Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Honolulu, HI

North America

United States

# Prince Kuhio Cafe – Affordable Cafeteria Dining in Honolulu

Prince Kuhio Cafe, located in the heart of Honolulu, HI, offers a unique cafeteria dining experience within the Prince Kuhio Federal Building. This hidden gem serves a diverse menu featuring breakfast and lunch options, including daily specials and a salad bar. Open to the public, it provides a convenient dining solution for both locals and visitors. The cafe is known for its friendly staff, generous portions, and affordable prices, making it a popular choice for those seeking quality meals without breaking the bank. With a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of food choices, Prince Kuhio Cafe has garnered positive reviews from patrons who appreciate its accessibility and value.

## History
### The story of Prince Kuhio Cafe
Prince Kuhio Cafe was established to serve the needs of those working in the federal building as well as the general public. Its founding vision was to create a space where individuals could enjoy affordable, quality meals in a convenient location. This commitment to accessibility and community service has made the cafe a beloved spot in Honolulu.

### Milestones and growth
- **Establishment**: Opened to the public, allowing access to a diverse clientele.
- **Menu Expansion**: Introduced daily specials and a rotating menu to keep offerings fresh and exciting.
- **Community Engagement**: Fostered a welcoming environment that encourages locals and visitors alike to enjoy meals together.
- **Recognition**: Gained popularity through word-of-mouth and positive reviews, establishing itself as a go-to lunch spot in downtown Honolulu.

### Cultural and local influence
Prince Kuhio Cafe reflects the local culture through its menu, which incorporates Hawaiian flavors and ingredients. The cafe's location within a federal building also highlights its role in serving the community, as it caters to both government employees and the public. The friendly atmosphere and the inclusion of local dishes in the menu have made it a cultural hub where people from various backgrounds come together.

### Continuing the tradition
The cafe continues to uphold its founding principles by offering a variety of food options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Regular updates to the menu and the introduction of seasonal specials ensure that the cafe remains relevant and appealing to its patrons. The commitment to quality and affordability is evident in every meal served, maintaining the tradition of providing excellent service and food.

## Community
### Community involvement
Prince Kuhio Cafe plays an integral role in the local community by providing a gathering place for individuals from various walks of life. The cafe is not only a dining spot but also a venue for informal meetings and social interactions. It fosters a sense of belonging among its patrons, who often return for the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Prince Kuhio Cafe as a hidden treasure in downtown Honolulu. Many locals appreciate the cafe's affordability and the quality of food offered. It is often described as a convenient option for lunch, especially for those working nearby. The cafe's reputation for friendly staff and a relaxed dining environment further enhances its standing within the community.

### Events and gatherings
The cafe hosts various events and gatherings, particularly during holidays and special occasions. These events often feature themed menus and community involvement, allowing patrons to celebrate together. The cafe's spacious seating arrangements, both indoors and outdoors, make it an ideal location for casual meet-ups and larger gatherings.

## Offerings
### What Prince Kuhio Cafe offers
Prince Kuhio Cafe provides a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. From hearty breakfast options to satisfying lunch specials, the cafe ensures that there is something for everyone. The daily specials keep the menu dynamic, encouraging repeat visits from patrons eager to try new dishes.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Prince Kuhio Cafe is characterized by its cafeteria-style setup, allowing patrons to choose from a variety of options. The cafe features a salad bar, made-to-order grill items, and daily specials that rotate frequently. Many reviews highlight the generous portion sizes and the affordability of meals, making it a popular choice for both quick lunches and leisurely dining.

### Events and packages
Prince Kuhio Cafe offers weekly specials that patrons can look forward to, enhancing the dining experience. These specials often include unique dishes that reflect local flavors and seasonal ingredients. The cafe also provides catering options for events, allowing the community to enjoy their offerings during gatherings and celebrations.

### Facilities and features
- Spacious indoor and outdoor seating
- Salad bar with a variety of fresh ingredients
- Made-to-order grill options including burgers and sandwiches
- Daily specials that change regularly
- Friendly and efficient staff
- Convenient location within a federal building

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Prince Kuhio Cafe often highlight the affordability and variety of the menu. Patrons appreciate the generous portion sizes and the quality of food, which is often described as better than typical cafeteria fare. However, some reviews mention the challenges of parking and the need to go through security to access the cafe.

