Island Lava Java
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Had a great breakfast experience at the Island Lava Java. We walked up to see what the wait time was like and we got lucky that a group had just cancelled their reservation so they took us right in. The service was excellent. Our waitress took care of us and was very friendly and funny. We sat in the upper balcony so we had good views of the ocean and surroundings. There is plenty of space for big groups upstairs. The food we ordered all looked great and tasted even better. I got the loco moco and it was very filling and delectable. We also ordered the ham and cheese croissant, and the burger with sweet potato fries. All excellent choices.
We had breakfast at Island Lava Java and the location alone makes it worth visiting. It's right across from the ocean, the views are beautiful, and we even got to see dolphins while we were eating, which made the experience extra special. I had the island style pancakes and they were delicious. The coconut syrup was the perfect addition, and the Portuguese sausage was also really good. My husband had the luau scramble, which was alright but felt like it was missing a little something. My brother in law ordered the loco moco and really enjoyed it. Overall, we had a nice breakfast and would definitely go back.
We came here twice. Once for breakfast and once at lunchtime. The restaurant has a beautiful ocean view. If you are able to get a table up front, you will have an unobstructed view of the Pacific ocean. Sometimes you might even be able to see some whales or a school of dolphins if you go during the right season. Our first visit was during lunch. It was around the time they were turning over their menu from breakfast/brunch to lunch and we were told that menu items would be limited or we could wait 10 more minutes while they complete the transition in the kitchen. We decided to share a pizza which was one of the no waiting option and the ahi bites. The Kona combo pizza had pepperoni, Italian sausage, olives and onions. It was large enough for the two of us to get full. The ahi bites were excellent. We had to wait for 10 more minutes to get them but they were worth the wait. The house wasibi aoili and umagi glaze were so flavorful and definitely elevated the taste of the ahi nuggets. Service was quick and friendly. Our server checked on us often enough to make sure we had drinks and that the food were delivered to our table. Our breakfast visit was the following day. Unfortunately, service was slower and our waitress was not very attentive. My husband ordered the island bagel and lox and I had the drag it through the garden croissant breakfast sandwich. While the food was good, the overall visit was like night and day from our previous experience. I'm still glad we came for breakfast though as the place does have a lot of great options as far as food went.
Stopped by for breakfast because it was across the street from our resort. Terri our server was so sweet and helpful. Never kept us waiting. We started with the French press Kona coffee which was complex and delicious. My wife loved her fresh catch Benedict I had the lava java breakfast and it was fantastic. Waffle was a little chewy was the only critique. Will definitely be coming back.
This morning was already a bit stressful because we couldn't decide where to eat, and in the end we chose this place because of the many reviews. Unfortunately, it ended up being disappointing. We ordered a vegetable omelet to share and two drinks, and the total was almost $70, which felt very overpriced for what we got. The portions were small and the food itself was nothing special. It definitely wasn't exquisite or memorable in any way. The view, however, was beautiful. We were seated on the second floor with an ocean view, and that part was truly lovely. But even with the scenery, the experience didn't feel worth the money. My husband's coffee also wasn't good at all. The waitress was polite, but the service was quite slow. Overall, the location and view are the best things about this place. Sadly, the food, drinks, and value didn't live up to the hype, and we left feeling frustrated.
We have been coming to Island Lava Java for many years now . We had a server Named Eileen who was so so sweet and attentive! Greeted us with a smile , even offered us to sign up on the app for rewards, which we had been 3 x already this visit and nobody else offered sadly ! Bagel & Lox are delicious, nice portions of Salmon , bloody Mary's are so good! Kalua pork, pineapple and eggs good also . We have never had a bad experience here , Tany is another server who is so nice and always smiling. We will miss the ocean waves and sunshine ! See you next year !
This place was recommended to us by locals so we knew we had to check it out. The view was stunning, you could see the ocean and people swimming. It was also fun to people watch as lots of shops are nearby so there are a lot of people walking around. We got the omelette, pancakes, and the eggs Benedict. The food was delicious, would order all of it again. Great ingredients, everything immaculately cooked, and generous portions. My favorite dish was the pancakes. They had a creamy sauce on top that really complimented the macadamia nuts and the bananas. It was sweet, ward, cozy and crunchy. My husband really liked his omelette, it was flavorful and perfectly cooked. The eggs Benedict was amazing because it came on a croissant which was just so extra in the nest way. The service was excellent. Servers were kind, attentive and knowledgable. I would definitely recommend this spot for a solid breakfast with a stunning view.
