Ocean to Table in Hilo at Mo’s Fish & Chips

If you’re a fan of fish and chips, you’ll share my excitement in the fact that Mo’s Fish and Chips has (finally) opened in Hilo. I had all but given up and was beginning that the “opening soon” sign on the windows was a cruel joke. Rejoice, fish fans—the doors are open. Prepare to be charmed and well-fed.

Before we talk fish, let’s talk about their terrific location. They are at 50 Waianuenue Ave., right next door to Big Island Juice Company. There is parking in a lot nearby, but also quite a bit of street parking. I had no trouble finding a spot close by.

As I have mentioned in previous posts, this area of Hilo has really undergone a Renaissance regarding shopping and dining. (Opening soon next to Mo’s will be a paint-a-ceramic-pot store, complete with pottery classes, which will be fun.)

I am no interior decorator, but I appreciate what I believe is termed “rustic chic.” From portholes to propellers, the ambiance is whimsical and clever. You can eat inside or outside. There is no air conditioning, but big fans keep it cool.

It was hard to decide what type of fish to order. Mo’s offers mahi mahi, ahi, ono, opakapaka, cod, halibut, scallops, shrimp and calamari.

We ordered the Fish and Chips (ono, $13.95) and Fish Sandwich (mahi), $10.95. Both were delicious. The fish was crispy on the outside, but moist inside. The fish comes on a hoagie bun with avocado, lettuce, onion and tomato. The chips (French fries) were crispy and hot. All plates come with coleslaw, a pickle and a choice of sauces. I was a big fan of the coleslaw, which contained carrot, red cabbage and cranberries.

Everything was piping hot and the produce was fresh.

Some of my friends ordered the mango black tea to drink, which they recommended.  They also have fresh-squeezed lemonade and soda.

Service was fast and friendly.

They do not serve alcohol, but you may BYOB.

Mo’s Fish & Chips. PC: Marla Walters

Find Mo’s Fish and Chips, 50 Waianuenue St., Hilo, Hawai‘i. Phone: (808) 934-8343. Hours: daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Casual. Parking: street or lot at corner of Waianuenue and Keawe. Prices: $8.95–$23.95. Follow Mo’s on Instagram: mosfishandchips808

Fish Sandwich at Mo’s Fish & Chips. PC: Marla Walters

Fish Sandwich at Mo’s Fish & Chips. PC: Marla Walters

Interior of Mo’s Fish & Chips. PC: Marla Walters.

Interior of Mo’s Fish & Chips. PC: Marla Walters.

Props to Mo’s Fish & Chips for great decor. PC: Marla Walters.

Mo’s Fish & Chips. PC: Marla Walters