### Compliments and strengths
- **Affordability**: Many patrons commend the cafe for its reasonable prices, making it accessible to a wide audience.
- **Variety**: The diverse menu options, including daily specials, keep the dining experience fresh and exciting.
- **Friendly Staff**: Reviewers frequently mention the helpful and welcoming nature of the staff, enhancing the overall experience.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While the majority of reviews are positive, some patrons note that the cafe can get busy during peak hours, which may lead to longer wait times. Additionally, the need to pass through security can be a deterrent for some potential visitors. However, many agree that the quality of food and the overall experience outweigh these minor inconveniences.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Prince Kuhio Cafe is highly regarded for its affordable prices, variety of menu options, and friendly service. The cafe's commitment to quality and community involvement makes it a standout choice for dining in downtown Honolulu. While there are some challenges related to access and parking, the positive aspects of the cafe far outweigh these concerns.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Prince Kuhio Cafe is conveniently located at 300 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96850, within the Prince Kuhio Federal Building. This central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The surrounding area is rich in cultural and historical significance, with nearby attractions including the Aloha Tower and the vibrant Kaka'ako neighborhood. The cafe's proximity to these landmarks adds to its appeal, making it a perfect stop for a meal while exploring the area.

## FAQs
**Is Prince Kuhio Cafe open to the public** Yes, anyone can dine at the cafe by showing an ID at the entrance.

**What are the cafe's hours** Breakfast is served until 10 AM and lunch until 2 PM.

**Are there vegetarian options available** Yes, the cafe offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, including salads and daily specials.

**Is parking available nearby** There is no onsite parking; street parking is available but may be limited.

**Does the cafe offer takeout** Yes, patrons can order food to go if they prefer.

## Visit Prince Kuhio Cafe Today
Experience the diverse offerings of Prince Kuhio Cafe, where you can enjoy affordable meals in a welcoming environment. With its rich history, community involvement, and commitment to quality, this cafe is a must-visit for anyone in Honolulu. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, Prince Kuhio Cafe has something for everyone. Come and discover why this hidden gem is beloved by locals and visitors alike!

19791552-26e4-47f6-92a9-1d9046185335

This was an interesting find. I used to work about 5 minutes away from this location and had no idea until after I left that job! Located in the US District Court, District of Hawaii building on the 5th floor, this cafeteria has a lot of items to choose from. You don't have to be going to court to have lunch here, all you need to do is to show your ID at the entrance of the building and let them know you're here to have some lunch. It might get a little confusing on where to go but if you ask the security guards upon check in, they'll direct you on where to go. Once you get there, as mentioned, there are a lot of options for you to choose from. You can get a burger with fries, a plate lunch, have some breakfast for lunch, make your own salad from the salad bar, or even just make yourself a little snack bag from the snack bar. On this particular (and my first) visit, I opted for the daily special which was a chicken enchilada plate. For $14.95, it was packed with rice and 3 fully stuffed chicken enchilada with red sauce. This meal was so filling that I had to save the rest for another meal! Since this is a cafeteria setting, there are many places for you to sit. You can eat outdoors or inside. It doesn't get too busy either so it's pretty nice to enjoy your lunch with some peace and quiet.

29b51b68-1a3b-4ad2-88ca-ba73fccc3e24

This is located in a federal building but it is open to the public! Take the elevator to the 5th floor and follow the same. They're open for breakfast until 10 and open for lunch until 2:00 PM. They have weekly specials, so make sure to check their website. In addition to their daily specials (for breakfast and lunch), they have their permanent items in case you are not feeling their daily specials. Salad bar is also an option and it goes by weight. Pretty good variety of desserts that changes; and all made in-house. Coffee available for breakfast or lunch. Includes soda fountain or bottled drinks. Seatings are plentiful, inside or outside. The staff here are extremely friendly and hardworking. Make sure to give them some alohas and mahalos on your way in and out. Portions are huge and price is affordable -- probably the best place to get good quality food for your buck. Just be careful, they do charge for sauce packets and disposable utensils to make up for their cheap prices.

7546fa59-b74e-4a51-a77d-c2cc3148e698

Great food and so many options, including a large salad bar. They have fantastic specials - like steak & shrimp - around the holidays. They do have lighter fare options as well.

