What should I order at Kohala Rainbow Cafe?
Kohala Rainbow Cafe
Salt and Pepper Squid
Frequently praised for having the best salt and pepper squid on the island with an amazing batter, making it a must-try dish.
Orange Chicken
Highly recommended multiple times for its delicious flavor and considered the best orange chicken by some reviewers.
Honey Walnut Shrimp
Noted as incredible and one of the standout dishes enjoyed by customers.
Crab Rangoon
Mentioned repeatedly as delicious with a favorable balance of sweetness compared to mainland versions.
Fried Rice (Vegetable, Chicken, House)
Celebrated for its great taste and quality, with some reviewers calling it the best fried rice they've had.
Singapore Noodles
Highly praised for being the best Singapore noodles some guests have ever had, noted for tender, well-seasoned proteins.
Aloha Sai mein
Recommended for its flavorful broth reminiscent of wonton soup and amazing BBQ chicken; a comforting noodle soup option.
Kalua Pork and Cabbage
Enjoyed for its authentic local flavors and considered very good by several diners.
Mixed Bar-B-Q Plate
Well-liked for variety and taste, often paired with local favorites like Spam fried rice.
Mahi Mahi Musubi
Described as delicious and filling, making it a popular grab-and-go choice.
Breakfast Croissant Sandwich
Noted for wonderful portions and deliciousness, making it a favorite breakfast item.
Ginger Beef
Mentioned as amazing and a highlight for those seeking Chinese-style dishes.
Hours
| Monday | 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Friday | 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 8:30 PM |
About Kohala Rainbow Cafe
Kohala Rainbow Cafe is a Chinese restaurant in Kapaau, Hawaii that also serves local dishes and comfort food. Reviewers consistently praise the extensive menu, which includes Chinese, local, and off-menu options, along with large portions and friendly service. Popular dishes mentioned in reviews include fried rice, saimin, honey walnut shrimp, salt and pepper squid, kalua pork and cabbage, and mixed barbecue plates. The atmosphere is casual and quiet, with outdoor seating and a low-key feel that draws both locals and tourists.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Quiet
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Kohala Rainbow Cafe known for?
It is best known for its extensive mix of Chinese and local dishes, especially the fried rice, saimin, and salt and pepper squid. Reviewers also call out the honey walnut shrimp, orange chicken, and kalua pork and cabbage, saying the portions are big and the food is consistently well seasoned.
What dishes are most recommended at Kohala Rainbow Cafe?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the house fried rice, vegetable chicken or house fried rice, fried rice noodle chow fun, Singapore noodles, and Aloha saimin. Other standout orders include sweet and sour shrimp, ginger beef, crab Rangoon, mahi mahi musubi, and the mixed barbecue plate.
What is the atmosphere like at Kohala Rainbow Cafe?
The vibe is casual, quiet, and low-key, with indoor seating and tables outside or under cover. Reviewers describe it as a friendly local hangout that works well for solo meals, groups, and travelers looking for something more relaxed than the resort areas nearby.
Is Kohala Rainbow Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
The cafe is in the $10 to $20 range, and reviewers say the portions are huge and the value is strong for the price. One family meal was described as the best bang for the buck at $45, and several diners noted that the food quality and portion size made it worth the drive north in Kohala.
What should I know about visiting Kohala Rainbow Cafe at busy times?
Reviewers say the food comes out quickly even when ordering in two batches, and the restaurant is easy to get in and out of with ample parking. It is a good stop if you are up near Kohala or the Hawi area and want to avoid the more touristy west side resorts.
Is parking available at Kohala Rainbow Cafe?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does Kohala Rainbow Cafe have vegetarian options?
Yes, Kohala Rainbow Cafe offers vegetarian options.
Is Kohala Rainbow Cafe kid-friendly?
Yes, Kohala Rainbow Cafe is good for kids.
Restaurants like Kohala Rainbow Cafe in Kapaau
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