A classic local grindz hole-in-wall
With its tight space, “CASH ONLY” sign next to the register, and eclectic Sumo wrestling pictures hanging on the wall, Ethel’s Grill has the classic feel of a hole-in-the-wall. And like the best kind of hole-in-the-wall, the place is a local treasure and always packed. There’s something about the Kalihi neighborhood of Honolulu that creates great little eatery’s, you can find another great choice, Alicia’s Market, a few blocks away.
Serving only breakfast and lunch, you’ll have to get there early to enjoy Ethel’s cuisine (though there is no Ethel anymore, Ryoko and Yoichi Ishii are to thank for the eclectic flavors). It closes at 2pm, but you’ll want to get there before then as it’s always bustling.
As far as the menu goes, it’s eclectic and flowing. The specials written in marker on colorful pieces of paper and taped up to daily menu illustrate that. But the Asian-Hawaiian fusion fare is sure to be flavorful and unique.
One of the fan-favorite’s is the Tataki Sashimi, a dish of slightly seared Ahi served on a bed of bean sprouts and a with warabi fern shoots and garlic-infused sesame shoyu.
Another standard of the menu that might be a little outside of some diner’s usual palates is the Deep Fried Turkey Tails. Fried to a savory crisp and served with onion-vinegar dipping sauce, don’t knock it until you try it, as Ryoto and Yoichi’s son Robert says “The tail is the best part of the Turkey, by far.”
Ethel’s menu is always changing, but you can always try these mainstays..
Tataki Sashimi
Deep Fried Turkey Tails
Mochiko Chicken
There’s a small parking lot next to Ethel’s accessible from Kalihi St, but parking is pretty competitive, so if it’s full you’ll have to find street parking.