Merlina's Kitchen — Restaurant in Oʻahu

Hole in the wall Filipino restaurant in Whitmore Village. Aesthetically it's not the cutest place but that's how you know there's gonna be some good, authentic, homemade food in there.

First time here even though I'm a Wahiawa native. They sell ala cart, by the plate, and platters. It looks like lots of people ordered ahead for platters which I will also do myself the next time. I went a couple hours before closing so the food didn't look fresh but we enjoyed it. Salty and savory food that hits the spot and wear something comfy cause it'll definitely be...

After reading the mixed reviews we decided to give it a try here. Not even worth it! Food was bland and old. The guisantes looked so good with the red bell peppers and peas! We get home and I had 1 slice of red pepper and barely any peas. Just all pork and no flavor at all… so disappointing. My bf got beef stew and roast pork, which was bland as well. We also got a tomato onion on the side. It had white fungus all over it! Old bland food. Do yourself a favor...

The only dish I liked was the Dinuguan, I've had better though. Both their Shanghai and Vegetable Lumpias had no filling. Maybe whoever was making the Lumpias that day didn't want to, lol. The Lechon was all fat, but crispy.

When I went, there were two homeless guys out front. Just walk by them, they won't bother you. I think the owner gives them breakfast.

The lady that took my order was nice and helpful. If you want a quick fix on some Filipino...