Welcome to Yong's Kal-Bi
Yong's Kal-Bi in Waimea, Hawaii, offers a unique fusion of Hawaiian and Korean cuisine. Known for their flavorful Kalbi (BBQ Short Ribs) and marinated meats like Meat Jun, Bulkoki, and Spicy Pork, this restaurant is a must-visit for meat lovers. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make dining here a pleasant experience. With options for vegetarians, seafood lovers, and even vegan choices, Yong's Kal-Bi caters to a diverse range of palates. Don't miss out on their Chicken Katsu and Seafood Pancake – they are absolute delights. Overall, Yong's Kal-Bi promises a fulfilling dining experience with its delicious dishes and warm hospitality.
-
65-1158 Mamalahoa Hwy Ste 4 Waimea, HI 96743 Hotline: (808) 885-8440
Yong's Kal-Bi is a Hawaiian-Korean restaurant located in Waimea, Hawaii, that offers a unique fusion of flavors and dishes. Known for their marinated meats and seafood, this restaurant has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The menu features a variety of options, from traditional Kalbi (BBQ Short Ribs) to Chicken Katsu and Spicy Squid Stir-fry.
One standout dish is the Meat Jun, pan-fried marinated beef in egg batter, which offers a tasty and satisfying combination of flavors. Another must-try is the Seafood Pancake, a pancake made with shrimp, fish, squid, and scallions served with a shoyu-vinegar sauce.
Yong's Kal-Bi also caters to dietary preferences, with vegan and vegetarian options available. The restaurant provides a casual and friendly atmosphere, perfect for both small gatherings and larger groups. The staff is accommodating and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Overall, Yong's Kal-Bi offers a delicious and diverse menu with something for everyone. Whether you're craving traditional Korean barbecue or exploring new flavors, this restaurant is worth a visit. Don't be discouraged by the wait – the food is well worth it, as many satisfied customers can attest to.
Closed Sundays and Mondays! This place is definitely worth the wait. Listen.... There is a long wait to get your food. Listen again... lol don't make stink about the wait once you get it it's definitely worth the wait. Okay. Remember there is a long wait for the food. But it's worth it loll Oh by the way did I mention there is a long wait for the food but it's worth it?
Amazing food and very clean. The owner and workers are very accommodating and very friendly...amazing experience. I will return for lunch or dinner. I highly recommend bringing family and friends.
This has been a regular stop whenever we visit Big Island. Well worth the drive up from Waikoloa Beach Resort area!! I always have the Bi Bim Bop. So good!! My wife also raves about the fried chicken!! You order your food, sit down at a table and wait for your food to be delivered to your table. Because you bus your own table after, it really helps keep the cost down of the food.
I went to Yong's last night for a take out order. Last time I was there was during Covid, but since I was back in the area, I had to stop. I got my food and when I got to my room to eat, I was pleasantly surprised to find a container of radish Kim chee!!! I noticed all of the kimchee they had and I wanted to get a container, but I was only in town for the night. The owner was super sweet and hooked me up! Mahalo! Now I can't wait to be back in Waimea, so I can stop in again and get da best food!!!
It was 10 of us so we got a lot of food. Double what's pictured. It wasn't so bad, but we probably would only go back for the wings. Most of the food needed a tad bit of flavor.
Great food choices. The server was polite and attentive when I asked about the different selections. The location and space was clean and convenient.
Another review by BAM. HOOOOO! This as the locals say Da Kine Grindz! Come here. Say hi to Libby. She's so nice! Serious. Order at front register. Ask for their special - all kinds of meats. Plate serving soooo big. We had to split! Favs: Teri chicken, Korean short ribs (tender- brah, tender!) Fav side dishes included with your order: bean sprouts, legit kimchee, seaweed salad. Everything so good. Reminds us of our time is S.F., growing up going to Han's Hibachi in J-Town. Good, good Korean. You want Korean style soup. This is the joint. Lots of wonderful families, keiki and aunties and uncles there all enjoying big plates, good food and even some Christian background tunes. A must stop when in Waimea.
Another recommendation from one of the locals. We were looking for some local cuisine and one of the staff at our hotel told us about this place. After driving thru some pretty winding roads at night to get to this restaurant in Waimea, we arrived to find this restaurant in a strip mall. The food did not disappoint! I ordered kalbi and my husband ordered spicy pork. We had a choice of several sides, and I got the macaroni salad and jap Jae for each of us. Portions were filling and everything we ordered was great. The only thing was there were no restrooms in the restaurant. After driving for 45 minutes, I was desperately looking for one. I was directed to one in the middle of the mall by another customer. Thankfully! The restaurant had a lot of regulars who stopped in to pick up take orders. The food was delicious and worth the drive. If we go back, I'd probably want to go a little earlier in the daylight.
In California, we're spoiled with delicious Korean food and so many Korean restaurants I would say, if you are in mood of Korean food like California then visit this location. Food portion is massive and pricing is reasonable. You have to order the food and then take a seat. My kids wanted chicken and rice and they were fully satisfied and content with the taste. Especially, my picky son has tough time trying new restaurant but this place meets my six year old's expectation. I loved their spicy shrimp stir-fry and the side dishes. My daughter liked the glass noodles and fish cakes. Those were delicious. I would totally recommend this restaurant and come back again.