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    Kiku Ya

    3.8 (298 reviews)
    ModerateJapanese

    Order Kiku Ya Takeout or Delivery

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    KIKU YA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Dogs allowed
    Good for groups

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    Reviews With Photos

    Fish Misoyaki (Butter Fish)
    Gerald P.

    Having been to their restaurant in Kaneohe, & lunch time around 11:30am we stopped in & was blessed to find parking in their lot, which houses a lot of other businesses. Japanese eatery had a few tables full & the lunch crowd was coming in.Wait staff was prompt as we ordered & ice water was served. Did not take long for our food to come, & noticed the butter fish on the 2 choice combination was rather small,may be two bites, Tonkatsu was ample & every bite tasty! The tempura & California roll was tasty as well. A reasonable lunch & a good rest, before heading home!

    Ten Don; Udon, Chicken Katsu, shrimp Tempura & Fish Misoyaki (Butter Fish)
    Mabeline M.

    All I'm gonna say is "Not the worst, but honestly not the best." But The food was fulfilling and I was very thankful for dinner! First time eating here. And I was thinking I would have had the same dining experience. I've tried the Kalihi location. Or are they not like the same?!! Because Kalihi is Kikuya and this one is Kiku ya. ‍ I felt as if this restaurant wasn't authentically Japanese. Maybe it was a Korean-Japanese fusion haha I Don't Know. Anyway, like I said I've been to Kalihi's Kikuya. From what I recall when I went there quite a few times Food and service (even while busy) was great! And that location had sushi! Haha Food was fulfilling. Service was alright. They could have came back to check on us especially as we were a big party and it wasn't busy yet. Ambiance was okay. Nothing too bad about my dining experience. It just could have been better.

    Front of their Windward mall location.  11/22
    Ric C.

    "Local style Japanese Cooking now at Windward Mall." A long time favorite has moved to Windward Mall. Because we live town-side, we don't get to go to Windward Mall, all that often. Kiku Ya was always a favorite and the last time we went was when they were still on Kahuhipa street where parking could be a challenge. So on our latest trip to Kaneohe, we decided to dine there and we were not disappointed. Kiku Ya prepares their food not necessarily like fully authentic Japanese cuisine, but rather Japanese with that local style flair. This type of local offering is the type of cooking close to many a local's heart. Kinda like comparing a Saimin stand (Like Jane's Fountain in Liliha) to a ramen restaurant (like Onoya Ramen in Kapahulu). The combo Teishoku meals always hit da spot- my favorite combo is the ahi sashimi, assorted shrimp tempura and teriyaki chicken plate. It came with potato salad, toss salad, rice and miso soup. The sashimi came out not fully thawed, but after it being out a couple of minutes it was fine. Eating tempura "fresh" is always better as it is is for most fried foods, so I focused on that first. The jumbo shrimp were big and cooked just right. Not greasy, done just right. I had leftover Teri chicken, boneless pieces with a just right teri sauce that is one of my favorites. Warming it up the next day made for a great second meal, that along with the salted cabbage and rice, it was a great light lunch. The wife had their yosenabe that she enjoyed although the soup was just a little more shoyu based than she would have liked. The place is spotless and the service is as friendly as ever. The portions are generous as always, as many diners were like us - asking for a takeout container.

    Super RUDE waitress! Yes ma'am, we will "go away" forever, as you requested.

    Went in a few days prior to Father's Day, to inquire about seating for 8. The waitress was very nice, and suggested coming in ahead of time, with possibly an hour wait for a table. Very reasonable response for Father's Day, so we arrived at 5:30, hoping to get in around 6:30-7pm. The waitress on this day REFUSED to seat us at all. Tried explaining that we came in on Wednesday and spoke to another waitress, and her response was "I'm very busy, I have no time to talk, please go away", and walked off. There were a few other large parties currently in the restaurant, with only 2 servers, so I'm guessing she was overwhelmed. Nevertheless, her attitude and poor customer service is unacceptable. Will definitely not be returning ever. So sad to see the decline of what was such a wonderful long time Kaneohe restaurant.

    Roach droppings
    Lynelle G.

