Ka 'Ikena Laua'e Restaurant
4303 Diamond Head Rd FD, Honolulu HI 96816
$$
International
Upcoming Spring 2024: LUNCH ONLY to begin late January (No Dinner service due to low enrollment)
Ka`Ikena Laua`e is a learning laboratory operated by Culinary students under the direction of Chef Instructors.
The two sessions offered each semester are open to the public and reservations are required. Please understand that daily reservations are limited & based on our class sizes. Thank you for your understanding.
Reservations
Booking Notes:
As reservations are limited per day we may not be able to increase your party size after the booking is created and while we try to accommodate all requests; we cannot guarantee them. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.
Business Info
- Address: 4303 Diamond Head Rd FD, Honolulu HI 96816
- Cross Street: 2nd floor of Ohelo Building- Kapi'olani CC
- Location: Honolulu
- Cuisine: Asian | European | International | Mediterranean | Pacific Rim |
- Cost: | Inexpensive
- Category: Upscale Casual
- Star Rating:
- Reservations: Required
- Dress Code: Business Casual
- Meals Served: Lunch |
- Parking: Public Lot |
- Payment Options: VISA | MasterCard | Discover | JCB | Cash | Debit |
- Corkage Fee: 0.00 | Alcohol limit:1-750mL wine or 6pk beer/couple
- Website: https://go.hawaii.edu/yAf
- Phone: 808-734-9499
- Features: BYOB,
- Occasion: Romantic Dining, Business Dining, Special Occasion,
Photos
Business Hours
Reservations Available
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- Closed
- Thursday
- Closed
- Friday
- Closed
- Saturday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
F.A.Q.s
Frequently Asked Questions- When are you open during the year?
- As this is a learning laboratory for our Culinary Arts Program, we have two (2) service modules within the SPRING (January- May) semester and in the FALL (August- December) semester and are open for about a month for each service module.
- When are you open during the week?
- As of January 2024: We are open for LUNCH on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. Please check our website for specific service dates and times.
- When are your seating times?
- Lunch: 10:30am-11:30am (every 15 min)
- Can I increase my party size?
- Reservations are limited and contingent on the size of our classes so we may NOT be able to accommodate increases in your current reservation.
- Do you offer vegetarian, vegan or gluten free options?
- While some of our menu items may be able to be converted by omitting certain items it is NOT guaranteed that we will have an option during the current session. Please check our website for current menu items.
Customer Reviews & Ratings
4.85 out of 5 stars based on 512 votes
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 26, 2024
Chika Y.
So delicious.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 7/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 20, 2024
Mei M.
I gave 7/10 stars for ambience because the room felt like it could use an overall refresh. Although I was seated away from the windows, I could still appreciate the beautiful view. All the students did a great job on the food and service. I enjoyed the ahi tartare appetizer very much, well seasoned and so flavorful. The wellington pork tenderloin was also very nicely cooked and really delicious. For dessert I had the tiramisu which was also very good; I couldn’t finish it though, I forgot it contains alcohol…. My bad :( I had the butterfly pea lemonade and that was truly a delight!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 18, 2024
WALLACE I.
2 opportunities to improve:
1) There was coffee between the bottom of the cup and saucer.
2) After the waiter presented us with entrees, he told us to enjoy our appetizers.
Everything else was wonderful!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 17, 2024
Karen T.
Our waiter and server were cordial and knowledgeable about the fare so could tell us whether our taste preferences would be met. There was a nice array of selections. The entire staff were not intrusive yet always available to satisfy our needs. Excellent!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 05, 2024
Kelsey N.
Everything was great all around & considering it was educational, the students made great effort to do their best. The servers were a little stiff but it was obvious that they were nervous so we tried to be encouraging even if they made mistakes. The food was also exceptional quality, on par with some of the more “fancy” overpriced restaurants locally and in all honesty, I was so surprised to have my entree include an appetizer & dessert at no extra charge. What a deal for such an excellent meal! Thank you to everyone who serviced us that day & I hope the students continue to hone their skills.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 04, 2024
Bennet Y.
Great experience. The food and service were excellent. Thank you.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 8/10
- Ambience: 8/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 03, 2024
Kathleen D.