We had an amazing time Makamae was such a character and made our dinner so memorable. She really did a great balance of lightly offering things that helped me make a decision throughout the evening to keep the experience progressing without coming off as pushy. I felt like I could take as much time as I needed, but that she had good insight into the menu. So much fun so much good food highly highly recommend the poki and beet salad and the pono mai tais!!!
Love the outdoor porch vibe by the shore. Had a relaxing time enjoying an amazing meal with the views and sea breeze. Got to try the luau scramble and the pineapple upside down French toast. Both were unique fusion dishes that made for a fun brunch. The luau scramble uses a fried, crispy pork belly instead of bacon for protein. It's a nice thick cut with good flavor to it paired with rice and scrambled eggs. Worth trying! The pineapple upside down french toast was decadent! It really fuses the pineapple flavors into the french toast really well for a good excuse to do dessert for brunch!
So we got to Kona and I have been trying to eat healthy. That meant I needed my coffee fix. Luckily, Island Lava Java was right down the street from the condo. After working out at Planet Fitness, stopped in for a Cafe Mocha (organic espresso, chocolate syrup, steamed milk & house whipped cream). Definitely worth the visit and can't beat the views.
Huge portions! Tasted great! Tried a pancake island style which meant macadamia nuts, banana, and their unique coconut syrup. I loved it, it was so filling and delicious. Also tried their garden omelette which was fresh and packed with veggies. The potatoes were a hit, perfectly seasoned and crispy!
1 year ago
My friend and I stopped here for our first breakfast in town not knowing what to expect but it has a great ocean view. I ordered the scrambled egg dish with mushrooms and veggies with a macadamia pesto sauce. It was amazing! Updated my side to a half papaya which was also outstanding! Had it with a delicious tropical iced tea. My friend had the 2eggs with bacon and brown rice (they were out of potatoes due to a late delivery) and a mimosa with lilikoi. It was so filling and delicious! We are planning to be back tonight to try dinner and cocktails !!!! Can't wait!!! Mahalo read more
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Jeff F.
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2 months ago
1 year ago
I've been coming to Lava Java for over a decade. I love this place and I want it to succeed which is why I am compelled to write this review. This review is NOT about the service. I always eat at the bar 99% of the time when I come here so please keep that in mind. The bartenders, Jessie and Lizzy, are great. For additional context, I also follow a keto lifestyle when I eat (low carb, high protein, moderate fat for satiety). My 'go to' bar meal at Lava Java is the guava BBQ rib appetizer. The best I've had in Kona so far. Today I decided to try LJ's Steak & Frites. The menu describes this as a 10oz sliced Angus NY strip steak w/fingerling potato "frites." sautéed broccolini, shiitake mushroom & smoked bacon Bordelaise sauce at $42. I decided to order the LJ Steak & Frites w/the steak cooked medium (without the frites) and extra broccolini to see if this is something I would add to my Kona Keto dining-out options in the future. Here are the results: (1) The NY steak was well done (totally cooked through), not medium (mostly cooked with some pink). I decided to 'live with it' and ate the steak well-done steak. It was not tough, and the Bordelaise Sauce contributed to the taste which I appreciated. (2) The item came with broccoli, not broccolini. The broccoli was plentiful but undercooked. I ate it anyway because I was trying to get my intake of cruciferous veggies. I like broccoli but I prefer broccolini with steak. I told the bartender that the veggie was broccoli, not broccolini. She looked up the difference on her phone and went to the kitchen to report the difference. She came back and said they were out of broccolini and hadn't updated the menu. (3) I was a little skeptical about the Bordelaise sauce but I feel like it saved the steak, in part, given that it was overcooked. The key question is whether I would order this again. The answer is no. I have ordered other steaks (ribeyes) at a couple of other restaurants in Kona that are comparably priced, not overcooked and with appropriately cooked Keto veggies. I still love Lava Java, and I will continue to come here for the view and guava BBQ rib appetizers at $17.50 as of the date of this review. I love the bar, the ribs are good, it's chill, and it's a good place to eat and drink while watching the water, especially if you are a solo female traveler. I will return but won't order the NY strip again. read more
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Jeff F.
