Part of a great vacation are great dining experiences – the more the better. And on the Big Island, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and eateries of all types, from fine dining to quick bites. If you’re looking for the best places to eat now, we have the inside scoop.
Mauna Kea
At the Manta at Mauna Kea Hotel, diners enjoy meals out of the all new exhibition kitchen that are as much a treat for the eyes as they are for the palate. Pair your dinner with a wine from the expanded list of the hotel’s new wine program.
Across from Kawaihae Harbor, the Blue Dragon Restaurant serves up fresh, global-inspired flavors in a casual courtyard environment. Enjoy live music and dancing along with your gourmet meal.
From its humble beginnings as a take-out pizzeria, the Café Pesto has grown into a much loved local family restaurant – one boasting stellar review by Fodor’s, Zagat, Food and Wine Magazine, and more.
Or grab a bowl of fresh poke from Hale l’a Da Fish House. This little fresh fish market has been a hole in the wall favorite for its generous portions and high quality ingredients.
Mauna Lani
Hawaii is well known for having a strong Japanese influence. At Monstera Sushi you can sample not only classic sashimi dishes but traditional Japanese pub fare as well.
For those looking for traditional Hawaiian fare, Chef Allan Nagun’s CanoeHouse offers a fresh, sustainable, and high end approach to regional fare, while the AAA Four Diamond winning Brown’s Beach House with its stunning beach views has become a fine dining destination for couples.
Mauna Lani is also home to well known upscale chains, such as tropical eatery Tommy Bahamas and steakhouse Ruth’s Chris.
Waikoloa
One of the best known and most popular restaurants on the Big Island, Roy’s practically defines fine Hawaiian dining. While the chain has grown, the quality and service have remained at the same high standard.
Or dig your toes right into the sand at the Lava Lava Beach Club, which serves delicious island pub fare along with colorful and flavorful cocktails to guests right on the beach of “A-bay,” as the locals call it.
If you’re ready to take a break from Hawaiian fare – but without sacrificing flavor or freshness, Pueo’s Osteria serves up locally sourced, Italian inspired dishes. And just like their namesake owl, Pueo’s is open late for all the island’s midnight eaters.
Kona / Keauhou
Any trip to coffee growing country should start with coffee at the Kona Coffee & Tea or a beer at the Kona Brewery. Both locations feature locally grown, locally sourced food and drink.
After that, you’ll find a diverse range of ethnic eateries to choose from. Taste fish fresh from the waves at Lemongrass Bistro and Sushi Shiono, two popular sushi and sashimi restaurants, or head over to Kamana for authentic Indian flavors.