    We used to go to this restaurant before it relocated to Windward Mall. We used to love it. But, we recently had a bad experience. We ordered take out. When we opened the package, there was a dead, smashed roach right on top of the plate. Roach droppings were along the edges of the plate on both plates. There was also a long hair that was fried into the tempura. I was beyond grossed out. The food is expensive so I would expect better. We won't be coming back. Update: we called and the woman did say she would refund our money. So I can't fault them on service.

    Menu
    Mari T.

    Did the food taste good? It was ok. Did my tongue feel tingly as I ate the fried ahi? Yes. Did I get sick after eating it? Unfortunately yes. I usually have an iron stomach so for it to affect me, that means it was pretty toxic. Don't plan on getting the ahi any more from here after researching tingly feeling after eating fish and tuna is highly susceptible of contracting bacteria from improper cold storage. Service was pretty fast and friendly though. I got take out. If it was dine in I would've said something after the first bite. But since I was already gone I ate it anyway against my better judgment. Mistake!

    Teriyaki butterfish!
    Dina N.

    A new favorite!! What a food gem! Old-school, local Japanese food. Remember Wisteria or Sekiya's in the 1980's? From the oyako donburi to the teriyaki butterfish and pork sukiyaki - so delicious, good quality, and hearty portions!! Hear the tempura is killer but didn't try. You will not be disappointed! FYI the atmosphere is very down home. And the staff is super friendly. If it's crowded, the food might take a while but it's worth the wait!

    Misoyaki butterfish with tempura....so good!!!
    GemzNGreg A.

    This is a family favorite! We do miss the old location but love the fact that parking is much easier at the new location! Food is still tasty! I we love their Japanese style potato salad! I always get their butter fish which and mix tempura. My brother got their ramen, which he devoured! Highly recommend this spot!

    Teriyaki Chicken and Tempura
    Jillian T.

    Another location now where the old Pho Factory used to be in Windward Mall. It's open seating with no reservations needed beforehand. When we got there for lunch, we were the only ones there. Then, the space slowly started filling up with a handful of other families and couples. There's not a lot of foot traffic to that area, so I hope that they're able to survive by word of mouth or mall advertisements. As for the food, it was on the pricier side. With plates in the $20-$30 range for lunch. I understand that food costs have gone up and I'm sure that rent in the mall is high. But aside from that, the food was ok. The miso soup was too salty for my liking, and the potato mac salad a little too bland. But there was enough portion wise for me to take home for later.

    The lanterns and umbrellas...
    Nadine C.

    Welcome to Windward Mall in Kaneohe, Hawaii! Kikuya's new Kaneohe location is way better! They used to be on Kahuhipa Street - in the industrial area of Kaneohe - with very challenging parking. However, as of 2-14-22, Kikuya is on the second floor of Windward Mall - across the hallway from Hawaii USA Credit Union, and next Ninja Sushi. Parking is free at Windward Mall. The best place to park would be the covered parking area near the Straub Clinic side of the Mall. Enter from Alaloa Street. My friend, Donna, told me about Kikuya's move. I think it's a great business decision because there's more foot traffic at Windward Mall - and they will be open daily! The new location looks modern and clean. (I really liked the cool fish and Tako prints on the walls!) They sure were busy when I visited on 2-15-22... I ordered takeout. I was told that it would be about a half hour wait. Sure. For good food, it's worth it to wait. So, I placed my order for Salmon Shioyaki Teishoku, paid, and did some errands. When I returned, my food still wasn't ready (that's how busy they are), so, I played some games on my phone - outside - in the cool air where the outdoor dining will be. (The inside of the restaurant seems a little warm... Maybe because they're almost at full capacity.) After about ten minutes, I checked on my order and it was ready! Yippee! I opened my package at home to find a nicely prepared crisp salmon... ooh, that Salmon skin! The green salad was fresh and crisp! The potato salad was deliciously comforting! Ahhh! I was so hungry that I ate all of the white rice...hee hee! I'm really looking forward to returning to Kikuya at Windward Mall again! Next time, I would like to dine in and enjoy the miso soup!

    Nice picture
    Craig T.

    Checked out Kiku-Ya for lunch located in the Windward Mall. I guess they moved from their original location on Kahuhipa St in the mall. I had their Butterfish Misoyaki w/Shrimp Tempura and my wife had their Beef Teri / Shrimp Tempura. It was ok the Butterfish can use a little more miso taste but other than that is was all good, The Teishoku comes w/miso soup and pickled cabbage on the side. On the plate there was Toss salad , potato salad, and the 2 choices w/ rice. Service was very friendly and fast .We got there at a perfect time because once we were ready to leave the crowd started to come in. Also it was the first time in a long time didn't have to show any vaccination card yay. Support local and be safe.

    JoAnne V.

    Ok, I read the reviews and thought ok this will be good. No not good. Maybe because it was Mother's Day? Confusion and waiting ruled this visit. Ordered the lunch plate of butterfish and shrimp tempura. It came with 2 scoops of rice, a scoop of potato salad and some greens. After about 25 minutes food finally came out. I was so surprised and happy about how big my butterfish was. Sadly the size did not make up for the extra charred exterior and the lack of miso taste. I have never had butterfish that tasted like this. It was such a waste of a beautiful cut of fish. The tempura batter was some how off. It wasn't that light crispy batter. It was hard and dull not fluffy at all. Constantly had to flag someone down for water. All in all not a great experience. I hope if you ever try this place you'll have a better experience than I.

    Menu
    Gabriel P.

    First time trying this eatery. They were previously located in the industrial area on Kahukipa St. Past it many times but parking was always hard to find. This location at Windward Mall has a lot of parking. Its located on the second floor at the mall entrance mountainn side. I had the #4 Dinner Special. It included fresh sasihmi, teriyaki beef, assorted tempura. The fish was fresh and top grade. The teriyaki beef had a great taste, but the meat was cut with the grain giving it a tougher chew. The tempura breading was slightly heavy but over all good and tasty. Service was good and friendly. Note,: The are not affiliated with the resturant with a similar name in Kalihi. Stay safe.

    Tonkatsu

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    Kiku Ya Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Kiku Ya

    Is the wait to dine in for lunch during the weekends long?

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    Kenko Ya

    Kenko Ya

    4.1(476 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    My parents aren't as mobile as they used to be. So after helping them all day, I came here to eat,…read morejust like old times. Kenko Ya will always have a special place in my heart. I was a little sad that my favorite server was not working. Maybe I'll see her next time! I decided on Udon. The broth is really good and warms the soul! I also got my usual, inari and an eel roll. Both very good! Would've had green tea, but it was late and it would've kept me up. The young servers working were all very friendly. I do remember when they were at the other smaller location, which was when I first discovered them. Good times! Mahalo again Kenko Ya!

    Kenko-Ya is probably one of my favorite restaurants on the windward side! A great Japanese…read morerestaurant with big portions. I usually order their combination meal with butterfish, mochiko chicken and shrimp & vegetable tempura. Their butterfish is moist and has great flavor. The mochiko chicken here is one of my favorites and they give you a lot! I have enough for leftovers the next day. The shrimp & vegetable tempura has a nice light and crispy batter and they give quite a lot of veggies with two big pieces of shrimp! At our recent visit with got spicy ahi which was quite spicy but still tasty! The service is really good, with the servers being very attentive. I definitely recommend this spot if you're craving Japanese food!

    Photos
    Kenko Ya - Combo 2 entrees. Teriyaki chicken and sushi.

    Combo 2 entrees. Teriyaki chicken and sushi.

    Kenko Ya - Ribeye with garlic butter cooked to my hubby's liking- medium. Also a generous portion!

    Ribeye with garlic butter cooked to my hubby's liking- medium. Also a generous portion!

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    Tiger roll

    Masa & Joyce Okazuya - Okinawa maki (note the ginger)

    Masa & Joyce Okazuya

    4.1(382 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $$

    No frills, no place to dine in, no rhyme or reason, but damn this place is it!…read moreHand rolls, poke, goodies to snack on, to bring to work, to gift, anyone would be thankful for these beautiful morsels of yumminess. Spicy ahi bowl (which you can also get by the pound) with a hit of spice, wasabi hand roll and a portion of poi and I was in lala land, Add in great customer service, and easygoing vibes, definitely will be by every time I am in the area. Definitely recommend to locals and travelers alike. Support this beautiful mom and pop eatery,

