35 Best Restaurants in Big Island, Hawaii

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Between star chefs and myriad local farms, the Big Island restaurant scene is becoming a destination for foodies. Food writers are praising the chefs of the Big Island for their ability to turn the local bounty into inventive blends inspired by the island's cultural heritage.

Resorts along the Kohala Coast have long invested in culinary programs offering memorable dining experiences that include inventive entrées, spot-on wine pairings, and customized chef's table options. But great food on the Big Island doesn't begin and end with the resorts. A handful of chefs have retired from the fast-paced hotel world and opened their own small bistros in upcountry Waimea, or other places off the beaten track. Unique and wonderful restaurants have cropped up in Hawi, Kainaliu, and Holualoa, and on the east side of the island in Hilo.

In addition to restaurants, festivals devoted to island products draw hundreds of attendees to learn about everything from breadfruit and mango to avocado, chocolate, and coffee. Agritourism has turned into a fruitful venture for farmers as farm tours afford the opportunity to meet with and learn from a variety of local producer. Some tours conclude with a meal of items sourced from the same farms. From goat farms churning creamy, savory goat cheese to Waimea farms planting row after row of bright tomatoes to high-tech aquaculture operations at NELHA (Natural Energy Lab of Hawaii Authority), visitors can see exactly where their next meal comes from.

A-Bay's Island Grill

$ Fodor's choice

Beachy yet upscale, the restaurant has an in-house beer sommelier who advises on the perfect pairing with your food choice, which can range from fresh catch, steak, burgers, and sandwiches to crab cakes and escargots; many dishes incorporate Hawaiian touches. This sports bar offers a 24-tap digital beer tower and 10 TV screens. An innovative frost rail on the cocktail bar keeps your drinks cool. Patio seating outside offers additional dining options. There's a second location in Kona.

Big Kahuna Beach Grill

$ Fodor's choice

From its upstairs, open-air dining room decorated with kitschy surfer chic, this new restaurant invites customers to enjoy views of the pier and a bustling corner of Alii Drive. Fortunately, an excellent, extensive menu makes it well worth a stop; fresh fish plates including fish tacos are a sure bet. The clam chowder is some of Kona's best. Try the smashburger (a cooking technique that adds flavor while reducing grill time) or the marinated sirloin or New York strip. Death by Chocolate is the dessert to die for. They also serve breakfast from 7 until noon, and there's a happy hour as well as live music nightly. Great prices keep the locals coming in. 

Manta at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

$$$$ Fodor's choice

Perched on the edge of a bluff overlooking the sparkling waters of Kaunaoa Beach, the resort's flagship restaurant is a compelling spot for a romantic meal at sunset, especially at one of the outside tables. The culinary team's take on Hawaii Regional Cuisine highlights locally sourced, sustainable fish, chicken, and beef. The grilled chicken, for example, comes from the Kau district of the Big Island, while the Kona kampachi is raised on the coast.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Tex Drive-In

$ Fodor's choice

A local institution, this casual place is famous for its malasadas, the puffy, doughy, deep-fried Portuguese doughnuts without a hole, best eaten hot; there are also cream-filled versions, including vanilla, chocolate, and coconut. For more than a snack, go for the Hawaiian burger, with a fat, juicy slice of sweet pineapple on top, the overstuffed burrito, or some decent house-made pizza.

ULU Ocean Grill and Sushi Lounge at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

$$$$ Fodor's choice

Casual elegance takes center stage at the resort's flagship oceanfront restaurant, one of the most upscale restaurants on the Big Island. Breakfast can be à la carte or buffet, but nighttime is when the magic happens, with diverse menu choices—roasted beet salad, flame-grilled prime New York steak, Kona lobster, shrimp pad Thai, and more—that make deciding what to order a challenge. At least 75% of the food served here is locally sourced. There's also a full sushi menu. The impressive wine program includes boutique wines and world-class imports. 

