So, you’re standing in the middle of MetWest International, looking at the menu board and wondering if you should go for the sushi or the steak. Honestly, I get it. The Kona Grill Tampa menu is kind of a beast because it tries to be everything to everyone. You’ve got a full-blown sushi bar on one side and a classic American grill on the other.
Most people end up here because it's right across from International Plaza. It’s convenient. But the menu is huge, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, you might end up with a $30 stir-fry that’s just "okay" when you could’ve had something legendary.
The $39 Date Night Hack and The "Taste of Kona"
If you’re visiting in 2026, the absolute first thing you need to look for is the Taste of Kona deal. It’s basically a $39 three-course dinner that includes a glass of wine or bubbles. For Tampa prices, that’s actually a steal.
You usually get to pick a starter like the Kona Calamari (which comes with those tiny sweety drop peppers) or the Potstickers. Then you move into the mains. The Wagyu Steak Fried Rice is arguably the most popular thing on the menu for a reason. It's got that rich, fatty wagyu flavor mixed with a fried egg and motoyaki sauce. It’s heavy, yeah, but it's worth the nap you'll need afterward.
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Let’s Talk About the Sushi
A lot of "grill" places treat sushi as an afterthought. Kona doesn't. The sushi bar is the heart of the restaurant.
If you want something flashy, the Picasso Roll is the one. It’s spicy yellowtail and avocado topped with jalapeño and sriracha. It’s got a kick. For something a bit sweeter, the Coconut Shrimp Roll uses macadamia nuts and hibiscus cream cheese. It sounds weird. It works.
Prices for specialty rolls usually sit between $21 and $25. If you’re trying to save a few bucks, the traditional rolls like the Philadelphia or Spicy Tuna are closer to $19.
The All-Day Happy Hour Strategy
Here is the real secret to the Kona Grill Tampa menu: the bar. In 2026, they’ve been leaning hard into the "All Day Happy Hour" at the bar. We’re talking $3, $6, and $9 bites.
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- $3 level: Edamame or individual Chicken Satay skewers.
- $6 level: The Kona Bar Burger (a 1/4 pounder) or Chicken Fried Rice.
- $9 level: Full specialty sushi rolls.
If you sit at the bar, you can basically eat a full dinner for under $20 if you play your cards right. Plus, the Kona Margarita is usually on the $6 list. It’s not the most complex drink in the world, but for six bucks in the Westshore district? You can't complain.
Heavy Hitters: Steaks and Seafood
Sometimes you just want a steak. The Big Island Ribeye ($48) is the flagship here. It’s a 12oz cut served with "island butter." If you're feeling extra, they do a Ribeye Surf and Turf for $52 that usually comes with shrimp skewers.
The Macadamia Nut Chicken ($37) is the dish for people who don't want sushi or red meat. It’s very "Florida-meets-Hawaii"—shoyu cream, pineapple-papaya marmalade, and whipped potatoes. It’s definitely on the sweeter side of savory, so keep that in mind.
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What to Skip
Look, I'll be honest. The Lemon Garlic Penne ($29) is fine, but you're at a place known for sushi and wagyu. Ordering pasta here feels like going to a steakhouse and getting the garden salad. Also, the Miso Soup ($10) is a bit pricey for what it is. If you're craving soup, the Clam Chowder ($18) with coconut milk and lemongrass is a way more interesting use of your money.
Dessert is a Trap (The Good Kind)
The Original Butter Cake ($17) is the only dessert that actually matters. It’s warm, it’s got raspberry sauce, and it comes with vanilla bean ice cream. It is incredibly dense. Share it with someone. Or don't. No judgment.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
If you are planning to head to Kona Grill Tampa this week, do these three things to get the best experience:
- Check the time: If it's Sunday, go for Sushi Sundays. They’ve been running an all-you-can-eat traditional sushi deal for about $39.
- Sit at the bar: If you want the $3/$6/$9 deals, you usually have to be at the bar or on the patio. The dining room often has the full-price menu only.
- Park smart: MetWest parking can be a nightmare during lunch hour. Use the parking garage behind the building; Kona usually validates or it's free for the first few hours anyway.
The menu is big enough that you can eat healthy (Sashimi and Seaweed Salad) or go full "cheat day" (Bacon Wagyu Meatloaf). Just make sure you check the "Limited Time Offers" section first, as they tend to rotate seasonal items like the Baked Stuffed Salmon or pumpkin-themed desserts in the colder months.