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About
Verna's Drive In
Welcome to Verna's Drive In, the culinary gem nestled in Hilo, Hawaii, at 1765 Kamehameha Ave. This drive-in establishment is not just a place to grab a bite; it’s a celebration of local flavors and a favorite among both locals and visitors. With a menu rich in diverse and mouth-watering options, Verna's promises a dining experience that resonates with the spirit of the islands.
At Verna's, the star of the show is undoubtedly their chicken plates. Whether you're in the mood for the incredibly popular Korean Chicken—cooked to perfection and smothered in luscious sauce—or the classic Fried Chicken served with wings and drums, each dish bursts with flavor. Other highlights include the Mushroom Chicken and Chicken Katsu, both available at wallet-friendly prices, ensuring you can savor every bite without breaking the bank.
The menu also features enticing choices for pork enthusiasts. The Kalua & Cabbage and BBQ Pulled Pork promise a savory journey, while the Lau Lau plates showcase the authentic taste of Hawaiian cuisine. For beef lovers, options like Teriyaki and Hamburger Steak provide satisfying solutions to any hunger pangs.
Customer reviews reflect the welcoming atmosphere and delectable food. One enthusiast noted the "best Korean chicken wings!" while another praised the local vibe that reminds them of iconic drive-ins like Rainbow's and Leeward. The warm, attentive service enhances the experience, topped off with the joy of outdoor dining under the covered picnic tables—a true taste of local life.
- Pros: Great value for money, ample parking, local favorite ambiance
- Must-try dishes: Korean Chicken, Mana Burger, Garlic Cheese Fries
- Experience: A casual walk-up ordering system with inviting outdoor seating
Each visit to Verna's reveals more hidden treasures, like the well-regarded corn chowder, perfectly seasoned and overflowing with sweet, tender corn. It’s no wonder diners return time and again, each plate offering both comfort and nostalgia.
If you're in Hilo, make Verna's Drive In your culinary destination. Here, the combination of tradition, flavor, and community spirit creates a delightful dining experience that captures the essence of Hawaii. Don’t forget to bring your appetite!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Best Korean Chicken wings! The wings were perfectly cooked and had the right amount of sauce! I would definitely order again. ”
“ Love the local vibe and great food from Vernas. It reminds me of Rainbows in Honolulu, but it has it's own style. A must stop, but be prepared for await behind all the locals. Plenty of parking and prices are great, cheap good food. ”
“ Delicious! Read a previous review that it reminded him/her of Rainbow's Drive In....maybe in the past, but now I'd compare Verna's to Leeward Drive In. This place was amazing. Great food options. Tried the corn chowder with a sandwich (tuna or grilled cheese). Tuna had lettuce and chopped onions. Great chowder, very well seasoned, lots of corn. Wish had more potatoes and/or bacon. The gravys on our two plates were flavored differently, but both were delicious ”
“ This is just what we hoped for. We can tell it’s a local favorite. Walk up to the window to order and take your food or sit there under covered picnic tables. The service was great and she helped us with questions happily. My husband ordered a combo plate with fried shrimp , teriyaki steak, chicken katsu that came with rice and macaroni salad. He is a professional chef and restaurant owner and said it’s the best Mac salad he’s had, the breading on the katsu chicken and shrimp was perfect and the teriyaki steak was cooked and flavored perfectly. I also had the katsu chicken and subbed the Mac salad for greens. The sauces were good and the rice was wonderful. Our daughter said her grilled cheese sandwich was the best she’s ever had and the spring rolls are very good. We all agreed that the French fries were good! I’m sure we will be back again. Check this place out! ”
“ Great value and big taste. Prices were more than reasonable and the food super tasty. Would definitely come back. Highly recommend the Mana burger. Or garlic cheese fries. Happy tummy. ”