Cafe 100

$

Established in 1948, this casual spot is famous for its tasty loco moco, prepared in more than three dozen ways (with different meats, chicken, vegetables, and fish), and its low-priced breakfast and lunch specials. The word "restaurant," or even "café," is used loosely—you order at a window and eat on one of the outdoor benches provided—but you come here for the food, prices, and authentic, old-Hilo experience. You can stuff yourself for $5 if you order right.

Don's Mai Tai Bar & Restaurant at Royal Kona Resort

$$

The largest open-air tiki bar in Kona has the absolute best view of Kailua Bay in town. This is the perfect spot to relax with a pupu (appetizer) such as the coconut-crusted shrimp or "Hapa" poke bowl, or to dig into something more substantial like the kiawe wood–smoked prime rib. The Breezeway Lounge is excellent for watching giant surf or breaching whales, and Don's hosts first-rate Hawaiian performers on Thursdays. During happy hour from 4 to 6, the famous mai tais are only $8. Save room for dessert; the mud pie is deliciously sinful, or order one of the luscious dessert coffees.

Hawaii Calls Restaurant and Lounge at Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa

$$$

The only full-service restaurant at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott offers a farm-to-table, island-inspired menu. Photos of surf breaks from around the world adorn the walls of this casual, spacious open-air restaurant, which has plenty of patio seating with sunset views. The circular bar is a good spot to enjoy a cocktail while watching the tiki torches light up the gardens.

Hawaiian Style Cafe

$

Come hungry: there’s a reason the line is usually out the door at this popular hole-in-the-wall eatery in a shopping center downtown. Not only does the Hawaiian comfort food hit the spot, it’s affordable and served in sizable portions. The heavily “local” menu items include fresh-fish specials, poke bowls, and Kalua pork hash served with fried rice and eggs. There's another location in Waimea. 

Huggo's

$$$$

A Kona icon since 1969, family-owned Huggo's is one of the few restaurants in town with prices and atmosphere comparable to the splurge restaurants at the Kohala Coast resorts. Dinner offerings sometimes fall short, considering the prices, but the pupus (appetizers) and small plates are usually a good bet. If you're on a budget or just want lunch, Huggo's on the Rocks, next door, is a popular outdoor bar in the sand, and the burgers are pretty darn good, too. It's also Kailua-Kona's hot spot for cocktails and live music nightly.

Island Fish and Chips

$
Hidden lakeside at the Kings' Shops, this little takeout place is a best-kept secret in the Waikoloa Beach Resort. The combo baskets brim with tempura fresh-catch fish, chicken, shrimp, and more. Grab a table beneath the gazebo and enjoy assorted appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts while taking in the view.

Island Lava Java

$$

With cocktail bars both upstairs and downstairs, oceanfront Island Lava Java serves eggs Benedict for breakfast, fresh fish tacos for lunch, and pasta, Big Island beef, and seafood for dinner, plus towering, fresh bistro salads. There are also pizzas, sandwiches, and plenty of choices for both vegetarians and meat eaters. Portions are large, food is made from scratch, and most of the menu is fresh, local, and organic. 

K's Drive-In

$

Unassuming from the outside, this small, local-style plate-lunch eatery serves top-quality, genuine Hawaiian specialties in Hilo. All the staples are here, from kalua pork (slow-cooked and pulled) to shoyu chicken (cooked in a sauce including fermented soy sauce), loco moco (meat, rice, and eggs smothered in gravy), and pork adobo. Order at the takeout window and grab a seat at one of the picnic tables outside.

Ken's House of Pancakes

$

For years, this legendary diner near Banyan Drive between the airport and the hotels has been a gathering place for Hilo residents and visitors. Breakfast is the main attraction: Ken's serves 11 types of pancakes, plus all kinds of fruit waffles (banana, peach) and popular omelets, like Da Bradda, teeming with meats. The menu features 180 other tasty local specialties (loco moco, or meat, rice, and eggs smothered in gravy; tripe stew; oxtail soup) and American-diner-inspired items.

