![[Closed] Ethel's Grill – A Cheap Local Lunch Spot in Hawaii Famous for Mochiko Chicken and Seared Ahi](https://aloalotravel.com/en/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ethels-grill-2.jpg)
Unfortunately, Ethel’s Grill closed its doors in December 2024, ending its 45-year history.
However, we are keeping this article available because there is a possibility it might reopen, and many people still want to check its operating status.
Ethel’s Grill is a famous restaurant for mochiko chicken, highly popular among Hawaii locals.
It is a type of fried chicken made with sweet rice flour instead of wheat flour, and it is a must-try when visiting Hawaii!
Although it is not often featured in guidebooks, mochiko chicken, which has roots in Japanese cuisine, has evolved uniquely in Hawaii and become a staple local comfort food.
The pronunciation of the name can sometimes vary among visitors, but it is well known simply as Ethel’s Grill.
It is hidden away on a quiet street in Kalihi, but you will easily spot it because there is almost always a line of customers waiting out front!
Since it is a popular spot, try aiming for around 10:00 AM or after 1:00 PM, when you can usually get in with less of a wait.
Ethel’s Grill’s Most Popular Dish is Mochiko Chicken
The dish is incredibly generous, packed with plenty of large, juicy pieces of chicken!
Their special ginger sauce and miso soup are also absolutely delicious, making you want to come back regularly.
It even earned a rare three-star rating as a “hole-in-the-wall but delicious” restaurant on a popular Japanese television food show featuring Hawaii specials.
In Hawaii, cheap and tasty restaurants often close down quickly, but Ethel’s Grill has been operating for a long time, offering huge portions at affordable prices, which is a blessing for Hawaii residents.
The Second Most Popular Dish at Ethel’s Grill is Seared Ahi
We also highly recommend their seared ahi.
While the mochiko chicken is famous, this seared ahi is also incredibly delicious, making them the two signature dishes of the restaurant!
It is made from very fresh sashimi sourced every morning from a nearby harbor in the area. The outside is just lightly seared, and there is no fishy smell at all.
The combination of the soy-based sauce and sliced garlic is irresistibly delicious.
By the way, both dishes can be ordered as a hearty combo meal that comes with exquisite seafood miso soup and a salad.
Basic Information About Ethel’s Grill
| 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) |
| Website | None |
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