What should I order at Hula's Island Grill?
Hula's Island Grill
Ahi Tuna Tacos
Frequently recommended for being fresh, flavorful, and a standout item among the massive menu. Multiple reviewers specifically highlighted this dish as a must-try.
Kalbi (Galbi) Ribs
Mentioned several times as melt-in-your-mouth delicious with amazing flavors and generous portions, making it a favorite entree choice.
Sticky & Sweet Kona Chicken Wings
Recommended for their delicious sweet and sticky glaze, often paired with happy hour and highlighted as an inexpensive yet tasty option.
Thai Curry Bowl
Noted for being flavorful and a great choice when faced with many menu options, recommended by servers and reviewers alike.
Barramundi with Lemongrass Cream Sauce
Praised for its perfect preparation, flaky crispy crust, and the complementary creamy citrus sauce, served with well-balanced sides.
Hawaiian Fish Soup
Described as sweet and creamy with perfectly cooked noodles, making it a comforting and delicious choice.
Hawaiian Ceviche
Highly recommended for its fresh, vibrant flavors and often ordered during happy hour, noted as a great appetizer.
Duke’s Luau Pork Plate
Mentioned positively for its great taste and quality, a popular plate among visitors.
Kings Crab Curry
Described as fantastic and flavorful, this dish stands out as a special curry option.
Hula’s Famous Burger
Recommended for its unique combination of avocado, bacon, pineapple, jack cheese, and special sauce, praised for taste and presentation.
Calamari Fries
Noted for being crispy and perfectly paired with a special sauce, making it a favored appetizer.
Hours
| Monday | 4 to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 4 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 12 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 12 to 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 12 to 9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 12 to 9 PM |
About Hula's Island Grill
Tropical, tiki-inspired outpost offering a range of Hawaiian eats with an American spin & drinks.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Hula's Island Grill known for?
It is especially known for Hawaiian ceviche and its happy hour food and drink specials, which are mentioned often in reviews. Guests also highlight the cocktails, including the original Mai Tai, and say the value is strong during happy hour.
What dishes are most recommended at Hula's Island Grill?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the Hawaiian ceviche, ahi tuna tacos, sticky and sweet Kona chicken wings, Thai curry bowl, and Hawaiian fish soup. Coconut shrimp rolls, jerk sauce dishes, and sweet potato fries also come up often as favorites.
What is the atmosphere like at Hula's Island Grill?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and trendy, with a tiki-inspired feel and outdoor seating available. Reviewers describe it as a good spot for groups, friends, families, and solo dining, especially when you want drinks and a meal in a lively Santa Cruz setting.
Is Hula's Island Grill good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, and many reviewers say the food and drinks are worth it, especially during happy hour. Several mention that the specials make the experience feel inexpensive for the quality and portion size.
Do you usually have to wait at Hula's Island Grill?
Yes, reviews and venue info both suggest a wait is common, even on a Tuesday during all-day happy hour. Dinner reservations are recommended, especially if you want to avoid waiting for a table or to improve your chances of getting a seat.
Is parking available at Hula's Island Grill?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking is available.
Does Hula's Island Grill have vegetarian options?
Yes, Hula's Island Grill offers vegan options.
Is Hula's Island Grill kid-friendly?
Yes, Hula's Island Grill is good for kids.
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