4. Restaurants

Govinda’s Vegetarian Buffet

51 Coelho Way, Honolulu, HI, 96817
  • (808) 595-4913
  • Store is closed

Govinda’s Vegetarian Buffet Menu

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.

  • John C.

    THERE HAVE BEEN AN INCREASE, TO $13! BUT I"M STILL MORE THAN WILLING TO PAY FOR THAT. Yes, it's that good. To be honest, I think they're still losing money even they charged at this increased rate. They actually don't even care for making a profit...just look at their operating hours. I'm a 100% meat lover and I have came back to this place so many times and introduced so many of my friends to this place. One of a kind hidden gem in Hawaii, I actually want to give this place negative stars to ward off the crowds and keep it to myself.......maybe I should...

    (5)

  • Celina Q.

    In the middle of a quiet residential neighborhood, Govinda's is located in the Hari Krishna temple. Buffet lunches during weekdays with the popular lasagna on Wednesdays. Please be respectful and remove your shoes upon entrance. Many activities may be going on. Prayer, Chants and traditional dance were some we stumbled upon. My most recent visit was for Dine Out with the Vegetarian Society of Hawaii, check them out at yelp.com/biz/vegetarian-… Great food at a great price in my book! TIPS: Parking can be tough if you are here for an event as street is limited. They have a gorgeous outdoor seating area if you choose to eat outside.

    (4)

  • Lyla D.

    "Real Men Don't Eat Quiche" - Bruce Feirstein, American Author I heard my husband mutter that phrase when I mentioned that I wanted to return to Govinda's on Thursday. Fortunately, he said it in jest because I have made quiches before but never vegetable-based. Being omnivores, it's pretty obvious that we don't have any dietary restrictions and our tastebuds run the gamut through ethnic groups. Govinda's is a great value ($13 pp) for a vegetarian AYCE lunch that leans toward Indian/Pakistani flavors. They only operate their buffet M-F during lunch hours, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Their main entrée and sides change daily. There are no alcoholic beverages as this little gem is also an active temple for Krishna devotees. For beverages, they serve an iced ginger-mint lemonade or filtered water. Quiche Thursday featured a big (hotel) pan of tofu-based quiche that was filled with chopped spinach and cheese with a pastry-like crust. Also on the buffet line was tasty, thick, stick-to-your-ribs potato curry, Indian lentil dhal, almond-cranberry halawah, fresh baked bread rolls and tossed greens. We arrived around 1:00 PM and apparently, there must have been a crowd ahead of us as the pan of quiche was nearly empty. It was a sunny, hot day so we decided to dine outdoors (which by the way is NOT my favorite). We sat under the beautiful sprawling banyan tree while cool Nu'uanu breezes blew through the backyard of this temple. We did hear some chanting from the temple but it was sort of relaxing to us. If you're in the lower Nu'uanu area and have the desire to eat good and tasty Indian/Pakistani vegetarian cuisine, you should come to check out this hidden gem at 51 Coelho Way. It's a peaceful lunchtime treat that is just minutes away from busy Downtown Honolulu. #361

    (4)

  • Brennah L.

    We've been here a few different times and I absolutely love it every time. The food is hot and the menu changes daily. Each day there is a new main dish. I'm only off on Mondays so that's the only day I've eaten on. You can't go wrong for $10 for unlimited amount of amazingly cooked food. I'm not even vegetarian and I love this place like crazy! The dessert is so good, halva I believe it's called, and I could eat two scoops of that deliciousness! ;) The people there are always so nice and friendly. It really makes the difference between a good meal and a great one! The banyan trees in the backyard are so beautiful and relaxing. There are also some friendly cats back there :) It's the best!!!!!

    (5)

  • Gspot H.

    Healthy Spiritual Place. Food is good 4 U. Donations accepted, no cost 4 meals.

    (5)

  • Jada C.

    This place features a good array of vegetarian food. Fresh, and delicious this place offers steam vegetables, spaghetti and kofta on Mondays, salad, black olives, green peppers, raw shaved carrots and other legumes. On the left side of the wall, the proprietors hang a menu list for everyday. Goods include lasagna, quiche, and enchiladas. What a delight to include food from the mainland! As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised that a temple offered such food! This place obviously has a following. During business hours, people stream in for lunch. I hear some customers say they came here before and loved it. Outside of the restaurant, there is a little gift shop. They gift shop sells dresses, goddess statutes, books, booklets, and jewelry. People often go out to the patio. In the back you see this HUGE banyan tree. As time passed, it aged and it probably can tell you stories.

    (4)

  • Victoria A.

    In an attempt to go vegetarian / pescatarian this year I bookmarked a bunch of places that had vegetarian options. I took fellow Yelper Nimai W.'s recommendations to make this a must stop and eat at place (check his reviews out - pretty awesome and so on point!). First off, if you've tried switching your diet to go this route - vegetarian home cooking is painstakingly hard - not unattainable but just difficult if you're not creative or ambitious enough to make tasty veggie meals. If I could cook like Govinda....I'd never leave home but fact of the matter is, I'm sometimes lazy and look for that quick fix of an instant go-to meal with a punch - like that from Govinda's. Fellow fave Yelper Christa B. and I went here for the first time last week and I was wowed by the simplicity of the place. It's in a residential area (if you're driving and wondering, "am I in the right place?" you probably are) in Nuuanu. The actual restaurant is in a Hari Krishna temple / home and the custom is to remove your shoes before entering. Not a big deal, however I sure wish I had some footwear on when I went to the bathroom. So if you're opposed to that, use the bathroom elsewhere before coming here or simply hold it. The buffet is a small spread with daily specials posted for the week. Today's special was spaghetti with veggie kofta balls. Unfortunately none of the food was "labeled" and I was having a little bit of fear factor. I merely took a really tiny serving onto my plate to taste before loading it up (that way I don't waste any food if I didn't like it). The kofta was good but it wasn't anything familiar to me and although I didn't know what it was made of...it was good. The curry was also tasty too with cauliflower being the only recognizable veggie (for me) in there. Lentils were ok but just not a preference (vegetarian or not - just not a fan of it). I'm up for trying new things and I was super happy knowing that my lunch date hadn't gone there too. We dined in the huge garden behind the restaurant/house in the shade of a huge banyan tree. It was breezy enough and quite enjoyable. Kids were swinging away on a tree swing while we lunched away. There was a ginger drink that was bit too potent for my liking but also water and punch available. I'd definitely go back on a different day just to try out the rest of the daily specials.

    (4)

  • Tuco A.

    Not a Vegetarian ,but I Love their Lasagne. Gives you a good feeling to know you're eating Healthy even if it's for only a couple of days a month !

    (5)

  • K C.

    I had absolutely no idea this was a vegetarian buffet, however, I was impressed with the simplicity and tastefulness of the Indian cuisine. I particularly liked the dish with garbanzo beans, cauliflower and diced potatoes. Furthermore the option to sit outside in the large garden shaded by a giant banyan tree is extremely restful and helps one keep that reverie of mindfulness. There was also some chanting and incense wafting in the air so this added to the experience, transforming it into a small lunchtime getaway.

    (4)

  • Ilene B.

    This place is wonderful on all levels...spiritually included. Serene and green. We went on spaghetti day but also had an amazing green salad with the works steamed veggies and potatoes. Love the ginger infused drink. Definitely have to try it at least once. Menu is the same throughout the week so be sure to go on a day u like what they are serving!

    (5)

  • Angela Y.

    Wow, this place is excellent! Its become my new favourite place for brunch. Keep in mind it is only vegetarian food so if you are a meat lover, give it a try anyway because you will be amazed. Hidden away in Nuuanu, the kitchen is located in the Hare Krishna temple. While you're waiting, visit the inside where the prayer room is located because there are interesting statues and paintings! Please be sure to remove your shoes and bring a small offering (flowers, petals, coins, dollar bills) which is required when visiting the rooms. They serve different main courses every day of the week. Being we arrived on a Monday, it was spaghetti day. There is also lasagna, quiche (YUM), nutloaf, and enchilada days. There was salad, different sauces to choose from, chips, yellow rice, curried potatoes, assorted veggies, and my favourite, their chopped up potatoes which have a crunchy skin but soft inside. There is water, but the juice they have tastes like cayenne pepper with lemonade, good for cleansing your body :) There's a nice garden with separate chairs and tables for privacy. Its a peaceful place to have a book to read and eat at the same time. The grass is really soft and the atmosphere gives off a calm yet energetic vibe.p There's also a cat who likes to roam around the garden and keep you company. The buffet is $10/person so it's totally worth the price being you can go back for seconds (or thirds). My favourite days to come here is on Mondays and wednesdays. Spaghetti and lasagna. Thursday's is quiche which is a must try.

    (5)

  • Alina S.

    I never tried vegetarian food before but their food look delicious. So why not give it a try? You need to take off your shoes before going inside since this is a temple. Service was very friendly and made you feel like family. You can choose to eat inside or outside. For me, I prefer to eat my food indoors. The place was pretty packed when we arrived and now I understood why. They serve different food every day. Today, their main course was spaghetti and kofta but they also had other vegetarian food. Never leave this place without trying the ginger-mint lemonade. It tasted very refreshing after all that food I ate. After eating, take a walk around the place. The place was very beautiful and peaceful that I'll never forget. I will come back when I'm around the area.

    (4)

  • Dean A.

    The food is very special so it's very delicious .Its prashadam.. Food offered & enjoyed by The Supreme Personality Of GodHead Sri Krsna & Srimati Radharani.Its transcendental.....The Temple is a very special place and the grounds are very sacred also.I strongly encourage people of every background to come ., take & enjoy this wonderful place.The book store has lots of great spiritual paraphernalia to enjoy. I invite everyone to buy a book or a cd to learn about this great Krsna Consciousness movement that is occurring now.Come here - take these very nice foodstuffs- learn & chant KrsnaÅ› Holy names & you will be happy. It is guaranteed.