Really appreciate the experience. Been dining with guests at Ka Ikena for years. Small suggestions: Sweet Pea tea is always very (too) sweet (definitely don't need added sugar water). Sometimes food seems salty (diners can add their own if they want more salt). The students are sincere and humble. The floor manager is ON IT supportive of and helping the students and the diners as needed. We enjoy buying baked goods at end of the meal. Great program!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 29, 2024
kim n.
we had a great experience.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 26, 2024
Diana H.
Great service...great food! First time visit and will plan to go again. Students were so attentive. Thank you for a great dining experience.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 23, 2024
Valerie B.
Excellent food and technical program. Thank you!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 9/10
Feb 22, 2024
Charlene L.
Portions were huge for lunch. Very beautiful ambience, views to east Honolulu were spectacular. I wish you would sell more dessert items to take home. Thank you for a wonderful experience at KCC.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 8/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 22, 2024
Linda L.
I have been a BIG fan of the student sessions at Ka Ikena, and the take out offerings
on special occasions. This year's menu choices were superb! Excellent variety, beautiful plating, generous & delicious. Obtaining reservations is a challenge, but I am grateful to have them and introduced many people to this wonderful venue.
Aaron is an excellent teacher, personable and helpful. Five Stars!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 16, 2024
Garyce K.
Everything was perfect! The service was excellent. Everyone was polite and attentive, and worked efficiently. Also, the food was so delicious! Thank you for a very enjoyable experience. ☺
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 15, 2024
Marjorie K.
A remarkable dining experience....... Well trained front-of-the-house staff combined with impressive food presentation/taste.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 8/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 14, 2024
Alison O.
Daniel was our server. Very personable and attentive. When asked about an entree, he showed us a photo of it while explaining what was in the dish. When asked about whether an appetizer contains MSG, he checked with the chef and came back right away with a response. The other student waitstaff came by several times to ask if we wanted our drinks refilled and if we wanted more bread. Excellent customer service!
Re our entrees, the salmon with soba was an interesting combination. Perhaps the salmon could be soaked longer in the soy-based sauce or have more seasoning added because the fish was rather bland. The other dishes and dessert were spot on! Thank you for a delicious lunch!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 09, 2024
Ameen K.
Always a gastronomic pleasure eating at the Ka'lkena Laua'e dining room. It's a pleasure talking to the students and the food and views are first rate.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 09, 2024
Karlyn P.
Excellent personal greeting by each student ; interface at each juncture a pleasant one.
Each dish presented to please the eye. Wonderful variation in texture complimenting one another.
Thank you for a most enjoyable lunch !
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 08, 2024
Vicky C.
Knowing that we were dining with future restauranteurs serving us, it was a wonderful experience as we engaged in conversation not only about our meal, but other aspects of their education. It was a grand time, and only wish we (those of us who work) could enjoy a dinner.
Walking to our vehicles, we also engaged with some of the chefs-in-training and enjoyed those conversations (and words of encouragement) with them!
Thank you!!!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 07, 2024
Sharon P.
Always a wonderful experience!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 07, 2024
Valarie K.
The service was excellent. The staff was very attentive but not too much so. The menu options provided a nice variety of items to choose from. The food was well prepared and presented. The dessert cart was enticing with great options to choose from. Everything from the muffins to the desserts was delicious. As always the view from the restaurant is hard to beat and adds to the pleasant ambience. Awesome value that we feel is the best deal in town. Kudos to the staff and students!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 8/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 9/10
Feb 06, 2024
Harvey N.
We brought our friend, who was visiting from Thailand. He was a former Hawaii resident and lived in the Kahala area. He totally enjoyed dining at Ka Ikena.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 06, 2024
Harvey N.
We enjoy coming to this training site to enjoy the efforts of the instructors and the students. The dishes and their presentation were enjoyable. Keep up the great work!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 01, 2024
Joyce K.
We had a lovely dining experience. The food was delicious, the plating was elegant, and this service warm and friendly. We had a wonderful lunch!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 01, 2024
Deborah C.
Such a wonderful experience from beginning to end. We can wait to plan our next visit. Mahalo nui loa!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Jan 31, 2024
Brenda G.
We had a great time at lunch today. Everything was so nice and the students try so hard to please. Wish they would just speak a bit louder. Wish we could have purchased some pastries before they ran out. We booked for Feb 14 & hope the pastries are offered then.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 1/10
Nov 30, 2023
Mae F.
All was served with perfection by the student staff who were patient, pleasant, courteous, & attentive.
