I live so close to Govinda's I always wonder why I never venture here more often. It's tucked away on a corner residential street off the Pali in Nuuanu. It's hard to explain the location so I recommend google mapping it. They have a private lot with about 15 stalls for parking, but at peak lunch hours it can be full. However, there's ample street parking available. Before you enter be sure to remove your shoes and slippahs since the buffet is located in a Hare Krishna temple. The buffet is completely vegetarian and filled with delicious curries and daily specials. For $13 the quality of the food is a steal. They accept credit card now too! On this particular day we visited there was a quiche for the special. It was unlike most quiches I ever had as it didn't taste egg or cheese heavy, it was very tasty. They also had three different curries with various vegetables like eggplant and potatoes. Homemade papadum, which is a cracker like crisp flavored with indian spices, super good! They also offer a nice salad bar and this refreshing ginger minty water. They had two desserts as well, one that was kind of like a cream of wheat baked fruit thing that was tasty despite my poor description of it lol. Also they had a noodle dessert, which was not as good unfortunately. You can enjoy your food on a few small tables next to the buffet line inside the building or take it outside to the outdoor tables and benches. The only junk thing about eating outside is there are thirsty mosquitoes seeking blood filled prey. But overall, Govinda's makes very delicious vegetarian food for an unbelievable price! It's random when they make their samosas but I highly recommend them. The buffet is open from 11:00am-2:00pm and they close promptly at 2:00pm (meaning you have to be done eating by then). read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - The spread. A really delicious offering of curries, quiche, papdum, and salad for $13! Dishes change daily. - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

For a meat-lover like myself, I somehow enjoyed being at all vegetarian buffet! I was a bit skeptical wondering if I was going to like being here but from the two times I ventured out here, I enjoyed the food. I really love the specials of the day that they have like the Quiche or the Lasagna! I find myself grabbing more after I finish the first plate of it. It's definitely hard for me to eat purely all vegetables so it's a struggle for me to eat my money's worth here but the way they make the specials makes me not really miss meat in them. I also love their Baklava! It depends on the day of which flavor they make but I don't think you could go wrong on any of them. I wouldn't mind eating here again if I ever feel like I need a cleanse from all the meat I eat in a day. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Quiche Day! - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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"Real Men Don't Eat Quiche" - Bruce Feirstein, American Author I heard my husband mutter that phrase when I mentioned that I wanted to return to Govinda's on Thursday. Fortunately, he said it in jest because I have made quiches before but never vegetable-based. Being omnivores, it's pretty obvious that we don't have any dietary restrictions and our tastebuds run the gamut through ethnic groups. Govinda's is a great value ($13 pp) for a vegetarian AYCE lunch that leans toward Indian/Pakistani flavors. They only operate their buffet M-F during lunch hours, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Their main entrée and sides change daily. There are no alcoholic beverages as this little gem is also an active temple for Krishna devotees. For beverages, they serve an iced ginger-mint lemonade or filtered water. Quiche Thursday featured a big (hotel) pan of tofu-based quiche that was filled with chopped spinach and cheese with a pastry-like crust. Also on the buffet line was tasty, thick, stick-to-your-ribs potato curry, Indian lentil dhal, almond-cranberry halawah, fresh baked bread rolls and tossed greens. We arrived around 1:00 PM and apparently, there must have been a crowd ahead of us as the pan of quiche was nearly empty. It was a sunny, hot day so we decided to dine outdoors (which by the way is NOT my favorite). We sat under the beautiful sprawling banyan tree while cool Nu'uanu breezes blew through the backyard of this temple. We did hear some chanting from the temple but it was sort of relaxing to us. If you're in the lower Nu'uanu area and have the desire to eat good and tasty Indian/Pakistani vegetarian cuisine, you should come to check out this hidden gem at 51 Coelho Way. It's a peaceful lunchtime treat that is just minutes away from busy Downtown Honolulu. #361 read more