    (5)

  • Robin M.

    Love love love this place!!! I only went once because we needed a car to get there from Waikiki, but if it had been closer, I would have gone every day! +1: The woman who greeted us and rang us up was so super friendly and helpful and nice! +1: The only item in the buffet that wasn't vegan was this weird jelly thing that I would have passed up anyway. +1: All-you-can-eat vegan buffet??? Seriously??? Even San Francisco doesn't have that. +1: The backyard is gorgeous!!! There are picnic tables to sit at. Don't sit on the grass unless you're immune to ant bites (which I unfortunately am not, and therefore got to come with some unwanted souvenirs). +1: The backyard also has a swing hanging from one of the banyan trees that could support my weight. Bonus: I'm not sure if this is a good or bad thing, depending who you are, there are cats that roam around the backyard and come and say hi to you while you eat.

    (5)

  • Nora C.

    Delicious east-west vegetarian (dairy in a few dishes) all-you-can-eat buffet with a few Indian-influenced dishes. Love their fresh salad and homemade dressings, dahl, lentil soup, ginger-mint drink, garbanzo "meatballs" on Mondays. Prices in 2015 bumped up to $13 ($12 per person if EACH of you show your Vegetarian Society card; additional charge if you use a credit card). The ambiance is special: Located in a quiet residential area in town (Nuuanu/Liliha); the sounds and incense aroma wafting from the temple across from the café at noon immediately take you to India. Dine inside or in the back yard near the towering banyan tree. It's a treat for the senses. Entree Mondays: Garbanzo "meatball" spaghetti Tuesdays: Nutloaf Wednesdays: Lasagna Thursdays: Tofu quiche Fridays: Enchiladas

    (4)

  • Jenn Y.

    This place is tuck away in Liliha/Nuuanu area. Not much parking. The buffet is part of Iskcon-Hawaii, Temple. Take your shoes off when you come in. I felt awkward at first. Came here with my sister and found seating under the banyan tree. Very relaxing and tranquil out here. The food is good. Wish it was labeled. All tasted very good. My favorite is the halva dessert and the mint-ginger tea.

    (4)

  • S D.

    Love that it's a $10 buffet and have a beautiful outdoor area. Was bummed because I went on the day they had quiche, I think I would've liked it better on lasagna day. I'll try another day. They didn't refill what was empty. But I liked the citrus drink they provided.

    (3)

  • Mitchell T.

    So excited to find this place...have been wanting to try it for months and made it this week. The cauliflower curry tasty and the dressings for the salad we re refreshing. Will be back soon for sure.

    (5)

  • Anuhea P.

    I suffer from a disease. Treatment tends to get expensive so I don't get it as often as I need it. Maybe you've heard of it? Maybe you suffer from it too? Yup, I have Wanderlust. I can tell my symptoms are getting bad when the only channel I watch is the travel channel, when I'm poring over articles of my travel magazines, and drooling over pictures of exotic and foreign locales on pinterest. Luckily I have found a place I can go to curb my wanderlust itch for only $10 and I don't even need to leave the island. Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet. Govinda's is such an exotic, out-of-the-ordinary experience for me living in Hawaii. Located in an old Nu'uanu mansion is a Hare Krishna temple serving the most delicious and spiritually refreshing food on the island. You can tell just by stepping in the door that this will not be your average dining experience, because not only are shoes not required, you are expected to leave them at the door (like any local household- but not restaurant!). Entering the house you are greeted by Hindu art and the sounds of Indian music coming from the gift shop where you pay ($10 for all you can eat). I came at about 1pm on a Wednesday and the buffet had 8 choices of hot items and a salad station. Some of the food (fried cauliflower and lasagna) was running low but it was quickly replaced. I loaded my plate with salad, saffron rice, dal (lentil soup), mild veggie curry, fried cauliflower, steamed veggies, and of course the lasagna. Poured myself a cup of the fresh ginger lemonade and my mother and I went outside to sit beneath the massive banyan tree. The surreal experience continued as we ate, as each bite brought exotic spices, flavors and delicious new tastes into my mouth. There was no dish I did not love (my mom thought the lasagna was a little spicy). The garden/yard area was so serene and soothing and feeling the grass between my toes as I ate was great. We even had a little friend (black and white cat) visit us and share some love. After I finished my plate I went back for the dessert of halva. I had never had it before and it was like a sweet polenta textured pudding flavored with cinnamon and cardamom with raisins and coconut. It was so delicious! I ate my fill but did not feel overly stuffed, just satisfied, and my mother and I walked through the gift shop looking at jewelry and skirts and sari type clothing. I had such a great time here I felt so removed from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu and got a great dose of culture and spirituality I was not familiar with. It almost felt like I was experiencing part of an ashram type lifestyle, the gardens would be perfect for meditation and quiet reading. I picked up a Krishna brochure on my way out to try and learn more about this interesting culture, so different from my own religious beliefs, and as a bald Krishna devotee sitting on the stairs said goodbye to us, I knew it wouldn't be long before I would be back to satiate the urges of my wanderlust disease.

    (5)

  • Cami K.

    Been here for spaghetti Mondays and lasagna Wednesdays and both were awesome. You definitely don't feel like you're eating vegetarian food. The restaurant is located in the Hare Krishna temple so you can hear them doing their prayers, so I would suggest sitting outside if you're with a bunch of friends and want to socialize because you can feel kind of loud if sitting inside since it's so quiet. It's not a problem though, because outside is beautiful. There's huge banyan trees that you can swing on and just the ambiance of outside is relaxing. I definitely want to go back and try enchilada Fridays but as of now, spaghetti Mondays are my absolute favorite. Can't wait to return.

    (4)

  • Roxy W.

    Location/Parking: This buffet is located in Liliha in a residential area off Wyllie street. It is located inside of a temple. The parking area is small but will fit around 10 cars. Food: I use to eat their food during my college days a UH Manoa at their UH location. I loved the food then and it still is just as great. The buffet is small but enough to get you full. I don't usually know what I'm eating from Govinda but I know everything I eat is good. I had their salad, chips, rice. curry, nutloaf and the dessert. The curry was my favorite part of the meal. Delicious. The nutloaf was interesting yet tasty. There were sprouts you can visibly see in a meat loaf looking dish. The dessert was awesome! It's the best part of the meal and I don't even know the name of it. The mint tea was very popular at their UH location so I was excited that it was included in the buffet. I was a little disappointed that at 1pm there was no bread or potatoes and the dishes that were running low were never refilled. The dressing I wanted was gone as well. I believed they closed at 2pm or 2:30pm and there was a handful of customers after we came in. I bet they were disappointed as well. Ambiance: The garden outside is a lovely place to have lunch. My daughter ran around the garden while we relaxed and enjoyed the food. The indoor eating area seemed stuffy to me. Don't forget to take your shoes off before you enter the temple. I still would recommend this place to people but I would tell them to come when they first open. They should have everything available including the dishes I wanted to try.

    (3)

  • Wendell L.

    We use to eat here several times a month, but after they raised the price from $10 to $13 we haven't been back. Paper plates, plastic forks, paper cups and self service - $26 for two for lunch ?? I just had vegetarian lunch with my wife and daughter today in Moilili served paper plates, paper cups and plastic forks for $19 ( for three ). Granted the food was different and it wasn't a buffet, but it was good. Bottom line Govinda's has good food but a little pricey. Wendell

    (3)

  • Clay Y.

    Would have never found this place, good that I caught a ride, it's in a residential neighborhood, $10.00 for a vegetarian buffet. They need to label their food. Thursday special is quiche, tasty, good salad, 3 dressings but not labeled, the one I chose was pretty good, The chips great, a little oily and a touch of spice to it. potatoes were seasoned with curry, There was a purple dish, on the sweet side, like a dessert. served with water and lemonade. no air conditioning, you can eat in or out in their large back yard. Open Mon- Friday, 11:00-2:00 closed weekends...

    (3)

  • Norm G.

    If I were a rich man (in money, that is; I'm already rich in being blessed with a loving family), I would hire a chef who would prepare vegetarian meals for me, three times a day. I do prepare vegetarian meals at times, but my skills are nowhere near the talent that turns out the food here at Govinda's. There is great "karma-free" food to be had here, and the folks who prepare it are friendly. My family and I came here for lunch one day recently, and even my kids liked the vegetarian food. At the time, the all-you-can eat buffet was $10. The Krishna temple is set in a big, old house with a banyan tree in the backyard.

    (5)

  • Chelsea A.

    Terrific getaway for lunch! $10 gets you an all you can eat DELICIOUS vegetarian lunch in a peaceful outdoor setting. Well, I guess you could sit indoors but it's hot and there's a beautiful, shady grassy lawn out back with tables too so why would you? Anyway, check your shoes at the front door and head in towards the back left. You'll see a cashier and a tiny shop I've never managed to really check out because I always bee line for the food. Once you've paid, grab a tray and some amazingly refreshing tea. Start with a fresh salad or head for the stirfry, or curry, or rice, or lentils, or potatoes (oh man those potatoes are seriously my crack snack. I could eat my weight in them) or quiche or whatever other delicious sampling they're serving up that day. Usually I'll just bring a blanket to spread out on the lawn to let my daughter play while we eat but there is ample seating as well. Seriously, it doesn't get better than Govinda's.

    (5)

  • Amanda Z.

