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Kailua-Kona › Kailua-Kona › Kona Seafood Market
Kona Seafood MarketA-Worth Trying
75-5699 Kopiko St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
· Seafood market, Fish store, Takeout Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (333 reviews)
A small, friendly seafood market for very fresh local fish and custom-cut poke; selection can be limited later in the day and poke value opinions vary.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Kona Seafood Market delivers exceptional fresh fish and custom cuts paired with knowledgeable staff who guide selections and share cooking tips—standout strengths that define the experience. Consistency shows minor variation with occasional late-day selection limits, and the compact market setting prioritizes product over ambiance. For those seeking premium local seafood to cook at home, this is a destination; for casual dining, it's a solid neighborhood resource.
Restaurant Summary
This compact Kona shop feels warm and welcoming, the kind of place where someone will pull a whole fish from the cooler and cut it just for you. A typical comment is, "They helped us pick the right fish and even gave cooking tips." It is a tiny market space with a friendly crew, so selection can run low later in the day but the freshness gets rave notes. The cooking here is up to you—this is a market first—but the house-made poke and custom cuts speak to a straightforward, ingredient-first approach. Expect shoyu or spicy ahi, ono, mahi, and the catch of the day prepared simply at home; the draw is clean flavor rather than chefly fireworks. Most diners feel pricing matches quality, though a few call the poke pricey for the portion compared with other nearby spots. Families should find it manageable: plain grilled fish, rice, and seaweed salad are approachable, though choices are limited and there is no kids menu. If you need white rice specifically, ask ahead—some visits mention only brown rice or kimchi on hand. Best bet for families is to come early for more options and cook a simple fish dinner back at the condo.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally fresh local fish and custom cuts
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff who guide selections and cooking
- Selection can be limited later in the day
- Some feel poke portions are small for the price
- Good option for cooking fresh seafood at rental kitchens
What Sets It Apart
- whole_fish_cut_to_order
- staff_cooking_guidance
- market_fresh_local_catch
What People Love
- Feeling like a local at a small market
- Advice on how to prepare each fish
- Clean, delicate flavor of the catch
- Quick custom cutting and to-order poke
- Staff patience and kindness
Points of Concern
- Arriving late can mean very limited selection
- Poke value is debated; one-star review cited an $18 small bowl as overpriced
- Occasional disorganization at the counter during busy moments
- Rare complaint about warm room and poke texture on a specific visit
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$22-$32 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Based on reviews, small poke bowls run about $17-$18; consider larger shareable portions if feeding two
- For grilling, mahi or ono with minimal seasoning is a safe, crowd-pleasing choice
Perfect For
- Picking up sashimi-grade fish to cook at your condo
- Quick poke takeout after the beach
- Seafood lovers seeking ultra-fresh local catch
- Travelers wanting friendly guidance on what fish to buy
Location Insights
Area: Local commercial strip in Kona serving residents and visitors; casual errand-running vibe near shops and services.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked daytime area typical of Kona commercial zones; no notable safety complaints in reviews.
Nearby: Near gyms, groceries, and everyday retailers; convenient pickup spot for cooking at condo or hotel.
Kailua-KonaThe dining scene in Kailua-Kona is casual and diverse, featuring a mix of local Hawaiian cuisine, seafood markets, and eateries catering to both visitors and locals. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with many establishments focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and ocean-inspired menus.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–18:00
Tuesday10:00–18:00
Wednesday10:00–18:00
Thursday10:00–18:00
Friday10:00–18:00
Saturday10:00–18:00
Sunday10:00–15:00
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