Koolau Drive Inn
Nestled in the heart of Kaneohe, Koolau Drive Inn offers a delightful experience that combines great food with a laid-back atmosphere. Located at 47-388 Hui Iwa St Ste 13, this spot is a favorite for both locals and visitors, thanks to its diverse menu and welcoming service. Whether you're stopping by for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a satisfying dinner, this restaurant has something to please every palate.
A Menu That Satisfies All Tastes
Koolau Drive Inn is known for its unique blend of local flavors, offering a variety of dishes that appeal to both traditional and adventurous eaters. The menu features fan favorites like the mochiko chicken, a deliciously crispy dish similar to chicken karaage, and the spicy chicken wings that pack a flavorful punch. For seafood lovers, the garlic ahi is a must-try, boasting fresh, tender fish with a bold garlic kick. If you're in the mood for something hearty, the loco moco is a comfort food classic, with savory gravy that locals rave about.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other local specialties, like garlic shrimp, which one customer described as the "best" they've ever had—crispy with a fresh garlic flavor that is hard to beat. Koolau Drive Inn's extensive menu ensures that there's something for everyone, from casual bites to more filling meals, all served with that unmistakable local flair.
Exceptional Service and Convenient Amenities
One of the standout features of Koolau Drive Inn is its array of services that make dining here an enjoyable and hassle-free experience. Whether you're in a rush or looking to linger, the restaurant offers takeout and delivery options, so you can enjoy your meal wherever you are. The availability of reservations ensures that you won’t have to wait long, and the wheelchair accessibility makes it convenient for everyone to dine comfortably.
For those driving by, there’s a private lot parking to make stopping by easy and stress-free. If you prefer outdoor dining, Koolau Drive Inn also offers outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful Kaneohe weather while savoring their meals. And for tech-savvy diners, the restaurant provides Wi-Fi, ensuring that you can stay connected while enjoying your meal.
Customer Reviews That Reflect the Quality
Many customers have shared their positive experiences at Koolau Drive Inn, highlighting both the quality of the food and the friendly atmosphere. For instance, Lori J. praised the cleanliness of the restaurant and the welcoming staff, with a special mention of the mochiko chicken and the spicy chicken wings. Doug Y. also shared his enjoyment of the mochiko chicken, comparing it to chicken karaage, though noting that it might be a bit greasy if eaten too often. Nonetheless, he recommended the spot as a great stop after visiting the Byodo Temple, pointing out that it's not widely known, making it a hidden gem.
Toula M. also raved about her experience, particularly the garlic shrimp, which she described as the best she’s ever had, and the loco moco, which her kids loved. These glowing reviews reflect the consistent quality and the overall positive vibe at Koolau Drive Inn.
A Dining Experience for Everyone
Koolau Drive Inn is more than just a restaurant; it's a place where locals and tourists alike can enjoy delicious food in a relaxed, welcoming environment. With a variety of offerings from breakfast to dinner, accommodating amenities, and a reputation for friendly service, it’s no wonder that this spot continues to be a local favorite. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you're sure to enjoy a satisfying meal that captures the essence of local Hawaiian flavors.
Reviews
The mochiko chicken is very good. If you're familiar with chicken karage it tastes very similar. They give a lot and def can make 2 meals of it. I wouldn't eat it all the time bc its greasy. Nice stop after the. Byodo Temple and I don't think a lot of people know about it. Found a bug in my mac salad! I'll give them a pass this time but that wasn't sightly.
Came here with the family. I ordered garlic shrimp. BEST I've had! Crispy with fresh garlic. Kids ordered loco moco. Gravy was fire! Highly recommend!
Takeout Dinner from. Kaneohe, O'ahu, Hawaii... Realizing that I didn't really eat breakfast or lunch, I decided that I should get some dinner. I wanted to go somewhere different, but not too far away... How about Ko'olau Drive Inn at Ko'olau Center? Ko'olau Center is across the highway from Valley of The Temples. Ko'olau Drive Inn is across the parking lot from McDonald's and the (closed) Ko'olau Theater. The shared parking was easy because Subway, Times Coffee Shop, and Temple Valley Chinese Restaurant were closed already. That's why everyone was at Ko'olau Drive Inn! The staff were efficient and cleared the crowd quickly! There were enough tables and chairs for customers to sit and wait. Most people did takeout like me - even though the place was bright and clean! I got the Hamburger Steak plate and Shrimp Broccoli with noodles. The three hamburger patties were homemade. I could taste the seasoning in the hamburger and found some gristle... LOL! I liked the gravy and mushy rice since I was so hungry! Even the Mac salad was okay! The shrimp broccoli was pretty good because of the garlic flavor and thinly sliced carrots and onion. The broccoli was not raw, and it wasn't well done, but just right! I was too full to finish the noodles! I'll return when I'm starving again!
So glad that they're open again! Our family faves are the chop steak and the lemon chicken. Their fries do not disappoint - always fresh and delicious!
Clean restaurant with friendly staff. The mochiko chicken is my favorite as well as the spicy chicken wings and garlic ahi!