ULU

ULU

⭐ 4.6/5 (466 reviews) 💰 $100+ per person Hawaiian restaurant

📍 72-100 Ka'upulehu Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 466 reviews
📍 Address
72-100 Ka'upulehu Drive
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$100+ per person
🍽️ Category
Hawaiian restaurant

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday5:30–10 pm
Tuesday5:30–10 pm
Wednesday5:30–10 pm
Thursday5:30–10 pm
Friday5:30–10 pm
Saturday5:30–10 pm
Sunday5:30–10 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, ULU is a vegan oasis that transports you to a world of tropical elegance. As you step through the doors, you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends modern Hawaiian design with an upscale, romantic ambiance. The spacious dining room is bathed in natural light, with high ceilings and large windows offering breathtaking views of the surrounding lush greenery.

The menu at ULU is a true celebration of plant-based cuisine, showcasing the vibrant flavors and diverse offerings of Hawaiian-inspired vegan dishes. From the mouthwatering Kalua Jackfruit Tacos to the indulgent Coconut Cream Pie, every item is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients is evident in the fresh, seasonal offerings that change regularly, ensuring a dynamic dining experience. Signature dishes like the Loco Moco and the Haupia Pancakes have garnered a loyal following, earning ULU a reputation as a must-visit destination for both vegans and those seeking a unique culinary adventure.

The exceptional service at ULU truly sets the restaurant apart, with a team of knowledgeable and attentive staff who are passionate about providing an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant's extensive wine list and creative cocktail menu further elevate the overall experience, making ULU a prime choice for special occasions, intimate gatherings, or a night of indulgence. With its commitment to sustainability, focus on flavor, and dedication to exceptional service, ULU offers a truly unparalleled vegan dining experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has assistive hearing loop Has wheelchair-accessible car park Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating Offers takeaway Serves dine-in No delivery On-site services not available
Highlights
Serves great cocktails Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for breakfast Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol Has all you can eat Serves beer Has braille menu Serves cocktails Serves coffee Serves comfort food Serves healthy options Serves late-night food Serves organic dishes Has private dining room Serves small plates Serves spirits Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast Serves brunch Serves dinner Has catering Has counter service Serves dessert Has seating Has table service
Amenities
Has bar on site Has toilet Has Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Romantic Trendy Upmarket
Crowd
Family friendly Good for groups LGBTQ+ friendly Popular with tourists Transgender safe space
Planning
Reservations required Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts cheques Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids Has changing table(s) High chairs available Has kids' menu
Parking
Free multi-storey car park Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Plenty of parking Valet parking
Pets
Dogs allowed Dogs allowed inside Dogs allowed outside

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into ULU, you're immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere that blends Hawaiian elegance with a contemporary, upscale ambiance. The restaurant's design is a harmonious fusion of natural elements and modern sophistication, with a palette of earthy tones, rich textures, and sleek accents that create a sense of refined comfort. The lighting is carefully curated, with a mix of subtle, ambient illumination and strategically placed spotlights that highlight the restaurant's captivating artwork and tropical-inspired decor, giving the space a cozy yet sophisticated vibe.

The seating arrangements at ULU are thoughtfully designed to cater to a range of dining experiences. From intimate tables for two nestled in cozy nooks to larger, communal-style seating perfect for groups, the layout encourages a sense of relaxation and conviviality. The outdoor terrace, with its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, offers a breathtaking backdrop for alfresco dining, creating a truly memorable ambiance that invites guests to unwind and savor the flavors of the Hawaiian cuisine.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free entrees and desserts made with alternative flours.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of fresh, uncooked vegan salads, smoothies, and veggie-based dishes.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free dressings, sauces, and protein sources for those with allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options like avocado toast and cauliflower rice dishes.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a serene and uncrowded dining experience, perfect for a tranquil midday meal and to savor the restaurant's renowned vegan Hawaiian cuisine.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in the restaurant's renowned brunch menu and relish the vibrant atmosphere with live music and a lively crowd.
  • Happy hour - Unwind with expertly crafted cocktails and small plates, taking advantage of the restaurant's impressive bar and stunning views of the Hawaiian landscape.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Vegan Hawaiian Cuisine - ULU offers an innovative vegan twist on traditional Hawaiian dishes, using locally sourced, organic ingredients to create a unique and flavorful dining experience.
  • Upscale Ambiance - With its elegant decor, romantic atmosphere, and stunning views of the Kona coastline, ULU provides a high-end dining experience that sets it apart from typical Hawaiian eateries.
  • Extensive Cocktail and Wine Menu - In addition to its vegan menu, ULU boasts an impressive selection of craft cocktails and an extensive wine list, catering to a discerning clientele.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

ULU restaurant is located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, a vibrant coastal town on the Big Island of Hawaii. The neighborhood is known for its laid-back, island-inspired vibe, with a mix of local shops, art galleries, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Nearby attractions include the historic Kailua Pier, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and the Hulihee Palace, a 19th-century vacation home of Hawaiian royalty that now serves as a museum.

ULU's clientele is a diverse mix of locals, tourists, and health-conscious diners seeking a unique dining experience. The restaurant's prime location, just steps away from the Kona waterfront, makes it a popular destination for both visitors and residents alike. The restaurant's commitment to serving high-quality, plant-based Hawaiian cuisine in an upscale, yet relaxed setting, sets it apart as a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly memorable dining experience in Kailua-Kona.

💬 Customer Reviews

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"This was a beautiful restaurant with top notch service. It’s right on the edge of the ocean with plenty of patio/ocean s..."

— Customer #1
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"Aloha Paige, Mahalo for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review! We appreciate … More"

— Customer #2
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"This dinner was absolutely amazing. We had the pleasure being served by Aaron and he was the best server I’ve ever had. ..."

— Customer #3
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"Aloha Avery, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review! We're … More"

— Customer #4
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"Our dinner was great! We unfortunately got stuck in some traffic block on the way there and we called and were very swee..."

— Customer #5