    Super love the $10 lunch buffet at Govinda's! My two favorite parts are the ginger/mint/lemonade drink, and the dessert! What is in the dessert? I'm not sure, but it's mighty tasty. Kind of like a not so greasy version of butter mochi but with texture and yummy stuff. Everything else has been really good - soup, curry, potatoes, chips, rice, salad with yummy dressings. Once you grab your food, head outside and sit under the banyan tree - such a peaceful space! Monday - spaghetti Tuesday - nutloaf Wednesday - lasagna Thursday - quiche Friday - enchiladas

    (5)

  • John C.

    Amazingly peaceful place for lunch & relaxation. Directions can be a challenge so plan a little time to find...

    (5)

  • Kuli O.

    For $13 and a wonderful spiritual atmosphere how can you go wrong. The menu is posted on their website so no surprises. The ginger drink alone is worth the $13. I also like to look at the statue of their not-so-handsome guru. The back yard is really relaxing and filled with the krishnas and their cute kids. Totall recommend this gem.

    (5)

  • Ay C.

    $10 buffet is very good deal. I love their mint drink! Everyone is very nice and peaceful. I recommend to eat outside under a huge tree! The tree gives us great energy and I love sitting and feel nice breeze*^^* They accept credit card for food and clothes.

    (5)

  • Ram D.

    This is not a typical indian food. The food is vegetarian and a mix of flavors. As this is a temple, one must remove their shoes off to show respect to god. They have a beautiful banyan tree in the back. They had some Mexican rice and some lasagna and salad, and mixed vegetables. The only things that were indian was the daal and the prasadam. The lettuce in the salad tasted like a warhead without the sweet part and the food was cold and did not feel fresh. Lastly, around the buffet, it was not clean which is a DISrespectful to god considering that the restaurant is located in a temple. Around god, you should be clean. There were food scraps everywhere on the buffet table. Overall , I would not recommend this restaurant for someone expecting a tasty indian food.

    (3)

  • Donna A.

    Awesome and delicious vegetarian food! Peaceful and beautiful surroundings. Very friendly and inviting. A joyful experience every visit !

    (5)

  • Julia S.

    My definition of fine dining is currently having a peaceful lunch under a big banyan tree surrounded by fresh air and bugs. Three review updates, you probably think i'm crazy. But I am just in love. Govinda's is my go to for cheap, delicious food. No it's not a three star Michelin restaurant, and neither is it really a restaurant. It's a temple with a small buffet line up of food you pay $10 dollars for. Either all you can eat style, or get a to go container that you fill up once for the same price. Open 11-2pm. With Sunday feasts that are free at 5:30pm. But they require dancing! They also do catering. Yay. What I love is the purpose of them having the food available to the public. As Hare Krishna, giving the body proper nutrition is essential. Without a healthy body, you cannot have healthy thoughts and be strong in the mind. It's a part of their practice to make sure no one goes hungry. They are not making profit from their buffet to buy new cars and new Louis Vuitton bags, but instead to take care of the temple and us. Us meaning the people devouring their yummy food, to create more the next day and the next. I appreciate this place with my heart. I am no devotee, but I respect the practices of ISKCON, and am grateful for them keeping prices low on their food. It is divine to taste all the spices in their curry (you can see black pepper, oregano, and other herbs and spices) , pureness of their vegetarian lasagna, and meatyness of their meatballs (which have no meat by the way). They offer a limited selection (usually consisting of salad, steamed cauliflower/veggies, lasagna, bread, halva, soup, rice, curry) , but how can you be picky when they are obviously not a typical eatery? If you judge them based on traits a fully functioning restaurant has, go away. GO AWAY. This place should be loved by many, and is disliked by the people who do not appreciate it.

    (5)

  • Jennie P.

    This is my first ever Yelp review. I have had lunch at their lunch truck at UH and they are really good. Just moved to Nuuanu and it's awesome that my house is a block away from here! Its Wednesday so its lasagna day!! I'm not a vegetarian, but my boyfriend is. This is a great place for us meat eaters to have a diverse appetite. Will have to come back next week to sit out side under the banyan tree. Too bad it was raining when I got there.

    (5)

  • Ashu C.

    Great vegetarian restaurant inside the ISKCON mandir. The prasadam buffet was good and the environment was great. Such a beautiful area with a banyan tree in the back. The pineapple halwa was awesome!

    (4)

  • Dabushman D.

    As the eight incarnation of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism . Krishna or Lord Krishna for his followers has a dedicated temple right here in our island. Located in the Nuuanu foothills . Solemnly tucked away in an oasis of mature banyan/ficus grove. Aptly named Govinda's which also was the popular nickname of Lord Krishna when he was a young cow herder. This vegetarian smorgasbord is wonderful cornucopia of freshness . Let me just say that the ambience here is so relaxing and anxiety free, you'll notice any stress you are experiencing will dissipate totally. Yes, you will feel happy and satisfied. So,what are you waiting for????

    (5)

  • Tiffany L.

    The food is awesome they have hot food, cold food and great dessert! All-you-can-eat for 10 bucks you can't beat that! Did I mention it comes with a drink.

    (5)

  • Anoop G.

    This is your standard Govinda's buffet. Lacto vegetarian with no onions and garlic. It's only open for lunch from 11-2 on weekdays which made it very hard to eat here during the week that I was there but I made it a priority and finally got there on Friday. The temple grounds are beautiful and there's a huge banyan tree. The buffet is pretty standard. A nice touch was sweetened ginger lemon juice that was included. I didn't care much for the lasagna but everything else was awesome and left there stuffed and satisfied and wishing I could get that kind of food everyday. You have to take your shoes off to get to the buffet area.

    (5)

  • Citizen D.

    Super love the vegetarian food here. The environment is so peaceful and the people are very nice. I will come here to eat everyday, as the vegetarian buffet is fantastic!

    (5)

  • Tasha N.

    It was a beautiful location. The food wasn't my taste but the culture was felt throughout. Very nice. Cute gift store. Be sure to eat outside in the back by the giant trees.

    (3)

  • A. Y.

    The food is delicious and the ambiance is charming (especially the friendly cats)! Just wish they were opened for dinner and/or on the weekends, especially since I live within walking distance. Looks like I'll be lunching at Govinda's on every Federal holiday!

    (5)

  • Zene B.

    Haute buffet? Of course not. But. I think the food here captures 50% of why I'm a vegetarian. It's because there is a whole, wide world of non-dead animals to eat. In a word, variety. This place does just that. I ate unfamiliar things that had unique flavours and spices -all of them quite good. Now, insofar as the Hare Krishna thing, it's a bit odd but no one bothers you at all. I wouldn't worry about being thrown in the back of that beat up van out front of the place and being reprogrammed. On the other hand, if unlike me, you have a magnetic personality, that might happen. I really dunno.

    (5)

  • Shayna K.

    WHY oh WHY have I not eaten here until now?! It is totally up my alley in terms of a truly authentic cultural experience, fully vegetarian buffet and incredible nature-loving ambience. Love it. I would never have known it was here, hidden in the quiet Pu'unui neighborhood, looking like a private property (which I guess it is...) Reasons this place is awesome: 1. You take off your shoes at the door 2. The staff is super kind and friendly 3. It's only $10 for all-you-can-eat (there was nobody at the register when we got there, so the guy actually said just leave your $ there or you can pay later--I guess honor systems aren't a thing of the past!) 4. It's like the down-to-earth hot food bar, except you can keep coming back and you don't have to weigh anything! 5. The cool ginger drink is refreshing and delightful! 6. You can choose to eat inside or outside. Outside is a beautiful backyard with grass and a huge tree, tables and chairs...very serene setting. Great for quiet conversation, or if you have kids. Inside is like a cafeteria but very quiet. The whole scene is as if eating is a form of meditation. 7. You can hear bells in the background that remind you you're in a Hare Krishna temple. It's interesting. It's different. It reminds you that you have just participated in someone else's culture. You have visited a community of people that are set a part--it's an honor that they would open up their kitchen and backyard to us, and that they would show us such hospitality. I think I'm going to be a regular here. Thank you to my sister-in-law for bringing me here. She's awesome, too. :)

    (5)

  • G. L.

    $10 delicious vegetarian food, great variety, peaceful and relaxing outdoor seating. Made my Monday afternoon

    (5)

  • C O.

    Simply fantastic vegetarian food. When Govinda's was on the UH Manoa campus they were the highlight of the sustainability courtyard food scene. Govinda's can be counted on to turn out delicious, healthy, and wholesome lasagna, kofta, enchiladas, chili, veggie burgers, and samosas every day! I wish they were closer to work---I'd go every day.

    (4)

  • Olga K.

    Definitely one of the most unique dining experiences you would ever have. Situated inside a Buddhist temple. The food is simply divine, the best $10 spent!!! You should eat in the garden under the branches of the banian tree!

    (5)

  • Lynvi S.