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In an attempt to go vegetarian / pescatarian this year I bookmarked a bunch of places that had vegetarian options. I took fellow Yelper Nimai W.'s recommendations to make this a must stop and eat at place (check his reviews out - pretty awesome and so on point!). First off, if you've tried switching your diet to go this route - vegetarian home cooking is painstakingly hard - not unattainable but just difficult if you're not creative or ambitious enough to make tasty veggie meals. If I could cook like Govinda....I'd never leave home but fact of the matter is, I'm sometimes lazy and look for that quick fix of an instant go-to meal with a punch - like that from Govinda's. Fellow fave Yelper Christa B. and I went here for the first time last week and I was wowed by the simplicity of the place. It's in a residential area (if you're driving and wondering, "am I in the right place?" you probably are) in Nuuanu. The actual restaurant is in a Hari Krishna temple / home and the custom is to remove your shoes before entering. Not a big deal, however I sure wish I had some footwear on when I went to the bathroom. So if you're opposed to that, use the bathroom elsewhere before coming here or simply hold it. The buffet is a small spread with daily specials posted for the week. Today's special was spaghetti with veggie kofta balls. Unfortunately none of the food was "labeled" and I was having a little bit of fear factor. I merely took a really tiny serving onto my plate to taste before loading it up (that way I don't waste any food if I didn't like it). The kofta was good but it wasn't anything familiar to me and although I didn't know what it was made of...it was good. The curry was also tasty too with cauliflower being the only recognizable veggie (for me) in there. Lentils were ok but just not a preference (vegetarian or not - just not a fan of it). I'm up for trying new things and I was super happy knowing that my lunch date hadn't gone there too. We dined in the huge garden behind the restaurant/house in the shade of a huge banyan tree. It was breezy enough and quite enjoyable. Kids were swinging away on a tree swing while we lunched away. There was a ginger drink that was bit too potent for my liking but also water and punch available. I'd definitely go back on a different day just to try out the rest of the daily specials. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Lunch under this beautiful tree - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I realllllly wanted to love this place based on reviews and a friend that dined here. My daughter is on day 5 of 7 being vegan so thought we'd venture here together. $13/pp for lunch. Also $5/# for takeout. As soon as you walk in, there is a remarkably strong scent of incense. If you enjoy that smell, it should not bother you. It did bother me. Reminded me of funerals especially w the chanting going on. I understand that it also a place of worship, but for some reason, didn't think it would occur during lunch hour. The outdoor tables were full with the exception of one. We opted to stay in as kids were running in the yard (perfectly fine as that's what outdoors are for) but we wanted a more "meditative" experience. We saw some relaxing pics that looked like we could "namaste" outside, but it was deceiving and we didn't see these areas. We didn't get that relaxing feeling at all. The tables inside were full and it was suggested to sit in the front where you enter. It is a strange location to put a table to dine at. The incense was overwhelming and the flies surrounding us was irritating. We moved back to the dining area as there were seats available. The scent was diminished tremendously in the dining area which was a plus. I think we were also anticipating more of a Down to Earth meal experience. It is more on the Indian side. Flavors we action don't care for. Again, if you enjoy those flavors, you may enjoy the food. The lasagne was ok and only 2 pcs left. It was never refilled and the pieces we got were crispy and old looking. Nothing was labeled so I have no idea what was what on the line. The curry I assume, was ok but lacked flavor. The house potatoes were good but on the saltier side. The curry mellowed out the salt. Yellow rice was fair. No soup bowls provided for what looked like soup. Even the curry you could probably eat in a bowl. The garbanzo beans seemed undercooked and bathed in a soup. Again, bowls would've been better as everything on our plate got soaked with many of their dishes in a soupy base. Idk what the drink was as again it wasn't labeled, but it tasted like a ginger soda. It wasn't bad. There's no hot sauce and everything is bland. There are red pepper flakes. I hate to complain, but it just wasn't in the cards for us. I'm glad I got to experience it, I'm just saddened we didn't enjoy it. read more

This place features a good array of vegetarian food. Fresh, and delicious this place offers steam vegetables, spaghetti and kofta on Mondays, salad, black olives, green peppers, raw shaved carrots and other legumes. On the left side of the wall, the proprietors hang a menu list for everyday. Goods include lasagna, quiche, and enchiladas. What a delight to include food from the mainland! As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised that a temple offered such food! This place obviously has a following. During business hours, people stream in for lunch. I hear some customers say they came here before and loved it. Outside of the restaurant, there is a little gift shop. They gift shop sells dresses, goddess statutes, books, booklets, and jewelry. People often go out to the patio. In the back you see this HUGE banyan tree. As time passed, it aged and it probably can tell you stories. read more

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Hell has frozen over ... Pigs were flyin' in the sky today ... WHY? I patronized a vegetarian eatery today. You may be asking yourself "what's the big flippin deal?" If you knew me like my besties know me, your jaw would have dropped to the ground by now. As much as I cringe and tear when I read about the despicable conditions that animals live in before they are slaughtered and delivered to our markets and restaurants, I can't help but consume meat, chicken, pork, fish. I can't help it! I need meat. But, I'm on a mission to shed 10 lbs in a month, and so part of my path to reaching my goal is trying to eat healthier foods. There is a great debate on whether going vegetarian is actually healthier for you and will help you lose weight, but, just humor me for the next minute as you read this. I received an email announcement today about a UYE Purification event at Govinda's restaurant in Liliha. Unfortunately today is one of those rare instances where I was not able to leave campus for lunch, so I felt like I'd still be able to "participate" by patronizing Govinda's kiosk at the Sustainability Courtyard at UH Manoa. Throughout the 4+ years that I've worked at UH, I've NEVER even considered buying lunch at this place. No meat? Forget it! Well, it pains me to admit that Govinda's is now my new go-to place when I need to buy lunch on campus (which occurs only a few times a year). For $5.10 ($5.37 with tax), I got a generous portion of their lasagne, a big scoop of rice (the rice was yellow in color but had the texture of brown rice), a smaller scoop of strawberry flavored halava (apparently the flavor changes daily and I missed yesterday's flavor which was peanut butter!). And, since their mini plates normally come with salad but they were out of salad, I got a cup of split pea soup instead, which was heaven-sent because it just so happens that I've been constipated lately and split-pea soup is supposed to have a lot of fiber in it!!!! T.M.I. Everything on my plate, including the soup, was delicious and very flavorful! I'm still not ever turning vegetarian, but, a few vegetarian meals here and there won't hurt. :) read more

