Nestled in the heart of Kailua, Times Kailua offers a dining experience that perfectly blends local flavors with innovative culinary techniques. The restaurant’s menu is a celebration of Hawaiian ingredients, fresh seafood, and vibrant, colorful dishes that capture the spirit of the islands.
Whether you’re a visitor seeking an authentic taste of Hawaii or a local looking for a reliable spot to indulge, Times Kailua’s menu caters to a variety of palates with its thoughtfully curated offerings.
From hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners, the menu is designed to showcase quality, freshness, and creativity in every bite.
What truly sets Times Kailua apart is its commitment to sourcing the freshest local produce and sustainable seafood. The chefs here understand the importance of balancing traditional Hawaiian recipes with contemporary culinary trends, creating dishes that are both comforting and exciting.
The atmosphere complements the food perfectly—casual, welcoming, and infused with aloha spirit, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Exploring the Times Kailua menu reveals layers of rich flavor profiles and diverse options, from vegan-friendly plates to indulgent seafood feasts. Detailed descriptions accompany each dish, helping diners make informed choices and enhancing the overall dining experience.
This menu is not just a list of dishes; it’s an invitation to savor the essence of Kailua with each carefully prepared plate.
Breakfast Delights
The breakfast offerings at Times Kailua are crafted to energize and delight, capturing the island’s morning vibes with fresh, vibrant ingredients. This section of the menu highlights a variety of options that range from traditional Hawaiian breakfasts to modern twists on classics.
Start your day with a plate of Loco Moco, a beloved Hawaiian staple featuring a juicy hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and smothered in rich brown gravy, served over steamed rice. The dish is hearty and satisfying, perfect for those looking to fuel up for a day of adventure.
For lighter options, the menu includes fresh fruit bowls and acai smoothies that emphasize health and freshness.
Eggs Benedict made with local smoked salmon or Portuguese sausage provide a sophisticated touch to the morning meal. The hollandaise sauce is made in-house, lending a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the perfectly poached eggs.
Popular Breakfast Choices
- Loco Moco: Hamburger patty, fried egg, gravy, steamed rice
- Acai Bowl: Blended acai with granola, fresh berries, honey drizzle
- Portuguese Sausage & Eggs: Served with home fries and toast
- Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict: Local salmon, poached eggs, hollandaise sauce
“Breakfast at Times Kailua is a true taste of the islands, satisfying both hunger and soul,” says longtime local diner, Kimo Kahele.
Fresh Seafood Specialties
Given its coastal location, Times Kailua excels in seafood dishes that highlight the ocean’s bounty. The seafood section of the menu is extensive, featuring everything from poke bowls to grilled catch of the day.
The poke bowls are a standout, with options that include ahi tuna, salmon, and octopus, each marinated in a variety of flavorful sauces. These bowls come adorned with fresh seaweed, avocado, and crunchy macadamia nuts for added texture.
The seafood is sustainably sourced, ensuring not only freshness but also ecological responsibility.
For those preferring cooked dishes, the grilled mahi-mahi with tropical fruit salsa is a vibrant choice. The fish is perfectly seared, flaky, and moist, complemented by the sweet and tangy salsa, which infuses the dish with a burst of tropical flavors.
Seafood Menu Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Ahi Poke Bowl | Raw ahi tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed | Umami-rich, fresh, slightly nutty |
| Grilled Mahi-Mahi | Mahi-mahi, tropical fruit salsa, herbs | Light, citrusy, sweet, and savory |
| Octopus Salad | Boiled octopus, lemon, olive oil, greens | Briny, tangy, herbaceous |
“The seafood here is always fresh and beautifully prepared, a testament to the chef’s dedication to quality,” remarks food critic Lani Kealoha.
Local Hawaiian Flavors
Times Kailua’s menu honors traditional Hawaiian cuisine by incorporating native ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. This section is a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of the islands.
Kalua pork, slow-cooked in an underground oven, is featured as a tender, smoky dish that pairs wonderfully with taro or poi. The menu also offers a range of sides such as laulau—pork wrapped in taro leaves—and haupia, a coconut milk-based dessert that perfectly caps off any meal.
Each dish is crafted with care to maintain authenticity while ensuring it appeals to contemporary tastes. The use of fresh, local produce like sweet Maui onions and ulu (breadfruit) provides an earthy balance to the robust flavors of the meat and fish.
Signature Hawaiian Dishes
- Kalua Pork: Slow-roasted pork with smoky flavors
- Laulau: Pork and fish wrapped in taro leaves
- Haupia: Traditional coconut milk pudding
- Poi: Mashed taro root, a Hawaiian staple
“Celebrating Hawaiian tradition through food is at the heart of what Times Kailua does best,” shares Chef Malia Nakoa.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing the growing demand for plant-based meals, Times Kailua offers a thoughtful selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options emphasize fresh, wholesome ingredients without compromising on flavor or presentation.
The vegan tofu scramble, infused with turmeric and served alongside roasted vegetables, is a popular breakfast choice. The menu also features a hearty quinoa salad with tropical fruits and nuts, balancing protein and fiber with natural sweetness.