    So my friend Gary N. was trying to sell me on this barefoot vegetarian buffet at the Hare Krishna Temple in Nuuanu. Healthy and delicious? Sure! The chef at Govinda's, John, is really nice. He gave us a brief tour of the temple and spoke with us for a bit. He explained that he only uses fresh organic produce and the food is prepared each morning. Leftovers from the buffet are given to the homeless rather than saved and reheated for the next day, which was really cool to hear. John said the menu changes daily, and he's hoping to add some Asian peanut sauce dishes soon. Nifty. As for the food - Honestly, I don't know what everything was called. I couldn't even identify some of the dishes, but everything was really good! Salad - OMG, I loved the all different salad dressings! I'm not sure what some of them were, but I just put them on my salad and ate it like a happy fat panda. The cilantro one was my favorite; I would go back just for that. Lasagna - Wow. I never would have imagined that I'd enjoy lasagna with tofu, spinach, zucchini, and lots of ricotta cheese, but it was wonderful! Surprisingly, it was really hefty and filling. I was pretty full after eating one piece. Beware. Mashed Potatoes - Nice! I only had a tiny bit but it was smooth and creamy. Cauliflower Curry (?) and Turmeric Rice - Seriously, the lasagna took me down, so I only tried a tiny bite-sized bit of both, and they were good. Soup - I think it was lentil soup? It had a nice spicy kick. Well, whatever kind of soup it was, it was yummy. It would give Covenant Books and Coffee a good run for its money. Dessert - Once again, I really don't know what this was. John explained it to us but I forgot the name. It was some kind of warm fruit dish. The texture reminded me of polenta, but tasted like sweet apples and cinnamon. Ginger Lemonade - Made with fresh cane juice! It was on the sweeter side and you can really taste the spice from the ginger. I mixed mine with a bit of water and it was just right for me. For $10, lunch was a great deal. I barely finished a plateful of food and a small cup of soup and I was full. Gary had a heaping first plate, went for seconds, then thirds, and then another cup of soup with rice. Unfair. I noticed most of the other diners were lean and thin. So does vegetarianism = skinny? Hmm, now I'm curious... Yikes, this place was so hard to find. I suggest driving slowly, since the street sign for Burbank is hard to see and it's a tight turn, and look for the green sign on Coelho Street. They have about a dozen stalls for parking, and the temple grounds are lovely. Oh, and the Yelp link to Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet and Menu is wrong - it's for a restaurant of the same name in Eugene, OR.

    (4)

  • Katie B.

    Interesting experience and I should have read more reviews before going, I was expecting a vegetarian Indian buffet. Therefore the enchiladas were a surprise. But the cashier was helpful and friendly. I made my plate and ate outside. It was nice and relaxing. On my way out a random stranger told me to get ahold of his manager if I want to meet with him, so that was odd. I'm guessing there was some sort of event and he thought I had been part of it. Ha! You only live once, this was a fun new thing to try :-)

    (4)

  • Nimai W.

    Eat to live or live to eat? Who says it has to be black and white? I've got fresh stitches in my hand, so I'm typing this with eight fingers and pain meds. So what are we waiting for? This'll be fun! Govinda's is food for the body and soul. This is one of my very favorite places to eat, no doubt about it. That's just based on the food. Add the reasonable price and the overall experience, it's tough to beat. Quiz time. I will answer your questions by asking you questions. 1. Govinda's is located at a Hare Krishna temple, therefore you are expected to removed your: A. shoes before entering. B. shirt, because they do not have AC. C. stick from your rear end. D. A and C. 2. It is $10 all you can eat, buffet style! You can also fill a to-go container for $10. That's what I usually do since it's easily enough for two meals. Wow, that's totally ______! A. All of the below. B. Mathematical! C. Geometrical! D. Awesome! 3. You can eat free here if you are a super hero. A. False, but if you really were, then probably true. B. True. C. False. (Just false). 4. The food here is vegetarian. That means: A. No meat is used! But it's still very hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. B. It comes from the region of Vegeter. C. This was pointless. But the answer is A. If you are freaking out right now because you are getting all A's and that never happens, guess what? Boom. It just happened. So basically, I needed to update my last review to say, this place continues to be amazing. First timers take note! When you're on your way there, driving down Wiley St., go slow! The right turn onto Burbank St. really sneaks up on you. Once on Burbank, it's smooth sailing. Random stuff... If you like good incense, they sell little packs of maybe a dozen sticks for $1. They also have some cookbooks and tons of other Hare Krishna stuff - I guess you could call it. You'd do well to wonder out into the back yard, maybe have your meal out there if it's a nice day. If you're curious and you have to time, you can even ask to see the temple. I'm not a Hare Krishna, but it's still interesting and beautiful. Okay that's it. I don't blame you if you report this review to be totally useless.

    (5)

  • Nelson Q.

    Mahalo Val for hosting a great UYE that I would have never known about if it wasn't for Yelp. Being born and raised on Oahu, I knew of a Hari Krishna Temple in Nu'uanu, but I didn't know that they also had a vegetarian buffet open to the public! So we came out for Val's Govinda UYE. You could either pay $7.50 for one trip to the buffet or $10 for AYCE, and the refreshing Ginger-Mint Tea was bottomless-SWEET! We got to Feast on the following: Full Salad Bar with an assortment with vinaigrettes (which also ended up on my favorite Bob Marley shirt, thanks to the krishna guy with the glasses-AAAAAH!!!) Gluten Free Rolls Strawberry Halvah Lentil Soup Cauliflower Curry Vegetarian Lasagna Oven Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Veggies It was also great meeting other Honolulu yeeps, eating, chatting, and later, being enlightened by words of wisdom and song by the staff out in the backyard in what may be the BIGGEST banyan tree I've ever seen. Mahalo once again Val, and thank you for the goodie bag of "superfoods" and information you provided!....ALOHA!!! YELP 365 CHALLENGE-(45/365) "The Purification"

    (4)

  • vanny j.

    The food is tasty but what really makes this place special is the atmosphere. Located in a Hare Krishna temple in the middle of a beautiful residential neighborhood, this place is quite literally a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city. There is a beautiful banyan tree in the spacious back yard (almost more like a small park), where there are also tables where you can sit and enjoy your meal. They wont stop you from bringing in your own beach mat/picnic blanket and sitting in the grass to eat either! Everything is vegetarian and similar to the kinds of things you can get at the Down to Earth deli. $10 a plate. Hot food and salad, dessert, and sweet mint water. Different specials daily.

    (4)

  • Kazuo O.

    Only slightly eccentric for a lunch dining option, Govinda's lays out an impressive spread of vegetarian cuisine in a relaxed and serene spot located just off the Pali. There's not much I can add to the reviews below. For those escaping the office for their lunch break, Govinda's is a great place to recharge before heading into your afternoon. Likes: that ginger drink. Quiet, inviting. Pricing is s Dislikes: Only open for lunch... Bottom line: This is a very unique place. I don't know if it will hold up to multiple visits.

    (4)

  • Michael M.

    If you are not loving this place, please open your mind. Where else can you leisurely enjoy an all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet in a backyard of a house in a million dollar neighborhood and not be arrested for trespassing? I was lucky enough to convince 3 of my coworkers to join me here for lunch. As I was driving them there, they said "this is a residential neighborhood!" I said "of course it is." There is a trippy vibe when you drive to the back of Coelho Way and park in front of the large estate. You are instantly mellowed out. As you pay the Indian lady 10 bucks, you feel as though you are giving money to a curator of some museum. Food is awesome! Curried rice, dahl, steamed veggies, flat bread, enchilada (yes enchilada), fresh salad, halwa, and this meditation inspired ginger lemonade. What the heck is halwa? Think cream of wheat dessert cake. Spiced with cardimom, cinnamon, ghee (clarified butter), and probably 5 kinds of sugar. It's wonderful. We opted to eat in the backyard by the magnificent banyan tree. You feel as though it is your own backyard and you are having friends over. I am now the star at the office for picking lunch spots.

    (5)

  • Audrey A.

    Wonderful little place tucked out of the way, on the way up to Pali. I love the beautiful, low-key setting. The Hindu monastery offers a peaceful ambiance, starting with taking off your shoes to join the other pairs on the steps before you enter- then continuing on to the beautiful banyan tree setting, accompanied by very kind and gracious hosts. I stumbled on this place and had to bring my husband back as soon as I had a chance. Can't wait to come back in the future!

    (4)

  • Noelani C.

    As you enter this home of worship, you must take off your footwear at the entrance. You walk in to the left and find a table in the dining room area. There is a buffet line of all delicious vegetarian dishes. Beautiful light music plays from the store next to the dining area. I always have a plate of fresh green salad to start with. I just recently tried the sesame dressing. It is pretty good! The day I went, they were serving the enchillada's. So delish! The freshly made tortilla chips are crunchy to every bite! I always dip it in the soup or eat it with the fresh made butter. There is usually a huge block of butter next to the salad and toppings. There is always steamed cauliflower and brocolli there too. Last but not least, the delicious ginger, mint leaf drink is so refreshing and clean you out! If you havent dined at Govinda's before, just remember not to drink more than two cups of the green minty ginger drink. Their bathroom is a single stall. Not good if you are flushing your insides out with this cleansing drink! But one cup and a cup of water is just the right amount. If you're a regular like me, and eat here all the time, you will get used to it and it doesnt flush you out as much as what it did to me before. Maybe I got all the bad out already? haha! Their food is an indian cuisine. It is the best that I have tried so far! I love eating at this peaceful temple. There is a big huge back yard that you can dine outdoors too! My daughter loves to run around outside barefoot! This is the only place I let her run outside with no footwear! After you eat, as you exit through the store, you pay for yourself. It is $10 so I usually leave a tip in their silver elephant bowl next to the register. I always try to buy a hand crafted bag from the store to support their religion. I know all the money is given to the ones who hand made the bag. For their journey and peaceful way of living. So amazing! I donated two blue purple glittery peacock ornaments you will see in the display case below the register in the store. Their belief is that the peacock is a sacred bird. The only birds that the holy one played with growing up. So to this religion, the peacock is their sacred beautiful bird. I look forward to dining here again in the near future! I love this place! It brings peace to your heart and soul. Vegetarian healthiness is good for me and being in this peaceful temple of worship awakens my soul.

    (5)

  • Al D.

    Great deal. Good fresh food. Honolulu is poorly lacking in vegetarian establishments but this place is reliable for good vegetarian food.

    (4)

  • S. T.

