Londonist asks that most pressing of daily concerns: where to go on your lunch break.
Flipping burgers and such since 1975 in the surfer paradise of Haleiwa, Hawaii with subsequent franchises opening in Honolulu, Tokyo and now London, Kua Aina is a burger joint with a mellow island vibe.
Smartly situated for Carnaby shoppers and cosy enough for a lunch time sit down, this months-old burger and sandwich grill appears to be a popular pit stop from what we could tell on our midweek visit. Prices are a bit dear for what amounts to a hyped-up burger joint with some (admittedly very relaxing and hum-along-able) Hawaiian music piped through. However, the menu yields tasty and large-portioned value, and orders are served up quick.
We very much approve of Kua Aina's savoury chargrilled mahi mahi fillet sandwich with “Ortega chili” and cheese (£8.95). The cheese seems a bit gratuitous, to be honest, but the chilli adds some really nice flavour and the fish is grilled to yum. A side of sweet potato wedges (£2.45 or £3.45 for a large order) with a little tub of harissa mayonaise (is that Hawaiian?) is a nice enough accompaniment to this double fist sandwich.
Open for brekkie, lunch and dinner, serving Asahi Superdry on tap, wine and an impressive list of sandwiches and tropically inspired burgers along with “American fluffy” pancakes, frozen yoghurt, salads and more – Kua Aina is located at 26 Foubert's Place, W1F 7P (right off Carnaby Street).
Photo/Chris Osburn
Disclaimer: Londonist visited Kua Aina upon invitation of the restaurant.