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Hard to find. Food not as tasty as I'd like. All vegetarian which is a plus and there's a big tree in the back where you can sit to eat, hence why there's 3 stars instead of 1, ideally 0. Food sold by weight. Not many options. Unflavorful. I will not be back but still wish them the best. Go elsewhere, seriously. Unless you feel like overpaying (donating) for a steam table with only 3 unflavored options and rice. Huge disappointment. read more

My wife and I had our lunch yesterday at this place. It was simply out of this world. We tasted many items in their menu such as emon Rice, Cauliflower Curry, Mixed Veggie Stir Fry, Eggplant veggie, Lentil soup, Kitachri and Mixed Nut Halva. You select the items from buffet table and pay by the weight of the plate. Very reasonably priced. Highly recommend this place. read more

Mahalo Val for hosting a great UYE that I would have never known about if it wasn't for Yelp. Being born and raised on Oahu, I knew of a Hari Krishna Temple in Nu'uanu, but I didn't know that they also had a vegetarian buffet open to the public! So we came out for Val's Govinda UYE. You could either pay $7.50 for one trip to the buffet or $10 for AYCE, and the refreshing Ginger-Mint Tea was bottomless-SWEET! We got to Feast on the following: Full Salad Bar with an assortment with vinaigrettes (which also ended up on my favorite Bob Marley shirt, thanks to the krishna guy with the glasses-AAAAAH!!!) Gluten Free Rolls Strawberry Halvah Lentil Soup Cauliflower Curry Vegetarian Lasagna Oven Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Veggies It was also great meeting other Honolulu yeeps, eating, chatting, and later, being enlightened by words of wisdom and song by the staff out in the backyard in what may be the BIGGEST banyan tree I've ever seen. Mahalo once again Val, and thank you for the goodie bag of "superfoods" and information you provided!....ALOHA!!! YELP 365 CHALLENGE-(45/365) "The Purification" read more

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We've been here a few different times and I absolutely love it every time. The food is hot and the menu changes daily. Each day there is a new main dish. I'm only off on Mondays so that's the only day I've eaten on. You can't go wrong for $10 for unlimited amount of amazingly cooked food. I'm not even vegetarian and I love this place like crazy! The dessert is so good, halva I believe it's called, and I could eat two scoops of that deliciousness! ;) The people there are always so nice and friendly. It really makes the difference between a good meal and a great one! The banyan trees in the backyard are so beautiful and relaxing. There are also some friendly cats back there :) It's the best!!!!! read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Love love love this place!!! I only went once because we needed a car to get there from Waikiki, but if it had been closer, I would have gone every day! +1: The woman who greeted us and rang us up was so super friendly and helpful and nice! +1: The only item in the buffet that wasn't vegan was this weird jelly thing that I would have passed up anyway. +1: All-you-can-eat vegan buffet??? Seriously??? Even San Francisco doesn't have that. +1: The backyard is gorgeous!!! There are picnic tables to sit at. Don't sit on the grass unless you're immune to ant bites (which I unfortunately am not, and therefore got to come with some unwanted souvenirs). +1: The backyard also has a swing hanging from one of the banyan trees that could support my weight. Bonus: I'm not sure if this is a good or bad thing, depending who you are, there are cats that roam around the backyard and come and say hi to you while you eat. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Cute birds singing to us while we ate our lunch - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Excellent vegetarian/vegan food! We went on a Wednesday (lasagna day) and everything we had was superb! Gora, the hostess, was sweet, kind, and welcoming. I'd eat here everyday if i could. read more

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Aloha, this Vegetarian buffet restaurant has been around for a very long time in the Harikrishna temple in Nuuanu. I will give it 3.5 stars. Maybe I caught in on a wrong day, but the flavors were quite bland. Not much spice, or salt, or pepper, sorry. Affordable if you're a big eater but I typically don't eat much for lunch. The salad was nice. Also, you had to take off your footwear. The biggest turn-off which lowered the stars to 3 was the solicitation/invitation to "join", just wasn't expecting that part of the experience. read more

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One of my fave places. I feel at ease and if I am in need of some spiritual healing, I come here. It is adjacent to the Hare Krishna temple and ran by the people. The hosts, cooks, music, ambience and food are so delicate and sweet, and unassuming. The food is vegetarian and some parts are consistent like the bread crackers, mint lemon tea, but there are some different varieties every day. They are now also open on Saturdays for lunch which is nice. I absolutely love it here and to go take pics by the Banyan tree and Ganesha up front are priceless. The taste of the food is unique, and feels like you are transported to a different land and culture, which is so amazing. Highly recommend !!! read more