    Govinda's is located within a temple in Nuuanu. This is my favorite place in Hawaii to eat for the food, price, and environment/location. Details below: Food: It's vegetarian buffet style, with a rotating main dish (eg. lasagna, nut loaf) each day. They also have soup, salad, and additional sides. The beverages (eg. mint lemonade) they make are also refreshing and tasty. Price: An all-you-can-eat buffet at only $10 a person! Get a $1.5 discount if you are a member of the Vegetarian Society and show your membership card. Being a vegetarian, it is extremely difficult to find a buffet that's "worth" it for the price. Not only does Govinda's offer their buffet at a very affordable price, I can actually eat everything that they serve, and there is actually variety avaiable. Environment/Location: Eat outside in the spacious yard area with a large banyan tree for a nice, relaxing meal. It's also conveniently located in Nuuanu, which isn't far coming from the Windward side, yet still in town for townies to come out to eat. I also gotta give props to this one guy there who reminds me of Cary Grant (Robin Hood). He is a really chill guy with excellent customer service skills. Gotta love his passion for making the place enjoyable for patrons. The only real bummer is that they are only open Monday-Friday during lunchtime :(. Other than that, gotta love everything else about this place!

    (5)

  • Sarah G.

    This is the one place on Oahu where I KNOW I can feel safe eating. I don't have to question if they have hidden fish or other non-vegetarian things in my food (like 99.9% of this island does). Devotees don't eat that stuff (I should know :) ) because they are real vegetarians; not the fake kind that eat fish and chicken...and everything except red meat. I truly appreciate Govinda's--even though it took me five years to build up the courage to go to the temple to eat (I have my reasons... :) ). It was well worth it. It is a beautiful place--as everyone has said before, eating outside is second to none. The banyan tree is amazing to sit under and it's very peaceful. The food is very good. They change the menu every day but there are not that many dishes to choose from at this buffet. That, however, is not a problem because what they do offer is delicious and satisfying. Not to mention you get to listen to some nice devotional tunes playing in the background during your relaxing lunch . Walking in to a friendly "hare krsna!" and recognition of the tulasi beads I was wearing was also very welcoming :) The free Jagannath sticker was nice too. An awesome dining experience and a very peaceful place to eat :)

    (5)

  • Chad A.

    3.4 stars The buffet was tasty, but the choices were limited. It was fresh and in an interesting atmosphere, but was really only as good as a typical supermarket salad bar. I am serious, if you were to take the exact same spread as say from a Safeway and moved it here, no one would notice. It wasn't terrible and it wasn't overpriced, so I would go back.

    (3)

  • Jody S.

    When I need to unwind, hear chanting and step away from the normal buzz of the daily lunch grind, I find myself making the short journey to the Hare Krishna temple where I know I will be greeted by a bevy of friendly faces and delicious vegan cuisine..all for under $10. The restaurant is located in the middle of a neighborhood and is on what I consider some of the most gorgeous grounds ever. Complete with lush foliage, grass and trees, this is the perfect place to reconnect and zen during your lunch hour. The tranquility of the temple greets you once you enter the parking lot. You have to remove your shoes before you enter the temple and the smell of incense sometimes wafts through, soothing my soul. The buffet offers a small selection of yummy vegan treats, albeit a bit challenging for those unfamiliar with vegan delights. (I've taken friends there who simply don't enjoy the cuisine OR are still hungry after we leave). Yet for me, the meals always satisfying and filling...both physically,mentally and spiritually. I'm grateful for a little respite like this and look forward to those moments when I get to enjoy this temple off the beaten path.

    (4)

  • Lulu C.

    Beautiful home with a beautiful backyard! The owner -- Madana Sundari -- makes everything from scratch and also offers gluten-free vegan options for the themed events they host. Check back regularly for their schedule of events!

    (5)

  • Zeny O.

    Whenever I'm craving Indian food, I drive all the way to Govinda's from Mililani. At $10 for a vegetarian buffet, it's a great deal for some delicious and healthy food. The menu changes each day, with an assortment of curries, lentil soup, fresh steamed veggies and rice and potatoes. The vegetarian lasagna is 5 star, and the lemonade-ginger drink is always amazing and always refreshing. I also enjoy sitting outside under the huge banyan tree, always spending a few minutes after eating to relax.

    (5)

  • Ira J.

    My blood work just came back, and my doctor tells me my numbers are high... too high... and I've got to start eating better. PPFff! What's the point of living longer if I can't enjoy the stuff I live for every day? like curry? and bacon? At least, that had been my thinking until today, when I had an awakening at Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet! This was not a spiritual awakening: I didn't fall for that Hare Hare Krishna Krishna mumbo jumbo. I'm talking a veggi awakening: If cooked right, vegetables can be delicious!?!? And still good for you?!?! I mean, who knew? Don't get me wrong, I've had delicious vegetables before. I once had Brussels sprouts that tasted so good you'd have thought they were a Ben & Jerry's favor! I learned later that the chef used a secret ingredient to make them taste so good. That secret ingredient was bacon grease. Ever since, I've figured that that same secret ingredient was used to make all tasty vegetable dishes taste so tasty. No bacon grease is used at Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet, yet their vegetables dishes somehow still taste very tasty. I know that they don't use bacon grease because they believe extracting it from the pig somehow violates their non-violent beliefs. I'll be back to Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet because I live for delicious food and I do want to live longer.

    (4)

  • Kalani C.

    Decided to rearrange my schedule to make a UYE that Val Y. and Emi H. were hosting. So glad I made the trip here for lunch! It's been awhile since I last dined at Govinda's and the welcoming, family-style atmosphere remains and is infectious and comforting as ever. A great turnout with a more intimate feeling than many larger events I've attended in the past. Always great to actually meet the faces behind the amazing reviews and witty banter. For $7.50, I had a huge plate of vegetarian food: Lasagna, rice, Thai curry, curried veggies and wonderful greens. Not bad for vegetarian. We were then treated to a mini dogmatic briefing of their principles and beliefs. I especially liked what was said about our choice to live a life simply for ourselves or to help others and how the Krishnas dedicate themselves to the latter. Simple principles that are not heard in everyday discussion. Makes you think, why not? A rather spiritual lunch encounter that ended in the backyard gardens to the beat of tambourines, accordion and other percussion instruments. A beautiful afternoon celebrating life and our ability to relish in its gifts. Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare #Yelp 365: 060/365

    (4)

  • Shay F.

    There's seriously something in the food...I think. I had lunch here around 12:30. It's past 8PM...and I'm still not hungry. In fact, I still feel full and I'm very sad that I'm not hungry for dinner. I want to eat.... Anyways, I would have NEVER found out about this place if I didn't have YELP or other social media sites. This place is in a residential area, and looks like some house/church/religion spot. I did not know what I was getting myself into. We parked the car outside since there weren't anymore parking in the lot. We walked up to the house -thingy...and there were lots of shoes/slippers outside so we took off our shoes and went right into the open door. The guy was like grab a plate and eat all you like! O_o Ok...so we just ate. There are no labels on any of the foods, so you have no idea what you're eating...but the good thing is that it's all vegetarian so you know there's no funky meat in it. The yellow-ish thing was good. When it was time to go, we found a cashier in the store area next to the eating area. The website said $8.50 and $7.50 for students. So I asked if UH students can get the discount. They said no. Whatever...but then they charged us $10 per person! I didn't want to argue or make a scene so whatever...we just paid the $10 per person. Will I come back here? Hm...skeptical. I felt like I went to India and back or something through time travel. I didn't know what I was eating...and they don't update their website to reflect the price change. It seems a bit too religious-y for me....I think I'll pass and eat my vegetarian at Simple Joy or Peace Cafe. Thanks...unless of course I want to feel full for the entire day. Yelp 365 Challenge #69/365

    (3)

  • Emi H.

    Located in Nu'uanu, Govinda's is the perfect example of why Yelp is amazing. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, Govinda's is not something you'd stumble across on your own. It's located in a Hari Krishna temple with beautiful meditation gardens. Upon entering the house you take off your shoes and if I had known this I wouldn't have worn my old sandals. Ugh! You walk down the hallway and there's a room with the vegetarian buffet and seating, which is adjoined to a small shop that sells clothing and trinkets. The girl in the shop told us to eat first and pay after. I liked this place already with that statement. For $10 and all-you-can-eat, I didn't know what to expect with respects to the buffet but I was pleasantly surprised. There was salad, bread, a vegetable goulash, a veggie enchilada, a lovely lentil soup and a dense cinnamon pudding. They were running low on a few items when we got there but refilled them fairly quickly. The best way that I can describe the quality of the food is that it's like going over to your friend's Grandma's house to eat. It's not your Grandma (who makes the best comfort food known to mankind) but it's someone else's Grandma so it's not familiar, but still good. It made me think for about five minutes that I could one day be vegetarian. Then I thought about how much I like meat and that my vegetarian thoughts went right out the window. They had a number of different dressings for the salad and the names were displayed on a sheet. It would have been nice if they had labels for what was in the rest of the buffet (hint hint). There's a giant container of ginger lemonade that you can help yourself to by the cashier. Some might think it's odd and spicy but I couldn't get enough of it! I call it Hari Krishna kool-aid and I'm down to drink it all night long! The best part of Govinda's is not the buffet but the surrounding gardens. It was raining so we didn't have a chance to eat outside which I would have loved. There's a giant tree in the garden and all I could think was how much I wanted to give it a great big hug. Sure I'm a tree hugger, you can say it. It may sound kooky but I believe each tree has its own healing energy. One of my favorite things to do is walk barefoot on grass and hug a tree. Try it sometime before you roll your eyes and think I'm a weirdo. It's extremely centering and helps to keep you grounded because it connects you to nature. Okay, I'm done with my spiritual schpeel. Just wait, you'll be part of my tree hugging movement one day! Yelp 365 Challenge: #8/365 (The Tree Hugger)

    (5)

  • Gayle N.

