I had the absolute pleasure of dining at Kona Grill in Cherry Creek last night (March 18, 2025), and I can confidently say it was a 5-star experience from start to finish, thanks in large part to our phenomenal server, Brennan. Located in the heart of the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, this spot has always caught my eye with its sleek, modern vibe and promise of a diverse menu, but this visit truly exceeded every expectation.

From the moment we were seated, Brennan’s energy and attentiveness set the tone for an unforgettable evening. He greeted us with a warm, genuine smile that instantly made us feel welcomed, echoing what others have raved about when it comes to the staff here—like Julian, who one reviewer called “a barrel of joy,” or Roberto, dubbed “hands down the best waiter” by another. Brennan easily joins that elite crew. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, offering spot-on recommendations that catered perfectly to our tastes, all while keeping the pace of service seamless despite a bustling Tuesday night crowd.

We started with the Ribeye Meatballs, a dish I’d seen praised in reviews for being “delish,” and they did not disappoint—savory, tender, and bursting with flavor. Brennan suggested pairing them with the Patio Bubbles cocktail (mango vodka, prosecco, and a tart raspberry kick), which was a tropical revelation and a nod to another reviewer’s love for the creative drink menu. For my main, I went with the Macadamia Nut Chicken, a fan favorite that lived up to the hype—crisp, nutty, and served with green beans so perfectly sautéed they might just be, as one diner put it, “the best I’ve ever had.” My dining partner opted for the sushi, and the freshness of the fish in the Rainbow Roll was impeccable, reinforcing Kona’s reputation for top-tier sushi alongside its American grill classics.

What stood out most, though, was Brennan’s exceptional service. He checked in just enough to ensure we had everything we needed without ever hovering—striking that perfect balance that other reviewers have celebrated in servers like Erica and Holden. When I asked about dessert, he enthusiastically recommended the pound cake, which arrived warm, indulgent, and paired beautifully with our after-dinner drinks. His passion for making our meal special was palpable, and it elevated the entire experience.

The atmosphere was buzzing yet refined, with the outdoor patio heaters keeping things cozy as the evening cooled off—a detail I’d read about and was thrilled to experience firsthand. Sure, it got a little loud at times, as some have noted, but the lively vibe only added to the charm. The value was surprising too; with happy hour deals still lingering from earlier (those $3 gyozas and $6 rolls are a steal!), it felt like a treat without breaking the bank.

Kona Grill in Cherry Creek is a gem, and Brennan made it shine even brighter. This wasn’t just a meal—it was a masterclass in hospitality, flavor, and ambiance. I’m already counting the days until I can return, hopefully with Brennan at the helm again. If you’re in Denver, do yourself a favor and stop by—you won’t