Unfortunately, Ethel’s Grill closed its doors in December 2024, after 45 years of history.
However, we are keeping this article as is for those who wish to check on its status or in case of a potential reopening.
Ethel’s Grill is a renowned spot for Mochiko Chicken, incredibly popular with Hawaii locals.
It’s a type of fried chicken made with mochiko (sweet rice flour) instead of wheat flour, a must-try when you visit Hawaii!
While not often featured in guidebooks, Mochiko Chicken, originally a Japanese-style dish, has evolved uniquely in Hawaii to become a staple comfort food.
Its name can be a bit tricky to pronounce for Japanese visitors, with several variations used in Japan.
It’s tucked away on a less-crowded street in Kalihi, but you’ll spot it easily because there’s almost always a line of customers out front!
Although it’s popular, you can often get in without much of a wait around 10 AM or after 1 PM, so try aiming for those times.
Ethel’s Grill’s Most Popular Dish is Mochiko Chicken
The portion is huge, packed with an incredible amount of large pieces of chicken!
The special ginger sauce and miso soup are also incredibly delicious, making you want to come back regularly.
It was once featured on the “Kitanachelin” (a play on “Michelin” for shabby-but-delicious restaurants) segment of a popular Japanese TV show’s Hawaii special, where it earned a rare three-star rating.
In Hawaii, many affordable and tasty restaurants tend to close down quickly, but Ethel’s Grill has been around for a long time, serving generous portions at great prices, making it a cherished spot for residents.
Ethel’s Grill’s Second Most Popular Dish is Tuna Tataki
Another highly recommended dish is the Ahi (Tuna) Tataki.
While the Mochiko Chicken is famous, this Tataki is also incredibly delicious, making them the two signature dishes of the restaurant!
Made with incredibly fresh sashimi-grade tuna sourced daily from a nearby harbor, it’s lightly seared on the outside and has no fishy taste at all.
The combination of the soy-based sauce and sliced garlic is irresistibly delicious.
By the way, both of these dishes can be ordered as a “teishoku” (set meal), which comes with a fantastic seafood miso soup and a salad, making for a very hearty meal.
Ethel’s Grill: General Information
| Name | Ethel’s Grill |
| Address | 232 Kalihi St, Honolulu, HI 96819 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Closed | Sundays, Mondays |
| Restroom | Available |
| Parking | Available (Free) |
| URL | None |
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