Sushi Hana — Restaurant in Hawaii

We found this great cozy, little restaurant last year while visiting Big Island. So happy we ate here...and came back a couple more times for lunch AND dinner! This year we're back and have already been there for lunch and dinner several times. We also booked the Saturday Omikase last year when we were here.

It's a two person (Etsuko and Sushi Chef Haruki) operation and everything is fresh, authentic and so tasty, so it takes a little time to come out.

They don't take reservations so you will more than likely have to wait to get a table. Just use the iPad to enter your reservation request and then you receive a text letting you know approximately how long your wait is for dinner. When your table is ready, you receive another text to come in to the restaurant. Because they literally cater to each group coming in for dinner, it takes time for preparation so please be patient!!

WARNING: If you come later you risk the chance of them running out of their daily fresh food. Once they're sold out of food, they close for the evening.

The ambience is fantastic. You can actually have a conversation with your dining party and not have to yell across the table over blaring loud music.

Our favourites are the Mixed Tempura Udon (broth is light and so tasty) and Laulea Chirashi. Every dish is artfully presented by Chef Haruki. This is a hidden gem but won't...

An Unparalleled Omakase Experience

Sushi Hana delivers an unforgettable journey into the world of authentic Japanese cuisine. The omakase experience at Sushi Hana is the epitome of culinary artistry, showcasing not only the freshest ingredients but also the chef’s passion and expertise.

The moment you step into Sushi Hana, you’re greeted with a warm, minimalist ambiance that sets the tone for the experience ahead.

Each course is a revelation. From the melt-in-your-mouth toro to delicately balanced uni, every piece of sushi highlights the impeccable quality of the ingredients. The chef’s dedication to traditional techniques and presentation is evident, with each bite offering a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The use of freshly grated wasabi, perfectly seasoned rice, and house-made soy sauce elevates every dish to a new level of authenticity.

What truly sets Sushi Hana apart is the personal touch. the attentive itamae-san (server) engages with diners throughout the meal, explaining the origins of the fish, the inspiration behind each creation, and the nuances of the preparation process. This interactive element enhances the experience, making it feel intimate and educational.

For those seeking a genuine taste of Japan, Sushi Hana’s omakase...

This place looks very unassuming in the Waimea Center and serves amazing Japanese feed. We've have had two dinners at Hana. A regular weeknight at the sushi bar from the menu and their very limited seating, Saturday night Omakase (chef's choice). In both cases the fish is very fresh, the sushi is extremely well prepared and we had excellent meals in great, local, intimate setting. For the regular menu weeknight meal - they have a good selection and the prices are reasonable for such good quality, fresh fish. The Omakase has no choice, you are served what the chef Haruki has ordered and prepared. All of it is very fresh and much of it is flown in from Japan that day. The Omakase has a maximum of six people in the restaurant and they serve many, small courses including single piece nigiri, sashimi, broths, cooked bites. It was very good, totally seasonal, some parts local like the seaweed, chisou leaf, abalone, etc. Amazing. The Omakase experience is very special and quite expensive and totally worth it. We'll keep going...