    First, the positives: the foods were relatively fresh. The mixed vegetable just came from from a sealed bag and sides were freshly cut except cucumbers which seemed kind of translucent. The soup was something I'd never seen before and frankly, did not want to see again. The main dish was lasagna; looked and tasted like Stouffer's. Can't go wrong with frozen. For ten dollars, it was all-you-can-scarf...so I guess it's worth it. I just sort of expected more traditional "Indian" fare. Another thing is...if we're to take off our footwear at the door, the floor needs to be swept better; and the bathroom sure needed an air-freshner. (Just a suggestion...) Other than that, it's a neat place to dine. Atmosphere is serene. Also, thanks for the music; I knew the words thanks to George Harrison! Hare Krishna!

    (2)

  • Angela M.

    Dear Govinda's, You are, simply, just as wonderful as everyone says you are. Perhaps it is the secret ingredient of spirituality, but every morsel in your tiny buffet bursts with flavor. When I cook vegetables they tend to taste like... vegetables. And grass. However, your dishes were divine in every aspect of the word and I wish I had the capacity to prepare them in my home. Perhaps if I become a practitioner of bhakti yoga I will be magically imbued with the ability to transform the simple vegetable into incredible taste explosions. That alone would be worth it. Your spread was simple, a tray of salad, rice, dahl, stewed veggies, enchiladas, fresh rolls, halwa, and a refreshing green gingery lemonade. Simple but more than enough, and the organic freshness combined with the tranquil atmosphere made the meal relaxing and special indeed. I am eager to return with my husband, but that will include a squawking baby who will surely shatter the peace and serenity of the temple. Brace yourselves. On our way out a very kind man who practices reflexology at your temple gave my friend and I each a gargantuan papaya. Mine ripened today and on opening it we were surprised to discover only two seeds. Even your papayas are extraordinary. See you soon. Thank you, Angela

    (5)

  • Gary F.

    Nice experience. I grew up right down the street and never really knew about this place. It's tucked away but easy to find. Take your shoes off and enter. The food is really good. We hung out under the banyan tree in the back. Really peaceful place. $10 all you can eat. The experience is worth it.

    (4)

  • Know K.

    Vegan, vegetarian & gluten-free options available! Nestled in the beautiful temple next to the lovely & massive Banyan Tree; this place can't be beat! Cheap lunch buffet (bring your Vegetarian Society Card for discount!) that's actually quite good. Could use some signage on the menu items & ingredients, but other than that, no suggestions from my point of view. THANKS for having a nice place to dine weekdays for lunch away from the hustle & bustle of the big city... Will return weekly :)

    (5)

  • A. L.

    I did the take out option same price as fine in for $10. it came with a recyclable take out lunch box and a cup for that yummy ginger drink that I can't get enough of... lol selection is quite limited . there is one main entree and maybe 3 side dishes plus salad. other than the limited option I enjoyed it. I went on a Wednesday (lasagna )

    (4)

  • Diehard M.

    I always like to get away and check out Govindas. If you like good ALL YOU Can eat vegetarian foood go check it out. $10 is a awesome deal. if you get a chance go try the rope swing outside.

    (5)

  • Natasha M.

    Ahhhhhh delightful. Just delightful. Quirky, completely different, and yes - savory. Govindas is not a restaurant. It's an experience. And the closest thing I've come since traveling in India, to a true Indian experience here in the states. It's not homogenized for the masses. It's serene, sincere, beautiful and a little random. But having been to India - this is as close as it gets to the real thing! Even the smells, and the slightly unkempt nature of the surroundings - it all felt like a day in the Indian countryside. I was VERY pleasantly surprised by all the flavors! The buffet didn't LOOK that fabulous at first glance - again, this ain't Waikiki my friends - it's a residential HOME, converted to a low-key temple - so it's DIFFERENT. But the food was DELICIOUS. Many savory flavors - including a delicious quiche, and a vegetable curry that might be one of the best I've ever had . . and again . . did I mention I've BEEN to India? (K - just wanted to mention that.) Also, the ginger lemonade was DELICIOUS - I had like 4 glasses! To top it off, meeting the temple President, Madana, was a sheer pleasure. The people working there were a really interesting group of what seemed like young hipsters on a trendy spiritual path :), as well as local suburban moms with kids, hare krishna dudes in robes working in the yard, sweet-faced older hippie ladies, and happy-go-lucky sensitive ponytail dudes in faux leather sandals. Basically - it's fabulous. So much so, that I asked them to cater our wedding reception Yes - I'm serious. I just love the whole random concept of it. And the food is GOOD. Open your mind and see a different side of amazing, diverse, bizarre, and wonderful O'ahu. Ya gotta love the melting pot. Namaste!

    (5)

  • Bret B.

    If you are looking for a unique and enjoyable place to relax and have lunch, this is it. Seating is under a huge Banyon tree. Very good food and atmosphere. Staff is very friendly. 20 minute walk up Nuuanu Ave from Waikiki. Open for lunch six days a week, (Monday through Saturday) They just started dinner on Saturdays and Sundays too!

    (5)

  • U N.

    About eight weeks a year, I work in a downtown Honolulu high rise. Five minutes on The Bus and I'm here, away from it all. I come for the steamed vegetable medley. It's the sure-thing vegan option. And I come for the trees and birds. And peace. I've eaten at Krishna restaurants all over the world. This Is a good one.

    (4)

  • Dan F.

    I'm surprised that there's a "restaurant" less than 5 minutes away from my house. I drove by this area many times and never thought a Hare Krishna temple would be here. I came here on a Thursday and the entrees they serving were Mixed Greens Salad, Eggless Quiche, Tofu Yam Curry, Yellow Split Pea Soup, Fresh Homemade Rolls, Brown Rice, Tofu Bean Chili, and Banana Halawa Dessert. There are also different types of sauce such as Sunflower Soy Sauce, Toasted Sesame, Creamy French, and Hot Green Sauce. As for drinks there's water and some ginger tea juice. As for the food, the best one had to be the Tofu Yam Curry. I'm so used to eating regular yellow curry, but this one wasn't oily or salty. The yams goes well with the curry. The quiche tasted like it has eggs, but it was really rich and I could not eat a second serving. The Fresh Homemade Rolls is warm, soft, and tasty. The Banana Halawa Dessert was really good. Texture is soft, but slightly creamy and not overly sweet. The Yellow Split Pea soup and Tofu Bean Chili didn't have much flavor in them, but I didn't mind eating it. Just add that special green sauce, it makes everything spicy. Although it might be too spicy for some people. What I like about this place is the atmosphere. It's like walking into someone's really nice home with a really big backyard. I loved eating outside because it felt peaceful. For $9.99, it's a good deal. It may not look like a lot but the food really fills you up. I did get seconds but I had a hard time finishing it. This place opens from 11am-2pm.

    (5)

  • AsianRunningDiva S.

    SUCH A PEACEFUL PLACE! Take off your shoes when you enter, pay at the gift shop ($10/person), try their ginger drink. I've eaten at the UH Manoa truck plenty of times, but never been here for their buffet lunch. You can eat inside or outside underneath the banyan tree. The food was soo filling, soo good! Started with a plate of salad (their dressing is really great--not sure what it was!) They had a curry option with yellow rice, cornbread with some spicy beans, veggies and potatoes, some other option (just as good, I just don't know what it was), and the dessert was a banana-like bread with choco chips on top and pecans inside! They also had lavosh! Very full and very happy! Great location (tucked into a neighborhood)! :)

    (4)

  • Tracy L.

    WOW. Now this place was so nice to go to. Beautiful old house in Nu'uanu, dreamy backyard to sit outside and enjoy, and a wonderful vegetarian buffet. My friend has told me about this place for a long time. I finally had the chance to visit it. I loved it so much I've been back twice already. I think if someone could cook for me like that all the time, I'd easily be a vegetarian. The only challenge I see is the parking. But other than that, it is a nice restaurant to go to if you'd like to change up your dining options, look into going vegetarian, or just want a beautiful place to dine.

    (4)

  • Wayde F.

    Being a Vegetarian, like myself, doesn't make ones life easy when you choose to go out to eat...You don't have many options, but here in Hawaii there are some good choices very few people talk about or hear of. Lets talk about one of the BEST KEPT SECRETS in Vegetarian dining here in Honolulu... GOVINDA'S is one of those hidden Gems no tourist has a clue exists, mainly because it's not actually a restaurant at all...If you are vacationing and are a Vegetarian, even if you aren't and want to try... you better put one day a side to come enjoy yourself at this yummy goodness of a Buffet for lunch! This location is actually a Hare Krishna Temple in Nuuanu, so you must remove your foot wear and not have issues with other forms of belief as this is a form of Hinduism and is a place of worship ...Eat by the BANYAN TREE outside if it's beautiful out...AMAZING PEOPLE! Everything on the buffet is KILLER! Entrees change day to day as the chef is always putting out yummy goodness! I seem to find myself day dreaming when here, when in the garden...The Banyan area is so beautiful and captivating...When I sit there eating all the goodness and love on my plate I dream for a moment that when I leave this place that the world is like this...I know it's not...but I wish it was...this place is so peaceful and soul searching...The love is felt in the food, in the people and on the grounds...I just wish everywhere could be so peaceful and loving.. . For $10.00 it's amazing...this place is a sacred location...It's also a hard place to find...so take it slow and watch for the signs...I mean it's like your driving up to someones house...well, mansion...but it's a temple...Don't be afraid...take off your shoes and go in...there are plenty of people to help you, people who live and work at the temple as well as other visitors and even the chef. NOTE: Do not have more then one cup of the Mint Tea leaf drink no matter how much you love it if it's your first time here...it will FLUSH YOU OUT...lol, if you know what I mean. Eating this type of Indian cuisine overall can do you in if you are not use to eating it...so take your time...take it slow and enjoy another side of life...it's worth it ;) It's clear several people, not many, but a few are not please with the food here...to each his/her own...but coming from a Vegetarian like me...I love it here and I love the feel of this place...it's not for everyone, but it is for Vegetarians, Vegans and spiritual people who choose to walk the road less traveled. Hours of Operation: Mon - Fri 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM The Buffet is not big, but ample enough for me to be happy with it every time. For more information, please call them: (808) 595-4913

    (5)

  • Matt T.

