Seemor
Hula's Island GrillB+Worth Trying
622 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey, CA 93940
· Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (2829 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Fun tiki vibes, creative island-fusion plates, strong happy hour; service and policy hiccups happen, so go for the drinks and fish but manage expectations.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Hula's Island Grill delivers solid casual dining with fresh, flavorful seafood and a vibrant tiki atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for happy hour and weekend outings. Quality variability in dishes and a documented food safety incident with raw ahi prevent a higher grade, though exceptional design appeal and knowledgeable staff make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants for casual seafood and cocktails.
Restaurant Summary
Hula’s brings a lively slice of Monterey tiki with bamboo, retro touches, and a humming bar that keeps the mood warm and bustling. Guests rave about friendly servers and the backyard patio, noting that the place feels like a quick trip to the islands. One diner summed it up: great drinks and fresh fish in a space that makes you want to linger. The cooking leans Pacific Rim comfort with flair: think lemongrass cream on fresh fish, jerk-spiced plates, macadamia crusts, and playful tacos. It hits a sweet spot for casual seafood lovers and cocktail fans who enjoy bright flavors over fine-dining fuss. Happy hour is a magnet, with value-priced tiki cocktails and crowd-pleasing wings that punch above their cost. Families can do well here thanks to familiar items like burgers, tacos, and fries, though there is no dedicated kids menu. Portions are generous and sides like sweet potato fries and plantains tend to win smiles. For picky eaters, stick to simpler preparations or burgers; for adventurous kids, bowls and tacos offer variety without being intimidating.
At a Glance
- Lively tiki vibe with cozy patio and adjacent speakeasy
- Fresh fish and standout happy hour value
- Strong options for vegetarians and gluten-free diners
- Inconsistent service speed and occasional policy rigidity
- A few reports of billing discrepancies and stroller seating issues
What Sets It Apart
- tiki_cocktail_program
- island_fusion_menu
- adjacent_speakeasy_experience
- strong_vegan_and_gf_options
What People Love
- Playful tiki ambiance that feels like a mini getaway
- Fresh, well-seasoned fish with creative sauces
- Happy hour cocktails that deliver great value
- Generous portions and craveable desserts like passion fruit pie
Points of Concern
- Service can lag at peak times; several guests waited for drinks or water while food arrived
- Rigid policies around strollers, solo seating, and separate checks frustrated some diners
- A handful of reports of overcharge or tip adjustment disputes; check receipts carefully
- Noise can be high; tables feel tight during rush hours
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-$60 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Kona wings or ceviche, share a fish taco plate, split a lemongrass fish entree, and finish with passion fruit pie; add tiki cocktails at happy hour for best value.
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-aquarium drinks and dinner
- Casual date night with tiki cocktails
- Group happy hour with shareable pupus
- Seafood-focused meal without fine-dining formality
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Lighthouse Avenue corridor with tiki bars, cafes, and tourist-friendly shops; casual and lively.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked tourist area with steady foot traffic into the evening.
Nearby: Near Monterey attractions like the aquarium and Cannery Row; mix of bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
Old MontereyOld Monterey is a historic and tourist-friendly neighborhood featuring a mix of casual and upscale dining options, often with ocean views and a relaxed, beach-town atmosphere. The dining scene caters to visitors seeking fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine, alongside locals enjoying a laid-back coastal vibe.
Cannery RowCannery Row is a famous waterfront district within Old Monterey known for its historic sardine canning factories turned into shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It offers a lively dining environment with a focus on seafood and casual island-style eateries.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–21:00
Tuesday12:00–21:30
Wednesday12:00–21:30
Thursday12:00–21:30
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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