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10 months ago
Amazing restaurant, We were sat right at the front with a great view. They were quick and friendly and the food was great. I really recommend both dishes. read more
10 months ago
Delicious food and great views. Our waitress was amazing. I wish I remembered her name. She helped on the second floor deck. read more
5 months ago
9 months ago
The atmosphere was top notch at this restaurant with a beautiful view of the ocean, nice table and chairs, and pretty light wrapped trees. The service was very friendly and pretty quick (we went at breakfast time). The breakfast was tasty, I definitely recommend the Portuguese sausage!! read more
9 months ago
Breakfast was delicious. The Mac nut pancakes with the coconut syrup was to die for. 10/10 recommend. Also our server gave us excellent service. read more
11 months ago
This place is located in quite a few different restaurants but this was definitely a great choice. It's right across the street from the ocean so you can eat with a view. Waiter was very friendly and personable. Food and drinks were just as good as they look. Would definitely recommend trying this place if you're in the area. read more
9 months ago
6 months ago
Love this coffeehouse / breakfast hot spot on the Big Island of Kona across . With spectacular views of the ocean across from the cafe, this Cafe was perfect for their signature large Cinnamon rolls and coffee breakfast. Service was served ohana style with good vibes and kind words. read more
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Jeff F.
Mahalo, Zo!
1 year ago
Super fun location. Great local style food. I definitely recommend this location. Our table was, literally, right in front of the ocean. The water would splash against the lava rock and a mist would sometimes reach us. It was completely dreamy! read more
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Jeff F.
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5 months ago
5 months ago
Best bloody Mary's!! The breakfast I think is the best in Kona as well!! Went once and then again, and again every morning we were in vacation! read more
1 year ago
Must stop for breakfast when in Kona. Amazing staff, food and view. We always get the Hawaii style pancakes, Sausage and egg Benedict! read more
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Jeff F.
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2 years ago
I was excited to try this place out for brunch. We got there maybe 12:30-12:35 PM on Sunday and were given brunch menus as well as their all-day menu. We needed a couple minutes to decide what to eat and at 12:50 PM tried to place our order and we were informed that they stopped serving brunch as 12:40 PM. I was extremely disappointed because I came here specifically for brunch and we were not informed what time they stopped serving brunch. It would've been nice to get some kind of warning from the hostess or our waitress, or to even have an end time listed on the brunch menu. The waitress was at least nice enough to offer some suggestions from their all-day menu but I was honestly still pretty upset. We ended up getting the fish tacos, macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi, and guava bbq ribs. The fish tacos were okay- the tortilla was soft but there was a little too much sauce. You get to choose a side of salad, fries, or sweet potato fries and the sweet potato fries were great. The macadamia nut crusted fresh catch was pretty good but the fish was a little tough and the rice was fragrant but weirdly oily? The guava bbq ribs were a nice surprise. The meat is very tender and comes off the bone easily and is not too sweet. Our waitress was very friendly and seemed lovely, but it still would've been nice to get some kind of warning that brunch was ending soon. Food wasn't bad, but nothing spectacular. It's mostly outdoor seating and it's quite close to the water, so with good weather the views are great. read more
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Jeff F.
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Stopped there after we landed at Kona International Airport. Had a nice brunch the fam. Had the hummus with taro chips (delicious! The chips almost tasted like bacon!!) we also ordered the fish tacos and the basic island breakfast. Service was a bit slow and uninspired but ok. Good ambiance right across the water. Parking all around. read more
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Jeff F.
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6 months ago
10 months ago
Went there for brunch as well as dinner. Staff was very kind and service was great. Food was delicious! A great view of the sunset as well! read more
2 years ago
Friendly aloha spirit here! Stumbled upon this place when we were turned away from a more well-known place. Couldn't be happier. Happy hour is spectacular- $6 Mai Tais- and they were strong! Ample soace at the bar too. Local vibe as much as it could be in Kona Town. Its kitschy and touristy but I love it- I hope it always remains the same. read more
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Jeff F.