There is nothing that the students can improve, they will make excellent servers after this course training.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 30, 2023
raynette d.
Totally awesome !!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 29, 2023
William L.
When will you re-open?
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 22, 2023
Yumi G.
Excellent service. Would come back again in the future for sure!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 9/10
Nov 22, 2023
Joan K.
Initial table service was slow but good attitude with the waiters. The staff took pride in their work. Food was interesting, had Hawaii considerations noted.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 17, 2023
Beverly W.
I always love coming here. The food was good, and worth the $. It's a good training ground for the students to be in a restaurant setting and learning how to service guests. Minor improvement - service should be from the right, not the left. It's always nice to have the dish explained when it's served, so that would be a nice added touch. Presentation of food was excellent.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 16, 2023
Lise D.
Enjoyed another wonderful meal by KCC students. Thank you!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 9/10
Nov 14, 2023
Becky G.
Always enjoy my luncheons at KCC. Top notch service and unique choices of food selections. I like the option to purchase extra desserts.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 14, 2023
Romyn S.
It was great! Our server, Chris, was great! All the students were attentive in pouring water and asking if we wanted bread. When we had a question, one of them waited to get the person in charge to ask about the food. That person also was awesome and explained the dish because we weren't sure if it was supposed to be that way as we haven't had it before. Food looked nice and it was unique kinds of dish. The dessert cart is awesome, I wish I could try all the desserts so it was hard to choose but I think any one of them would have been a good decision either way. Thanks y'all and good job!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 13, 2023
Sunny P.
This was an excellent dining experience. We enjoyed interacting with the student wait staff and their instructor/mentor. Thank you for a great birthday celebration experience.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 11, 2023
Nanette T.
Great services from the students. The food was delicious!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 10, 2023
Sabrina G.
The food was fantastic and the service was excellent.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 9/10
Nov 10, 2023
Terry J.
The appetizers, breads, main dishes and deserts were excellent.
Opportunities to improve: refill drinks ( including the water) more frequently.
lamb was excellent but chutney didn't go well with the lamb.
Thank you, fun and delicious
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 09, 2023
Kathleen D.
Service was fabulous. Lots of care taken with the presentation; extraordinary. Floor manager was observant and available. Students smiles despite nerves add to experience. Great breads! Photography worthy desserts.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 09, 2023
Sharon P.
Our server, Vi, was so nice and friendly. She as answered our questions and kept water glasses full. The food was amazing. We thank everyone at Ka ‘Ileana Laua’e for a fabulous experience.
The designated parking stalls are great.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 08, 2023
Sharon T.
The food was especially yummy since I havent been there in a very long time. We had a very cute and amicable server and her fellow wait help helped her to make the dining experience even more memorable. Mahalo nui loa for allowing us to be there!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 08, 2023
janice a.
Excellent service, portions were more than sufficient, value for 3 choices very reasonable. Always enjoy going there and exposing new people to this venue.
Keep up the fantastic job
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Oct 20, 2023
Rika S.
We enjoyed lunch, which served as prix fixe course. I like their creative and innovative dishes and love the authentic dessert! But it was a little too sweet for me.
The waiter student at our table was worked really hard to serve us and did a good job. A few more smiles would have been a perfect score.
We were pleased with our experience at this restaurant. We would like to visit again, but the restaurant is open only for a limited period and we are not sure if we will be able to get reservations. Mahalo ♥️
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Oct 05, 2023
Gail W.
Nice place with wonderful view. Very attentive staff. Delicious dishes in pretty presentations. Appetizers, drinks, and dessert included makes the price very appealing.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Oct 05, 2023
Mae F.
All was done to perfection from the host greeting you with a smile at the entry, the gracious, courteous, & attentive servers who continuously filled your glasses or asked how everything was going. The food was suberb, displaying a great deal of creativity in the preparation & presentation. Our dining experience will probably be the highlight of our visiting mo'opuna from California. They all ate heartily & enjoyed this dining experience which I am sure they will remember forever. I have been a long-time patron & thank the staff & the students for their service to the community & visitors. Mahalo nui loa, Mae Fujii
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Oct 05, 2023
Atlas C.
We had a fun time! Thank you (-:
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 29, 2023
Beth M.
It was such a pleasant and delightful dining experience. My friend and I plan to visit again.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 28, 2023
Mayumi M.