Vegetarian entrées often highlight local greens and fresh produce, seasoned with traditional Hawaiian spices and herbs. The dishes are designed to appeal not only to vegetarians and vegans but also to anyone looking for a lighter, nutrient-packed meal.
Plant-Based Menu Options
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Dietary Notes |
| Vegan Tofu Scramble | Tofu, turmeric, bell peppers, onions | Vegan, gluten-free |
| Quinoa Tropical Salad | Quinoa, mango, macadamia nuts, greens | Vegetarian, vegan-friendly |
| Grilled Vegetable Plate | Zucchini, eggplant, peppers, local herbs | Vegetarian, vegan |
“It’s refreshing to see a menu that respects both the planet and the palate,” notes vegan blogger Kea Lani.
Signature Cocktails and Beverages
Complementing the culinary offerings, Times Kailua boasts a creative drinks menu that features tropical cocktails, fresh juices, and local brews. The beverage selection is designed to enhance the dining experience, with flavors that echo the island’s natural bounty.
Signature cocktails like the Mai Tai and Lava Flow are crafted using local rum and fresh fruit juices, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, the fresh pineapple ginger cooler and hibiscus iced tea provide refreshing alternatives.
Each drink is carefully prepared by skilled bartenders who understand the nuances of mixing island-inspired flavors. The beverage menu also includes a curated list of wines and craft beers to suit every preference.
Popular Drink Choices
- Mai Tai: Local rum, lime, orgeat syrup, orange liqueur
- Lava Flow: Pineapple, coconut cream, strawberry
- Pineapple Ginger Cooler: Fresh pineapple juice, ginger, soda
- Hibiscus Iced Tea: Tangy, floral, caffeine-free
“The cocktails here capture the essence of aloha in a glass,” says local mixologist Hana Pomaika’i.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Times Kailua’s dessert menu offers a delightful conclusion to any meal, featuring both traditional Hawaiian sweets and modern interpretations of classic desserts. The focus remains on fresh, local ingredients and balanced flavors.
Haupia pie is a standout, combining the creamy texture of coconut pudding with a flaky crust. Another favorite is the macadamia nut cheesecake, which pairs rich creaminess with the crunch of toasted nuts.
Seasonal fruit sorbets provide a light, refreshing finish that cleanses the palate.
The dessert selection is perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, and each dish is presented with an eye for detail and elegance. Whether you prefer rich indulgences or lighter sweets, the menu offers something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Dessert Favorites
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Flavor Notes |
| Haupia Pie | Coconut milk, sugar, flaky crust | Creamy, coconutty, mildly sweet |
| Macadamia Nut Cheesecake | Cream cheese, macadamia nuts, graham crust | Rich, nutty, buttery |
| Seasonal Fruit Sorbet | Fresh local fruits, sugar, lemon juice | Light, refreshing, fruity |
“Desserts at Times Kailua are the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation,” notes pastry chef Kealoha Moku.
Seasonal and Chef’s Specials
Times Kailua prides itself on adapting its menu to reflect the changing seasons and the availability of fresh, local ingredients. The chef’s specials section is where creativity shines, offering unique dishes that are available for a limited time.
These specials often include rare fish varieties, seasonal vegetables, or inventive takes on Hawaiian classics. This section is a favorite among regular patrons, who enjoy trying new flavors and combinations that showcase the chef’s artistic vision.
Rotating specials keep the menu dynamic and exciting, encouraging diners to return frequently and discover new favorites. These dishes are often paired with curated beverage options to enhance the overall experience.
Examples of Recent Chef’s Specials
- Grilled Opah with Mango Salsa: A vibrant dish with tropical sweetness and smoky char
- Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Handmade gnocchi with a light coconut cream sauce
- Huli Huli Chicken Tacos: Traditional Hawaiian chicken with a modern taco twist
- Passion Fruit Panna Cotta: A delicate, creamy dessert with a tangy fruit finish
“Our specials reflect the best of what Hawaii has to offer, crafted with passion and precision,” shares Executive Chef Kainoa Wai.
Times Kailua’s menu is more than just a selection of dishes; it is a culinary journey through the heart of Hawaiian culture and cuisine. Offering a diverse array of options from breakfast to dessert, the menu caters to every taste and dietary preference with authenticity and creativity.
The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and sustainable sourcing ensures that every dish not only tastes exceptional but also supports the island’s ecosystem and economy.
Whether you’re drawn to the bold flavors of traditional Hawaiian fare, the delicate balance of fresh seafood, or the innovative plant-based creations, Times Kailua delivers an experience that is both memorable and satisfying.
The thoughtfully crafted beverages and desserts further enhance the dining experience, rounding out a well-balanced and harmonious meal.
Visiting Times Kailua means immersing yourself in the spirit of aloha through food—each plate tells a story of place, culture, and passion. For those seeking a restaurant that celebrates the best of Kailua’s culinary scene, the menu here offers a perfect blend of comfort, sophistication, and island charm.
Every visit promises new discoveries and timeless favorites, making Times Kailua a true gem in Hawaii’s vibrant food landscape.