    Some of the best vegetarian food on the island.

    (5)

  • Karen J.

    Tasty, peaceful and affordable. Great for a laid back visit with friends and or business associates.

    (4)

  • Kim A.

    Oh my my my.... I haven't eaten at a buffet since 2008, and for good reason because I hate it when I have to secretly wear my "buffet pants" (elastic or maternity pants) and stuff my face to get my money's worth and then feel like a selfish glutton who can't sleep at night because I ate too much to sleep well. *ahem* Anyway... I figure that this place would be worth my while since it's vegetarian and I miss eating Govinda's at UH during lunch back when I was a student. :) I'm glad I had a good reason to go, my friend shares the same love for good quality food as me, and we were due for a Happy New Year reunion, so we decided to try this place out. What's a better way to have a nice lunch at a beautiful place with delicious food that won't make you feel like a guilty pig at the end?! I cannot think of anywhere else. This place is amazing. Everything we tried was super delicious. Only con I would have to say is that there were too many of those little round things of spice that kept getting stuck between my teeth. I need to bring floss next time. Other than that, I love the eggplant dish, and the rice with the soup next to it, and the cute little pita bread with the magical butter (sweet sweet tasting buttery goodness), and the dessert....o.m.g. blueberry (i dont even know what the name of all these dishes and soups are, but they're fricken delicious and i don't care what the name is, i'll have some more of everything please!) I think I went back for food a good 3x. Eating here made my soul happy :D I'm glad yelp and fellow yelpers found this gem of a place and share about it with the world. Tonight, I will be dreaming of the next time I'll be back to this place. I cannot wait for another get-together with any one of my friends b/c this place is now my go-to place for yummy sinless vegetarian food that will make me go to bed happy :) p.s. i didn't even need to wear any special buffet pants!

    (5)

  • Rudy A.

    I'm sorry yelpers, but I have to disagree with you, my experience here was not pleasant at all , I don't understand the hipe about this place . The food was not good at all Salads, well anyone can mix some vegies together Rice, it was ok Soup, more than one could not get pass the strong odor comming from it, dunno what they put on it, but it smells Curry, flavorless. Watery. Desert, seem like I was eating butter with sugar . The concept behind it is good, but we all know that simple living is the key to man survivor, only kill what you gonna eat, don't waste and be content with who you are. I don't need to pray to an Avatar in order to understand the concept. I would not recommend this place, not worth your money

    (1)

  • Eileen V.

    Best outdoor ambiance, excellent buffet choices, always fresh salads, and hey cheap too!! Limited lunch time, but well worth the quick drive out of the city. Love the chef's willingness to converse with customers in an attempt to "improve" the menu. My only complaint? Why did you cut down so many trees? Maybe it's time for an herb or vegetable garden :) Absolute FAVORITE Top 10!

    (5)

  • Edmund L.

    I would give this place 10 starts if I could. The food, soooo good. The atmosphere and environment, even better! When I first found this place, I thought I was lost as it looks like someone's mansion. The workers are very friendly and the environment is very relaxed, almost resort or spa-like atmosphere. You need to take off your shoes before you come in. The food bar consists of a variety of raw vegetables to make salad, with a variety of dressing. There are whole wheat rolls with tasty butter on the side if desired and rice, different bean/lentil soups for the day along with a variety of tasty entrees that vary with the day of the week. The dessert, halavas are absolutely wonderful and moist. If you don't know what halavas are, they are a middle eastern dessert. Go wikipedia it, they are cool stuff. I feel as if I walked into an alternate dimension where everything is slowed down and stress is non-existent. There is indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor seating is excellent, like a special large garden with a great view and relaxing aura to further relax yourself and lounge around while enjoying good food. If you don't like to eat good, tasty food that is healthy and lounging around, you aren't human. If you do, come to this place!

    (5)

  • Laura M.

    A bit hard to find as it's nestled in a corner of a residential neighborhood. As others have said, leave your shoes before you enter. The food was good. Most of it was relatively simple. The salad, while very obviously fresh, was not the most exciting salad (pretty basic), but the two dressing choices were fun. Ginger mint tea is absolutely amazing. Patrons and staff are super friendly. I know that vegetarianism isn't synonymous with eco-friendly, or sustainable-living, but I was still disappointed that it was plastic forks and plastic cups, and not made out of styrophobia or bamboo stuff. They might even suggest to have patrons bring their own plates and forks, which I might do when I make my way back there.

    (4)

  • Ngan W.

    Saw this on Emi's page while waiting for my rsvp confirmation to Pley with Yelp and it is as bomb as it gets! Went right away for lunch with my girlfriend. A little hard to find but well worth it. $10 all you can eat vegetarian buffet and Ginger Mint Iced Tea. We filled up our plates with vegetarian lasagna,tofu & veggie curry, yellow rice and a cup of lentil soup. The soup was more like a sauce but that didn't deter me from drinking the whole cup. EVERTHING was delicious, and i didn't even miss the meat! Sitting in the back under the huge tree added to the whole experience. One of the best lunches I ever ate!!

    (5)

  • Goro S.

    2 hot in the city or dogma got u down? take your karma up for a drive to this hare krishna cafeteria...food taste and quality can vary a bit, but it's almost always nice to cool off on the grounds by the banyan, as you can see in my short vid: youtu.be/kK1DD0A0dMw since it's all paper plates and cups though, don't go if it's too windy or rainy...unless u don't mind sitting inside, but that really kills the vibe of it...

    (4)

  • Lee H.

    I really would give them only one star because I did not like the food. But, I will give them 2 stars because obviously many have enjoyed this place and I do not want to mess with their average too much. Also, you can eat in their impreesive backyard. The food was not to my liking. Their backyard is very nice and their Banyan tree is impressive. Unfortunately, the food was bland. I have eaten in many different countries, and the food tasted like Americans making ethnic food out of a cookbook. Also I did not like their dinner roll they had there. They seemed to have used that same bread in another dish that just ruined it for me. I have to admit that I am not a vegetarian and I do not usually eat vegetarian food. Also I had a hard time staying open-minded while I was there. I think I was going through culture shock. I felt like I was in third world country at a backpackers with yuppy tourists and American staff. The mac cheese casserole and spicy home fries was not bad.

    (2)

  • Shelley K.

    I've been here twice before, but that was such a long time ago. However, I remembered about this place and have been dying to find it again so my bf and I did last week. Its a little tricky to find this place, but once you do its like you enter into a whole different world when you get there. Its so calm and serene with the buffet located in a Hindu Temple. For $10, its all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet. Great, healthy food and it was so good for the price. We ended up going on a Friday and that day they had enchiladas, a tofu & eggplant & potato curry, yellow split pea soup, salad, pina colada halava, and ginger-mint lemonade. The enchilads were very interesting, made with corn tortillas which was nice. The curry was delish! with the brown rice and their pina colada halava was just awesome! Oh and their lemonade was SOOOOOOOOOO good!! I'm definitely going back to try more. Its so nice there and its a place you definitely want to try!

    (4)

  • Johnny C.

    indian ish.... with other stuff. We wont go back there agian just because its more of a temple than a food establishment. My wife thinks my indian dishes i make are better and Ill say that they need more choices on their buffet. but it is what it is. and we hope that the man in front greeting doesnt impose too much by offering foot massages for a fee. we felt a little awkward when he did that.

    (2)

  • Chris V.

    Went again for Wednesday Lasagna day and it didn't disappoint. Dare I try to make it back for enchilada friday...

    (4)

  • Yon S.

    I haven't been here in years. Drive by and forget a lot. They need a sign, but then I would be driving past so fast, it would probably be too late to turn in anyway. How come everything in the photo looks fried, like I'm looking at a okazuya tempura plate?! Used to come here for thanksgiving vegetarian buffet when I was hard core and used to also attend the VSH monthly meetings. Oh, those were the days...

    (3)

  • Val Y.

    I was driving down the Pali Highway and had this flash. I remembered reading about the Hari Krishna Temple in Nuuanu and their vegetarian buffet. My tummy was growling and I am a man that believes that we live life to experience, so in search of the temple I went. Maybe my subconscious spirit heard spiritual chanting in the whisper of the wind; but somehow I found the temple in a snap. The parking is ample and shaded; and the temple looks like a well manicured house with a big front yard. I got out of my stationwagon and like any new experience for me, I let my senses absorb and my feeling free to tell me how I felt. Of course, there was this respect knowing that I was in a temple and made no judgement about a place that was holding a yoga class; had a gift shop, a kitchen, a restaurant and a temple. I think temple restaurants have to be rated on a different scale. Let's skip rating the service. Ambience...eeh, throw that out too. That leaves cost and food. But then to be fair, maybe half of the cost of the meal should be considered a donation to the temple. Let's leave out price too. On the food side it is all vegetarian. Jim Davis (Garfield) loves food and is quoted as saying "Avoid fruits and vegetable. You are what you eat." If you enter the restaurant in that frame of mind; you are in the wrong place. From an all vegetarian restaurant point of view the food is delicious. The selection was not quite as abundent as I expected but none the less, all the dishes were very good. Today is enchilada Friday and that entree was delicious. Wednesday is lasagna and each day of the week has a different main dish. The fresh vegetables are assumed to be organic and the different dressings for the salad, very interesting. The best part of the meal was the ginger, mint lemonade. If it is too sweet for you, dilute it. The disappointment was that for a vegetarian buffet, there was no dish with fruit. But then, is potato a fruit? We live life to experience. I tried Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet. I'm still Buddhist and would rather have a whole combo pizza from Costco for $9.99.