Very delicious food and very nice service, my son said he wants to learn cooking at this school. This restaurant is definitely better than the very expensive food I had at a restaurant in Waikiki the other day.
Thank you so much!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 27, 2023
Jeanne K.
Everyone was so nice and all the food was delicious! We are definitely coming back!!! The culinary program is fabulous and we are so fortunate to be able to dine this type of cuisine. It’s a win win!!!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 22, 2023
Pearl N.
Thoughtful planning is evident in the menu: something for vegetarians, pescatarians, and omnivores. Each dish is exquisitely crafted, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients such as perfectly ripened watermelon pleasantly paired with unexpected flavors for a delightful watermelon caprese salad! Each dish, from starter to dessert, was carefully plated to please the eye, and more importantly please the palate.
The Beef Wellington was tender and tasty, and if you're a vegetarian, try the Portabella Wellington! Both seafood options earned raves: perfectly cooked and seasoned.
Don't skip dessert! If you want a variety, try the Flight, but the Baked Alaska and Lilikoi Creme Brulee are also delicious!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 22, 2023
Donna H.
The appetizers did not have a vegetarian option. Views are great. It was an exceptionally noisy day but I understand.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 22, 2023
Sandra C.
The STAFF were so Hospitable , polite, genuine with interactions with me, us . Went out of their way to check on how the food tasted, our beverages were satisfactory, we got VIP service that is lacking these days in restaurant industry. I'm glad that your students are being trained/ taught how to be excellent servers at KCC, encouraging to know that these servers will change the trend for the future. I love the cleanliness , neatness of table settings, rooms ambience, the priceless view in A/C.
. Of course i return to dine frequently we get TOP service, delicious food, pleasantly plated. INSTRUCTORS KEEP UP THE GREAT TEACHINGS!!!!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 21, 2023
Cherille N.
We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The servers were very professional and well trained and the food was great. Presentation of the food was also very beautiful.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 21, 2023
Bonnie C.
Make menu option available to view on reservation page or indicate where to look
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 5/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 19, 2023
Janice S.
Our waiter James was so pleasant and answered all of our questions. We really enjoyed lunch. But the hawaii appetizer tako was very hard and not flavorful. The Vietnamese ban mi noodles was disappointing as I wanted noodles and it was an omelette made of flour and turmeric so it was not good and odd. I also did not find the grilled pieces in the lettuce to have any point as there was no taste of Vietnam except for the pickled vegetables. I wish the desserts had a haupia, ube, mango, guava, or other Asian flavors since it was an Asia pacific theme but the desserts were standard choices that were boring. I did LOVE the kona coffee and refills, and the selection of rolls, breads, and cheese biscuits were to die for. I'm glad they asked if I wanted more bread YES!!! Thank you the experience is still 10 out of 10 though....love the professor, students, and chef
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 8/10
- Service: 8/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 14, 2023
Michael M.
the food was just a little too well seasoned. right on the border of being too salty. it made everything homogenous and a little uninteresting. I has the scallop and mung bean risotto. I loved the flavors. the cook on the scallops and risotto and adobo was great but the risotto was a little too salty. an under seasoned risotto with finishing salt would make it less monotonous with pops of salinity would make the dish more interesting.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 13, 2023
Eileen S.
Really enjoyed seeing the students learn fine dining service and everyone was super attentive. Made my mom's bday! Food was great, particularly the pastries and appetizers.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 13, 2023
John M.
we love sharing a table here with our friends. The food is always great and the students are lots of fun. BYOB is a wonderful bonus.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Sep 12, 2023
Linh H.
Food was great with beautiful presentation. Portions are overly generous for fine dining. Students were friendly and earnest to do well. THANK YOU!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 28, 2023
Karen N.
Everything was wonderful! We enjoyed Ruth's attention to us very much! She is an asset to the program.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 28, 2023
Felix T.
Tried rabbit for the first time, it was a unique experience.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 25, 2023
Veronica O.
Everything is a 10!!! The students in the front of the house, under Aaron's leadership, did AMAZING! They were professional, attentive, efficient, and personable. Everything we ate on the lunch menu was FANTASTIC! The students, under Chef Salvo's leadership, did an EXCELLENT job in executing, plating, and presenting the dishes. The desserts as always were absolutely DELICIOUS! Please thank Chef Wetter and his students for doing such an OUTSTANDING job! I brought a group of friends in February, March, & April, and every time we had such a wonderful experience! I look forward to having lunch in the Fall semester.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 25, 2023
Carolyn A.
