Just returned from 10 days in south Kona--this morning on United's non-stop into Denver. Thought I'd do this before I start playing catch-up at work tomorrow.

Fujimama's in Kailua-town--dinner the evening of our arrival--on Thanksgiving--the sashimi tuna appetizer was absolutely gorgeous and absolutely delicious. And I loved the basil shrimp fried rice. The wine list was not extensive but had some good choices (at least one I liked).

Mi's Bistro in south Kona--Italian--has dinner there--they make all the pasta and breads there--food very fresh and well prepared.

Huluakoa Cafe--in Hulualoa--lunch--in a beautiful building--the deck overlooks the garden that is between the building and the road. Huloaloa is a charming little town up above Kailua-Kona--has some art galleries and gift shops. The food was all homemade--I had a delicious ham, bean, vegie soup-DH had their take on a Reuben on rustic bread. Service was very slow-but the waitress was quite charming.

The Roadhouse--great place for lunch in Kainaliu in south Kona. Open 11am-5pm--Mon-Fri. Inexpensive. Homemade sandwiches, sausage rolls, filo packets--great cookies and pastries.

Thanks martym,we'll be there in Feb. for our 3rd trip and appreciate the new suggestions.

You're welcome!

Taking notes, didn't go to any of them on our Feb trip. Thanks, martym.

We also enjoyed Fujumama's last May. Their eel was delicious, and the Tower roll & Philadelphia roll was as well.
I tried a lilikoi martini - much too sweet to my liking but DS like his saki sampler. Service was great! Scroll all the way down to see the yummy pics of the food.
http://tinyurl.com/382b59

Another recommendation is Ke'ei Cafe:
http://tinyurl.com/yofhxs

Here is a link to my TR, in case you are interested:
http://tinyurl.com/2bmakk

One less attractive, local lunch spot is Teshima's. Here is a link to a review:
http://tinyurl.com/27kl8r
We especially liked their boxed lunches, called bentos. Took them to the beach or snorkeling to eat later.

Here is another link you may find of interest:
http://tinyurl.com/2xzm92

I see my TR link did not open for some reason, so here is the title if you want to search for it:
OSB's Big Island Trip Report #1

There's a new shopping center open at Mauna Lani with several new restaurants: Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Dara's Thai Cuisine. Opening soon is a Japaese-fusion restaurant Kenichi Pacific.

We tried the first of those on our last visit, and were underwhelmed. It wasn't bad food, just trendy, mediocre quality and overpriced.

We're big fans of their clothing, though.