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Story & Atmosphere
Ken's House of Pancakes
Welcome to Ken's House of Pancakes, a cherished gem nestled in the heart of Hilo! If you’re searching for a delightful dining experience that combines the comforts of traditional American breakfasts with a local twist, look no further. This open-air dining establishment has garnered a loyal following, not just for its delicious meals but also for the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like a member of the family.
Visitors are treated to a delightful array of dishes, all served with generous portions that are perfect for those with hearty appetites. The star of the menu is undoubtedly the pancakes. Whether you opt for the classic banana pancakes or venture into the flavorful realm of macadamia nut and coconut varieties, each bite is a celebration of taste. Many diners have noted how the pancakes, while a tad dry, are perfect for soaking up the rich syrups offered—a small price for such a delightful indulgence.
The rave reviews from satisfied customers highlight not just the food but the exceptional service as well. Friendly staff members create a laid-back dining experience, turning each visit into a memorable occasion. As one patron aptly put it, the atmosphere feels nostalgic and offers a glimpse into local culture. With dishes like the special chorizo omelette and original loco moco gracing the menu, there's something for everyone, and many guests find themselves returning multiple times during their stay.
While the pancakes take center stage, other offerings, such as succulent meat dishes and enticing bread pudding for dessert, deserve a mention. The blend of flavors and attention to portion sizes leave diners satisfied and eager to return for more. With its vibrant ambiance, friendly service, and satisfying meals, it’s no wonder that Ken's House of Pancakes is often recommended as a must-visit spot in Hilo.
So next time you find yourself wandering the beautiful streets of Hilo, make sure to stop by Ken's House of Pancakes and experience the joy of community dining in a relaxed setting. You're bound to leave with a full belly and a heart warmed by the spirit of Aloha!
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“ Spent the day in Hilo and every place I searched said to eat here. We were not disappointed! Fast service and authentic dining. This open air restaurant served the best breakfast. The prices are exactly what you would expect for a vacation island. Would def go here again! ”
“ We went there twice. The food was ok but the waitresses and hostess were super friendly. We ordered pancakes and oxtail stew the first day and more pancakes and oxtail soup the next day. The pancakes had good taste but they were a little dry but I guess that’s good for soaking up syrup. Pro tip: ask for one of each pancake (coconut, Mac nut, banana) if you want to try them all—we liked the Mac nut the best. The oxtail stew and soup were ok, but not amazing. ”
“ Favorite dining experience on the island. Just was nostalgic even though I’ve never been there. Felt like an institution and was nice to capture a glimpse of local vibrancy and culture. Portion size is huge here and we ordered a special chorizo omelette, small side of macadamia pancake. While the hubby took regular size pancakes. Taste was good and portion size is really really big. Service was very welcoming and was a great representation of the Aloha spirit. Local institution must stop by. ”
“ Loved this place, probably my favorite one in Hilo! The people are very kind, the food is great, and it’s just very comfortable and clean. I went there for lunch and dinner in one day. The pancakes are good but the meat and ribs are better. The price is good too. Would definitely come back if I visit Hilo again. ”
“ We had a great experience at this famous restaurant! The banana pancakes were delicious, the scrambled eggs with ham/onions and hollandaise sauce was yummy, and the hash browns were out-of-this-world. Our waitress was super friendly and the diner atmosphere was spot on. 10/10 would recommend. ”