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Honolulu › Honolulu › Big Kahuna's Pizza
Big Kahuna's PizzaBWorth Trying
550 Paiea St, Honolulu, HI 96819
· Pizza restaurant, Brunch restaurant, Caterer
· 4.6/5 Google (1886 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Airport-adjacent pizza and hearty sandwiches with local twists; great for quick, satisfying eats before or after a flight, but expect waits and occasional service hiccups.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Big Kahuna's Pizza delivers satisfying food quality with crispy, thick-pan crust and generous local-style toppings at reasonable prices near HNL, making it a solid neighborhood favorite for travelers and families. However, inconsistent execution and frequent 25–50 minute waits prevent a higher grade, while cramped seating and minimal ambiance limit appeal beyond convenience-driven visits. It's a reliable, unpretentious choice for hearty carbs, not a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
Ten minutes from the terminal, this tiny spot buzzes with carry-out bags and travelers in flip-flops, serving thick-pan pies and jumbo sandwiches in a friendly, no-frills room. Expect posted wait times and a cashier who can validate parking. One diner shared, "The crust snapped with a buttery crunch and our server flagged the BOGO deal," while another noted the space is cramped and waits can stretch. The cooking leans toward comfort food with local flair: kalua pork on sweet-tangy BBQ, Portuguese sausage, and the cult-favorite garlic cheese balls. Portions are generous, toppings are abundant, and customization is easy, including vegan cheese and allergy walkthroughs when needed. It suits hungry travelers, families, and anyone craving hearty airport-adjacent carbs over dainty presentation. For kids, the menu is a layup: 7 inch personal pizzas, simple pepperoni, and mild veggie combos, plus soft, cheesy rolls. Sandwiches like turkey bacon club or kalua pork are easy wins. There is no formal kids menu, but portions and straightforward flavors fit families; just plan around posted waits and limited seating.
At a Glance
- Generous portions and satisfying thick-pan crust near HNL
- Local-style toppings (kalua pork, Portuguese sausage) and vegan cheese option
- Waits of 25–50 minutes for pizzas during rush
- Limited seating and sometimes warm dining room
- Parking validation and online ordering streamline the experience
What Sets It Apart
- Airport-walkable comfort food
- Local-style toppings like kalua pork
- Parking validation
- Vegan cheese availability
What People Love
- Crunchy thick-pan crust with plenty of toppings
- Kalua pork pizzas and Sumo sandwiches
- Garlic cheese balls nostalgia factor
- Staff helping with deals and allergy needs
- Airport convenience with validation
Points of Concern
- Wait times commonly 25–40 minutes for pizzas; plan ahead or order online
- Service variability: occasional rude phone interactions and missed orders reported
- Dining room is small and can feel cramped or warm
- Delivery issues: third-party errors lead to limited recourse from venue
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$22-$34 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose a 7 inch personal pizza for kids or light appetites
- Value play: one 12 inch specialty plus second pie half-off when offered
- Vegetarians: Haole or Paisano; vegans: request dairy-free cheese on veggie pies
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-flight meal within walking distance of HNL
- Casual family dinner with hearty portions
- Group takeout for hotel or beach
- Travelers seeking local-style toppings on pizza
Location Insights
Area: Industrial-airport corridor catering to travelers and workers; functional over scenic, convenient for layovers.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic in daytime; typical airport-adjacent lighting and surveillance.
Nearby: Near Honolulu International Airport, rental car centers, bus stops, and ticketed parking lot with validation.
KalihiKalihi is a primarily residential and industrial neighborhood with a strong local community feel. The dining scene here is casual and affordable, featuring many local eateries, plate lunch spots, and family-run restaurants that reflect the multicultural makeup of the area.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–21:00
Tuesday10:00–21:00
Wednesday10:00–21:00
Thursday10:00–21:00
Friday10:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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