Da Kine's Hawaiian Catering

Nelson was so responsive and available at 1030a for my son's 1st bday party. The food was phenomenal. Everyone asked where we got it from. Literally some of the best hawaiin food we have had. It came on time, and piping hot. I would recommend any of the meats. My favorite was the teri beef and kalbi. I can't wait for our next party to order:)

Even though we aren’t related, I call him Uncle Nelson. My nephew was born and raised in Hawaii and any older male that is respected, is considered “Uncle”.

My actual Uncle introduced me to DaKine’s long ago, when located in Pacific Beach, I believe in the late 1990’s. My Uncle was a “foodie” and took my wife and I to many of his favorite restaurants.

I was very surprised when the restaurant showed up across the street from my business! I’ve been a regular ever since, except when I took an extended vacation, only to find them closed. On Google it states it as a “temporary” closing.

Nelson puts a lot into his food and it’s a very difficult business, trying to please everyone. I appreciate his work and for whatever the reason for a “temporary” closure…. I hope it is actually temporary, because I do enjoy his food and all that work there, plus Uncle Nelson’s creativity at trying to make something that has wide appeal, when there’s a quite a bit of competition out there!

COME BACK UNCLE NELSON…. And ANDREW!

The food is delicious with generous portions, friendly staff and nice atmosphere. Definitely going back to try the rest of the menu

Probably the best customer service I've ever received. Did a normal katsu plate and a couple of masubis. Portions were generous, pricing was understandable and for such a high traffic lot, parking was easy.

Will be back!

Delicious food with wonderful friendly staff. They catered Helix High School footfall dinners and everyone enjoyed the food. Will be returning and have catering done for future events.

It’s always nice to see Uncle Nelson at Da Kine’s Plate Lunches! I’ve been a loyal fan since the 1990s! Hands down the most authentic tastes of Hawaiian plate lunches outside of the islands! Sometimes Uncles Nelson will make desserts like Haupia (coconut cream custard that can cut like jello) and Hawaiian Butter Mochi! So delicious, so ono, and so special when he makes it! He’s got some new items so check them out when you can! Hope you get to try some especially the Katsu chicken sandwich stuffed with his one-of-a-kind macaroni salad! PLUS LOVE THE NEW PLACE, decor and overall feel! I recommend to dine-in! There’s even counter space like a diner! Aloha!

Excellent food. I had katsu chicken, moist inside and crunchy coating. Wife had teriyaki chicken she loved it.

I had a problem with my order and Andrew was very kind and accommodating. The chef also came out to chat with me. Thank you DaKines for caring about your customers, it is a lot of hard work and speaks volumes.

Absolutely delish. I used to go here numerous years ago when they were located on the beach & now they're inland. Close to home.

GREAT FOOD. Taste fresh & yummy. Owner is a great guy, been in business for more than 35 years and still great food flavors. Da Kine’s catered for me a small family event, everything awesome and everyone was pleased with the menu choices they provided. It’s a MUST TRY!
Thanks Da Kine’s for yummy meals today!

So glad that this place is back in business. The food remains delicious. The service with a smile was much appreciated. Although there really isn't a vibe inside, there is some music playing low.
I didn't come here for the vibe, though. I came here to support a local legend, Uncle Nelson, and his delicious plate lunch.

Will come back, again and again, because this is the BEST Hawaiian food in the county, IMO.

Just got food from them for the 1st time, and I'm so happy! It was soo good! Thank you so much!

It was ok but it lacked in seasoning. Everything was pretty bland and had to add my own to make it some what better. Not my favorite hawaiian place in San Diego but definitely not the worst either.

By far the best Hawaiian plate lunch place on the mainland. Nelson’s chicken katsu is top shelf!

Great food. The place is really clean and the customer service is friendly. I called in my order and they had it ready within 5 minutes.

What a hidden gem!
I have been doing better at expanding my tastes and and shall we say trust in where I dine.
I found this unassuming strip mall with a big banner welcoming patrons in Hawaiian. The mall looks old and not very busy but I had a feeling about this place and with new found sense of adventure, I went in for a bite. The person at the counter was extremely nice and helpful. I had no idea what to order and quite honestly I was unfamiliar with island food. I worried it would be too sweet. He recommended the noodle dish.
The price was fair considering the size, taste and quality of the ingredients.
The very first bite brought a smile to my taste buds and my face. Do taste buds smile? They would if they could! I would highly recommend this restaurant not only for the food but the people and relaxing atmosphere.
Five stars my regret? Not taking a photo of the dish I completely consumed.
Well done to the owners, management and staff.

I absolutely love everything I have tried here, but their kalua pork w/ cabbage and portuguese sausage musubi are my go to dishes. I used to go to their old spot in Linda Vista and eagerly awaited for this new store to open. Their staff are super friendly and helpful.

My husband & I usually frequent Hawaiian Homestyle restaurant on Point Loma /Midway Area. We truly love their authentic style Hawaiian food! Unfortunately for us, it’s a bit far from La Mesa. So when we learned that there was a Da Kines restaurant by our area! We were so excited! Especially because we used to visit his restaurant in the pacific beach & liberty station area which sadly closed… Must say his food was absolutely delicious back then!
Forward now, based on the most recent excellent reviews, decided of course! To give it a shot! We met the owner today. Super nice man! However those reviews should be re-examined! Sorry, but the food was awful! We ordered teriyaki beef and chicken. Came home and had to throw away most of it. So sorry for the owner, but I must be honest! I don’t know if you were the actual owner of the restaurant on liberty Station. But you’re food today is no comparison sir! I wish you good luck!