Hey there my fellow travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 20 best restaurants on the Big Island to dirty a napkin in this year. When it comes to food, the Big Island of Hawaii has a lot to offer.
Not only is the island full of stunning natural beauty, but it’s also home to some amazing restaurants. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to international cuisine, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds
Best Restaurants on the Big Island
As above, when it comes to food on the Big Island of Hawaii, it really is hard to go wrong. If you’re looking for more traditional Hawaiian cuisine, try some poi, a staple food made from taro root.
You can also try laulau, a dish made with pork and fish wrapped in taro leaves and cooked in an underground oven. Another popular dish is poke, a raw fish salad that can be found in many local restaurants.
Now of course when it comes to restaurants, whether they are good or not is entirely subjective based on personal tastes, budgets and expectations. So this list is a mixture of ones I have tried and others that have good reviews but certainly does not mean any that are not on this list are not any good.
In fact, if you have a favourite, let me know below so I can add it to the list. Now. let’s run through them below:
Breakfast
If you’re looking for a great breakfast on the Big Island, there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or something healthy.
1. Cafe 100
One popular spot is Cafe 100, which has been serving up local favorites since 1946. They offer a variety of breakfast plates, including their famous loco moco which is a rice bowl topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy. They also have a deli section with sandwiches and salads if you’re in the mood for something lighter.
2. Kona Coffee & Tea Company
For a more upscale breakfast experience, head to the Kona Coffee & Tea Company. They offer a breakfast menu with options such as avocado toast, acai bowls and omelets. Of course, they also have plenty of coffee options, including their own Kona coffee.
3. Punalu’u Bake Shop
If you’re looking for a bakery-style breakfast, check out Punalu’u Bake Shop. They offer a variety of baked goods including sweet bread, cinnamon rolls and turnovers. They also have breakfast sandwiches and wraps if you’re looking for something more substantial.
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Seafood and Sushi
If you’re looking for the best seafood and sushi restaurants, the Big Island is home to some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste, and there are plenty of restaurants that specialize in serving it up. Here are a few good options:
4. Huggo’s
One of the top spots for seafood is Huggo’s, located in Kailua-Kona. This waterfront restaurant offers a range of fresh seafood dishes including grilled fish, shrimp scampi and seafood linguine. If you’re a sushi lover, you won’t want to miss their ahi poke bowl or their sushi rolls made with fresh fish.
5. Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill
Another great option for seafood is Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill, located in Waikoloa. This upscale restaurant offers a range of seafood dishes including misoyaki butterfish, macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi and grilled salmon. Their sushi rolls are also a must-try, with options like the spicy tuna roll and the California roll as well.
6. Da Poke Shack
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, check out Da Poke Shack, located in Kailua-Kona. This local favorite is known for their ahi poke bowls which are made with fresh, locally caught fish. They also offer a range of other seafood dishes like fish tacos and shrimp ceviche too.
7. The Fish Hopper
The Fish Hopper is a seafood restaurant that is committed to sustainability and responsible fishing practices. They work with local fishermen to source their seafood, and they only serve fish that is in season and abundant. Some of the must-try dishes include the Fresh Island Ahi Poke and the Grilled Hawaiian Opah.
Dinner
When it comes to dinner on the Big Island, there are plenty of excellent options to choose from. However, some stand out for their unforgettable experiences. Here are a few recommended restaurants where you can enjoy both delicious food and a memorable ambience.
8. Hualalai Grille
First up is the Hualalai Grille located in the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai known for its exceptional service and mouth-watering steaks. The ambience is elegant yet relaxed, with an open-air dining room and stunning views of the ocean. You can also enjoy live music while you dine, making for a truly unforgettable evening.
9. Merriman’s
Another excellent option is Merriman’s in Waimea. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes daily. The service is top-notch, and the ambience is cozy and intimate. Also. be sure to try the signature dish, the Opakapaka, for a taste of the island’s freshest seafood.
10. Kona Brewing Company
For a more casual but equally unforgettable dinner experience, head to the Kona Brewing Company. This brewery and restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with outdoor seating and live music. The food is delicious with a wide range of options from pizzas to fresh fish tacos. And of course, you can’t leave without trying one of their award-winning beers.
Book your trip to the Big Island here!
Local Favorites
If you’re looking for some authentic local cuisine on the Big Island, you can’t go wrong with these local favorites. From poke to loco moco, these restaurants serve up some of the best homestyle cooking on the island. These inlcude:
11. Super J’s
Super J’s in Hilo is a must-visit for anyone looking for traditional Hawaiian food. Their kalua pork and laulau are especially popular and their prices are very reasonable. However be sure to get there early, as they tend to sell out quickly.
12. Miyo’s Restaurant
Miyo’s Restaurant in Hilo is another great option for homestyle cooking with a menu that features a variety of local favorites including poke, loco moco, and plate lunches. Their portions are generous, and their prices are very reasonable.
Pizza and American
If you’re in the mood for some classic American cuisine, the Big Island has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From juicy burgers to mouth-watering pizzas, you’ll find it all here. Here are some of the best spots to grab a slice of pizza or a hearty American meal.
13. Big Island Pizza
When it comes to pizza, you can’t go wrong with Big Island Pizza. They offer a variety of toppings including classic cheese, pepperoni and sausage. You can also create your own pizza with your favorite toppings. The crust is crispy and the sauce is tangy, making for a delicious slice of pizza.
14. Annie’s Island Fresh Burgers
If you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, head to Annie’s Island Fresh Burgers. Their burgers are made with fresh, locally sourced beef and come with a variety of toppings. You can also opt for a chicken sandwich if you’re not in the mood for beef.
15. Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill
For a hearty steak dinner, check out Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill. Their steak is cooked to perfection and comes with a variety of sides or you can also try their seafood dishes if you’re in the mood for something lighter.
16. Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse
For classic American cuisine, head to Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse. They offer a variety of dishes, including mac and cheese, chicken wings and fish and chips. They also have a great selection of beers on tap, making it the perfect spot to grab a drink and a bite to eat.
Book your trip to the Big Island here!
Fine Dining
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience on the Big Island, there are several fine dining restaurants that offer exceptional cuisine and wine selections including:
17. Mauna Kea’s Manta & Pavilion Wine Bar
One of the most renowned fine dining restaurants on the island is Mauna Kea’s Manta & Pavilion Wine Bar. This oceanfront restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean and a menu that highlights local ingredients. Their wine bar features an extensive selection of wines from around the world as well.
18. Fairmont Orchid’s Brown’s Beach House
Another great option is the Fairmont Orchid’s Brown’s Beach House. This restaurant offers a romantic setting with ocean views and a menu that focuses on fresh seafood and local produce as well as a wine list taht includes both local and international selections too.
19. ‘ULU Ocean Grill
If you’re staying at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, you won’t want to miss their signature restaurant, ‘ULU Ocean Grill. This restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a menu that changes daily based on what’s in season. Their wine list includes a variety of reds, whites and sparkling wines.
20. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s Copper Bar
Lastly, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s Copper Bar is a great option for those looking for a more casual fine dining experience. Their menu features a mix of classic and contemporary dishes, and their wine list includes a variety of reds, whites, and rosés.
FAQs
What dishes is the Big Island known for?
The Big Island is known for its fresh seafood, including poke, ahi and ono. Other popular dishes include kalua pork, laulau and loco moco. Don’t forget to try the island’s famous Kona coffee as well!
Conclusion
There you have it; my 20 best restaurants on the Big Island. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything you think I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