Please dont add so much sugar to the butterfly pea drink. The first time you offered that drink last semester was the best cause you could taste the pea scent. Now it just pure sugar. No matter how much water I add to the drink its too sweet. All my friends that ordered it was diluting their drinks as well.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 19, 2023
Cyn N.
We enjoyed the food. It was beautifully prepared and presente, and very delicious. Sean provided us with great service.
We’ll be back next school year, and looking forward to dinner service.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 19, 2023
Sandy G.
Our party really enjoyed the food and the service. It was a wonderful lunch menu to celebrate our two co-worker birthdays. We also purchased desserts to take home with us. We look forward to future dining experiences with Ka'Ikena. Mahalo to the students and staff!
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 14, 2023
Becky G.
We love Ka'Ikena! A fantastic view and servers try so hard to please. Variety of food is exciting to experience.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 14, 2023
Kathleen D.
I appreciate fresh ingredients, variety of options, no msg (which I am seriously allergic to), presentation of the food, the spacing of the tables, friendly servers. I happily bring friends and family to share the wonderful experience. Thank you.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 13, 2023
Alison O.
Brenna was our waitstaff and she was excellent! From start to finish, she was friendly, professional, knowledgeable, paid attention to details and to the customers' needs. Very proactive. Qying (not sure about the spelling of her name) was also very attentive and made sure our drinks were refilled. The other students were also engaging but those two stood out.
The food was superb! Appetizers were spot on. I had the duck entree twice during this module and the plating was different each time. The taste was also slightly different but both dishes were delicious!
There are two things I would say could be improved. One is the wait time of about an hour between the appetizers and the entrees. Luckily, we were not pressed for time. Two is the packing of the desserts to go. Half the pie topping had fallen over by the time we got the container. However, I understand how difficult it is to place desserts into containers. Overall, I would give today's meal 4.5 stars.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 8/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 9/10
Apr 13, 2023
francis w.
Innovative and varied menu. Fresh ingredients. Great combinations of ingredients.
Good choice of everything including breads and desserts.
- Overall: 10/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 11, 2023
Gabriel P.
Fantastic service and food.
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 8/10
- Ambience: 6/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 25, 2024
Deborah C.
Dining at Ka ‘Ikena Laua’e is always a treat. The food is beautifully prepared and delicious. The waitstaff friendly and accommodating. A reminder to remove all entree dishes and butter plates before serving dessert would be appreciated. We can’t wait to return in the fall and look forward to future renovations. Mahalo!
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 8/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 09, 2024
Valarie K.
Ka `Ikena Laue`e is always a very enjoyable dining experience. It boasts one of the best views in town. The students work hard to provide top notch service, and are professional and friendly. The menu offers a nice variety of appetizers and entrees. Today was a bit more busy than usual with a large group and other large tables seated. As a result, one of our entrees was not available and the decision was made to serve another dish without our input. That said, the food was well prepared, plated attractively and tasty. The dessert table had an amazing selection and was staffed by two very friendly and helpful pastry students. The KCC Culinary Arts program provides an exceptional learning opportunity for their students, and an exceptional dining experience for the public. A wonderful way for us to support the program and students.
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 8/10
- Service: 8/10
- Ambience: 6/10
- Value: 8/10
Dec 01, 2023
Barbara H.
Thank you !!
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 9/10
Nov 30, 2023
Kellie I.
The service, quantity and quality of food, and setting were all great.
A few things to work on:
check place settings and make sure everything is where it should be
it was sometimes difficult to hear the servers
staff should explain what they were trying to sell
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 16, 2023
Leonard C.
Re: Making reservations- We cannot make reservations prior to 2 weeks before the desired date. I have on numerous occasions tried to make dinner reservations, starting 2 weeks prior to the desired date per the rules, & early in the morning.....ie 8am, 6am, & even 12:30am, but am locked out from doing so which I presume means it's full. I can't believe the whole dining room has jumped on the reservation requests prior to my 12:30am attempt.
I have no problems making lunch reservations.
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 09, 2023
Vivian S.
So glad we were able to get reservations this semester. Will definitely try to come back again.
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 7/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 7/10
- Value: 7/10
Sep 29, 2023
Esther C.
Prices got too high
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 10/10
Apr 12, 2023
Holly L.
