New Kahala in Carbondale, Illinois, offers a vibrant dining experience inspired by Hawaiian flavors and island culture. This restaurant combines traditional Hawaiian dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to deliver a unique culinary adventure.
The menu is thoughtfully crafted to include a variety of options that cater to diverse tastes—from seafood lovers to vegetarians and those seeking hearty, flavorful meals. Whether you’re dining in or ordering takeout, the New Kahala menu promises bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Appetizers
Start your meal with a selection of appetizers that capture the essence of Hawaiian street food and classic island snacks. These small plates are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own as a flavorful introduction to the meal.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Spam Musubi | Grilled Spam on sushi rice with nori wrap, lightly brushed with teriyaki sauce. | $5.50 |
| Kalua Pork Sliders | Slow-cooked shredded pork served on mini buns with pineapple slaw and a tangy BBQ sauce. | $8.00 |
| Huli Huli Chicken Wings | Chicken wings marinated in sweet and smoky huli huli sauce, grilled to perfection. | $9.50 |
| Edamame with Sea Salt | Steamed young soybeans tossed in Hawaiian sea salt, a light and healthy starter. | $4.00 |
| Poke Nachos | Corn chips topped with fresh ahi poke, avocado, seaweed salad, and spicy mayo. | $12.00 |
“The Kalua Pork Sliders are an absolute must-try — tender, smoky, and bursting with island flavors!”
Main Courses
The main courses at New Kahala showcase a fusion of traditional Hawaiian recipes and contemporary culinary techniques. Each dish reflects the vibrant tastes of the islands, enhanced by fresh produce and expert preparation.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian BBQ Plate | Choice of Kalua Pork, Teriyaki Chicken, or Mahi Mahi, served with rice, macaroni salad, and steamed vegetables. | $16.00 |
| Ahi Poke Bowl | Fresh diced ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and seaweed, served over sushi rice with avocado and cucumber. | $18.50 |
| Loco Moco | A classic Hawaiian comfort dish with a hamburger patty, fried egg, brown gravy, and white rice. | $14.00 |
| Vegetarian Tofu Stir Fry | Tofu cubes sautéed with mixed island vegetables and teriyaki glaze, served with steamed jasmine rice. | $13.00 |
| Grilled Mahi Mahi | Fresh mahi mahi fillet grilled with lemon butter sauce, served with coconut rice and sautéed greens. | $20.00 |
Signature Dishes
Hawaiian BBQ Plate offers the perfect sampler for first-time visitors to the menu. Selecting from three main proteins, diners get a hearty portion accompanied by classic Hawaiian sides.
Ahi Poke Bowl is a highlight for seafood enthusiasts and health-conscious diners alike. The fresh ahi tuna is sustainably sourced, ensuring quality and flavor with every bite.
“The Loco Moco here is the perfect blend of comfort and island tradition — hearty and satisfying.”
Sandwiches & Wraps
For those looking for a lighter or more casual meal, New Kahala offers a variety of sandwiches and wraps. Each option is crafted with fresh ingredients and island-inspired flavors to provide a satisfying yet convenient choice.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kalua Pork Sandwich | Slow-roasted Kalua pork topped with pineapple slaw on a fresh Hawaiian roll. | $11.00 |
| Teriyaki Chicken Wrap | Grilled teriyaki chicken, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber wrapped in a spinach tortilla. | $10.50 |
| Veggie Wrap | Mixed island greens, avocado, shredded carrot, and tofu with a light sesame dressing. | $9.00 |
| Fish Tacos | Three soft tacos filled with grilled mahi mahi, cabbage slaw, and a spicy aioli. | $13.50 |
Salads
Freshness is key in New Kahala’s salad offerings. Each salad combines crisp greens with island-inspired ingredients, perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish.
