When it comes to planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to eat. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, the Big Island is a culinary paradise that offers a diverse range of dining experiences. From traditional Hawaiian cuisine to modern fusion restaurants, the island is home to a plethora of eateries that cater to every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll explore the best restaurants in Big Island, highlighting the top spots that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of the Best Restaurants in Big Island
The Big Island is a food lover’s haven, with its unique blend of traditional Hawaiian, Asian, and American cuisines. From seafood restaurants serving up fresh catches of the day to farm-to-table eateries showcasing the island’s rich agricultural heritage, there’s something for everyone on this culinary journey. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, a casual eatery for a quick bite, or a family-friendly restaurant that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, we’ve got you covered. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the top restaurants in Big Island, highlighting their signature dishes, ambiance, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
What to Expect
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of the Big Island, highlighting the best restaurants in Kailua-Kona, Hilo, and beyond. From beachside eateries serving up fresh seafood to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, we’ll cover it all. We’ll also provide insider tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your dining experience, including the best times to visit, what to order, and how to make reservations. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the best of Big Island’s culinary scene!
The Best Restaurants in Big Island: A Culinary Delight
Located in the heart of Hawaii, the Big Island is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences that showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage and fresh local ingredients. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to modern fusion cuisine, the Big Island is home to some of the best restaurants in the state. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to discover the best restaurants in Big Island, featuring a mix of local favorites, award-winning eateries, and hidden gems.
1. Merriman’s
Merriman’s is a Waimea institution, known for its farm-to-table cuisine that celebrates the island’s rich agricultural heritage. This award-winning restaurant, founded by celebrity chef Peter Merriman, offers a seasonal menu that changes frequently, but always features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some popular dishes include the grilled fish of the day, lamb ribs, and the famous Merriman’s burger.
2. The CanoeHouse
The CanoeHouse is a beachfront restaurant located in the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, offering stunning ocean views and a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian flavors with modern twists. The restaurant’s focus on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable seafood makes it a popular choice among eco-conscious diners. Be sure to try their signature dishes, including the seafood laulau and the grilled mahi-mahi.
3. Hilo Bay Cafe
Hilo Bay Cafe is a local favorite, located in the heart of Hilo town. This casual, waterfront restaurant serves up fresh seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally, but some popular items include the seafood risotto, grilled ahi, and the famous Hilo Bay burger.
4. Kona Inn Restaurant
Kona Inn Restaurant is a historic eatery located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, offering stunning ocean views and a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian flavors with modern twists. This restaurant is known for its breakfast dishes, including the famous Kona Inn pancakes and eggs benedict. For lunch and dinner, try their seafood dishes, steaks, and pasta options.
5. Pueo’s Osteria
Pueo’s Osteria is a farm-to-table Italian restaurant located in Waikoloa, offering a menu that blends traditional Italian flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This restaurant is known for its handmade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and risottos. Be sure to try their signature dishes, including the pappardelle with wild boar ragu and the bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil. (See Also: Best Restaurant In Haymarket)
6. Huggo’s
Huggo’s is a Kailua-Kona institution, offering a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian flavors with modern twists. This restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, including the famous Huggo’s fish tacos and the seafood paella. For land lovers, try their steaks, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options.
7. Kona Brewing Company
Kona Brewing Company is a popular spot for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike. This brewery and restaurant offers a menu that blends traditional pub fare with modern twists, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood dishes. Be sure to try their famous beer-battered fish and chips and their signature Kona beer flights.
8. Lava Lava Beach Club
Lava Lava Beach Club is a beachfront restaurant located in Waikoloa, offering stunning ocean views and a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian flavors with modern twists. This restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, including the famous Lava Lava fish tacos and the seafood quesadilla. For land lovers, try their steaks, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options.
9. The Fish and The Hog
The Fish and The Hog is a casual, oceanfront restaurant located in Kailua-Kona, offering a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian flavors with modern twists. This restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, including the famous fish and chips and the seafood paella. For land lovers, try their steaks, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options.
