I might be being melodramatic, but it is truly tragic that the Mexican food options here on Oahu are pretty slim compared to most of the mainland. Enter Chili Relleno onto my radar as I hunt for something close to the enchilada plate I am longing for (RIL Azteca). I believe it was a word of mouth mention followed by a review search that enticed me to drive outside my easy east Honolulu bubble into the moody, misty mountains of Kaneohe. Restaurant is right across the Valley of the Temples making it perfect place to lunch if you're ever headed there. This place checks of a bunch of my boxes. First off, complimentary chips and salsa. As every Mexican restaurant SHOULD. I'm exhausted with bougie Mexican spots. I want home style. I want comfort. Second, BYOB. Nuff said. If you add homey comfort with BYOB you are almost a home run as long as... The food is good. And it is. Rice and beans with mix and match enchiladas or multiple burritos, tacos, carnitas, fajitas, chimichangas... you name it, to choose from. Ambience is thumbs up with bright festive decor and our server, Saylor, was a pleasant balance of attentiveness, efficiency, and fun. As I said, a standard, decent enchiladas plates is not the easiest meal to come by on Oahu, and it just happens to be my number one comfort food. I've dined here going on four times, which means this restaurant alone has brought me to Kaneohe more than anything in my middle aged life has ever done. It gets busy for lunch sometimes but the service and food is always pretty efficient. Might be my favorite Mexican restaurant at present on the island. read more

Saw Misty on Food Fiend and since she is very objective I was sold on coming to try the Chile Rellenos. Hubby had Chicken Chimichanga and I had the original Chile Rellenos which was perfect in every way and stayed super hot the entire meal! The cheese pull was perfect, spice level good and the green sauce was generous and perfectly seasoned-- not too salty and not too spicy. We loved the taste of both the refried beans and the Spanish rice and topped off our meal with a Mexican Coke. It was the best Mexican food that I have had in over 30 years. I grew up in Boulder,Colo and ate a lot of Mexican food there and while we had great restaurants when I was younger they are all gone now and replaced with all those chic little fake Mexican places that just don't cut it. This place is absolutely delicious and we will be back to try other things. Chips were a tad stale, but we ate them--salsa was good. Came around 1:45 on a Sat and had a 15 minute wait. Will come around 2:30 next time to beat the crowds or during the quieter weekdays. Go,order, eat and be happy. This is a really good and fun place. Really nice staff. read more

First I was drawn to the name (Yumm)! Ended up tucking away this business card in my wallet to remind me to stop by whenever I'm in the 'hood! Second, I love a good chile relleno and now I can confirm this place treats the poblanos well! Third, the item I was craving (a chile relleno burrito, a SoCal specialty) was not on the menu. However, the chef du jur catered to my whims and boy did he deliver! The tortilla tasted fresh, not mass produced. The beans were filled to the perfect ratio, not acting as a filler. The cheese melted so beautifully in every bite. But that chile!!!! Boy, I wish I could recreate this burrito on my own! But I'm so glad I requested this off the menu secret! Thank you for catering to my whim! You have won my vote for 'where should we go for dinner' in Kaneohe Bay!!! Color me impressed! I will be back! read more

Update: Eat in the restaurant, had great service and the food still tastes amazing! Salsa had some spicy to it which was good read more

Chile Relleno - Steak and shrimp burrito - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