| Salad | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pineapple Chicken Salad | Grilled chicken breast, fresh pineapple chunks, mixed greens, macadamia nuts, and island vinaigrette. | $12.50 |
| Ahi Tuna Salad | Seared ahi tuna slices atop mixed greens with avocado, cucumber, and sesame seeds. | $15.00 |
| Garden Island Salad | Seasonal mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, shredded carrot, cucumber, and a light citrus dressing. | $9.50 |
Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note with traditional Hawaiian-inspired desserts. New Kahala’s dessert menu balances tropical flavors with classic favorites.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Haupia | Classic Hawaiian coconut pudding topped with toasted coconut flakes. | $6.00 |
| Macadamia Nut Cheesecake | Rich cheesecake with macadamia nut crust and a drizzle of tropical fruit sauce. | $7.50 |
| Passion Fruit Sorbet | Refreshing passion fruit sorbet served with fresh berries. | $5.00 |
Beverages
Complement your meal with a selection from New Kahala’s beverage menu. Whether you prefer tropical juices, specialty coffees, or classic soft drinks, there’s something for everyone.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pineapple Juice | Freshly pressed pineapple juice, sweet and tangy. | $3.50 |
| Hawaiian Iced Coffee | Cold brew coffee with a touch of coconut milk and vanilla syrup. | $4.50 |
| Island Breeze Smoothie | Blend of mango, pineapple, banana, and coconut milk. | $6.00 |
| Soda | Variety of classic soft drinks available. | $2.50 |
Special Notes About the Menu
Seasonality and Freshness: New Kahala emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, often sourcing locally when possible. This commitment to quality ensures that each dish is vibrant and flavorful.
Customization Options: Many dishes can be customized to accommodate dietary preferences such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan. Guests are encouraged to communicate their needs to the staff for the best experience.
Family-Friendly Options: The menu includes several dishes suitable for children and picky eaters, making New Kahala a welcoming choice for families.
“The fresh, authentic flavors transported me straight to the islands. The friendly staff and vibrant menu make New Kahala a standout in Carbondale.”
About New Kahala Carbondale IL
New Kahala is a gem nestled in the heart of Carbondale, Illinois. Known for its warm hospitality and authentic Hawaiian atmosphere, the restaurant has quickly become a local favorite.
The decor features island-inspired artwork and natural wood accents, creating a relaxing environment that complements the food.
The management team focuses on bringing a slice of Hawaii to the Midwest through their menu and cultural touches. Regular customers appreciate the consistent quality and the way the menu balances tradition with innovation.
Community Engagement
New Kahala participates actively in local events, supporting farmers’ markets and community festivals. The restaurant often hosts Hawaiian-themed nights, complete with live music and hula performances, enhancing the dining experience and fostering a sense of community.
Ordering and Delivery Options
New Kahala offers multiple ways to enjoy their menu. Guests can dine in to experience the full ambiance or opt for takeout and delivery for convenience.
Online Ordering: The restaurant’s website and mobile app enable customers to browse the full menu, customize orders, and schedule pick-up or delivery times.
Delivery Services: Partnering with popular delivery platforms, New Kahala ensures that island flavors reach customers across Carbondale quickly and safely.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customers consistently praise New Kahala for its authentic tastes, generous portions, and friendly service. Many highlight the quality of the seafood dishes and the unique flavors of the sauces and marinades.
“Every visit to New Kahala is a delight. The Poke Bowl is possibly the best I’ve had outside of Hawaii, with fresh fish and perfect seasoning.”
Constructive feedback has led to continuous improvements in menu variety and accommodating dietary preferences, demonstrating the restaurant’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
Summary
The New Kahala Carbondale IL menu offers a diverse selection of Hawaiian-inspired dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and cultural authenticity. From appetizers like Spam Musubi to hearty main courses such as the Hawaiian BBQ Plate and delicate desserts like Haupia, the menu is designed to delight every palate.
Coupled with a welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and community involvement, New Kahala represents a unique dining destination in Carbondale. Whether visiting for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, guests are sure to enjoy a memorable taste of the islands.
