The Nakagawa family has been running this eatery since the early 1920s. The latest son to manage the place has spruced it up a bit with tablecloths and candles, but the decor is still bare-bones; however, it serves some of the freshest fish on the island. (Not a surprise, as the fish come from the restaurant's own aqua farm.) Islanders travel great distances for the fried aholehole (young Hawaiian flagtail). Landlubbers should try the grilled lamb chops, chicken, or prime rib. Arrive before sunset and request a table on the patio for a view of the egrets roosting around the fish ponds.
Reviewed by Golnarsarge from Orange County, CA on 5/8/07
Food is really good--their specialty farmed fish is fried aholehole is great--but beware that it is full of small bones.
Decently priced meals that come with salad (try the papaya seed dressing) and fresh, hot bread. Great value and good wine selection at decent prices for Hawaii.
Very informal atmosphere (popular with students from the University of Hawaii at Hilo).
Service staff were very warm and happily helped us even when they were not assigned to our table. When we asked to be moved to another table because we were near the AC vent, we were cheefully relocated without any problems.
Great if you are looking for a laid back night.
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