Cafe 100 in Hilo, Hawaii: A Legacy of Local Flavor and Comfort Food

Tucked along Kilauea Avenue in the heart of Hilo, Hawaii, Cafe 100 is more than just a restaurant—it’s a local institution. Serving the Hilo community since 1946, this no-frills, walk-up eatery has garnered a reputation for delivering fast, affordable, and satisfying Hawaiian comfort food. With deep local roots, a loyal following, and a menu that boasts over 30 varieties of the famed Loco Moco, Cafe 100 has earned its place as a beloved staple of Big Island cuisine.

History and Origins

Cafe 100 was founded shortly after World War II and has operated continuously since 1946. Its longevity speaks volumes about its role in the community. The name “Cafe 100” honors the 100th Infantry Battalion—a unit composed of Japanese-American soldiers who fought valiantly during the war. This sense of cultural pride and resilience is embedded into the very fabric of the restaurant’s identity. Over the decades, Cafe 100 has stayed true to its original vision: to serve generous portions of home-style food at prices locals can afford.

Today, it remains one of the most recognizable eateries in Hilo, drawing crowds not only for its culinary offerings but also for its authentic old-Hilo charm.

The Legendary Loco Moco

Cafe 100 is perhaps best known for popularizing, and in many ways originating, the iconic Hawaiian dish known as the Loco Moco. While the exact origins of the Loco Moco are debated, Cafe 100 has embraced the dish as its signature specialty and offers over 30 unique variations.

At its most basic, a Loco Moco consists of a scoop of rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. But Cafe 100 has expanded on this idea in imaginative ways, offering versions with Portuguese sausage, Spam, kalua pork, fried chicken, chili, and more. From the classic to the unexpected, there’s a Loco Moco for every taste.

Customer reviews reflect the enduring appeal of this dish. Visitors praise the hearty portions and the quality of the ingredients, noting that even double-patty Loco Mocos manage to avoid being overly greasy or heavy. The gravy, a vital component, is consistently described as rich, flavorful, and just the right texture.

The Loco Moco at Cafe 100 has become a culinary rite of passage for Big Island visitors and a nostalgic comfort food for residents.

More Than Just Loco Moco

While the Loco Moco is undoubtedly the star, the menu at Cafe 100 extends far beyond a single dish. The eatery also serves a wide variety of classic Hawaiian plate lunches, including beef stew plates, Korean fried chicken, and chicken katsu. The mahi sandwich, made with two fresh pieces of mahi-mahi, stands out as another local favorite, praised for its freshness and portion size.

Another standout dish is the Island Girl Plate, which features tender flank steak paired with lightly battered shrimp. These dishes are rounded out by comforting sides like mac salad, rice, French fries, and sweet pastries.

In addition to savory plates, Cafe 100 also offers traditional Hawaiian treats such as turnovers and drinks like Hawaiian fruit punch. One specialty that has received notable attention in reviews is the cascaron, a Filipino-style donut ball that’s crispy on the outside and soft, mochi-like on the inside. For many, enjoying a serving of cascaron alongside a hearty Loco Moco evokes warm memories of family gatherings and cultural traditions.

Atmosphere and Setting

Cafe 100 is intentionally simple. The restaurant operates in a walk-up format with no indoor seating. Customers order their food at the counter and either take it to-go or enjoy it at the open-air, covered picnic tables adjacent to the building. However, during certain periods—especially at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—those tables have been closed, prompting many customers to eat in their cars or nearby parks.

The modest setup is part of the charm. Visitors are not drawn to Cafe 100 for décor or ambiance but for food that satisfies and prices that make sense. There’s a nostalgic quality to the experience that aligns perfectly with Hilo’s laid-back, old-town vibe.

The restaurant’s popularity often means a short wait, especially during lunch hours. Reviews mention a typical wait time of 15 to 20 minutes, particularly during busy seasons or peak midday hours. Despite this, the service is widely regarded as fast and friendly, with staff handling high volumes efficiently and courteously.

Hours and Accessibility

Cafe 100 is located at 969 Kilauea Avenue in Hilo. Operating hours vary slightly depending on the source, but according to the most recent and consistent data:

• Monday to Friday: Open from either 9:30 AM or 11:00 AM to 6:00 or 7:00 PM
• Saturday and Sunday: Generally closed, although some sources indicate limited hours on Sundays

The restaurant accepts cash and major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. Parking is available both on the street and in designated areas nearby.

It’s worth noting that the restaurant does not have a public restroom, which has been a minor point of frustration for some patrons. However, most understand this limitation and plan accordingly.

Customer Perspectives

Cafe 100 consistently earns positive reviews across platforms like Tripadvisor, local guides, and blogs, ranking among Hilo’s top spots for quick, affordable meals. Frequently described as a “local favorite,” it’s praised for its hearty, delicious food and authentic Big Island flavor.

While some mention long waits, smaller portions, or modest amenities, most agree that the generous comfort food and welcoming service outweigh any drawbacks. Highlights include the rich yet light double Loco Moco and nostalgic treats like cascaron. Even when seating is limited, many find the food well worth the effort.

A Cultural Mainstay in Hilo

Cafe 100’s story is as much about community as it is about cuisine. In a town like Hilo—known for its authenticity, resilience, and history—this restaurant feels like a natural extension of the culture. It serves construction workers and college students, grandparents and tourists, all under the same humble roof. It offers a taste of Hawaii that is as accessible as it is memorable.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking for an iconic dish or a longtime resident seeking a nostalgic meal, Cafe 100 delivers. With its enduring commitment to affordability, flavor, and fast service, it continues to uphold its reputation as a culinary cornerstone on the Big Island.

Conclusion

In the world of fast-casual dining, especially on an island as culturally rich as Hawaii, few places achieve what Cafe 100 has. It captures the essence of local food: humble, hearty, and unpretentious. It respects tradition while offering variety, and it feeds the community with the kind of care that only decades of service can cultivate.

From its legendary Loco Moco to its bustling walk-up counter, Cafe 100 is not just a place to eat—it’s a place to experience a slice of Hilo’s soul. Visitors would be remiss to pass through without stopping, even briefly, to taste what generations of locals already know by heart.

Cafe 100 is not flashy, but it is unforgettable. And on an island filled with wonders, that is no small accomplishment.