island comfort rather than flashy: loco mocos with brown gravy, hearty Benedicts, fried rice, and macadamia nut pancakes. Portions are generous and prices are kind for Kona, which is why many call it a great value. Still, feedback is mixed on consistency—some plates sing, others land bland—so aim for the crowd favorites like pancakes, fried rice, and the house moco if you want the safest bet. Families do well here thanks to the kid-friendly staples: pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon, and simple sides. Reviews specifically mention young kids happy with pancakes and eggs. There is no separate kids menu, but the pricing and portions make splitting easy; just expect self-service elements and a very casual setup.
At a Glance
- Big portions and fast tickets at low Kona prices
- Pancakes and classic moco plates earn frequent praise
- Very casual dine-in with to-go containers and limited table service
- Mixed consistency including under/overcooked proteins and bland gravy
- Some reports of cleanliness and food handling issues
What Sets It Apart
- affordable_kona_breakfast
- large_portions
- local_moco_variations
What People Love
- Warm, efficient counter crew
- Pancakes that feel celebratory
- Hearty loco moco comfort
- Prices that beat most nearby cafes
- Breakfast served fast when lines are short
Points of Concern
- Dine-in uses disposable containers and plastic cutlery which some dislike
- Intermittent quality swings: bland gravy, texture issues with Benedicts, undercooked or dry meats
- Cleanliness concerns and restroom arrangement across the plaza
- Credit card surcharge reported; some cash-only reports in older reviews
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$18-27 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair a $13-14 moco with a $3 side for a filling value combo
- Plain pancake stack $6-8 is shareable; add sauce only if you prefer sweet toppings
Perfect For
- Quick, affordable breakfast before exploring the coast
- Casual group fueling stop with hearty plates
- Travelers seeking local-style moco and pancakes
- Early risers who want speedy service
Location Insights
Area: Strip-mall setting serving locals and visitors; casual, practical stop for early meals.
Safety: Typical busy shopping plaza with steady foot traffic; lighting and visibility acceptable.
Nearby: Near resorts and shops; ample plaza parking and shared public restrooms noted by diners.
Kailua-KonaThe dining scene in Kailua-Kona is diverse, featuring a mix of casual eateries, seafood restaurants, and Hawaiian comfort food spots. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, catering to both visitors and locals seeking authentic island flavors and casual dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–13:00
Tuesday07:00–13:00
Wednesday07:00–13:00
Thursday07:00–13:00
Friday07:00–13:00
Saturday07:00–13:00
Sunday07:00–13:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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