Do not sleep on this HIDDEN GEM! I've been coming here for years and these guys simply do not miss. Consistently good quality food and friendly service. I'm from Arizona and the quality of Mexican food in Hawaii is pretty abysmal out here. So trust me when I say this place is stellar. Their carnitas are completely out of this world. Especially when placed inside a chile relleno. Simply the best I've had anywhere. Period. They don't do everything how I like. For example, I think their chips are too thick and not salty enough. And the salsa is a little watery for my liking, but on the plus side, both are FREE and the salsa is super fresh and tasty. The vibe inside the restaurant is super fun too and reminds me of the old school joints back home. Theme is definitely on point. They also often have live music, which is awesome. They don't serve alcohol, but do allow byob for a small fee. It's usually busy for dinner, especially on taco Tuesday, so plan accordingly. They do offer a good taco Tuesday special btw. Staff is always super cool. Shout out to Emmanuel specifically. He has been my server since day one and just an all around a cool guy. Always smiling and good energy every time I see him. On my last visit, I had AJ while he was training and he did great too. This place is a beacon on a hill. And I mean that not only because it's good, but because I go very far out of my way to get here. Worth it every time. I wish they didn't charge extra for more salsa or for their tasty habanero salsa, but I guess the restaurant biz is tough. On my last visit, I made the mistake of somehow ordering the recommended house made mammamia sauce, which came out in a soup bowl and cost $5. It's shockingly delicious, but I don't recommend getting that unless you confirm the size and price up front Definitely come get the carnitas chile relleno if you're passing Temple valley. Even if you're not passing through, go out of your way to visit. You won't be disappointed! read more

Chile Relleno - Carnitas plate with chips and salsa. Including tasty habanero salsa and bowl of mammamia sauce (extra cost) - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

This place was rocking it on a Thursday night! We were a party of 10 and waited only 15 minutes. Our wait staff were friendly & attentive to details. We had an assortment of tacos, chile relleno w/carnitas, fresh guacamole & fajitas. Flavorful & fresh! Every single dish AMAZING! Definitely recommend if you are in the Temple Valley area! read more

I posted this late. Food is tasty. Small place with plenty of parking. Staff were great as well. Prices fair.

Loved this place! We came after doing yard work in the sun and I didn't realize how hungry I was that we finished 2 baskets of chips and salsa and all of my Fajita Salad, which was delicious and enough for a hungry gal like me. I will have to try the other entrees with the beans and rice next time when I didn't have to go to Hula practice afterwards. The service was great and food came out fast. Loved looking at the artwork in the Restaurant and getting a glimpse of the kitchen and smell the good food. Apparently my Mexican Boyfriend has come here several times before I have and he said he would rate this one of the top 5 Mexican places on Oahu. I will definitely come back! read more

Chile Relleno - Inside - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

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ONOLISH. Come for the deals Tuesday/Thursday 3.99 tacos . I got carne asada, carnitas, grilled chicken, and fish . My boyfriend got the carne asada plate which was also yummy. We also got dessert which was the churros! Shoutout to MANNY! HANDS DOWN THE COOLEST WAITER! We love coming here, 1000000000/10 I would recommend. read more

Chile Relleno - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

We're baaaack!!! This is the best Mexican restaurant on the east side!! They did a renovation and it's beautiful!! Now you're eating great food with a beautiful ambiance. You'll be greeted by a cheerful smile as you're led to your table. Service is fast. I love the chips with salsa that's complementary. I tried the Fajita Steak Salad because I need to eat more greens. It was great!! I'll try something new whenever I come back here to eat. Check this place out for yourself!! read more

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The owner has a great story - the vibe in this place is 5/5. The sculptures and amazing sayings along the wall - with the waiters being super friendly. The food is incredible! The sauces are awesome. It was a little disappointing to see that the sauces on the side were being charged from $3 to $5. My fav dish was the garlic shrimp with the Diablo sauce. Super spicy and tasty. A lot of locals were eating here - which means you know it's good food. The local is a strip mall - the decor is very ethnic and the owner believes in God and doing the right things. Definitely try this place - plus the Byodo temple is right across from it. read more

I came here on a weekday for dinner and we had to wait about 15 minutes for a seat. Once seated they provided us complimentary chips and salsa which was delicious. The chips were thin and crunchy and salsa so tasty. I ordered the veggie burrito, which was unique since they had baby corn. It came with black beans and rice. Everything was good and the portion a good size that I was able to take home 1/3 of it. My friend and I also shared the fried ice cream. I would definitely come back. read more

