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Sakura Sushi & GrillB+Worth Trying

Name: Sakura Sushi & Grill
Address: 200 Kanoelehua Ave, Hilo, HI 96720, Hilo, United States
Rating: 4.4

200 Kanoelehua Ave, Hilo, HI 96720 · Sushi restaurant, Asian restaurant, Authentic Japanese restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (945 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Reliable, fresh-feeling sushi and bento staples with friendly, fast service most of the time; occasional service lapses and rare safety complaints mean peak-time patience and caution.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Sakura Sushi & Grill delivers reliable neighborhood dining with fresh fish and well-executed rice that earn consistent praise, supported by friendly, attentive service and quick food delivery. However, occasional plating and portion variance prevents a higher grade, and the casual, airport-adjacent setting lacks destination appeal. Fair value and family-friendly execution make it a solid local choice for sushi and Japanese comfort food.

Restaurant Summary

A casual local favorite near the airport where booths and bento boxes set an easygoing tone. Service is usually friendly and quick, and plates come out looking tidy with bright cuts of fish. One diner noted, "the sushi rice was A+ and the fish tasted very fresh." Do expect a crowd at peak hours, and be aware that a few guests reported long waits to order during rushes. The cooking leans classic Japanese comfort—teriyaki, katsu, tempura, and a long list of rolls—delivered with fresh, well-prepared fish more than fireworks. Specialty rolls like Volcano, Lava Flow, and Spiderman get a lot of love, and the chirashi is a dependable bet. It is solid, satisfying food at fair island prices rather than chefly theatrics. Families fit right in here. There is a real kid-friendly menu with teriyaki, katsu, fries, and simple rolls, plus plenty of shareable combos. If you have picky eaters, the basics are covered; if you have adventurous teens, the sashimi and tempura sets will keep them happy.

At a Glance

Fresh-tasting fish and well-cooked rice with attractive plating
Good value lunch sets and generous portions
Peak-time waits and occasional ordering delays
Isolated illness complaint; otherwise many fresh/clean notes
Strong option close to Hilo airport

What Sets It Apart

near_airport_convenience
robust_kid_menu
value_lunch_sets

What People Love

Fresh sashimi texture
Specialty rolls with balanced flavors
Fast, polite service most visits
Comforting bentos and katsu
Consistent value for Hawaii prices

Points of Concern

Occasional long waits to order or be seated at peak times; plan for delays on busy nights
Portion variability noted on some bentos or cuts (thin unagi, dry pork once)
One recent claim of foodborne illness; no broad pattern but worth noting

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$28-$45 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Vegetarians have multiple rolls and tofu/veggie tempura options
Pescatarians will find ample nigiri, sashimi, and donburi
Kid menu provides budget-friendly, simple choices

Perfect For

Pre-flight sushi stop
Casual family dinner after the beach
Quick lunch with bento sets
Group meals with mixed tastes

Location Insights

Area: Mixed commercial corridor near Hilo Airport; casual, convenient, popular with locals and travelers.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked during day and early evening; standard lighting and parking-lot activity.

Nearby: Near Hilo International Airport, retail centers, and beaches like Carlsmith; easy pre-flight or post-beach stop.

HiloHilo's dining scene is diverse but generally casual, featuring local Hawaiian cuisine, seafood, and Asian influences. The area is community-oriented with a mix of longtime residents and visitors, offering accessible and affordable dining options.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–14:30, 16:30–21:30 Tuesday11:00–14:30, 16:30–21:30 Wednesday11:00–14:30, 16:30–21:30 Thursday11:00–14:30, 16:30–21:30 Friday11:00–14:30, 16:30–22:00 Saturday11:00–14:30, 16:30–22:00 Sunday12:00–15:00, 16:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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