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One of the best vegan foods that is have tasted so far. This is my first vegetarian buffet ever and for sure it is the best buffet. read more

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It was quite a surprise to find this place in Honolulu. I do respect, what they have been doing. Raising money through the buffet service for Temple. Since this is not a restaurant, I had no expectation with respect to the service or the space. Neither did I expect it to be extremely delicious, as again it's not a restaurant with professional chefs cooking. The place is located in a residential area, very quite. Private parking lot. Lot of outside space to have your food with a few tables inside, near the buffet. But the food here was very disappointing. Food wasn't fresh when we arrived, the salad had started turning brown. The food was cold, and it was lacking minimal flavor. Overall, it's a beautiful place. We might visit again to the temple but not for the food. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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This is one of those places that is very hidden away and yet such a healthy and delicious option for vegetarians. There is outdoor and indoor seating. Took wifey here and we both enjoyed our meals. Your food options consist of about a dozen choices. We opted to try everything, plates are weighed and pricing is based on your food weight minus the plate weight. Fair pricing system and such a good feeling eating healthy and yummy food. Will go back for sure. There is a temple on this property that free to browse through. Sandals must be taken off when eating inside this place and simply left at the front entrance. read more

Okay, where is my classmate because he needs a big fat hug from me!!! Lol. Okay so it's my first semester at UH and food here isn't that cheap! Plus being a vegetarian limits my choices. I eat seafood occasionally but that can get pricey. Anyway, my classmate told me about this hidden gem. I got out of class early today so I decided to venture out and find this place without getting too lost. I magically found it! Thank you Jesus! I was greeted by a guy at the register. He asked me if its my first time since he caught me staring at the menu for about 5 minutes. I said yes it is and he's like awesome you get a free drink!!! I'm like really???? Lol. So I ended up getting the mini yellow curry plate which is HUGE. It's made with tofu and veggies. It also comes with rice, salad (you get to pick one of their 6 homemade dressings) & a dessert! Um woah. Ok so these people who run this place are super down to earth, definitely enjoy what they do & are real vegetarians! Not just ordinary people who want a profit. Go check them out! Just walk straight down the right side of Bilger...all the way down till you see 2 food trucks and a bunch of places to sit! It gets rather crowded at lunch time. I found the perfect spot until these two foreign exchange students stole my table. Haha okay. Check it out! Photo added to yelp. read more

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I came here years ago and was pleasantly reminded how amazing the food is when I visited today! Delicious, all you can eat, vegetarian buffet. I'm not even vegetarian, but still thought everything was so good. The people here are amazingly friendly and are super open to sharing their culture with the visitors. The property is beautiful and peaceful. I highly recommend! Food: The food reminds me of Indian food. The menu consisted of fresh salad, homemade dressings, yogurt, a potato and eggplant dish, a coconut based curry, lentil soup, bread, delicious spicy beans, rice, and a fried tempura like vegetable. The curry like dishes were so flavorful. Every dish had a unique flavor. I also really enjoyed the "avocado chutney" made from avocados in their yard! Price/Ambiance/Service: The temple is able to run based on the money it makes from the lunch service and donations. The lunch price is $13, but we gave $15 each because everything was awesome. Ambiance is calming - a beautiful old Pali home with a huge yard. You can even take your meal to enjoy outdoors. It's a seat yourself, casual type of service. The manager, who was so friendly, would bring refill our tea and brought us things to sample. He was very nice. Overall, I'll be back for sure when I am craving some awesome vegetarian food. Parking: Lots of free parking in front of the temple read more

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It's a very small cozy place for vegetarians. It's situated within temple grounds. The choices are very limited and it doesn't get refilled once the initial offerings are finished. It's popular amongst its people. read more

The first time I came to Gonvinda's was several years ago and the price was $10! Today it's $13 for the same buffet! That's a pretty big price jump and why I deduct a star! Govinda's is open Monday-Friday during lunch hours. The buffet changes daily but you're guaranteed a good fresh meal no matter the day. Lasagna Wednesday's are the best! Other days the main course is spaghetti, nut loaf, quiche and enchilada. Salads, sides, mint lemonade included. You can sit inside or in the meditation garden. I guess you could scoop more to make up for the inflation but it is what it is! Just clear your thoughts and eat away! read more

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I got introduced to this place by some friends, and my girlfriend and I are so glad we tried it! The food was fresh, healthy, and tasty. It was a nice and sunny day when we went, so it was very pleasant to eat outside and walk around. A very quaint and relaxing place, plus good vegetarian eats. The staff were very chill and welcoming. I love the salads, quiche, and curry. read more