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Had business nearby and had dinner here. It was busy but got seated after about 10 minutes. Our waitress was super friendly. The food was delicious. I had the steak and shrimp burrito and loved it. My friend got the veggie burrito. We also got the fried ice cream for dessert. Overall a very good dining experience. read more

Chile Relleno - Lanikai Chile Relleno - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

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3/16/2026 Had lunch at Chile Relleno. The restaurant was clean and festive with it's bright colors and decor. We were seated as soon as we got in and the staff was friendly. It wasn't too busy so we got serviced right away. I got the taco salad with ground beef, it was a decent portion and was tasty. I would definitely return when I get the craving for Mexican food. read more

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Good music, friendly staff, unique and fun cultural decor. Yum yum. We stumbled upon the restaurant when wanted sushi and they didn't offer a restroom. What a lucky break. read more

Chile Relleno - Yummy salsa. Just the right twang of spicy - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

Chili Relleno is the best Mexican restaurant in Kaneohe. Started off with their complimentary crispy chips that were not oily and homemade salsa that had some good heat. I loved the flavor of the salsa so much that I slathered is on my grande burrito and didn't need to ask for some Tapatio sauce. The grande sopes also hit the spot. The hand painted decor and art really make this restaurant interesting to look at, but the service is king here. The wait staff checked on us many times and had our food was out in record time, not to shabby for a busy Friday night dinner. read more

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We went here for dinner on a Thursday night and wondered why this place was packed and we had to wait. Bring from Los Angeles I did not expect to be wowed. Started off with the chips and salsa and noted the chips were not that great but the salsa had a good flavor. I ordered the carnitas plate and asked them to make it extra crispy as I love the texture. When I tasted the food and was very surprised how good it was. The rice and beans were great and overall ever tasted good. They also gave you a generous portion. I would definitely recommend this place as being one of the better Mexican restaurants on the island. read more

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We so loved their food and nice customer service. Every single employee was nice and friendly, wait staff, cooks, dishwasher, everyone!! That tells you something good... The decor is bright and cheerful. I had the grilled chicken chile relleno and fried ice cream, delicious. The guacamole is delicious, creamy style. Chips and salsa came out fast, great salsa. First time here and we'll definitely be back! read more

Ohana dinner tonight excellente. We really pigged out and everything was delicious. Love the bright colorful artwork everywhere. Great customer service. I think we are regulars now lol!!! read more

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My young friend said, "Let's try the Mexican Restaurant in the Temple Valley shopping center." He brought me along with his 89-year old mother (I'm almost 80) for another weekly road trip around the island. We've been to many local eateries, but this was our first Mexican meal. He had read the raving reviews for Chile Relleno: "...pleasant & efficient waitresses, cheerful ambience, free & delicious appetizer, and a great assortment of Mexican food." And that it was...I agree with others who shared their rave reviews - it is worth venturing to Chile Relleno on the beautiful Windward side of this island! read more

Large portions and so yummy! Can't wait to return and try another menu item. Wish I had room to try the desserts. read more

Chile Relleno - Chile verde - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

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They over charged me. My bill was 106.00 and I tipped 16 so total should be 122.00 but they $4 charged more. Actually I didn't want to tip the waitress. She was rude to my family and I asked her extra chopped onion but she gave me 2 onion and charged without asking. They might think I'm not gonna notice but I have picture of receipt. Only $4 but this not cool. read more

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Today is may 18 and it was me and my wife's first time there and we have been on an adventure looking for a great Mexican spot. We finally found it and it was amazing the food was so ono, service was great and lovely, the Ambiance was chill and wonderful. The food we had was way better than any other place we have been to on island and we have tried alot of places. This is a def 10 out of 10 spot to check out. Plus I love Horchata and if you for I recommend getting the Large you will not be disappointed plus it's worth the 8 dollars. They also give you chips and salsa which is rare now. Salsa also tasted homemade and had a nice spicy kick. read more

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Amazing ceviche! Great kids options. Best Mexican restaurant !!! I wish I would have taken a picture before writing this review. It was bomb! read more

