Headed to Hawaii and wondering what the best Big Island restaurants are? From a casual lunch spot, to the best restaurants to watch the sunset with a fine dining experience, I’ve got you covered. Here are the 10+ BEST restaurants on the Big Island, including Kona & Waimea.
The Big Island of Hawaii isn’t just a volcanic wonderland of lava tubes and waterfalls; it’s a culinary paradise waiting to tantalize your taste buds. From fresh-caught seafood pulled straight from the Pacific to farm-to-table delights bursting with local flavors, the island offers a diverse dining scene that caters to every palate.
And whether you’re craving a romantic sunset dinner with ocean views or a casual lunch, this guide will point you towards the Big Island’s best bites.
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Fine Dining with a View
Brown’s Beach House
This beachfront gem located at the Fairmont Orchid, offers an unparalleled dining experience. Savor innovative Pacific Rim cuisine amidst the crashing waves, where the view is as stunning as the food. Live music and a beautiful place to catch the sunset.
Don’t Miss: Their Filet Mignon. Be sure to try the ube rolls too!
CanoeHouse
CanoeHouse takes fine dining to new heights with its focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Be sure to book your dinner time around sunset, as the views are stunning. Located at the Mauna Lani resort. Their tasting menus are an adventure for the senses, showcasing the island’s bounty in creative and unexpected ways.
Don’t Miss: Lobster Tempura.
Merriman’s
This acclaimed restaurant chain offers an innovative menu with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. Their Waimea location boasts stunning mountain views.
Don’t Miss: Poke Mix Plate with fresh tableside grated wasabi.
Beach Tree Restaurant Bar and Lounge
Dine beachfront at the Four Seasons at the Beach Tree Restaurant. Enjoy the farm-to-table cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes.
Don’t Miss: Kanpachi Crudo.
Casual Eats with Island Vibes
Napua
This beachside cafe is a local favorite for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious Hawaiian-inspired fare. Plus, their special Mai Tai may be my favorite on the Big Island!
Don’t Miss: The Panko Crusted Calamari Steak! Served with a tomato poke, sweet chili aioli and unagi sauce.
Tommy Bahamas
This iconic island chain brings its relaxed island vibes and delicious tropical cuisine to the Big Island. Dine on their expansive patio overlooking the ocean and enjoy their signature coconut shrimp, juicy burgers, and refreshing cocktails. The frozen mai tai is legendary, and their happy hour is a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.
Don’t Miss: The coconut shrimp.
HaLani
Located in the Mauna Lani, HaLani offers a casual yet elegant setting for enjoying fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes. Their poke bowls are a colorful and delicious option for lunch.
Don’t Miss: The Kauai Prawn Mafaldine, a squid ink pasta with amatriciana sauce and parmesan crisps. It may be my favorite dish on the Big Island!
Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill
Nestled in Kailua-Kona, Umekes is a haven for seafood lovers. Their signature poke bowls are a must-try, bursting with vibrant flavors and local ingredients. Or, savor their buttery lobster macadamia nut crusted fish, or indulge in the daily fresh catch, grilled to perfection.
Don’t Miss: The poke bowls.
The Hawaiian Style Cafe
This no-frills diner in Hilo is a local institution, serving up homestyle Hawaiian comfort food at its finest. Their loco moco, a classic Hawaiian dish with two eggs, rice, hamburger patty, and gravy, is a must-try. Don’t forget to try their delicious pancakes and spam musubi for a true Hawaiian breakfast experience.
Don’t Miss: The loco moco.
Kona Brewing Company
This popular brewery in Kailua-Kona is a must-visit for beer lovers. Sample their award-winning brews, from the Longboard Lager to the Koko Pu Porter, and pair them with their delicious pub fare. Their Kona wings are a popular choice, and their pizzas are made with fresh, local ingredients.
Don’t Miss: The fish tacos.
Beyond the Restaurants
No culinary adventure on the Big Island is complete without exploring the local farmers markets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and discover a bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and unique Hawaiian products. Don’t forget to try the local fruits like mango, guava, and passionfruit, and pick up some macadamia nuts for a delicious souvenir.
PS – Check out this post on the best Mai Tais on the Big Island as well. Plus, here’s some of our favorite things to do in Hawaii.
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