Kilauea Lodge Restaurant

$$$

At this historic lodge in the heart of Volcano Village, the fare ranges from gourmet grass-fed Big Island beef burgers and locally sourced lamb burgers to Cajun shrimp and sausage pasta, catch of the day, and farm-fresh salads. The koa-wood tables and intimate lighting are in keeping with the ambience. Kilauea Lodge itself was built in 1937 as a YMCA camp, and the restaurant still retains the Fireplace of Friendship embedded with coins and plaques from around the world. Happy hour is from 2 to 4.

Kohala Coffee Mill and Tropical Dreams

$

If you're looking for something sweet—or savory—this busy café in downtown Hawi serves breakfast (bagels, espresso machine–steamed eggs), and lunch (hot dogs, burgers, chili, salads) until 6. Sit outside and watch the world go by as you enjoy locally made ice cream that is ono (delicious), as well as other sweet treat specialties.

55-3412 Akoni Pule Hwy., Hawi, HI, 96719, USA
808-889–5577
Known For
  • Vegan soup
  • Sometimes crowded
  • Outstanding local coffee
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner

Kona Coffee and Tea

$
All of this family-owned coffee company's businesses—growing, roasting, brewing, and serving their authentic Kona coffee—operate within a 10-mile radius of the farm. At their homey little café, they offer a staggering array of coffee drinks, along with upscale deli items such as lox and a veggie focaccia sandwich; breakfast goodies include acai bowls. Stop by the café/outlet on Wednesday (starting at 8:30 am) for a free curated tasting with the baristas, and shop for other Hawaiian-made treats, from honey to chocolate-covered coffee beans. There's a happy hour daily from 3 to 6; a small selection of beer and wine is available.
74-5588 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona, HI, 96740, USA
808-329--6577
Known For
  • Small-batch, estate-grown coffee
  • Kona coffee tastings every Wednesday
  • Hawaiian-made food treats for sale
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner

Kuhio Grille

$

There's no atmosphere to speak of at this diner, and water is served in unbreakable plastic tumblers, but if you're searching for local fare—that undefinable fusion of ethnic cuisines—this is the place. Choose from "grindz" that include loco moco (meat, rice, and eggs smothered in gravy), oxtail soup, plate lunches, pork chops, steaks, saimin, stir-fry, and daily specials.

Lava Rock Cafe

$

This is an affordable place to grab a sandwich or a coffee and check your email (Wi-Fi is free with purchase of a meal) before heading to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The homey, sit-down diner caters to families, serving up heaping plates of comfort food like pancakes and French toast for breakfast; on the lunch menu, burgers range from bacon-cheese to turkey and paniolo (cowboy) burgers made with Hawaii grass-fed beef. A full bar serves draft beer and cocktails. There's live music in the evenings on a small stage.

19-3972 Old Volcano Hwy., Volcano, HI, 96785, USA
808-967–8526
Known For
  • Roadhouse atmosphere
  • Live music in evenings
  • Full bar
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner Sun. Closed Mon.

Luquin's Cantina

$

Long an island favorite for tasty, albeit greasy, Mexican grub, this landmark has made a comeback in funky Pahoa in a different space after a fire destroyed the original restaurant in 2017. Tacos are great (go for crispy), especially when stuffed with grilled, seasoned local fish on occasion. Chips are warm and salty, the salsa's got some kick, and the beans are thick with lard and topped with melted cheese.

Manago Hotel Restaurant

$

The historic Manago Hotel is like a time warp, complete with a vintage neon sign, TV room, and old photos. T-shirts brag (and it's not false advertising) that the restaurant has the best grilled pork chops in the world; the fresh fish and New York steak are excellent as well. Meals come with rice for the table and an assortment of changing side dishes, which usually include macaroni or tuna salad, long rice, and a sautéed veggie dish. 

82-6155 Mamalahoa Hwy., Captain Cook, HI, 96704, USA
808-323–2642
Known For
  • One of the only places in Kona serving opelu, a local fish
  • Mains come with a variety of side dishes
  • Local hospitality
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon.

Mauna Lani Coffee Company

$

The staff at this little place take pride in learning customers' names and treating you like a "regular." All the coffee favorites are here, from espresso to latte to a good old-fashioned cup of Kona. Homemade pastries are available, and they open at 6 am for the early birds. 

