Hello dear
Welcome to Kanaka Kava
Kanaka Kava is a vibrant eatery nestled in beautiful Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, where the spirit of aloha meets authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Women-owned and committed to sustainability, Kanaka Kava enchants diners with its inviting atmosphere and a menu that highlights local flavors, such as the delectable Lau Lau and expertly crafted Pupu Platters. Guests rave about the potent Ava Kava and the friendly ambiance, perfect for gathering and storytelling. With options for both casual dining and catering, it’s an ideal destination for families and friends alike, promising a memorable experience steeped in the warmth of Hawaiian culture and community.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Pupu Platter
1 Gallon Kava
Fresh Hawaiian Awa Potent Kava
Juice Kava
About
Kanaka Kava
Welcome to Kanaka Kava, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, at 75-5803 Ali‘i Dr. Known not just for its captivating location, but also for its rich flavors and relaxed atmosphere, Kanaka Kava provides an authentic Hawaiian dining experience that transports you to the islands with each bite.
Stepping into Kanaka Kava, you're immediately greeted by the warmth of the Hawaiian spirit. The ambiance is inviting and conducive for "talk story," a local tradition that brings people together to share experiences and laughter. Customers rave about the comfortable environment, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day exploring the Big Island.
- Pupu Platter: An impressive assortment of local favorites including pork, poke, uala, poi, and squid luau, all for just $25. This platter is perfect for sharing and allows you to dive into a variety of flavors.
- Seafood Plate: Featuring your choice of two à la carte items for $26, this plate is a must-try for seafood lovers looking to savor something fresh and local.
- Lau Lau Plate: A delightful dish celebrating Hawaiian traditions, offered for $20. Each bite is a taste of the islands' rich culinary history.
- Tofu Plate & A La Carte Options: Kanaka Kava caters to different dietary preferences with delicious vegan options like the Tofu Plate, and various sides like poi and garlic bread, each priced at just $6.
The drinks menu, featuring options like Big Island Kombucha and Hawaiian Gingerade, complements the meal perfectly. Refresh with a beverage that encapsulates the vibrant culture of Hawaii, or indulge in a traditional awa kava to enhance your relaxation, as noted by many patrons who describe the drink’s potency as unparalleled.
The feedback from customers highlights not just the tasty offerings, but the overall experience. Reviews from visitors like Carlos Archuleta and Gregory Collins speak volumes about the friendly staff, the vibrant atmosphere, and the incredible connection formed over shared meals and stories. There’s a magnetic pull to the place that keeps both tourists and locals coming back for more.
In conclusion, whether you're in search of an exciting foodie adventure or simply a place to relax and connect with friends, Kanaka Kava is the ultimate destination. Come for the food, stay for the vibes, and leave with a story worth sharing!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Great spot to chill and talk story. The kava is good and the environment is comfortable. Everyone here likes to talk story. Every time we come we find out new things and meet new people and see regulars return and say hi. Love this spot. ”
“ This was our first stop on our Big Island vacation. It gave us a great survey of Hawaiian flavors and a try of the relaxing awa drink. Put this together with outdoor seating on a porch with ocean views and sea breezes and youve got a wonderful dining experience. Many of the foods we sampled were good, and some were great. I particularly liked the kalo cooked in some kind of coconut sauce. ”
“ Really nice staff, good vibe, delicious ava and pupus! ”
“ The Ava Kava was very potent and relaxing. I tried another Kava bar on the island, and Kanaka Kava definitely exceeded the other Kava bar in potency, aloha, and atmosphere. People were wonderful, the atmosphere was amazing, I absolutely love this place! ”
“ Ive been looking forward to coming here for years and it did NOT let me down. Super chill, great awa, great food. The laulau is so good, I finished it even though i was super full! If you want real hawaiian food, this is the spot. ”
“ Kanaka Kava is one of my favorite spots on the island! They have the best kava by far! Awa is grown and harvested fresh by local their Hawaiian Kanaka Maoli farm, they are a truly local native family business. They have the best Hawaiian food Ive found for purchase on Hawaii. Its so good I have to go every time Im in Kona! Connect to the native culture and eat of the best Island food. They have vegan options too. Aloha e Kanaka Kava! ”
“ 03.17.3024 celebrated our St Pattys anniversary with the idea of eating traditional Hawaiian food. The hostess was very nice and knowledgeable. We ordered and love the Pupu with a side order of Jasmine rice with furikake and drinks of gingerade for me and kava for my hubby. The Pupu came in a beautiful dish and enough for two to share. The gentleman who delivered our food was great as he patiently explained each dish. The open outdoor eating area was wonderful. Will definitely be back to try other dishes. ”
“ Wow this was delicious! You get a chance to try unique Hawaiian foods and drinks here. The people were helpful and friendly and the place had a good atmosphere at night. The pork was amazing and as promised the kava made me feel relaxed and slept great afterwards. Dont listen to the reviews that arent willing to try new and unique foods and experiences. ”