Restaurant Kenichi
Unassuming fixture serving elevated ramen bowls & Korean & Asian favorites in an informal space.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Restaurant Kenichi
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Unassuming fixture serving elevated ramen bowls & Korean & Asian favorites in an informal space.
"Consistently great food every time. Wonderful pleasant low key casual atmosphere."
Check Hours Before Visiting
Kenichi Restaurant tends to close between meal transitions, so check their website for accurate open hours.
Inquire About Fresh Catch
Seafood lovers should ask about the fresh catch of the day for a taste of local Hawaiian seafood.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Japanese, Korean, Asian Fusion
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elevated Ramen Bowls
Experience next-level ramen, with options like spicy Tonkatsu and flavorful curry ramen that are a must-try for any noodle lover.
Generous Portions & Fusion Flavors
Indulge in large, delicious portions of Korean-Asian fusion dishes, including tonkatsu, rib eye steak, and Korean fried chicken.
Homemade Desserts
Don't miss the unique and delightful desserts, especially the homemade ice cream, perfect for a sweet ending to your meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Hours Before Visiting
Kenichi Restaurant tends to close between meal transitions, so check their website for accurate open hours.
Inquire About Fresh Catch
Seafood lovers should ask about the fresh catch of the day for a taste of local Hawaiian seafood.
Try Beyond Familiar Dishes
Expand your palate with unique fusion dishes beyond tonkatsu and chicken katsu.
Desserts for Kids
The dessert menu, featuring homemade ice cream, is a guaranteed hit with children.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Hours Before Visiting
Kenichi Restaurant tends to close between meal transitions, so check their website for accurate open hours.
Inquire About Fresh Catch
Seafood lovers should ask about the fresh catch of the day for a taste of local Hawaiian seafood.
Try Beyond Familiar Dishes
Expand your palate with unique fusion dishes beyond tonkatsu and chicken katsu.
Desserts for Kids
The dessert menu, featuring homemade ice cream, is a guaranteed hit with children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kenichi Restaurant offers a satisfying experience with generous portions of fusion Asian and Japanese cuisine, particularly praised for its ramen and Korean fried chicken. While some dishes can be overly salty or dry, the friendly service and pleasant atmosphere contribute to a positive dining experience. The homemade desserts are also a highlight, offering a sweet ending to a hearty meal.
"Consistently great food every time. Wonderful pleasant low key casual atmosphere. The ramen is next level good. I like the tonkatsu cuz I like spicy. Customer service is great, they are very friendly."
Sunny FXR
"The food was ok. Kalbi was too salty. Mandoo was really chewy. The pork chop was a bit dry. The best part of the meal was the Brookie Ala Mode"
Izzy D
"Our family was craving Japanese food, and after checking online reviews, we decided to give this place a try. The restaurant was packed with locals, which felt like a good sign — we waited about 20 minutes for a table.
The food isn’t exactly traditional Japanese; it’s more of a Hawaiian fusion, which made for an interesting twist. The grilled beef was extremely salty — like, really salty — probably due to over-marination. On the bright side, the grilled salmon inside was tasty and went okay with the rice. The fried chicken katsu was pretty good too.
Portions were huge! If you’re not a big eater, you might find yourself stuffed halfway through — which, honestly, is a good problem to have."
BINBIN GU
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Many diners rave about the elevated ramen bowls, particularly the Tonkatsu and curry ramen. The Korean fried chicken and rib eye steak are also highly recommended.
Some reviews mention certain dishes can be overly salty, like the Kalbi or grilled beef. It's advisable to mention your preference for less salt if possible.
Yes, the restaurant is known for its unique and delicious homemade desserts, with the Brookie Ala Mode and homemade ice cream being popular choices.
The atmosphere is described as pleasant, low-key, and casual, making it a comfortable spot for a relaxed meal.
Yes, you can inquire about the fresh catch of the day. However, some reviews note that the Mahi Katsu can be bland.
Yes, customers frequently mention that the portions are huge and generous, ensuring you'll be well-fed.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
20 Hilo Restaurants Where You Can Get an Amazing Meal
Serving elevated ramen bowls and Korean-Asian fusion dishes, Kenichi Restaurant, it’s often recommended as one of the best restaurants in Hilo, and for good reason. Whether you’re craving pork, chicken, ribs, soups, drinks, or desserts, they’ve got you covered. As for their open hours, be sure to visit their website before arriving, for they tend to close between breakfast, lunch, and dinner to prepare for the upcoming meal changes.
Best Restaurants in Hilo
Whether you’re a Japanese food enthusiast or you’ve been inspired by the latest reel on quick Udon noodles, your search for authentic Japanese flavors in Hilo ends at Kenichi. This gem on Kilauea Avenue is known for its local-style comfort food and the most delicious Ramen you’ve ever tasted. Kenichi is more than just another Hilo restaurant; it’s a culinary destination with international flavors.
5 Family Restaurants Near Hilo, HI – Tony Honda Hilo Blog
Asian fusion cuisine with a specialty in ramen served in a delicious house broth, Kenichi Restaurant is the perfect setting for a memorable meal. Ask about their fresh catch of the day if you’re in the mood for some seafood. Your kids are sure to love the dessert menu here, too, with homemade ice cream being one highlight.
Best Ramen on the island : BigIsland
Back to the ramen, they have Shoyu, Miso , Spicy Miso and Tonkotsu. My opinion is this is more suited to the local palette.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit