Paul's was one of my favorite dining experiences I've ever had. Yelp only allows for five stars, I would give more if I could. If you are able to visit Hilo, make a reservation. And you need a reservation. The tiny restaurant only has three two person tables (the other party of four had two pushed together). And it is only open Wednesday thru Saturday, 7:30am- 2pm. I made the reservation for my friend's Birthday lunch by text. It is conveniently located by the farmers market, and there is plenty of free parking in the area. The space is airy, and on our visit, decorated for Easter. We were immediately greeted by Paul. The restaurant is staffed by him, and one other employee. The menu is short, and all the better for it. Paul explained the menu and gave us recommendations. I was already interested in the Pasta de Marco, which appears to be a part of a regular menu. Angel hair pasta, lightly fried, tossed with fresh veggies and pesto, and lightly toasted baguette on the side. We also had the tuna, two ways, and papaya salad. Both were perfect, incredibly fresh, all ingredients balanced, beautifully presented. Paul had us end with the Belgium waffle. I've had waffles in Belgium, and these were the best I've had. Crispy, soft, with berries, whip cream, and powdered sugar, it didn't even need the (warm!) syrup. This experience felt like being a guest in the chef's home. Paul treated all customers as a friend, he was funny, relaxed, and personable. I also personally appreciated it is the safest restaurant for me to eat at as he hates bell peppers as much as I do! The only disappointment when the meal ended. Mahalo! read more

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The cafe is very small and cozy, we had to have reservations in advance to get in as Paul has very limited seating, about 3 tables. He is always busy and has a rule with no Togo orders as far as I know. The service is good, and the servers and Paul himself is very friendly, laidback, and easy to talk to. Be respectful of his rules, he's a nice guy and it felt like he really cares about the food he makes. Playing is very nice and simple in a good way, has a very clean aesthetic. The food itself is extremely fresh, every single thing felt very refreshing to the palette and not heavy. It was one of the pricier spots me and my partner went to in Hilo, but it is extremely popular and the quality of the food is nice, as I said, I think this is the place in Hilo so far that I've eaten at with the "freshest" tasting food. I had not yet tried his Belgian waffles, but I saw they were served to another customer and they looked fantastic. After our meal, Paul also highly reccomended them for next time. Definitely would like to come back next time we are in Hilo, it was one of my partner and her Uncle's favorite spots (they are local to Hilo, so it's gotta be good haha). They both vouch for the ingredient quality. read more

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We are staying upstairs and hoped for breakfast. But it is closed Monday and Tuesday. ok on to plan b. This is a cute 3 table cafe below our Stay. The prices on the chalkboard are a bit high for my blood. But they open tomorrow for the week and we ll be on the Road. Very romantic ambiance here. read more

Still amazing as always. Paul is wonderful and suggests great recommendations to add to the dishes. The coffee was top tier this time, my husband loved it, great taste even for someone like me who typically avoids high caffeine. If it's anything I can hammer down on, please please please text to inquire on reservations! read more

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It is possible that, considering food taste and quality, ambience, value, care for the customer, service, choices and ease of parking and access, Paul's Place is one of the truly best restaurants in the world. I did not say fancy. And if you are among the elite who must have fancy I hope you don't read this review. Whenever we come to Hilo we book well in advance. It is small, but that means amazing service from wonderful people. I get "chicken skin" from just thinking about Paul's. If you like great good and good people you will love Paul's. read more

Simone sandwiches made with extremely fresh ingredients by a friendly owner. Highly recommended! The chili is also excellent as are the pastries. read more

Wonderfully unique spot with great food and fun company. The owner/chef is wonderful.

Great food!! So fresh and delicious. Made to order. Paul cooks everything, so awesome. 1st time here, small cozy place. Super cute. Reservations required but well worth the personal service. We enjoyed everything. Ate a little of everything. Lots of variety and big menu read more

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A year ago we came to the island and walked into Paul's place. Without a reservation, we didn't eat but it was the kindest rejection of our lives. Paul is as personable, kind and genuine as they come. This year, on Valentines's we were able to enjoy his restaurant after making a reservation. The experience was above and beyond what we could have ever imagined. Threes tables and one hot plate. Every meal is cooked to order and delicious. I joked he ruined every other restaurant for us. The waitress is also the best manners and kind. When we visit another island my husband and I already said we'd island hop just to see Paul again. read more

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YOU MUST MAKE RESERVATIONS AHEAD OF TIME !!!!! Reserve ahead of time or you most likely won't get seated. There's very limited seating inside maybe 3 tables at most. Everything is cooked in the small kitchen so dishes come out 1 by 1. I ordered the breakfast caprese and it was quite delicious. Blistered tomatoes with 2 eggs cheese zucchini onion Kalamata olives on a crostini. Very fresh and seasoned well. You can't go wrong with fresh ingredients. Knocking off a star since it was a bit pricey for what you get. Overall it was a lovely experience. Very intimate setting. read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast Caprese - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

This is my favorite restaurant for breakfast of all time...ever!! I had the Belgian waffles and they were the best waffles I ever had. Ingredients were fresh and you can taste that everything is made with love and care. Service was excellent and the ambiance is unpretentious and cozy. Limited hours, so definitely check before making reservations. read more

Very nice place, delicious food; make sure you book in advance. There are only 3 tables there. read more

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Quaint cute brunch place in Hilo next to the Farmer's Market. Make a reservation in advance as there are only 3 tables in the restaurant. Paul is a one man show! Felt like I was a guest in his house. Friend and I shared the Belgian waffle and his specialty Pasta de Marco. Waffle was crispy, fluffy and light topped with strawberries and banana. Pasta de Marco was a crust of angel hair pasta with smoked salmon, tomato, capers, olives, feta topped with arugula. Very unique and tasty dish! read more

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My love, my soulmate said (after dining at Paul's Place) "This is the best meal he ever had in Hilo" & I agree with him. Paul's Place is a GEM in downtown Hilo. All thanks to my coworker, we were talking about Hilo and how he looks forward to his visit at Paul's Place, he recommends this biz. I searched Yelp and bookmarked PP. During February, I had no luck with getting a reservation but luckily a last minute trip to the Big Island this past weekend, I got a 1 pm time slot, Yay, I'll take it. Which was perfect as I got more time to explore Hilo before breakfast and got to check out the shops and farmer's market nearby. I love it when the stars aligned! Keep in mind, the restaurant is very small & cute, only 3 tables and run by chef/owner Paul, reservations are totally recommended. Love the fun, charming decor Paul mentioned the decors are done by his girls. while waiting for our meals, I noticed Paul prepares meals with just 1 skillet and 1 burner, in his cute little kitchen space. Wow. he got great cooking skills! Since we already had breakfast and were still stuffed, we tried and opt for lunch options, a few of the items on the menu were sold out, got 2 entrees: Pasta De Marco and Fish Bowl and they were Amazing dishes. Pasta de Marco ( $24.95) I've never had anything similar to this entree ever, I loved it. Everything on this plate went so well together and cake noodle but Italian style, wow! Fish Bowl is market price ($29.95) reminds of a stew/cioppino, comes with shrimp and fresh fish of the day which is Mahi Mahi, on bed of pasta and bread. As I was eating this, it brought back memories of Mama's Fish House, everything taste so fresh in that bowl of goodness! The famous waffles, we were super stuffed and only could have a few bites! Omg, fresh crispy Belgium waffles with fruits and just the right amount of sauce, not too sweet. I loved this, never had waffles for the longest time and it hit the spot. The last waffles I had was the frozen Belgium waffles from Costco, hehe years ago. Thank you Chef Paul & his one staff team, it was really nice meeting and chatting with you! He is super friendly, before dining at Paul's I was kind of scared/shy due to me being anti social at times but don't worry he is really a cool super nice guy! Totally recommend, you can THANK me later as I will be thanking my coworker for the recommendation, when he is back from Summer break! As of now, I am texting Chef Paul to get me in for next month, hehe. I want to try the benedict, need more Pasta De Marco and waffles tooooo!! read more

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RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED to this tiny restaurant with just two tables! Really enjoyed the fantastic breakfast here at Paul's Place. I had a stack of Belgium waffles that were topped with lots of fruit and came with heated syrup. I added on bacon and it came out just like I like it, extra crispy! My wife had the eggs benedict that Paul admitted was non-traditional, but the egg was poached perfectly and was paired with lots of veggies and fruit. Best part of our breakfast was the service. Paul and his staff engage with everyone like they're family or longtime friends. Prices are a tad high, but each dish is hand made fresh and he takes his time to make sure you're satisfied with your meal. Please remember to text him for reservations so you aren't turned away, I believe he takes up to a week in advance. read more

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You need a reservation or some luck. This place is minutes from Hilo airport and a remarkable place to eat... if you can get in. The food is remarkable and Paul, the owner/chef is a treasure. The problem is the restaurant has only three 2-person tables. I had their Smoked Salmon Benedict. It was soooo tasty. Everything was fresh. I also tasted some of the lightest-yet-still-with-some-crunchiness Belgian Waffle I've ever had. And the coffee was remarkable, even for Hawai'i. If you're flying into Hilo, you're minutes away from Paul's Place. Do yourself a favor and make this place your first stop on the way to Volcanos National Park (or whatever you're doing). It's a great way to start your day. read more

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Always make reservations in advance if you want to eat here. I saw at least 10 groups of people get turned away. This place is a gem and Paul is such a nice and creative fellow that cooks with heart. On our table of three, we had the Belgian waffles, pasta de Marco and the Caprese breakfast. The waffles were nice and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside - served with whipped cream, banana and strawberries. Chef's pasta de Marco is such a different dish for breakfast, but a wonderful surprise - angel hair pasta cooked with olive oil and held together with an egg; and topped with pesto, Mediterranean green olives, bits of bacon, salmon and more (comes with 2 pieces of bread). The Caprese breakfast had assorted tomatoes, mozzarella, fried egg on a crostini with bacon and assorted fruits and radish. Overall, service is always excellent, food is so delicious and I love how small and intimate this place feels. I look forward to coming here again when visiting Hilo. read more

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Just simply fabulous!! (Is that an oxymoron?). Small place which made it even better ..and the dishes Paul prepared were soooo good! Each was personalized and prepared fresh that one dish came at a time which was fine with us! It was worth ignoring that table etiquette and we dove right in to the food. The flavors were fantastic and blended so there was just the right amount of "yeah, that's a Benedict" and "wow!..didn't know a Benedict could taste like that!". GO! You will not regret it! So... the added strawberry on top of the waffle...hehe..was it was my 60th birthday we were celebrating in Hilo and when Paul and his niece maybe (?) found out, I was given the "queen" treatment complete with a tiara and birthday sash to take with, and presented with a birthday waffle plate that was one of the most special experiences in this 60th year of life so far! Thank you from the bottom of my heart ., to the top of my happy stomach for such a wonderful gift! read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Best breakfast spot in Hilo, hands down. Uncle Paul is so personable and really takes the time to connect with everyone who walks through his doors. You can feel the love in every dish he makes. The food is amazing -- my favorites are the Belgian waffles and the fish bowl. And every season, his spot is decorated so festive. It always feels warm, welcoming, and full of good vibes. read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

Tip: Make reservations! You can either call, text, or DM through IG. You won't be able to dine without one and will be politely turned away. There are only 3 tables and a small kitchen area. Cute decorations. Very small, quaint cafe located inside an Inn. Close by to the Saturday farmers market too. The owner Paul is probably one of the nicest people I've ever met in my life. Very personable and genuine. Megan the waitress was awesome and funny! Service was very attentive. We came to visit a few months ago, but still wanted to show some love and support for this local cafe. The food was amazing!!! Everything we tried was delicious and we cleaned up all the plates. The Belgium Waffle is a MUST. Perfectly crispy with fresh fruits. The Salmon Benedict was a different spin without the hollandaise sauce, he tops with a unique aioli that was tasty. The Chef's recommended pasta was very good as well, different take on it. I highly recommend dining here if you're in Hilo! I can't wait to come back next time I am visiting. read more

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Have had only good experiences here! The waffle crispy and delicious. Look forward to returning it's been several years. Mainly because need to reserve it ahead of time. read more

We come to Hilo to see family 4 or 5 times a year. I have written about this amazing place before. All are welcome, visitor and local alike, but, because it is small, reservations are highly recommended, whether you are local or out of town. What I wanted to add to my earlier comments is the spirit, the humanity, the caring, the generosity that is Paul. Given the times, I appreciated this part of Paul's emotionally during this recent visit. In this place, you are cared for by Paul and his assistant. It is an experience we treasure deeply every time. read more

AMAZING Experience!!!! Hands down best meal in Hilo. From the time you enter to the time you leave - we were in all of the whole experience. read more

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We both had the ahi tuna blossom - excellent! The ahi is local, cooked nicely and flaked. The tuna salad has lots of surprises - apple, capers, celery, onion and a light mayo to hold it all together. Served in a nice tomato "Blossom" with a couple of grilled baguette slices and a fresh green salad with Kalamata olives, strawberries, red onion and feta cheese! Perfect lunch! Service is friendly and the space is super quaint with only three two-tops. We were here years ago and it didn't disappoint! Paul is a gem! read more

Paul is the host with THE MOST! I don't know where to begin! The food is amazing. The Salmon Benedict is a MUST HAVE! So fresh, so much more than my expectations. It's truly a magical experience. It's like going to a friend's home and having them cook for you, but much better than any of MY friends! :) I would give this 10 stars if I could. read more

All store front great food make reservation nice small cafe everything made to order friendly staff home feel read more

Paul's Place - Belgian waffles - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Went to Paul's Place with a group of 5 for breakfast. The place only can fit two groups so make reservations ahead of time. This small cozy spot is the perfect place if you want something more intimate. The food is always good and the owner Paul makes the experience so enjoyable. We ordered the Belgian waffle, salmon Benedict, breakfast caprese, pasta Marco, and the smoothie of the day. Nothing but perfection if you ask me. I'm such a fan of this place and you definitely need to check them out if you're in Downtown hilo. read more

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This place is a hidden gem!! Just happened to wander in during my first trip to Hilo and was lucky enough to get a seat. Paul and Seth were both warm and welcoming. The coffee was fresh brewed, smelled amazing and tasted just as good. Ordered the Salmon Eggs Benedict which was somewhat untraditional but in a delicious way. Would've got a pic but I ate it too fast. I would recommend you call ahead for a reservation as there's only three tables. Definitely recommend you check this place out. read more

Paul's Place - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Dine in by reservation only! No take outs or phone orders! Food is always amazing but a very small place! read more

Paul's Place - Menu - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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We had such a beautiful experience here for breakfast! The service, the ambiance & the FOOD hands down one of the best. The plates of food are so fun and different than your average breakfast! Would go again and again. Good thing to know is that it's a small place with 3 tables of two. read more

Paul's Place - This is their Breakfast Caprese!!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

What a great find! Paul is an amazing chef and each meal is prepared with love and kindness. He gets my best review ever. I'm taking a friend there for her birthday. You have to have a reservation since he only has room for 3 small tables. It's an awesome experience! read more

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Absolutely the best experience! But beware, reservations only and can be a two week wait. But so worth it. Paul the owner is so personable, kind and respectful to all. Many people walked in without a reservation and he graciously shared the need to have a reservation and suggested an alternate place to eat. He treated us like we were a best friend, even though we had never been there before. Decor was well done. Food was very good and unique. Cooked one plate at a time by Paul on a single burner. Coffee awesome! read more

Pauls Place is truly the best food you will taste in Hilo. The food and the service is off the charts. A reservation is a must as tables are limited. I have been here before and wanted to have breakfast at Paul's place celebrating my birthday and I was not disappointed. The owner and chef, Paul is a very kind and thoughtful person. He always comes out and checks on you and answers questions about the menu. He is also great about talking story and likes to get to know his customers. The menu might look limited but has everything you could possibly want and more. The food is always fresh and delicious, best Belgium Waffles and Eggs Benedict I have ever tasted. The quality of the food is amazing and dining experience is unmatched in Hilo. Mahalo Paul for the amazing experience and making my birthday memorable. read more

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By chance, I ended up with my daughter-in-law's reservation since she couldn't make it--lucky me! I haven't been able to book my own because of my constant traveling. But, oh my goodness, Paul's cooking never disappoints. The waffle is always a winner, but let me tell you, the Pasta de Marco was absolutely delicious! read more

Paul's Place - Pasta de Marco - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii

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Food is great but expensive. Because there are only three tables, Paul hovers and discourages conversation.

Amazing food, great service, and a relaxing atmosphere--highly recommend! It is a short drive outside of Hilo. It is worth the drive

Amazing and truly unique twists on popular entrees! Paul and his lovely staff are very funny and friendly. Reservation required! read more

I can't understand the 4 star ratings for Paul's place. What does it take for you people to honor a 5th star??? This is an amazing little secret that is run with care. Paul is awesome. It's our first time here, and I feel like family. Amazing food, incredible service, great (little) cafe. Plan ahead, make reservations and you won't regret it! read more

Where do I begin...such a sweet spot. Paul is da bestest! So charming and funny...good fun vibes for sure. Oh and the food is excellent. We had his favorite pasta dish, Smoked salmon benedict and waffles. Even the coffee was outstanding. SO ONO. Make reservations and go! read more

Hidden gem in Hilo! Must make reservations. Paul was so lovely to work with in securing our reservation, which I made a few weeks in advance. Our flight was cancelled and moved to a later time, and thankfully, Paul was able to move us to his last seating at 1pm. Parking is located across the street on a gravel lot. You can see your car from the restaurant. Entering the restaurant you feel taken back to an Aunt's house who you haven't visited for a long time and missed. Clean and homey feel throughout. Now let's get to the food! Pasta de Marco (angel hair pasta) and Fish Bowl Pasta (spaghetti pasta) dishes were exactly what we needed after a long morning of cancelled flights and not eating since the night before. The fish was cooked PERFECTLY. The pasta was cooked PERFECTLY. Belgian waffles (there was more than one waffle) dessert tasted like a waffle, funnel cake, and beignet had a baby. So DELICIOUS! He also topped it off with some vanilla ice cream, which we did not mind at all. His menu options also include salads, sandwiches, and various Benedict options. A nice mix of food and flavors. We learned a few things about Paul throughout our meal, which he may share with you when you go in and dine. His assistant was also very sweet and worked hard keeping everyone's water filled and tables cleared. This place is a definite must eat when you are in Hilo town. Please consider supporting this small business. read more

Paul's Place - Beautiful entrance, feels like home. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hilo, Hawaii