Nov 18, 2022


Sushi is one of the quintessential elements of Japanese cuisine, and the Hawaiian Islands are not behind when it comes to great places to enjoy this delicious dish. Sitting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the archipelago is known for its fresh fish and the many excellent sushi places it has to offer. If you are exploring the Island of Hawaii and are craving some delicious sushi, here are three popular spots within driving distance from Kailua Kona, HI.

3 Sushi Places Worth the Drive Near Kailua Kona, HI

1. Kenichi Pacific

A calm spot offering fresh sushi and Asian-fusion dishes, Kenichi Pacific is located a little over six miles south of downtown Kailua Kona and can be reached in just 10 minutes by car via Kuakini Highway. Open Wednesday through Sunday between 4:30 pm and 9:00 pm, this place is a fantastic spot to have dinner with your family or a group of friends.

Known for its great service, friendly staff, and chill atmosphere, Kenichi Pacific offers delicious sushi and nigiri with ingredients including fresh salmon, yellowtail, tuna, octopus, squid, scallops, and mackerel. Other popular offerings available here include Japanese noodles, teriyaki plates, and specialty rolls. For dessert, make sure to try the delicious molten cake with chocolate and Tahitian vanilla bean ice cream.

2. Sansei

A trendy and vibrant Japanese place offering creative sushi rolls and delicious sashimi of fresh fish, Sansei is an increasingly popular restaurant among visitors and residents from all over the island. Open Thursday through Tuesday between 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm, this restaurant is located in Queen’s Marketplace and can be reached in just half an hour by car via route HI-19.

Offering both dine-in and takeaway, Sansei is a fantastic spot to try not only authentic Japanese sushi but also other less-known specialties. Some of the offerings you should try include the Nobu-style miso butterfish, the Japanese calamari salad, the sashimi trio with tuna, salmon, and yellowtail, and the crispy brussels sprouts with pickled jalapeno and pistachio nuts.

3. Fumi’s Kitchen

A modern Japanese and Korean restaurant offering traditional Asian dishes in a relaxed environment, Fumi’s Kitchen is located in the southern part of Kailua Kona and can be reached in less than five minutes via Kuakini Highway. This place is a great spot to try sushi rolls and sashimi plates with fresh salmon, yellowtail, salmon, and tuna. Fumi’s Kitchen is open every day of the week between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm.


Are you thinking of buying a new or used vehicle to explore the Island of Hawaii? We’ve got you covered! Visit us today at Tony Honda Kona, explore our inventory, and get to know the team of expert sales agents that will tell you all about our latest deals and convenient financing plans.

Image by Pavel PavelPasha from Pixabay

We use cookies and browser activity to improve your experience, personalize content and ads and analyze how our sites are used. For more information on how we collect and use this information, please review our Privacy Policy. California consumers may exercise their CCPA rights "here"

Accept