10. Cafe 100
Cafe 100 is a Hilo institution, offering a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian flavors with modern twists. This restaurant is known for its breakfast dishes, including the famous loco moco and the Hawaiian-style breakfast plate. For lunch and dinner, try their seafood dishes, steaks, and pasta options.
Best Restaurants by Cuisine
While the Big Island is home to many excellent restaurants, some cuisines stand out for their quality and variety. Here are some of the best restaurants by cuisine:
Seafood
For seafood lovers, the Big Island is a paradise, with many restaurants offering fresh, locally caught seafood. Some of the best seafood restaurants include:
- The CanoeHouse
- Hilo Bay Cafe
- Kona Inn Restaurant
- Huggo’s
- Lava Lava Beach Club
Italian
For Italian food enthusiasts, the Big Island has some excellent options, including:
- Pueo’s Osteria
- Cafe 100
Breakfast and Brunch
For breakfast and brunch enthusiasts, the Big Island has some excellent options, including: (See Also: Best Restaurant In Bgc High Street)
- Kona Inn Restaurant
- Cafe 100
- Hilo Bay Cafe
Farm-to-Table
For farm-to-table enthusiasts, the Big Island has some excellent options, including:
- Merriman’s
- Pueo’s Osteria
- Hilo Bay Cafe
Best Restaurants by Location
The Big Island is a large island, and some restaurants are located in specific areas that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best restaurants by location:
Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona is a popular tourist destination, and it’s home to many excellent restaurants, including:
- Huggo’s
- Kona Inn Restaurant
- Kona Brewing Company
- The Fish and The Hog
Waimea
Waimea is a charming town located in the heart of the Big Island, and it’s home to many excellent restaurants, including:
- Merriman’s
- Pueo’s Osteria
Hilo
Hilo is a historic town located on the east coast of the Big Island, and it’s home to many excellent restaurants, including:
- Hilo Bay Cafe
- Cafe 100
Waikoloa
Waikoloa is a popular tourist destination, and it’s home to many excellent restaurants, including:
- Lava Lava Beach Club
- Pueo’s Osteria
Recap
In conclusion, the Big Island is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences that showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage and fresh local ingredients. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to modern fusion cuisine, the Big Island is home to some of the best restaurants in the state. Whether you’re looking for seafood, Italian, farm-to-table, or breakfast and brunch options, the Big Island has something for everyone. Be sure to try some of the best restaurants in Big Island, and experience the island’s unique culinary scene.
Remember to always check reviews, make reservations, and plan ahead, as some of these restaurants can be quite popular. And don’t forget to try some of the local specialties, such as poke, laulau, and shave ice. Happy eating! (See Also: Best Restaurant In Marina Bay Sands)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best restaurant in Big Island for seafood lovers?
The Fish Hopper in Kailua-Kona is highly recommended for seafood enthusiasts. They offer a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including fish, shellfish, and sushi. Their menu changes seasonally, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients are used.
Are there any restaurants in Big Island that offer traditional Hawaiian cuisine?
Yes, there are several restaurants that serve traditional Hawaiian dishes. One popular option is Helena’s Hawaiian Food in Hilo. They offer a range of traditional dishes, including laulau, kalua pig, and poi. They also have a variety of Hawaiian plate lunches and other local favorites.
What is the best restaurant in Big Island for vegetarians and vegans?
Kona Inn Restaurant in Kailua-Kona has a separate vegetarian and vegan menu, which changes seasonally. They use locally sourced ingredients and offer a range of innovative and delicious plant-based dishes. They also have gluten-free options available.
Are there any restaurants in Big Island that offer stunning ocean views?
Yes, there are several restaurants that offer stunning ocean views. One popular option is The Beachhouse at Mauna Lani in Kohala Coast. This restaurant is located right on the beach and offers breathtaking views of the ocean. They serve contemporary Hawaiian cuisine and have a focus on using locally sourced ingredients.
What is the best restaurant in Big Island for a romantic dinner?
Merriman’s in Waimea is a popular choice for romantic dinners. This restaurant is located in a historic building and has a cozy and intimate atmosphere. They serve farm-to-table cuisine using locally sourced ingredients and have an extensive wine list. They also have a beautiful outdoor patio area with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
