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Island Ono Loa GrillBWorth Trying

Name: Island Ono Loa Grill
Address: 75-5799 Ali‘i Dr Suite A4a, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, Kailua-Kona, United States
Rating: 4.6

75-5799 Ali‘i Dr Suite A4a, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 · Hamburger restaurant, Chicken restaurant, Restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (1663 reviews)

Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

A casual Alii Drive spot for char-grilled burgers and hearty local plates with strong fan devotion, good fries, and occasional consistency hiccups; order at counter, expect a short wait.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

Island Ono Loa Grill delivers solid casual dining with strong char-grilled burgers and loco moco that earn consistent praise, supported by friendly counter service and a relaxed beachside vibe. However, inconsistent execution—undercooked patties, soggy buns, oily fries—and variable wait times prevent higher performance. The straightforward burger-and-comfort-food concept executes well for a casual neighborhood spot, making it a reliable choice for families and travelers seeking post-beach flavor without pretension.

Restaurant Summary

On Alii Drive, this counter-service spot feels casual and breezy—order at the counter, grab a buzzer, and dig into char-grilled burgers or a loco moco feast. Reviewers paint a friendly scene: "The register staff was kind and even brought our food out." Outdoor tables under umbrellas and ocean air make it an easy post-beach bite. The cooking leans classic American with Hawaiian comfort staples—think char and juicy burgers, rich gravy over rice and eggs, and fresh-cut fries. Fans rave about the grass-fed upgrade and the massive Ono Loa Loco, while a minority flag inconsistencies like soggy buns or oily rings. It is straightforward, cooked-to-order food that suits travelers and locals who want flavor over frills. Families do well here: there is a Keiki menu with grilled cheese, hot dog, and chicken strips, plus plain burgers and fries. Gluten-free buns (for a fee) and bun-less options help with restrictions, and portions are generous enough to share. If your crew needs quiet formality or white tablecloths, this is not it—otherwise, kids and adults alike will find plenty to enjoy.

At a Glance

Char-grilled burgers and hearty loco moco win consistent praise
Friendly counter staff with simple, relaxed vibe
Occasional inconsistencies (undercooked/overcooked patties, oily fry items, soggy buns)
Waits can stretch at peak; cooked to order
Strong kid-friendly options and portions

What Sets It Apart

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hearty_loco_moco_variant
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What People Love

Smoky, juicy patties cooked to preference
Rich loco moco gravy with eggs and rice
Fresh-cut seasoned fries and crunchy rings (on good days)
Option to upgrade to local grass-fed beef

Points of Concern

Bun texture can run soft and get soggy for some burgers
Fry station quality drifts at times (overcooked or oily rings)
Wait times vary; peak periods can feel slow
Pricing slightly above mainland norms, with a grass-fed upcharge

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost$30-40 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Choose a mid-priced burger with grass-fed upgrade and share a full fries; families can split the Ono Loa Loco for value.

Perfect For

Casual lunch near the waterfront
Post-beach hunger with hearty portions
Burger fans chasing a char-grilled patty
Families needing kid options

Location Insights

Area: Touristy waterfront strip with casual eats, souvenir shops, and ocean views; heavy foot traffic, beachgoing crowd.

Safety: Generally safe, busy during day and evening with good foot traffic and lighting.

Nearby: Near oceanfront promenade, shops, cafes, and parking lots; popular pre- and post-beach stop.

Kailua-KonaThe dining scene in Kailua-Kona is casual and diverse, featuring a mix of local Hawaiian cuisine, seafood, and international flavors catering to both visitors and locals. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, reflecting the laid-back island lifestyle.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–20:00 Tuesday11:00–19:00 Wednesday Thursday11:00–20:00 Friday11:00–20:00 Saturday11:00–20:00 Sunday11:00–20:00

Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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