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2 years ago
This place was great! We sat outside and had a gorgeous view of the ocean. We are staying right down the street from here so it was extremely convenient for us to walk here. The food was so yummy! They served our kona coffee in a big mug and I ordered a freshly squeezed apple and ginger juice. They had many to choose from and you could mix whatever you wanted. I got a fresh fish Benedict with Ono and it was so delicious. They do their Benedict's on a croissant. I loved it. Served with fresh fruit that was perfectly ripe and sweet. My mom ordered an egg scramble with cheese, onions, pineapple and pork and it was incredible as well. Service was quick and friendly. We would definitely go back here! read more
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Jeff F.
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Sunday 11 am we were able to get w table right away upstairs. Server very nice brought water right away. Ordered fish tacos with salad and a luau scramble with bacon and potatoes. My husband is a big eater and we shared both plates and both left satisfied. Everything else being served around us looked great too and everyone looked happy. Great view- recommend! read more
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Jeff F.
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10 months ago
Our server was phenomenal! Props to Makamae L it was Thursday Happy Hour (7/10/25 @2:30pm) and she was alone for a while! We even saw the cook come out to help clean tables. Great teamwork!! The place was packed and she was super busy but still extremely nice, cheerful & helpful. Food was good but their coconut drink and bartender special hibiscus cocktail were delicious! Love the ocean view from our table. Hope to dine here one more time before going home. read more
11 months ago
Wasn't too impressed with their food. I had the vegetarian omelette and it was not very flavorful at all. Seemed like there was no seasoning. I think they rely on the goat cheese and pesto to provide all the flavor, and it's certainly not good enough. I also got it with a fruit cup and the fruit was also subpar. Which is weird for a Hawaiian island right? Y'all can't get some good fruit? read more
The wings were delicious - if you prefer saucy, lightly crisp, not heavily battered wings. They were nice, chunky wings, too, and not skimpy little things. They were served with carrot sticks and ranch, for a nice pupu with our drinks. Lost a star for not blending any of their drinks. Come on - it's Kona! Lots of people are gonna want a blended drink as the sun sets over the bay, no? However, we were super lucky that my "line fairy" was looking out for me. We got a table right at the rail with the best view without a wait. The wait staff seemed slammed and not so friendly, but who wouldn't be less than cheerful if too many people called out sick on you. read more
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Jeff F.
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Food taste: 4/5 Location: 5/5 Ambience: 5/5 The best thing about this restaurant is really the location. Perfect vibes watching the waves roll in as you eat your meal. Located in a beachy part of town. Not hard to find street parking nearby. I was disappointed a bit by the food. I had a fish taco and calamari. The calamari wasn't great--kinda chewy and the fish taco was just ok. Alot of reviews recommended it for breakfast and it may just be that they have better breakfast food than lunch food. But you can't beat the vibes! read more
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Jeff F.
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1 year ago
You need to go here, whether it's for a meal, coffee or for a quick breakfast pastry. They have a walk up counter where you can order your coffee to go and get a breakfast treat. We ordered a sit down breakfast and we were not disappointed. It was one of the best meals we had on the island. The service was friendly and efficient. The views were impeccable. How can you go wrong with the ocean across the street and delicious food! read more
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Jeff F.
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2 years ago
The rooftop is a must for breakfast. We watched dolphins and there was a whale too. The food was soo good. I got a 100 percent Kona bean French press and I think the caffeine is still hitting me a week later. The food was amazing and the coconut syrup is dreamy. I did eat the entire plate. I'd do it again. read more
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Jeff F.