A hidden gem!! I never knew this was here. I've been living here for 16 years. Love that there outside dining. The birds the trees, it's so peaceful. The food is Excellent!! OMG!! Love the eggplant dish amazing! The spicy cilantro sauce.....yummy!! I'm definitely coming back!! I'm so glad I stopped by after my massage!! read more

This place is great! For $10 for lunch buffet truly a hidden gem! The food is amazing and tasty! Healthy too! There's a big banyan tree in backyard and some outdoor seating areas. There's a Hare Krishna temple inside too. Also a store that sells some cool things. You can also order lunch plate to go as well. Worth checking out when you're in the area. So peaceful here! Just remember since it's a temple to take off your shoes when entering! read more

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[Location] This place is sorta hard to find. But, if you have GPS helping you, you'll eventually find it. At first, you'll question the GPS for taking you into the neighborhood along the Pali, but have faith in your GPS and it'll lead you to the Hare Krishna Temple. Once you're there, it's free parking but the parking lot is small. [Ambiance] When you walk in, be sure to remove your shoes. You may hear prayer going on but there should be someone in the front and let them know you're here for the buffet. Once you walk to the dining area, it's small and cozy. Although, you're located in the dining room, there's something about being in the temple that feels relaxing and serene. [Food] This is a vegetarian buffet but don't let this scare you away. Everyday, they usually have a special dish. I came on a Thursday so their special was qiche. The food is tasteful but I really wish they had labels so I know what I'm eating. So sorry guys, I can't really give you a good review of the food. All I can say is everything tasted good. [Overall] Considering this to be a vegetarian buffet, it's pretty good. Not bad for $13. Only downside to this is their hours of operation which is the weekday during 11am-2pm. This place can be kind of hard to find but trust your GPS (I didn't and ended up getting more lost) and it'll lead you to the temple. read more

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We were lost for a good 10 minutes before we finally reached the temple |(￣3￣)| Just follow the GPS(Google Maps) and remember it'll be on Coelho Way. If your not on that street you won't find it lol I have been eyeing this place out since last year. Although, since they are only open on weekdays, from 11:00-2:00 it was difficult for me to find the right time to go. Plus, I wanted to go on quiche day (Thursdays) Finally, as fate would have it, I had a Thursday Free! And someone actually wanted to come with me. Most of my friends and family are such big meat eaters, it was difficult finding someone to come along. I will say for the record, neither of us are vegetarians, and if you aren't, that does not mean you shouldn't try this place out. The food was FABULOUS!! I wouldn't mind becoming vegetarian myself, if I had food like this. Food: As other reviews had said, they don't place the names of the food. But I can say all the dishes were wonderful, especially the quiche(baked cheese casserole), the curry, and that collard greens mix. Their salad dressing weren't that bad as well. And oh gosh! (*´-｀*) that crispy round goodness!!! Salty, crispy, delicious. And the yellow rice was good too, mix that in with the curry oooooohhhhhh yeeeeeesssssss! (´o｀ ) And what in the world is that dessert type of dish! It had cranberries, pecans, and grits? Maybe? That was onolicious! The selection is small, but it is $13 and the quality is high. So if you'd like quality over quantity, then come here. Initial thought: I was quite nervous. I didn't know how it was going to be once we got in. Such as it being in a temple and the fact that shoes had to come off (though, living in Hawaii, practically everyone's takes their shoe off lol) overall, I didn't know if there were other protocols to follow, And i didn't want to be disrespectful. although, once we got in, we were nicely greeted, and that made me feel at ease. The place had a nice homey feel. No air conditioning, but it's the morning, so it's pretty cool, inside that is, they have outdoor seating too. Such a big property! read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Collard greens, yellow rice, grit type of dessert(wonderful) and curry + salad - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I have to give this 5 stars because it was such a pleasant surprise and I left with the best ki d of fullness one can ask of a meal. I was full but not uncomfortably stuffed or sleepy or worse, not full. It was my first time so even though Google maps was confident, I wasn't so sure until I pulled into the driveway and saw the sign for the Krishna meditation center. The peach colored house is open and you see a food truck to the left with a sign saying Govindas and then you know you are in the right place. Take off your shoes, local style, walk through the shop and pay for an all you can eat buffet. $12 and kama'aina can get a 10 punch card. The food is well prepared and cooked with love.. something some kitchens lack, and I think more and more, is a factor if you will enjoy the food. I find some places have resentful snobby, cranky staff, owners or even customers, and the food just doesnt taste right. There is an interior dining and a yard with a banyan at the far end where you can enjoy eating. I LOVE eating outside without air conditioning, barefoot. Some of my companions have lost their hanabata days localness so did not want to eat outside, wiping down the plastic chairs before sitting, wanting to go get their slippers from the front of the house. The eggplant, the potatoes with coconut cream, the flat breads, the ginger mint lemonade, it was all very good. You can walk through the house to see the displays and there are friendly people who can tell you the history of the house, their guru and their practice. My only negative about the food is that it is not highly spiced, so bring your own piripiri or hot sauce. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Restaurant is to left of peach colored house - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

