What should I order at Gill's Lanai?
Gill's Lanai
Fish Tacos
Mentioned repeatedly as the best on the island with large, fresh, flavorful fish pieces. Reviewers praised their juicy texture, perfect seasoning, and accompanying sides like nacho chips and warm bean dip. Numerous reviewers highlighted the fish tacos as a must-try and a top reason to visit.
Kalua Pork Tacos
Frequently recommended for their amazing flavor and the special Hawaiian hot sauce topping. Reviewers described them as 'to die for' and equally as good as previous visits, making them a highly favored item.
Animal Fries
Highly praised as a must-order side, with several reviewers comparing them favorably against other well-known places. The fries are appreciated for being cooked in tallow instead of seed oils, contributing to their delicious taste.
Fresh Catch Bowl
Described as generous portions with high-quality fresh fish, almost like a full plate rather than just a bowl. It is frequently mentioned alongside fish tacos as a favorite and highly satisfying option.
Bahn Mi
Recommended for its fresh, crunchy sourdough and delicious flavors. The fresh catch bahn mi in particular was noted as a top recommendation and one of the best sandwiches enjoyed by reviewers.
Purple Ube Sweet Potato Salad
Mentioned as a unique and delicious side dish that pairs well with other menu items like the bahn mi. Reviewers appreciated the novel flavor and enjoyed it as part of their meal.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 7:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 7:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 7:30 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 7:30 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 7:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 3 PM |
About Gill's Lanai
Gill's Lanai is a restaurant in Kapaau, Hawaii, serving lunch and dinner with a menu centered on fish tacos, fish and chips, bowls, tacos, and bahn mi. Reviewers consistently praise the fish tacos, especially the mahi mahi and ahi versions, along with the fresh catch bowls, kalua pork tacos, animal fries, and fresh-made tea. The restaurant is described as casual, cozy, and quiet, with outdoor and lanai seating, rooftop seating, live music on some nights, and fast service. It is popular with solo diners, groups, families, and tourists, and sits on the north side of the Big Island near Hawi and the Pololu lookout area.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Live music
- Rooftop seating
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Organic dishes
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Seating
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Gill's Lanai known for?
Gill's Lanai is best known for its fish tacos, especially the mahi mahi and ahi versions, which reviewers repeatedly call some of the best on the island. People also point to the fresh catch bowls and the kalua pork tacos as standout items, with the fresh, local-focused cooking and fast service adding to the appeal.
What dishes are most recommended at Gill's Lanai?
The most recommended dishes are the fish tacos, fresh catch bowl, kalua pork tacos, fish and chips, and animal fries. Reviewers also mention the tofu bahn mi, crispy fish sandwich, and fresh-made tea, with several noting that the fries and chips are especially worth ordering alongside the mains.
What is the atmosphere like at Gill's Lanai?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and quiet, with open-air lanai and rooftop seating that feels relaxed and breezy. Reviewers describe it as a good fit for families, groups, and solo diners, especially if you want an island-style meal with live music on some evenings.
Is Gill's Lanai good value, and what is the price range?
Gill's Lanai is in the $20 to $30 range, and reviewers generally feel the portions and freshness justify it, especially for dishes like the fish tacos, fresh catch bowls, and fish sandwich. A few comments note that some items, like a burger or add-ons, can feel pricey, but the overall consensus is that the quality and local ingredients make it worth the stop in north Big Island.
When is the best time to visit Gill's Lanai?
Lunch is a popular time to go, and several reviewers recommend stopping there while traveling through Hawi or after visiting the Pololu lookout. Weekend evenings can include live music, which adds to the experience, but the place is also noted for fast service and quick turnaround at the counter.
Is parking available at Gill's Lanai?
Yes. Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does Gill's Lanai have vegetarian options?
Yes, Gill's Lanai offers vegan options.
Is Gill's Lanai kid-friendly?
Yes, Gill's Lanai is good for kids.
Restaurants like Gill's Lanai in Kapaau
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