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Stopped in for a lovely breakfast. The proximity to the water and views were amazing. I had the pineapple upside down french toast and my wife had the macadamia pancakes. Both were really tasty. The french toast had a nice caramelized brown sugar sauce, tender pineapple and toasted pecans. The only thing missing may have been a nice dollop of whipped cream. My wife elected to have strawberry subbed instead of the bananas and she was very pleased. The coconut creamy syrup brought it all together. On an early morning and not so sunny my wife loved stay warm with a nice cup of Thai Chi Latte. read more
I so love this place! Sitting across the street from the water, in downtown Kona, is Island Lava Java. It is open air and many tables have a great view of the water. We came here 3 or 4 times while we were on the Big Island for both Breakfast and Happy Hour. To start, breakfast was oh so yummy with both savory and sweet options and absolutely wonderful coffee. I really enjoyed my garden omlet and the potatoes were served crispy and perfect. The Happy Hour had great drinks and the aps were yummy. We are vegetarian and they had really good lettuce cups that we had with our drinks. The customer service was great and you felt super welcome. I really liked the fact that you could reserve a table on open table and request a view of the water. There was a parking lot in the back and we never had a problem finding a space. Honestly, one of my favorite spots in downtown Kona to drink and eat. I will be back! Thanks for making our trip to the Big Island awesome. Aloha! read more
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Jeff F.
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1 year ago
Fresh catch was way over priced. A few asparagus with small pieces of mahi was $40. The bartender was very friendly but our server was not. She almost threw plates on the table when putting down. Other than this, food tastes pretty good. So service 3, price is 3 Food is 4-5 read more
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Jeff F.
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11 months ago
Came in looking for a cute brunch spot and was not disappointed. The waterfront view is awesome and the tables/decor are a nice touch. The food was very tasty, although the service was a little slow. The waitress and staff were friendly though, so no big complaints here. read more
1 year ago
Location is great, service was quick, seafood was delicious and at market price, nice outdoor seating options read more
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Jeff F.
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3 months ago
beautiful restaurant for sunset dining. the big island pizza as reviewed on the food network, didn't disappoint. everyone else ordered the ribs(also on food network) and i almost regret not getting them! read more
1 year ago
Great food, friendly service, good coffee and ocean views. Garden scramble was delicious. Order the pesto on the side and drizzle over a side of potatoes. It's the bomb! The pineapple upside down French toast is a must for those who love sweets, but not too sweet, treats. read more
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Jeff F.
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Somewhat average food, a little overpriced for what you get. The guava ribs were pretty tasty but the burger and fish fell a little flat. If I was to come back, I'd probably try the breakfast instead of lunch. read more
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Jeff F.
Rachel,…
1 year ago
Christmas Dinner Island Lava Java * Kona, Hawaii * December 25, 2024 We arrived! We were in Kona. It was Christmas. Time for the family's Kona Christmas! A hearty "Aloha" to 75-5801 Ali'i Dr Building 1, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, the bustling oceanfront restaurant: Island Lava Java. This dinner had been months in the planning, with matching "Kona Christmas" tee-shirts designed by Danielle Gro'ak. Our stomachs were rumbling, tumbling, ready to go tummy-to-toe with a menu of delicious Island offerings. https://stephenjgroak.blogspot.com read more
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Jeff F.
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11 months ago
Visiting from Oahu and was looking for an open place for breakfast. This place was opened and right next to the water. The waitress was knowledgeable and overall employees were friendly. I had the croissant sandwich and was very filling, it could be shared. I also ordered an unsweetened matcha with oat milk which was okay but I wasn't expecting this but the coffee to be good. This place is nice for a sit down meal beside the ocean with great staff and vibes. read more
3 months ago
More info about Island Lava Java
75-5801 Ali'i Dr
Bldg 1
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Directions
(808) 300-5672
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http://www.islandlavajava.com
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Ask the Community - Island Lava Java
What's good for lunch?
Fish and chips if you're on vacation. If you are leaning healthy, the Lava Java salad with the grilled shrimp. The goat cheese on that salad is fantastic!
Can you get lunch all day? For example, we would like to come for breakfast, but also pick up sandwiches to have at the beach later that day.
The entire lunch menu is NOT available all day. However, they do offer a brunch menu that includes some lunch items.
What are the Ube wraps or tortillas you use, please tell me?
Breakfast served all day?
No. Breakfast is served until 11:00 and then they switch to their lunch menu.
I am looking for a place to host a small wedding reception dinner in September. I would like it to be outside with an amazing view of the water. Ideas?
Try thesr In downtown Kona. https://www.daylightmind.com/… Read more
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Island Lava Java - tradamerican - Updated May 2026
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