We tried the Carne Asada, medium rare plate and the pork carnitas. The carne asada was delicious. So tender and juicy, cooked to perfection. Portions were large and the steak wasn't cut up which is why it stayed tender. Normally never get this since steak is well done, but this was definitely worth getting. The pork carnitas was also great. Wr all enjoyed every bite of both these entrees. Will definitely get these again. Service was great as well. Very friendly people, just a perfect experience. read more

Chile Relleno - Pork carnitas - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

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Not a super busy night- two servers working. Took quite a while to be acknowledged/brought water which was a rough start. Food was decent- ordered a shredded chicken chili relleno. It is just a cheese relleno topped with shredded chicken. Came out PIPING hot which was nice. Definitely missed the gooey cheese pull that you usually get from a relleno! The chicken was super hot as well as the sauce but the relleno itself was barely warm. Didn't hate it but it wouldn't be my first choice. read more

Chile Relleno - Shredded chicken chili relleno - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

I'm not sure why it took me so long to come here but I love it so much! It is my new favorite restaurant for sure. I have been looking for a Mexican restaurant here in Hawaii for years. Closest to eating Mexican food in San Diego. We went this past weekend for some appetizers and we were so full like we ate a full meal! The shrimp ceviche was delicious and they give so much, we ended up taking home almost half of it. We also got carne asada fries, so yummy! Honestly it was such a good pairing, one dish more on the heavier side and one was light and refreshing. Decor in the restaurant is beautiful and very clean. Want to go back now! read more

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I ordered the carne asada chile relleno, the california burrito, and horchata for pickup. They were quick and efficient in taking my order and gave me an accurate time of when my food would be ready. Once I arrived they promptly got my order ready and I was not missing anything. They are located in a shopping center but were easy to find. The inside was standard for your typical Mexican restaurant but the kitchen is open and partially viewable from the dining room which was pretty neat. Both items were delicious and well prepared. Horchatas can make or break a Mexican restaurant for me and this one was really good. A little less ice would've made it perfect for me. Overall a great experience and I would eat here again whenever I have a taste for Mexican food. read more

Chile Relleno - California Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

The food was amazing, great flavor, sides, and chips and salsa were on point. Not too spicy just perfect. I had the super burrito with shredded beef and that was amazing, the beef was like birra. It does fall apart so i ate it with a fork but still amazing. The rice and beans were also great. The service was good, the waiters were nice and polite and had respect. The vibes inside were nice, beautiful tables, portraits, and other items. The smells were amazing, and the music was great. The only downside was if you wanted more chips it was a 2 dollar upcharge but worth it. The fajitas were also amazing, great ratio of steak and veggies. The flavor of the steak was amazing. After all, very good spot and do recommend! read more

Word of advice if you're going to order take out wait inside for your food don't go outside cuz they not going call you like some places do. I went to sit in the outside table cuz was busy inside and I didn't wanna take up the last tables, I'm thinking they going call me when my food is ready NOPE waited 20 mins than got fed up and walked inside and a was asked how they can help me and I said I came in 20 mins ago placed a take out I been waiting on the table outside and the girl who took my order said oh yeah and went to get my food thats been sitting on their counter for I don't know how long. The food was still hot tho. Ordered a taco salad it was okay heavy on the meat not enough salad but I did enjoy the crispy shell also tried a chile relleno and it was nothing like I've had in the past at other restaurants the rice and beans was my favorite in that dish. read more

One of the best spots on Oahu for Mexican food. Located in Kaneohe , directly across Valley of the Temple in a strip mall where the McDonald's is. Chile Relleno is a clean well decorated restaurant with friendly staff and great food. The chips and salsa is free and you can easily get filled just eating that. You can go wrong with what you're craving. The Chile Relleno with carnitas is excellent. So much flavor. You can sub the refried beans for black beans if you want. But it's soooo filling.! If you're craving something fried the Flautas and Chimichangas are great!! Burritos are also filling enough for 2 people to share. It's also BYOB, but there is a $3 charge per person. But hey, bring you Modelos and come here for a great time!! read more

