Bongo Ben’s Island Cafe

Reviews

• Kes F.

  star star star star star 12 September 2026

  We stopped by Bongo Ben's for a quick breakfast before our flight back home. Although we didn't spend too much time here, I can confidently say we had a great experience and no problems. There is a parking lot in the back with plenty of parking that extends far back. We were seated right away on the outdoor patio where we could people watch and take in the view (we don't get views like that in New Jersey). The service was excellent and prompt. I do believe the prices for our food could have been a little bit cheaper, though. We ordered the Lilikoi Mimosa, coffee, the Tropical Fruit Waffle, and the Loco Moco. I highly recommend the Tropical Fruit Waffle with the Coconut syrup instead of maple syrup! It tastes way better! My husband had the Loco Moco and inhaled it.
  
  If and when we come back to the Big Island, I would like to try more of their menu!

• Chris R.

  star star_border star_border star_border star_border 8 September 2026

  Very disappointed.
  
  Came for the famous egg Benedict, except they were out of  hollandaise sauce. They didn't take it off the menu or anything, they just waited until you ordered it to tell you.
  
  Got the grilled "fresh" catch which was ok. You can get better at any of the restaurants around this one.
  
  Got the "southern" sausage and gravy. Which was terrible. I'm pretty sure the chef has never had sausage and gravy before. It even looks sad and disappointing. Couldn't finish it.

• Martha A.

  star star star star star_border 1 September 2026

  Yes to casual, and yes to kids. Food was great too!
  
  I recommend the chicken teriyaki ... yummy!

• Tami M.

  star star star star star_border 28 August 2026

  Visited for breakfast. Staff seemed friendly. We ordered the bongos Benedict and the chorizo omelet. Food was good, nothing spectacular. Not a bad place to grab a bite if you're in the Kailua, Kona area but it's not a place I'd seek out.

• Daniel M.

  star star star star star_border 25 August 2026

  This casual eatery, located on the main thoroughfare in town, was welcoming and warm. Remember that this is on the islands, so the pace of service may be a little slower than the mainland, but Julie took great care of us.
  Stopped in for a late breakfast/brunch on a Sunday morning and enjoyed a great meal. I had the basic bongo which included two eggs, a protein of your choice, a side, and bread. I ordered the Portuguese sausage and upgraded my side to fried rice. I ordered their homemade sourdough toast as my bread. My companion ordered the same with different options including a pancake as the bread choice. More on that later.
  I wasn't familiar with Portuguese sausage so I was pleasantly surprised by the savory and slightly spicy taste. Sliced pieces a little larger than a silver dollar were lightly grilled.
  I probably wouldn't order the fried rice again as it was a little mushy for my taste. I prefer it to be less of a clump and lighter in texture.
  The eggs were cooked as ordered.
  Now to the pancake... holy cow was it good! They had a choice of coconut or maple syrup, but we stuck with the more traditional maple. It was thick, but light and airy and had a hint of chew in the bite. Delish! And there was no upcharge for that option!
  Glad we found this spot. Will definitely check it out again!