Mr. Ed's Bakery

$

There's been a bakery in this building since 1912, when the previous owner served cookies and treats to the kids of plantation workers. Dean and June Edmoundson took over the spot in 1990 and have been treating visitors and residents to delectable goodies, including guava bear claws, paniolo (cowboy) cookies, homemade preserves, ice cream, and shave ice. There are also basic snacks if you've worked up an appetite visiting Akaka Falls, such as hot dogs and manapua (pork wrapped in a steamed bun). If you're staying in the area, they will deliver. 

28-1672 Old Government Rd., Honomu, HI, 96728, USA
808-963–5000
Known For
  • Fresh-baked pastries and desserts every morning
  • To-go food such as hot dogs and manapua (pork in a steamed bun)
  • Proximity to Akaka Falls State Park
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner

Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar

$$

Simply unbeatable proximity to the ocean is part of the draw of this lively restaurant in the heart of town: you just can't get any closer to the water without getting wet—and sometimes you do! It's popular to come here for sunset for drinks and appetizers such as the truffle Parmesan fries or the kalua pork arancini. Otherwise, stick with a burger or sandwich, as the mains can get pricey. Beloved local musicians Lopaka Roots and LT Smooth play nightly. 

Pine Tree Cafe

$

Named for a popular nearby surf spot, the low-key, no-frills café offers local plate lunch options and classics such as loco moco (meat, rice, and eggs smothered in gravy), alongside new inventions like crab curry bisque. The fresh-fish plate is decent, and all meals are served with fries or rice and macaroni salad. The prices are a bit higher than you might expect, but the portions are huge. It's a good place to stop for a last-minute bite—breakfast, lunch, or dinner—before catching your flight back to the mainland.

Punaluu Bake Shop

$

Billed as the southernmost bakery in the United States, it's a good spot to grab a snack or lunch. Hawaiian sweetbread is the specialty here. Local-style plate lunches and sandwiches on the bakeshop's sweetbread buns go well with Kau coffee, which has earned a reputation for excellence that rivals Kona coffee.

Sam Choy's Kai Lanai

$$

Perched above a shopping center with a million-dollar panoramic view, this open-air "fast casual" restaurant offers customers the chance to enjoy cocktail service table side and then order entrées directly from the counter. The ahi wrap is the star of the show, and the macadamia nut–encrusted ono is a close second. Be sure to try the key lime pie with some Kona coffee. They also have a drive-up window where you can get takeout. The fast casual concept takes a little getting used to, but if you're in a hurry, it can be super convenient. Don't worry, though; you can sit at your table and leisurely enjoy the view and sunset. Happy hour runs daily from 2 to 6.

Tea-licious Cafe

$

Known for home-baked pastries, gourmet loose-leaf teas, and high-end coffees, this sweet, cozy spot is a lovely destination not far from the beach.  Sandwiches and salads are served from 10 am to 3 pm. Try the brie, apple, and fig jam combo on freshly baked baguette or one of the signature salads. They even serve made-to-order Italian sodas.

Teshima's Restaurant

$

It doesn't look like much, either inside or out, but Teshima's has been a kamaaina (local) favorite since 1929 for a reason. Locals gather at this small landmark restaurant whenever they're in the mood for fresh sashimi, puffy shrimp tempura, or hekka (beef and vegetables cooked in an iron pot). Try teishoku (tray) No. 3, featuring sashimi, tempura, sukiyaki beef, rice, miso soup, and sunomono (cucumber salad). The restaurant has been family owned and operated by five generations of Teshimas.

The Coffee Shack

$

Visitors enjoy stopping here before or after a morning of snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, and for good reason: the views of the Honaunau Coast from this roadside restaurant are nothing short of drop-dead stunning. This place is best for breakfast or a quick bite, as overpriced mains can miss; but if you're in the mood for a Hawaiian smoothie, iced honey-mocha latte, or scone, it's worth the stop. It can get crowded, and parking is tricky and limited, so you may need to park across the highway and dash over. They are open until sunset.