    A local okazuya gem on the Eastside or Oahu in Kaneohe, this place is filled with all the comfort…read moreokazuya foods you know and love. Usually when I'm in the area I'll give em a quick stop just for some of my okazu favorites like their homemade hash and ahi patties, vegetable tempura, teri hamburger, and crab cream croquettes. I usually get some musubis or hand rolls for the road also just for good measure. They also do local plate lunches like chicken katsu, garlic and teri chicken, or if you're in the mood for a hawaiian plate with lau lau and kalua pig, they do that too, per order. They're located in a small parking lot off Kam Hwy in Kaneohe, shared with Kin Wah and Aloha gas station. The shop itself is pretty small too but as soon as you walk in someone is ready to help and assist you with your order. They give mom and pop store vibes with their friendly service and counter ordering system. Theyre a little bit on the pricier side but with inflation being what it is nowadays what can you do? If you find yourself on the East side and are looking a quick, ready-to-go bite option give em a go.

    Photos
    Masa & Joyce Okazuya - Counter #1 of goodies

    Counter #1 of goodies

    Masa & Joyce Okazuya - Corned beef and potato croquette

    Corned beef and potato croquette

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    Okinawa maki

    Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

    Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

    3.6(650 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$$

    I'm not usually a Yelper, but I felt like I had to take a moment to share what a great experience…read morewe had last night at Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ. I want to give a special shout out to Debbie, the manager. When we arrived, she was helping the hostess seat guests and immediately stood out for being so welcoming, warm, and professional. She greeted everyone with a genuine smile and made us feel comfortable right away. About six months ago my husband had a pretty bad experience here -- the greeting at the door felt very cold and unwelcoming. Because of that, we were a little hesitant to return. But Debbie completely changed that impression. Her attitude and leadership really set a positive tone for the whole restaurant. Great customer service like that makes a big difference. Mahalo, Debbie, for making us feel truly welcomed. Because of the great experience we had last night, we will definitely be returning.

    We were welcomed by couple of workers, friendly, and kind…read more The atmosphere wasn't loud and food came real fast and Shabu Shabu Kalbi pieces, beef tongue, and shrimp. Mushrooms and asparagus were roasted with deep flavors. Vegetable spring rolls had too much ginger and overpowered the vegetables within...even with sweet chili dip. Garlic edamame was the best with lots of garlic butter. 2 orders of garlic noodle was generous amount. We almost ate it all, but one serving would have been enough...creamy and rich...yummy. Minor thing...the green tea was not hot. I think I got the bottom of the pot and heard they had to make more. For Dessert, we had green tea ice cream...smooth and good! I would come back.... I have to check if they use lots of MSG because I became itchy....Ciao!!!

    Photos
    Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
    Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
    Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

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    Noods Ramen Bar - Truffle ramen and black garlic miso

    Noods Ramen Bar

    4.3(126 reviews)
    0.0 mi
    $$

    I remember my first noods, and because the foods so good, I know I won't forget how good it is…read more If you didn't know, the first noods location is actually in Kaimuki, which is the first time I tried their ramen. So of course, I was in the area and I am a biiiig ramen lover, I had to try this location. I've tried an abundant of ramen from Noods, but my go-to is their vegan ramens because they have so many options and I could use a little vegan meal in my life every now and then (because of my acne). The ambiance may not be a restaurant, but it's ramen, you can't be asking for much, just good food and good place to enjoy. Since this location is in a food court, it's gotta have fast service, which it did. Service is also a lot more simple than the restaurant because over here you order in one area and then you have to pick it up at the other end when it's ready. The food court provides ample seating, but I suggest grabbing a seat first before ordering so that you get a table near the ramen bar and you don't have to walk far with a large bowl of ramen across a busy food court. Overall, the ramen(s) I've eaten here have lived up to the standard I expect from Noods, which is great. This means you don't have to go all the way to Kaimuki to get some good, quality ramen.

    Very polite helpful young man. Made good recommendation…read more Tonkotsu ramen was very tasty and the charsiu was a generous price

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    Noods Ramen Bar
    Noods Ramen Bar - Creamy garlic shoyu

    Creamy garlic shoyu

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    Kiku Ya - japanese - Updated May 2026

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