Ethel's Grill

232 Kalihi St, Honolulu, HI 96819, United States
+1 808-847-6467
$$$
(328 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Located in the bustling industrial area of Kalihi, Ethel's Grill is a charming mom-and-pop restaurant that offers an authentic taste of Japan and local flavors, making it a beloved staple among both locals and visitors. This takeout-only eatery prides itself on serving hearty portions at reasonable prices, which is why it has garnered a loyal following.

The menu at Ethel's Grill features an array of delightful offerings, with standout dishes that are sure to excite your palate. Begin your culinary journey with the tasty Mochiko Chicken, which is perfectly battered, juicy, and bursting with flavor—many diners rave about it as a must-try. For lunch, you can't go wrong with their Oyako Donburi and Hamburger Steak with Gravy, both presenting generous portions that will satisfy your hunger. If you’re in the mood for breakfast, the Two Eggs and Breakfast Meat allows you to choose from various savory options like bacon or Portuguese sausage, all at a fantastic price of just $7.95.

The atmosphere at Ethel's Grill is casual and inviting, reflecting its roots as a neighborhood favorite where you feel at home as soon as you walk in. While the takeout model may limit on-site dining, the quick service and the thoughtfulness of complimentary iced tea upon arrival speak volumes about their commitment to customer care.

While the parking situation can be a bit tricky, many customers have shared their appreciation for the large, fulfilling meals that make waiting worthwhile. Diners often highlight the tataki platter as another great pick, with fresh, delicate pieces that enhance your experience of island cuisine.

The heartfelt reviews from patrons paint a vivid picture of the restaurant's appeal: “Slightly off the beaten track, but my god is the food here worth the while,” states one reviewer, further emphasizing that every dish is worth trying and prepared with love. Regulars fondly remember the comfort of nostalgic dishes like the bitter melon pork and egg stir fry that transports them back to cherished moments.

Whether you’re a long-time local or a visitor exploring the flavors of Oahu, Ethel's Grill promises an experience that is rich in flavor and warmth. Don't miss the chance to grab some authentic Hawaiian comfort food that resonates not just with your taste buds but also with the spirit of the island.

328 Reviews
Eliana

06 Sep 2025

Located at Industrial part of Kalihi, small mom and pop restaurant. Waiting can be a while but the food really worth your while. We went for lunch on Saturday, there are 3 people waiting in line before us, we waited for 30 mins and when we got called in, there are ice tea already waiting on our table ( for me this is really thoughtful because after waiting outside we are getting thirsty) we ordered sweet and sour spare ribs, mochiko chicken and saimin. Lunch comes with salad with house dressing and soup and said ice tea. Food comes in big portion but because they are really good I don’t share my food this time. They accept cash only, parking is available in the garage but limited number, we park at the street. Price is really good for Honolulu area. I saw Anthony Bourdain photo when he came to visit and eat here and also his autograph, very cool!

Russ Lacuata

24 Aug 2025

I hate the No Parking situation at Ethel’s Grill but love the food. The Jumbo Chicken Katsu Donburi Special with miso soup and salad was a lot of food. So sad to hear that they are closing and hope that they will relocate somewhere soon. One of my favorite stops in Kalihi whenever I visit.

Lori Gutierrez

19 Aug 2025

At this time, my review is for “take-out” only. I was referred here and was really hoping for something more. I ordered the Mochiko Chicken and the Japanese Hamburger Steak. I would say the Mochiko Chicken was really good, large portions, really good flavor - (I would order again and if I had only ordered that I my review would have been 5 stars) and I would pass on the Japanese Hamburger Steak ( I thought the meat was dry, a bit tough. And didn’t care for it. If I had only ordered this I would have give this review a 2 or a 3). Again, this review was during a period of time that this restaurant is only serving take out. I will go back a try again with some of the other entrees.

Keisha Ding

16 Aug 2025

Holy smokes! This place is SO good! Lightly battered chicken with great flavors & so juicy. Salad & dressing were fresh & delicious. Rice was great texture too! Just dah-uhm! Such a great takeout place! MUST GO!! we got the chicken furikake

Whitney

06 Aug 2025

This is take away only now. We just got a side portion of their famous tataki to try which has about 8 pieces over some veggies. It was yum and fresh but unsure about all the fuss over it. Good value though for $9.95 but wouldn’t go out of my way for this.

Luis B

15 Jul 2025

This place is a hidden Everything here is delicious, portions are large and priced well they all include a seafood miso soup that is very tasty Parking can be tricky, normally I find parking in the side of the building in the parking structure. The street is never busy also the order is brought out when it’s ready. This place only offers takeout, but sand island is just down the street and makes a perfect ocean front dine.

P M

13 Jul 2025

Slightly off the beaten track, but my god is the food here worth the while. The portion sizes are large but more importantly the food is tasty. The tataki platter and the mochiko chicken are the standout dishes and must haves whilst the loco moco is also good. Great service too but unfortunately no dining in at the minute. Come here for some good local authentic food and you won't be disappointed.

Anna Baatz

06 Jun 2025

Take-out only and sooooo worth every morsel. All four dishes we tried were very tasty, even the deep fried turkey tail which was very rich, and were totally wiped clean. Particularly loved the bitter melon pork and egg stir fry which is such a nostalgic comfort food for me, and the Ahi Tataki sashimi plate which was super fresh! Always appreciate an ample amount of greens and every sauce they provided was very well paired for the dish, whether gingery sweet citrus or garlicky soy sauce. The miso was also very flavorful :) definitely want to come back and try more!

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