You’re walking through The Fountains at Farah on a Friday night. The desert wind is just starting to kick up, and you’re hungry—but not "drive-thru burger" hungry. You want something that feels like an event. That’s usually when you find yourself standing in front of the massive fish tank at the entrance of Kona Grill El Paso.
Honestly, it’s a vibe.
Some people call it a sushi joint. Others go strictly for the steaks. In reality, it’s this weird, successful hybrid of a New American grill and a high-end sushi bar that shouldn't work on paper, yet it’s been a staple at 8889 Gateway Blvd W for years.
The Happy Hour That Basically Runs the Show
If we’re being real, the main reason most of us end up here is the happy hour. It’s legendary in El Paso for a reason. While most places give you a sad dollar off a domestic draft, Kona does these $3, $6, and $9 deals that actually let you eat a full meal without draining your savings.
They’ve been running an "All Day Happy Hour" at the bar recently—specifically in early 2026—which is kind of a game changer if you’re ducking out of work early.
You can grab a Kona Margarita or a shot of saké for $3. If you're hungry, those $6 and $9 bites are where it’s at. The Chicken Satay with that Thai peanut sauce is usually my go-to, but the Crab Crunch Roll is a heavy hitter if you want sushi without the $20 price tag.
Pro tip: The "Angry Edamame" is actually spicy. Don't let the name fool you into thinking it's just a light seasoning; it’s got a kick that’ll make you glad you ordered that $6 Pinot Noir to wash it down.
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What to Actually Order (Beyond the Sushi)
Look, the sushi is good. Is it the most authentic Japanese experience in the Sun City? Probably not. But the Las Vegas Roll—which is basically salmon, crab salad, and cream cheese tempura-fried until it’s crispy—is addictive. It’s the kind of "guilty pleasure" sushi that purists hate but everyone orders anyway.
But let’s talk about the kitchen side of the menu.
The Macadamia Nut Chicken is arguably the most famous thing they serve. It’s got this shoyu cream sauce and a pineapple-papaya marmalade that sounds like it might be too sweet, but it hits that salty-sweet balance perfectly. It comes with these miso whipped potatoes that are honestly better than the chicken itself.
If you're feeling fancy, the Big Island Ribeye is a 12oz cut topped with island butter. It’s pricey (around $48), but it’s a solid alternative if you aren't in the mood for the nearby steakhouse chains.
Then there’s the Wagyu Steak Fried Rice. At $27, it’s a bit of a splurge for rice, but they top it with a fried egg and motoyaki sauce. It’s heavy. It’s rich. You’ll probably need a nap afterward.
The Vibe: It’s Not Just for Date Night
Kona Grill El Paso has this "polished casual" thing going on.
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The interior is dark, sleek, and feels a bit like a lounge. It’s great for a date, sure, but you’ll also see people in jerseys during a game or families with kids. Speaking of kids, they actually have a decent kids' menu, which isn't always a given for places that serve $50 steaks.
The patio is where you want to be when the weather isn't trying to blow you into New Mexico. They’ve got fire pits and comfortable sofas. It’s easily one of the best spots in the city for people-watching at the Fountains while you sip on a Watermelon Margarita.
Why Some People Are Skeptical
It’s not all sunshine and saké bombers.
If you read the latest 2025 and 2026 reviews, service can be a bit of a roll of the dice. On a busy Saturday night, you might wait a while for your drinks. It’s a huge restaurant, and when it’s packed, the staff is definitely hustling.
Some "sushi snobs" argue the rolls are too Americanized. And yeah, if you’re looking for hand-pressed nigiri where the chef talks to you about the origin of the bluefin tuna, this isn't that place. This is where you go for a "Fire Dragon Roll" that gets finished with a blowtorch at your table. It’s dinner and a show.
Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
If you want to do Kona right, here’s the strategy:
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- Check the 2026 Happenings: They often have a "Power Lunch" for $19 which is a steal for three courses.
- The Date Night Deal: Look for the $26 Steak Date. You usually get a choice between Steak Frites or that Wagyu Fried Rice.
- Reservations: Use OpenTable or call (915) 249-3803. Don't just walk in at 7:00 PM on a Friday and expect to sit by the fish tank immediately.
- Parking: Use the garage at The Fountains. It’s easier than circling the front lot for twenty minutes.
Practical Details for Your Visit
Kona Grill stays open later than a lot of spots in the area.
Monday through Thursday they’re usually open until midnight. Fridays and Saturdays they push it to 1:00 AM, which makes it one of the few places in East El Paso where you can get a high-quality meal after 10:00 PM. Sundays are a bit shorter, closing at 11:00 PM after their brunch service.
You’ll find them right near the main entrance of the Fountains at Farah.
Whether you’re there for a full-on celebratory dinner or just trying to snag a $6 burger at the bar during the late-night happy hour, it remains one of those reliable spots that keeps the city's dining scene interesting. It’s flashy, it’s consistent, and those avocado egg rolls are still worth every penny.
Actionable Next Steps
To make the most of your next visit, check the current "Limited Time Offers" on their website before you head out, as they frequently rotate seasonal dishes like Blackened Tuna or Pumpkin Pie. If you're planning a weekend visit, book your table at least 24 hours in advance via the Kona Grill website to secure a spot on the patio or near the signature aquarium.