There was a time when this was my favorite place, but there are some things that haven’t hit the mark lately. Went for drinks and apps on Tuesday for the Happy Hour pricing
Kona style chicken wing sauce was good, but the skin wasn’t crispy at all. Limp skin is such a bummer; for aging people like me as well as on fried chicken wings!
Abalone-style calamari was excellent, but it came drenched in that lime-ginger cream sauce, which was like a hollandaise gone wrong. Ew. Slightly sweet and just too overpowering for the light calamari. Couldn’t even finish it. And the soy glaze? It came on the side; the way I wished the cream sauce had come. A light, tangy sauce would have complimented the dish much better.
Hawaiian ceviche had some great chunks of fish; tangy and slightly bitter. Quite refreshing, but best saved for a warm day-and it’s not like that in Santa Cruz tonight. Wish I’d gone for the poke instead.
Crispy coconut shrimp rolls were tasty on their own, but, ugh do I have to say it? The sauce, again yuck! Pineapple horseradish, really? Is that what it was? Again, too sweet and overpowering for the dish.
Vegetarian spring rolls were decent—nothing to write home about, and Korean chicken skewers were fine bland without the sauce, which was (need I say it?) overly sweet, of course.
Servers were nice and accommodating to requests on a fairly busy evening.
Food is really good and decently priced. Service was excellent. We went before a show at the catalyst down the street and ended up meeting the band Hollywood undead because they were eating next to us. 10/10 would recommend. Especially if you meet the headliner band to your show
Last time I went they didn't serve any sort of steamed veggies. It would be nice to see that as an option. Other than that great food!
This is a very fun, boisterous surfer's hangout. They have surf videos going full-time, and lots of fun memorabilia. The food is surprisingly good too, and they have an awesome full bar. Quite casual, but probably not suitable for kids.
Fun experience in downtown. You won't go hungry here. For one, this place rules the land for it's happy hour specials and tip top rate bar overseers Bo and Art. The best "surf porn" on the big screen and groovy music in the background round out the experience there. The table service is friendly and efficient.
Overall in the wheelhouse of preshow gathering for catalyst or fun dinner with friends or date.
We were so excited to eat here-- the reviews seemed consistently good, so we were surprised by the low quality appetizers and main courses we ordered. We won't be returning here and can't recommend it.
The coconut shrimp spring rolls were tiny and barely warm. My main course, the luau pulled pork, lacked flavor and was plated very unappealingly. My partners dish, the spicy pulled pork, was dry (although more flavorful).
The cocktails we had were ok: the one-eyed pirate had an odd taste but was drinkable. The waitstaff were very kind, but obviously rushed.
Overall, this restaurant needs to work on their flavor, and on how they plate (present) food.
I enjoy coming to Hula's everytime! Cocktail drinks are always well balanced.
Food is delicious
Server's are attentive!
Reasonable prices
Dog friendly!!!! A plus🌼
Great service, great drinks, and almost great food. The decor is spot on, with beautiful paintings in the tiki room. It's a wonderful place not to be missed.
Friendly hostess and waitresses. Yummy food. We visited during their happy hours:
Sun- Mon (4-6pm)
Wed-Sat (2-6pm)
Tue 2pm-10pm
They serve fusion dishes. They are very tasty!
Tuesday is the only day to come here. The drinks and apps become super affordable and complex worth it. Otherwise food is good but mega pricey.
Delicious food and great service. They also serve great cocktails. Great for groups or meeting friends.