We enjoyed lunch very much. The quality was outstanding and the wait staff(students ) did a fine job. The person in charge was available and was explaining the addition of an acidic ingredient gave the dish an enhansed flavour and also complimented the other choices on the plate. At the end we also purchased a chocolate cake. Hats off to all. Excellent attention to detail
- Overall: 9/10
- Food: 8/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 9/10
Apr 06, 2023
Linda S.
Our server (Whitney?) was very friendly and attentive. We were celebrating our birthdays and everyone came out to sing for us. That was very unexpected and appreciated!
- Overall: 8/10
- Food: 8/10
- Service: 10/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 8/10
Apr 05, 2024
James B.
An 8 for all of the above since I could not register it on each item.
Prof Chou did a wonderful job in instructing his students and managing the dinning floor. Very pleasant to speak with during his busy short day.
As for the Menu, it was a good variety of appetizers and entrees. Unfortunately, there was a lack of salad and/or soup offerred, as in the past years.
The ciabatta bread is a favorite as well as the cheddar biscuit. Last module the cheddar biscuit was much sweeter and tastier than what was offerred today. The ciabatta bread was perfectly done and maybe needed a pinch of salt.
The escargot was excellent with butter, garlic, and lemon. My appettizer was less tastey as the toast was too hard and the toppings were tasteless for the trio. I had it returned for the prawn, a rather small portion and not so tasty sauce.
The swordfish was near excellent, nice and moist and with a nice sauce. As for the Wellington, the pork was done perfectly, but the pastry fell flat and did not add to the dish. The squash portion was miniscule and should be increased substantially. Always love the desserts and would like to see more dark chocolate, and freshly made items like Cherries jubilee or baked alaska; but then it is lunch so not so easy to accomplish. Never slight the desserts. And I usuall purchase something to take away. Good Idea.
I would like to see the dinner schedule return, lunch is not so easy to attend.
I would like to thank the culinary department for all their hard work, diligent attention to detail, and offering a variety of fine cuisine to the community. I have eaten at another Junior College on the mainland where I worked 40+ years ago.
It is a wonderful experience.
I have been a patron for 28 years now and have watched the menu grow, and excel in all areas. I have reservation in 2 weeks to try other items on the menu.
Mahalo, and thank you for all you have to offer to the community
Jim Brodhagen
- Overall: 8/10
- Food: 7/10
- Service: 9/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 8/10
Feb 22, 2024
Beatrice K.
Apple Pie - very good. Yan Bo - excellent personality, server was OK, boy removing dishes also very good, wasabi did not convey its taste, coffee refill was on point. Hamachi was warm rather than cool, cheese roll - good.
- Overall: 8/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 7/10
- Ambience: 8/10
- Value: 10/10
Feb 14, 2024
Jason N.
Food was prepared well and served at a good pace. There was a noticeable gap in experience between the front of the house staff; our server was being actively coached by their peers who seemed to have prior service industry experience. Overall, the meal was great, and an exceptionally good value for the quality and quantity of food. Wish we knew about the additional bakery items for sale as we would have immediately purchased some before they ran out. Thank you for another great experience and look forward to dining with you again soon!
- Overall: 8/10
- Food: 10/10
- Service: 7/10
- Ambience: 10/10
- Value: 10/10
Nov 09, 2023
Elden H.
Only one serving of bread was offered - which was very good. No butter with bread. Server could not answer any of our questions regarding the food. All forks were removed before our dessert. We used the spoon and knife. Credit card voucher brought to us without a pen.
We're supporters of your culinary program. We'll be back every semester. The quality and taste of the food is awesome. Good job!
- Overall: 8/10
- Food: 9/10
- Service: 8/10
- Ambience: 9/10
- Value: 9/10
Oct 04, 2023
Beverly H.
This was the first time we experienced being at the last serving on the last day of a module. Several of the entrees and salads were no longer available. We looked at it as an adventure. I must commend management on going the extra mile for one of our party who had dietary restrictions.
Our server was very sweet, but very shy and nervous. She needed some confidence boosting. The others did help with the service, which indicated good teamwork.
The food was very good. I had the French onion soup which was delicious and the duck confit was soft and fell off the bone (although I was tempted to steal some of my friend's Beef Wellington). We each ordered a different dessert and got to sample each other's--excellent!
We always look forward to dining at Ka ' Ikena Laua'e. It's a great experience for both the students and us!