Very good food (and portions), great service, and cool ambiance thanks to staff. Love their fajitas with steak on skillet, fresh chips and salsa, and fresh guacamole. read more

I walked in and ordered take out. Repeated the order 3 times and asked the young lady does she got my order? I was told yes over and over but to my surprise, the order was made incorrect. I am not sure what to think at this point because I also tried to call the location 3 times so they can be aware of the situation. (Called Incase I got someone else's order) but no answer. Very disappointed because I want to give them the benefit of the doubt but it shouldn't be that hard to NOT put sour cream on taquitos and give me 3 orders of taquitos when I ordered 3. So hmm? Oh well, nice ambiance. read more

As a California native, Chile Relleno is maybe 1 of 2 Mexican restaurants on Oahu I'd visit regularly. The other is Sulf N Salsa in Waialua. Chile Relleno is easily the best Mexican restaurant on the Windward side. Manny always brings good energy to this place. Rest assured you will receive top notch service whenever he's working (which is almost every day). It can get packed here during Taco Tuesdays and Thursdays ($3.99 tacos) but the staff do a great job. read more

Unfortunately.. we love the food here. But the service team today sucked. Clueless.. Wish I got a name but horrible service all around. Won't be coming back sadly. This is the 3rd time with bad service, hire better or rework your training! Not greeted for 20 min no food order no drink order, hungry toddler with me. Unreal.. I had to put so much effort just get someone's attention, one of the ladies blatantly ignored me. Then finally I get approached after trying to wave people down and them walking past me, no "sorry for waiting" just a simple, "are you ready" that was enough for me, if she had any awareness she would have noticed the menus closed at the end of the table 5 min after we sat down. Sadly nothing will probably be done about this... truly sad. read more

The food here is amazing. I've lived in Colorado, New Mexico and Colorado and this food stands up to the best! Total value for the dollar, nice clean and colorful atmosphere and the service is professional, friendly and attentive. We drove from Kaka'ako to Kaneohe for this food....nuf said! Support local! read more

My son asked me out to lunch at his favorite Mexican place and reminded me it was in Kaneohe. Great! I'm happy to drive for great food, let's go! Chile Relleno is a cozy place smack dab in the center of the shopping center. There's plenty of parking, even when the center is at its busiest, though you may have to park a few rows away- it's ok, just means you'll get to enjoy the amazing view for a few more moments as you walk back to your car. The restaurant often has a short wait, so be prepared to give them your name and stand outside until they have a table for you. I promise the wait is worthwhile. My son always orders the Carnitas, as he loves the texture of the juicy pork and the flavor is hard to beat. I skip all over the menu, trying something new each time. I've enjoyed everything, but would probably pick their street tacos as my favorite. They are nicely filled with your choice of protein and are the standard Tuesday special. We never skip the horchata, and in fact each order our own small pitcher, which they happily serve with a straw. So if you see me zipping from Mililani over to the windward side, don't be surprised if I tell you I'm on my way to lunch. Feel free to join us if you have the time! read more

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We did another large order at our favorite Mexican Restaurant! Samuel and his team were organized, kind and even helped carry out our items. The food is always superb, the decor straight from Guadalajara is beautiful and as always the service is top notch. Mahalo!!! read more

Chile Relleno - They even labeled it!!! - Mexican Near Me - Kaneohe, Hawaii

First time trying here. Got the nachos. I asked for the chips on the side, but it was not. They made up with another bag of chips, but the chips beneath the toppings soaked up all the flavors. The chips weren't good. I've had much better. The nachos overall, I wouldn't order it again. On to the next Mexican Restaurant. read more

The server was bad we waited 20mins and the people who was behind us got there order water and left earlier than us food was late salad was small portion w the 3 taco and she forgot our waters perfer to ask emanual the guy server great energy and positive read more