    (3)

  • Timothy G.

    Beautiful and peaceful place to relax during lunch. Main dish is determined by the day of the week, e.g., Monday is spaghetti and korma, Friday is enchilada. Food was good, $10 exactly for all you can buffet. There is a salad and dessert choice too.

    (5)

  • Penny L.

    I'll keep it short since I'll kind of just be repeating what others have already mentioned. Small selection but still a decent amount and flavors are wonderful considering how affordable it is and how small the eating area is to begin with. They don't advertise themselves as comparable to International Buffet or the MGM Grand, so don't give them a bad review just because you're used to the gluttony of having 100+ options at other establishments. Love the atmosphere (especially if you're enjoying your meal outside), staff is very friendly, and food is always reliably delicious.

    (5)

  • Maile P.

    Really enjoyed the beauty of that banyan tree & the wonderful vegetarian dishes Here. For $10 you can't go wrong.... I hear everyday is a different menu but I was loving today's featured dishes. So relaxing.

    (5)

  • Justin W.

    First of all this place is located in the Krishna temple and it is located in a residential neighborhood. Basically the temple is a huge house. It is kind of confusing because you are not really sure if you turn in the driveway or not. But yes where the big 51 is at you can turn in and there is parking also. Upon walking in you will see a whole but of shoes and slippers sitting outside the door. So of course we take our slippers of and walk in barefoot. Upon walking in to the right is the prayer room and if you go to the left and through the glass doors you will walk into a little shop. This is where you can purchase gifts and you will also pay the $10 for the all you can eat buffet here. And yes it is $10 there is no tax. Another note, it is CASH only. You can choose to sit inside where the buffet is at or you can sit in the backyard where they have a huge tree. The whole place seemed very peaceful and was just relaxing to be at. They have their buffet daily from 11am - 2pm. Every day it is different foods. When we went they had salad, vegan dinner rolls, rice, some desert items, an egg less quiche, some different curries, and the drink was a lemon zinger iced tea. The quiche was super good and I'm not sure how they did it with no egg, but I guess it doesn't matter because it was awesome. The salad was so fresh, which I guess they grow it in their own garden and it is picked daily. Actually everything was awesome. You do have to get here early because once the food is gone it is gone. And for $10 you can't beat this. I am pretty sure that they do take out because I saw people with take out containers and they were filling them up.

    (5)

  • Lisa C.

    Its a wonderful, peaceful, friendly place. The all vegetarian food is pretty great and the people there were all helpful and so nice. Please take the time to visit!

    (5)

  • Megan A.

    My brother and Mom took me here the day I arrived in Honolulu for lunch. We made our way into Nu'uanu valley and driving through narrow residential roads, we finally arrived promptly at 11am because we weren't sure how busy they would be on a Thursday for lunch. (We didn't want to miss out if they sold out!) We were greeted by a beautiful Ganesha statue. We removed our shoes and was greeted by a young man who guided us into the eating area where a spread of food was ready to be eaten. We were the first ones to arrive so the cashier/gift store was not open yet but the man said we could start eating and pay after. After our meal, we walked around the facility a little but we felt a little intrusive since it feels very homey. It is $10 for an all-you-can-eat buffet. Normally at an all-you-can-eat venue, I devour food and make sure I get my money's worth. But here, it feels so sacred, I felt that I should only take what I would eat and to savor each bite. On Thursday, they had a broccoli quiche which I thought was delicious!! It tasted like a broccoli cheddar soup in a solid form. It didn't have a "V" next to it, so it was not vegan. I am thinking there was cheese in it. They also had fresh salad with an a selection of homemade dressings. I tried the sunflower seed dressing first which I didn't care for too much. I tried the jalapeno cilantro dressing which was very flavorful and spiiicy! They also had tofu chili and a split pea soup. I found the chili to be more on the bland side but definitely filling with the tofu and beans. The split pea soup was yum. They also had bread rolls and for dessert they had a halawa (i think banana). I tried a piece of my mom's.. it was good, not too sweet and had a hint of a coffee taste. We sat inside since it looked a little wet outside. My mom, brother and I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. I am very glad they brought me here. For drinks, they had their ginger tea which I could probably drink by the gallons but only had a few cups. My brother and I enjoyed it so much we wanted to return the next week on a different day. We brought my boyfriend along this time and we trekked our way again into Nu'uanu valley. We went early again on a Wednesday. This day they had lasagna which wasn't vegan either. It was very filling and could only finish half of it which I gave to my bf to finish. They had the same fresh salad with the array of dressings as well as the tofu chili. They also had yellow curry with carrots and cauliflower which they didn't have last time. WOW, that was one of my favorite dishes yet (including the broccoli quiche) They had the bread rolls and halwa again which my boyfriend liked. For tea, this time, it tasted more of a raspberry tea than the ginger one. The raspberry was just as good! We sat outside this time and soaked in the sunlight and energy outside. It made me really reflect on how much I miss Hawai'i. Afterwards, we browsed the gift shop and found a great book called The Higher Taste which was only $4! You can't go wrong, so I bought one. Overall, I really enjoyed my two experiences here at Govinda's. It is truly such a great find. It was probably one of thee best meals I had eaten during my stay in Hawai'i (Besides my mom's!). I will definitely be back the next time I am home!

    (5)

  • Doug B.

    The hours have shifted a little bit; the last time I was there, they are open for only one hour: 12:15-1:15PM and price was $8.50. Although there were 3 curry dishes, they were all very mild, not the least bit hot. Very quiet, help-yourself to the steam table, paper plate and plastic utensils. You can sit inside or outside under the giant banyan tree if it's not too windy or rainy. Up in Nu'uanu-Pali, frequent little mauka showers are alway sweeping through. Was pleasant and relaxing, munching away barely being able to hear the drumming from the Krishna temple at the other end of the building. Cash only and show up on time. When they run out of food, that's the end of lunch.

    (4)

  • opqr s.

    I'm not a vegetarian, but I LOVE this place! Not sure if it's all low calorie or low fat, but it tastes so good especially the dessert. It has such a calming ambiance. The only downside is it's not open for dinner or weekends.

    (5)

  • Dave L.

    This place is such a hidden gem I was wondering if I should even review it but I figured sharing is caring. I have always eaten at the UH location and the food has always been pretty good, considering the miserable array of options to pick from on campus. When my friend told me they had a buffet option here at the temple, I was all in. It is only $10 for an all you can eat buffet of whatever they are cooking that day. It may seem a bit hard to get to but the easiest way coming from town is to go up nuuanu ave or liliha st and turn onto wyllie st. Then from there turn onto burbank st. and then make a right onto coelho way. From there head straight and go around the right turn and enter through their narrow driveway. If you are coming down the pali then just turn right onto Coelho and it will be right before the small turn. Anyway this is a pretty relaxing way to spend a lunchtime sitting out in their lawn under the trees and sunshine. They also take credit card which is always a plus in my book! Oh yea one more thing, save room for some halawa. Nice dessert to end a wonderful meal.

    (5)

  • C W.

    It's actually 5.8 miles from Waikiki

    (5)

  • Sheron C.

    The food is delicious. They always have tons of selection and the price is SO reasonable. I agree with the previous yelper - financially, this isn't cutting it, but this isn't really a commercial operation. It is inside the temple, so please show respect.

    (5)

  • Taylore H.

    It has been years since I ate there but the food is always yummy. When are they open? Only for Lunch? What are their hours?

    (5)

  • Matt R.

    Hari Bol! i love love love this place; not only is the food amazing; the temple is a great place for meditation and quite reflection, Rishaka and the rest of the devotees are always friendly as well. BTW Sunday nights the buffet is free if u attend services :)

    (5)

  • N T.

    Delicious vegetarian and vegan buffet with limited hours Salad, several hot Indian style dishes, rice, dessert, and a fruity tea drink. Serve yourself. All dishes are vegetarian and most are vegan. Located inside of the Hare Krishna temple for Hawaii. You take off your shoes when you enter, so come wearing slippers (flip flops). I believe the price is $8.50 for lunch and they are open from 12:30-1:30pm. You must get there on time as the food runs out. It used to be that they were open for lunch and dinner every day with a full spread of soups and salad toppings and fresh baked bread. However, it seems this was not working financially for them and they significantly scaled back the temple operation and expanded to the lunch spots downtown and at UH Manoa. I hope if more people attend they'll expand the meal service at the temple again. It used to be someone's mansion and it is the most beautiful place to eat. Very relaxed and welcoming surrounded by plants. They have what may be the world's largest banyan tree in the backyard. Govinda's also hosts a pre-Thanksgiving vegan dinner and a Christmas eve dinner which require reservations as they are packed and have several seatings.

    (5)

  • HIT L.

    Really peaceful ambiance & the food is yummo! I think they are open from 11-2 on the weekdays.

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Lunch
    Parking : Private Lot
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Quiet
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : Yes

Govinda’s Vegetarian Buffet

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