34d10711-130d-4e44-932d-d159ad53bc11

A cafeteria-style dining option... Super convenient if you don't have to look for parking and you already have to pass the security screening to get in the federal building for some reason. The cafeteria always has a salad bar, plate lunch/hot grill made-to-order options, in addition to their daily specials (that are quick since they are already prepared and on the hot service line). They also have boba, smoothies and sandwiches that are made to order. I am a soup person, so I usually get one of their soups (super quick). The selection changes daily. Thursdays they always have Portuguese bean soup. And Fridays are usually some sort of chowder. Check out their website for the specials for the week.

2b86ca54-601c-45eb-bf82-f0ff692e4735

Located on the fifth floor of the federal building, this place is the go to when you don't know what you want to eat. My coworkers and I love going here when we can't decide what to eat for lunch. The workers are really nice and they have a rotating menu every day. Make sure to check out their website for the menu of the day. During a recent trip there for lunch they had a beef stew and shepard's pie combo. The beef stew was good and reminds me of school beef stew which was pretty tasty. The shepard's pie on the other hand had a lot of meat and mashed potatoes. There's a bunch of seating here too! There's views of aloha tower and restaurant row so it's a nice change of scenery and totally worth going through the security check point. If you're in a rush, you can also get the food to go! :)

87f4bb16-1daa-4661-87df-6a522f5a4090

Who would have thought there would be a random cafeteria in the federal building? Not me! I'm kinda glad it's here and I get to enjoy this in the mean time while I'm serving my American duties as a juror. Lol! Parking may be a hassle due to the location but there's street parking. Just watch the posted signs they tow around certain hours. They're on the 5th floor but to get in you'd have to go through security and show your id. Don't be intimidated even tho it looks kinda scary. They're nice to even inform you where to go when you're there. But partially cause they want to know what you're doing there too. Lol! Once you get through that point go down the hall and up the elevator and down another hall and there it is! Actually once you're up there then follow the smell of food down the hallway! Once there, there's separate lines. Ones for salad, burger and daily specials. Check the daily specials board first before making your decision. That day I opted for a burger and fries and so did everyone else. It made the guy behind the counter flustered a little. Once you get your food, head toward the cashier. Then to the next station for your utensils and foil for take out. Or you can just dine in there if you want. Everything was also under $10 and super affordable. I'll be back again!

1900c4e3-c96d-43ae-acd7-1db3c937e93e

On another episode of "Hidden Restaurant, Cheap Eats," we find ourselves on the 5th floor of the Federal Prince Kuhio Court building. Now, you're thinking, "why does a court building have a cafeteria?" When you should be asking, "why doesn't my building have a cafeteria?" Which the answer is because you probably don't work for Google, Facebook, or Apple. Sorry. Any who, the Prince Kuhio Café serves both breakfast and lunch. The grill at lunch handles the made to order hot sandwiches, burgers, fries, and onion rings. There's a DIY salad and sandwich bar that charge by the ounce. In addition, the other hot entrees include specials of the day which are posted on their websites, in addition to multiple combo plate options. Sandwiches include coleslaw, soup, or French fries, which is pretty good for under $8 these days. Most of the items are $7.5 or less, with very few items over $10. The no frills grilled sandwiches and burgers are under $4. I got the pastrami panini special which came with fries for $7.5. Decent amount of tender, tasty pastrami, but not all the cheese was melted. Could be the worker was rushed as the line was backing up. Good crunch on the bread though. Fries could have been crispier, but they did pile them on. I think next time I'll try one of their other specials. Coworker one got the $11 poke bowl special over all salad and they loaded up the fish. Somewhat irregular cuts, but decent quality without an overpowering sauce. Coworker two got the turkey, bacon, and avocado sandwich. She thought it was going to be a wrap, but sometimes the universe likes to play jokes on us. Nevertheless, she ate it all, including the fries. Breakfast is the standard high carb/high fat diet of hot cakes, toast, sausage, eggs, bacon, and pancakes. Not much locally oriented breakfast foods aside from Portuguese sausage and spam. Cold cereal is available in dispensers along with fruit. I did find it strange that a place that doesn't really cater breakfast to local tastes has Halo-Halo as a dessert item. I guess you could eat your Kansas Midwest breakfast while noshing on a Filipino cold dessert. Life's short: be weird. Check out their weekly specials here: https://www.pkcafe.net/weeklyspecials.php Word of warning, you do need to go through airport like security, so bring your ID with you. As it's a Federal court house, there's no parking onsite. There's a vast amount of clean indoor seating and tables with a few outdoor seats, and lots of condiments to spice up your food. They did seem short staffed when I visited. Tentative 3.75 stars