The restaurant is located in a residential neighborhood in a large house with beautiful grounds. We had our lunch in the rear lawn area although most diners were seated in the indoor dining room. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Lunch was served as a buffet. All of the selections were vegetarian or vegan. The quality was nice and appeared to be in a home made style. I would consider returning and again enjoy the pleasant rear grounds. read more

Eat to live or live to eat? Who says it has to be black and white? I've got fresh stitches in my hand, so I'm typing this with eight fingers and pain meds. So what are we waiting for? This'll be fun! Govinda's is food for the body and soul. This is one of my very favorite places to eat, no doubt about it. That's just based on the food. Add the reasonable price and the overall experience, it's tough to beat. Quiz time. I will answer your questions by asking you questions. 1. Govinda's is located at a Hare Krishna temple, therefore you are expected to removed your: A. shoes before entering. B. shirt, because they do not have AC. C. stick from your rear end. D. A and C. 2. It is $10 all you can eat, buffet style! You can also fill a to-go container for $10. That's what I usually do since it's easily enough for two meals. Wow, that's totally ______! A. All of the below. B. Mathematical! C. Geometrical! D. Awesome! 3. You can eat free here if you are a super hero. A. False, but if you really were, then probably true. B. True. C. False. (Just false). 4. The food here is vegetarian. That means: A. No meat is used! But it's still very hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. B. It comes from the region of Vegeter. C. This was pointless. But the answer is A. If you are freaking out right now because you are getting all A's and that never happens, guess what? Boom. It just happened. So basically, I needed to update my last review to say, this place continues to be amazing. First timers take note! When you're on your way there, driving down Wiley St., go slow! The right turn onto Burbank St. really sneaks up on you. Once on Burbank, it's smooth sailing. Random stuff... If you like good incense, they sell little packs of maybe a dozen sticks for $1. They also have some cookbooks and tons of other Hare Krishna stuff - I guess you could call it. You'd do well to wonder out into the back yard, maybe have your meal out there if it's a nice day. If you're curious and you have to time, you can even ask to see the temple. I'm not a Hare Krishna, but it's still interesting and beautiful. Okay that's it. I don't blame you if you report this review to be totally useless. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Beautiful day in Govinda's backyard - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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My blood work just came back, and my doctor tells me my numbers are high... too high... and I've got to start eating better. PPFff! What's the point of living longer if I can't enjoy the stuff I live for every day? like curry? and bacon? At least, that had been my thinking until today, when I had an awakening at Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet! This was not a spiritual awakening: I didn't fall for that Hare Hare Krishna Krishna mumbo jumbo. I'm talking a veggi awakening: If cooked right, vegetables can be delicious!?!? And still good for you?!?! I mean, who knew? Don't get me wrong, I've had delicious vegetables before. I once had Brussels sprouts that tasted so good you'd have thought they were a Ben & Jerry's favor! I learned later that the chef used a secret ingredient to make them taste so good. That secret ingredient was bacon grease. Ever since, I've figured that that same secret ingredient was used to make all tasty vegetable dishes taste so tasty. No bacon grease is used at Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet, yet their vegetables dishes somehow still taste very tasty. I know that they don't use bacon grease because they believe extracting it from the pig somehow violates their non-violent beliefs. I'll be back to Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet because I live for delicious food and I do want to live longer. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

My definition of fine dining is currently having a peaceful lunch under a big banyan tree surrounded by fresh air and bugs. Three review updates, you probably think i'm crazy. But I am just in love. Govinda's is my go to for cheap, delicious food. No it's not a three star Michelin restaurant, and neither is it really a restaurant. It's a temple with a small buffet line up of food you pay $10 dollars for. Either all you can eat style, or get a to go container that you fill up once for the same price. Open 11-2pm. With Sunday feasts that are free at 5:30pm. But they require dancing! They also do catering. Yay. What I love is the purpose of them having the food available to the public. As Hare Krishna, giving the body proper nutrition is essential. Without a healthy body, you cannot have healthy thoughts and be strong in the mind. It's a part of their practice to make sure no one goes hungry. They are not making profit from their buffet to buy new cars and new Louis Vuitton bags, but instead to take care of the temple and us. Us meaning the people devouring their yummy food, to create more the next day and the next. I appreciate this place with my heart. I am no devotee, but I respect the practices of ISKCON, and am grateful for them keeping prices low on their food. It is divine to taste all the spices in their curry (you can see black pepper, oregano, and other herbs and spices) , pureness of their vegetarian lasagna, and meatyness of their meatballs (which have no meat by the way). They offer a limited selection (usually consisting of salad, steamed cauliflower/veggies, lasagna, bread, halva, soup, rice, curry) , but how can you be picky when they are obviously not a typical eatery? If you judge them based on traits a fully functioning restaurant has, go away. GO AWAY. This place should be loved by many, and is disliked by the people who do not appreciate it. read more

