Filling up on local eats

K Special ($17). Kelli Shiroma photo

For ono grinds that are big on portion and flavor, Kau Kau Grill can’t be beat. The eatery is known for plate-lunch fare that’s easy to enjoy on the go.

Some of Kau Kau Grill’s most popular items include Barbecue Baby Back Ribs ($10) and Pulehu Beef Short Ribs ($10). Customers looking for more flavor and variety can opt for the Trust Us Special ($15), which comes with barbecue baby back ribs and garlic shrimp, or the Two-Choice Combo ($15).

Owner Miles Oyasato says Kau Kau is one of the few spots on the Island where customers can indulge in Pulehu Beef Short Ribs, but without the long drive to Hauula, which is among the few other places to get a pulehu dish. He also states that all of Kau Kau’s sauces are homemade, and the poke is always made from fresh fish.

Trust Us Special with Krazy Rice substitution ($16). A. Consillio photo

According to Oyasato, the Mapunapuna storefront is currently the sole Kau Kau Grill location. He encourages customers to call ahead for takeout.

Serving Something Special

The K Special ($17) at Kau Kau Grill includes two scoops of rice, tossed or mac salad (made with spaghetti noodles), barbecue baby back ribs and spicy ahi poke. Oyasato says K Special is named after one of their regular customers, Kalei, who suggested this combo because it featured her two favorite items and highlighted lots of great flavors. Kau Kau followed her suggestion and put it on the menu, and it’s been a top-seller ever since.