a78470be-9c80-4650-9048-5e697fe744d2

Although this cafeteria is at the edge of downtown and there's a security area to be wanded through..the breakfasts are worth a visit. For under $6 you can get a delicious breakfast sandwich with your choice of bread, cheese, egg and meat all made to order. Everything is piping hot and sure there is small wait but it gives you time to look at the daily fresh baked goods! The cafeteria staff cares about this little eatery and there are individually packaged gummy bears, chocolates, nuts and other little snacks. On taco Tuesday for $9.20 you get a choice of 3 crunchy tacos or soft shell...so good loaded with fresh veggies, sour cream and taco sauce. The cafeteria also offers special holiday lunches featuring turkey or pot roast loaded with sides. For an eatery located in a federal facility the offerings are extensive even with boba and special smoothies loaded with fruit and kale. Definitely worth a try!

bf8cea3f-5e1a-4710-a902-334ad77f7bac

Prince Kuhio Café is a hidden gem in Downtown Honolulu. They're located on the 5th floor of the Prince Kuhio Federal Building (same building that the Social Security office is in). The café is basically an upscale cafeteria with a ton of options including warm pre-made entrees, a salad bar and a grill that offers burgers, fries, etc. The even offer smoothies, bubble drinks and ice cream. The setbacks are the parking (no public parking unless you park elsewhere on the street or in another structure), and going through security. If you have a few extra minutes to empty your pockets and go through the metal detector, the trip to the café is worth it and will save you a few bucks. On the plus side, prices are pretty reasonable for most items. For breakfast one morning, I ordered eggs, toast and a pancake and swear I paid less than 5 bucks for it. How does the food fair? Not bad for cafeteria food but keep in mind, it IS cafeteria food. The bubble drink I tried came with overcooked tapioca balls, the garlic ahi I once ordered was overcooked and dry but the chicken salad sandwich I usually order makes for a nice lunch. Can't forget to mention the seating, amenities and ambiance. Seating is plentiful with both indoor and outdoor tables and chairs. Outdoor seating is on a balcony that overlooks Kaka`ako. Indoors you can watch some TV with your meal. Around the cashier area, many condiments, utensils and even foil and paper bags are available. Food-wise, PKC is worth 3 stars. Selection and price-wise, PKC is worth 4 stars. You can sign up for email updates with their weekly specials. No spam mail included!

7d6ee2cd-b086-4b98-a332-ee82558ce1b5

Not bad for a workplace cafeteria. You can't beat the price and size of their wrap combos which come with a large wrap (different selections) and a side (e.g., french fries). But hands down, my favorite has always been turkey Wednesdays. Their turkey plates, and especially their turkey and gravy is so delicious.

Discover Prince Kuhio Cafe in Honolulu for authentic local flavors and a vibrant dining experience. Visit us at 300 Ala Moana Blvd and indulge today.

Prince Kuhio Cafe in Honolulu - Best Local Dining Experience

Honolulu

Prince Kuhio Cafe

Hawaii

Discover Prince Kuhio Cafe at 300 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu. Enjoy authentic Hawaiian dishes with stunning ocean views. Perfect for food lovers!

Prince Kuhio Cafe in Honolulu - Authentic Hawaiian Cuisine & Ocean Views

Learn about Prince Kuhio Cafe in Honolulu, a top spot for authentic Hawaiian flavors and friendly service. Located at 300 Ala Moana Blvd, explore our story!

About Prince Kuhio Cafe, Honolulu - Your Hawaiian Food Destination

Opening hours for Prince Kuhio Cafe, Honolulu. Find opening hours for Prince Kuhio Cafe, Honolulu at 300 Ala Moana Blvd.

Prince Kuhio Cafe Menu Overview

Platos Significativos

Bebidas y Maridajes

Opciones Dietéticas

Recomendaciones del Chef

Experimenta el Menú en Prince Kuhio Cafe

Club 14

Taste

Irifune Restaurant