This place is so great! It's very peacefully hidden in the hills off of Pali hwy. the serene atmosphere is so welcoming and beautiful! A perfect place for a lunch date with friends or whomever! The food is delicious and vegan!!! And at a price you can't beat! It is child friendly where the kids can play in the garden outside but bring toys or things to play with them so they don't disturb the onsite residents on the property. read more

I went here last year before I moved to Oahu and It's always an experience coming here. Small mansion in nuuanu with beautiful grounds. Large banyan tree in the background and wind blowing through the leaves. It's at the ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple. So there's music or singing in the background. You can dine outside or inside under the tree. The buffet is through the gift shop, all you can eat vegetarian for $13. The food is great and they always have things ginger-lemon drink. I love the backyard with the banyan tree. The only tough thing is they they serve their lunch buffet M-F 11 AM- 2 PM. But highly recommend stopping in. read more

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Decided to rearrange my schedule to make a UYE that Val Y. and Emi H. were hosting. So glad I made the trip here for lunch! It's been awhile since I last dined at Govinda's and the welcoming, family-style atmosphere remains and is infectious and comforting as ever. A great turnout with a more intimate feeling than many larger events I've attended in the past. Always great to actually meet the faces behind the amazing reviews and witty banter. For $7.50, I had a huge plate of vegetarian food: Lasagna, rice, Thai curry, curried veggies and wonderful greens. Not bad for vegetarian. We were then treated to a mini dogmatic briefing of their principles and beliefs. I especially liked what was said about our choice to live a life simply for ourselves or to help others and how the Krishnas dedicate themselves to the latter. Simple principles that are not heard in everyday discussion. Makes you think, why not? A rather spiritual lunch encounter that ended in the backyard gardens to the beat of tambourines, accordion and other percussion instruments. A beautiful afternoon celebrating life and our ability to relish in its gifts. Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare #Yelp 365: 060/365 read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Praising Krishna; UYE: The Purification Sept. 2011 - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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In the middle of a quiet residential neighborhood, Govinda's is located in the Hari Krishna temple. Buffet lunches during weekdays with the popular lasagna on Wednesdays. Please be respectful and remove your shoes upon entrance. Many activities may be going on. Prayer, Chants and traditional dance were some we stumbled upon. My most recent visit was for Dine Out with the Vegetarian Society of Hawaii, check them out at http://www.yelp.com/biz/vegetarian-society-of-hawaii-honolulu?hrid=H5cE59P38jXVQHStga7Q6g#src:self Great food at a great price in my book! TIPS: Parking can be tough if you are here for an event as street is limited. They have a gorgeous outdoor seating area if you choose to eat outside. read more

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I'm freaaaaaking obsessed with this place. I'm not a vegetarian but I'm convinced! If vegetarian food could ALWAYS taste like this, I'd kiss meat goodbye. (Maybe...I think...) I would just like to start off by saying that the staff is REALLY friendly. I love that they remember faces and they like to chat with the customers. I mean, it feels really "homey". And the vibe is just so chill that I love getting food here. From what I understand the entrees vary daily but they're the same every week. Mondays: Spaghetti Tuesdays: Nut Loaf Wednesdays: Lasagna Thursday: Quiche Friday: ??? Not sure cus I'm not on campus on fridays... (sorry) Spaghetti is actually really good. Tastes like spaghetti but the real gem is the MEATBALL. Don't know what it's made of...but it kind of tastes like meat. Regardless of what it is, it's delicious. The nutloaf kind of reminds me of a lasagna/meatloaf hybrid. It's pretty good and the portions are huuuuuge. THE LASAGNA IS MY FAVORITE. I'm sold sold sold. I could be a vegetarian and eat their lasagna everyday. It is soooo good. Not to mention, I'm like a cheese monster and the lasagna definitely satisfies my cravings. It's meatless, so it's a spinach lasagna (i think). But it's really good and now I'm only ever going to eat spinach lasagnas even when I go out to italian places. The quiche was okay but it's not my favorite. The Hallava? Halava? is really good too. I'm not really sure what it is but the sweetness of it balances out the meal really well. A single scoop is usually enough to satisfy my post meal sweet tooth. The salad is always fresh and I like their spicy cilantro dressing. And I respect the fact that the dressings are homemade. OH and the BEST PART is the price. It's cheap. Probably the cheapest thing you'll find on campus. It's a little over $5 for the mini plate, which includes an entree, salad, and halava (spelling?). It's like a full sized plate lunch. And if you're a first timer, you get a free drink. The berry tea drink is really really good, I love it. I feel like they really enjoy what they do. I don't feel like I'm getting ripped off and their main intention is just to make money. The quality of the food is really good and the price is cheap. I think I eat here 2-3 times a week...and I'm not even vegetarian. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - lasagna wednesdays! - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I love meat and the thought of vegetarian food is weird but govindas vegetarian buffet is pretty damm good. I have been here multiple times and definitely left happy and full. Its Indian vegetarian food which makes it extra awesome cuz I love Indian food! It used to be $10 but they raised it to $13. Its still a decent price for an AYCE buffet Each day they have a special entree. My favorite day is thursdays which is quiche day! Its so delicious and love it. They usually have different vegetables cooked with different sauces. I love the curried potatoes and their salad dressings are so yummy! Their usually dessert is halva which is kind of like a porridge or polenta consistency. Its just enough sweetness I admit this place is kind of hard to find since its in the middle of a residential area and you might just miss the street to turn on and might have to go around (haha). Google maps does a decent job of getting you there. If you see the sign for the Hare Krishna temple then you are in the right place! You have to take off your shoes and go right in. So you can either eat inside or outside. Its a really peaceful place to eat lunch If you like vegetarian food or of you are willing to give it a try then check this place out! I recommend coming early since they are only open from 11am to 2pm. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Thursday is quiche day! Delish! - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I'm surprised that there's a "restaurant" less than 5 minutes away from my house. I drove by this area many times and never thought a Hare Krishna temple would be here. I came here on a Thursday and the entrees they serving were Mixed Greens Salad, Eggless Quiche, Tofu Yam Curry, Yellow Split Pea Soup, Fresh Homemade Rolls, Brown Rice, Tofu Bean Chili, and Banana Halawa Dessert. There are also different types of sauce such as Sunflower Soy Sauce, Toasted Sesame, Creamy French, and Hot Green Sauce. As for drinks there's water and some ginger tea juice. As for the food, the best one had to be the Tofu Yam Curry. I'm so used to eating regular yellow curry, but this one wasn't oily or salty. The yams goes well with the curry. The quiche tasted like it has eggs, but it was really rich and I could not eat a second serving. The Fresh Homemade Rolls is warm, soft, and tasty. The Banana Halawa Dessert was really good. Texture is soft, but slightly creamy and not overly sweet. The Yellow Split Pea soup and Tofu Bean Chili didn't have much flavor in them, but I didn't mind eating it. Just add that special green sauce, it makes everything spicy. Although it might be too spicy for some people. What I like about this place is the atmosphere. It's like walking into someone's really nice home with a really big backyard. I loved eating outside because it felt peaceful. For $9.99, it's a good deal. It may not look like a lot but the food really fills you up. I did get seconds but I had a hard time finishing it. This place opens from 11am-2pm. read more

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So my friend Gary N. was trying to sell me on this barefoot vegetarian buffet at the Hare Krishna Temple in Nuuanu. Healthy and delicious? Sure! The chef at Govinda's, John, is really nice. He gave us a brief tour of the temple and spoke with us for a bit. He explained that he only uses fresh organic produce and the food is prepared each morning. Leftovers from the buffet are given to the homeless rather than saved and reheated for the next day, which was really cool to hear. John said the menu changes daily, and he's hoping to add some Asian peanut sauce dishes soon. Nifty. As for the food - Honestly, I don't know what everything was called. I couldn't even identify some of the dishes, but everything was really good! Salad - OMG, I loved the all different salad dressings! I'm not sure what some of them were, but I just put them on my salad and ate it like a happy fat panda. The cilantro one was my favorite; I would go back just for that. Lasagna - Wow. I never would have imagined that I'd enjoy lasagna with tofu, spinach, zucchini, and lots of ricotta cheese, but it was wonderful! Surprisingly, it was really hefty and filling. I was pretty full after eating one piece. Beware. Mashed Potatoes - Nice! I only had a tiny bit but it was smooth and creamy. Cauliflower Curry (?) and Turmeric Rice - Seriously, the lasagna took me down, so I only tried a tiny bite-sized bit of both, and they were good. Soup - I think it was lentil soup? It had a nice spicy kick. Well, whatever kind of soup it was, it was yummy. It would give Covenant Books and Coffee a good run for its money. Dessert - Once again, I really don't know what this was. John explained it to us but I forgot the name. It was some kind of warm fruit dish. The texture reminded me of polenta, but tasted like sweet apples and cinnamon. Ginger Lemonade - Made with fresh cane juice! It was on the sweeter side and you can really taste the spice from the ginger. I mixed mine with a bit of water and it was just right for me. For $10, lunch was a great deal. I barely finished a plateful of food and a small cup of soup and I was full. Gary had a heaping first plate, went for seconds, then thirds, and then another cup of soup with rice. Unfair. I noticed most of the other diners were lean and thin. So does vegetarianism = skinny? Hmm, now I'm curious... Yikes, this place was so hard to find. I suggest driving slowly, since the street sign for Burbank is hard to see and it's a tight turn, and look for the green sign on Coelho Street. They have about a dozen stalls for parking, and the temple grounds are lovely. Oh, and the Yelp link to Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet and Menu is wrong - it's for a restaurant of the same name in Eugene, OR. read more

Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet - Lasagna! - Vegetarian Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii