Must-Try Popular Dishes on the Big Island! A Guide to Recommended Restaurants in Kona, Categorized by Price (High-End and Budget)
Must-Try Foods on the Big Island of Hawaii and
Tips for Choosing a Restaurant
Must-try culinary delights on the Big Island range from classics like poke bowls, loco moco, and Kona coffee to dinner at restaurants with breathtaking views.A wide range ofThey're all here!
The key to choosing a restaurant is to narrow down your options based on the area—such as Kona, Waikoloa, or Hilo—and whether you're looking for dinner or lunch.
In this column,Popular Restaurants by CategoryI'll summarize and introduce them here.
◆For those looking for a place to have a cheap and delicious lunch
◆For those looking for tours they can enjoy before or after a meal
◆For those looking for upscale restaurants and dining spots around Kona
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Hawaii.
Must-Try Classic Dishes on the Big Island
On the Island of Hawaii, while traveling,I really hope you'll give it a tryThere are plenty of local flavors to enjoy.
First of all,Standard gourmetIf you keep these features in mind, choosing a restaurant will be much easier!
Let's take a look at four representative examples.
About Local Food on the Island of Hawaii
▼Click here for more details▼
Fresh Poke Bowl
Poke is a Hawaiian dish made with diced seafood seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other ingredients.Local CuisineIt is.
On the Big Island of HawaiiAhi (Tuna)Poke made with [ingredient] is popular, and poke bowls served over rice areA Quick LunchIt's perfect for that!
There are many specialty shops and fish markets, so be sure to try a few and compare them.
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
A Hearty Loco Moco
Loco Moco is a Hawaiian dish consisting of rice topped with a hamburger patty and a fried egg, drizzled with gravy.Classic Local DishesIt is.
I want a hearty, filling mealBreakfast and LunchWe recommend this!
In Hilo, on the east side of the Big Island, there’s also a long-established diner known for its loco moco.
Unique to the Big Island of Hawaii
Kona Beef · Local Food
The Big Island has many ranches, including Parker Ranch near Waimea,BeefIt is also known as a production area for [...].
Grown off the coast of KonaKona AmberjackOh, and “Kalua Pig,” which is pork steamed and roasted,lau lauYou won't want to miss out on local foods like these, either.
The appeal of Big Island cuisine is that you can enjoy both the bounty of the farm and the bounty of the sea!
Authentic Kona Coffee and Desserts
Kona coffee is grown on the volcanic slopes of the Kona region on the Island of Hawaii,World-renownedIt's a brand-name coffee.
When choosing souvenirs,100% Ground CoffeeLet's check the notation.
Along with coffee, some localpancakeIt's also a great way to enjoy some sweets!
Enjoy Kona coffee☆
Click here for recommended tours ▼
About Souvenirs from the Island of Hawaii
▼Click here for more details▼
5 Recommended Fine Dining Restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii
For special travel memories, enjoy scenery and flavors that are a cut above the restFine Dining Restaurantis recommended.
Here, we've selected five popular high-end restaurants on the Big Island.
Anniversaries and HoneymoonsPlease use this as a guide for your dinner!
Recommended Dinner Spots on the Island of Hawaii
▼Click here for more details▼
Ulu Ocean Grill + Sushi Lounge
(Ul Ocean Grill)
Ulu Ocean Grill + Sushi Lounge is located on the northern part of the Kona Coast,Four Seasons Resort HualalaiIt's a restaurant located there.
At a table with an ocean view, featuring dishes made with local ingredientsGrilled Dishes and SushiYou can enjoy it!
This is the perfect place for anyone who wants to enjoy a resort-like atmosphere.
Basic Information
◆Directions: About a 15-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: Breakfast 6:30–11:00, Dinner 5:30–9:00
◆Holidays: None
About Steak Houses on the Island of Hawaii
▼Click here for more details▼
Merriman's
Merrimans is committed to using ingredients from the Big Island of Hawaii.Hawaiian Regional CuisineIt is a renowned restaurant known as a pioneer in this field.
Our main store is located in a highland town near ranches and farms.WaimeaIt is located in (Kamuela).
Local beef and vegetablesPlease be sure to try some dishes made with [ingredient].
◆Directions: About a 50-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Business hours
・Monday–Saturday: Lunch 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Dinner 5:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
・Sunday: 10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
◆Holidays: None
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Pueo's Osteria
Pueoz Osteria is located in Waikoloa HighlandsItalian RestaurantIt is.
Homemade Pastaand pizzaYou can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, such as...!
Not too casualAn atmosphere that isn't too formalSo, I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to enjoy a leisurely meal.
◆Directions: About a 35-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: Dinner 4:30 PM–9:30 PM
◆Holidays: None
Huggo's
Hagos is located along the coast in Kailua-KonaSeafood & SteakIt's a popular restaurant.
Enjoying dinner while listening to the sound of the waves really gives you that tropical vibe!
sunsetWe also recommend visiting during that time slot.
◆Directions: About a 20-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
◆Holidays: None
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Kenichi Pacific
(Kenichi Pacific)
Kenichi Pacific is a popular restaurant in the Kona area that incorporates Japanese elements into its cuisine.Pacific CuisineThis is the store.
Made with fresh seafoodSushi and Creative CuisineYou can enjoy it here. It's a great place to turn to when you're craving Japanese food!
◆Directions: About a 25-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: 4:30 PM–9:00 PM
◆Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays
Affordable and Delicious Restaurants on the Big Island
Top 5 Picks
On the Big Island of Hawaii,Reasonably pricedThere are also plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine.
For those who want to save on travel expenses, orCasuallyIf you're interested in trying out different foods as you walk around, be sure to check this out.
Here, we'll introduce five popular restaurants in Kona and Hilo!
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Da Poke Shack
(Da Poke Shack)
Da Poke Shack is located in Kailua-Kona'sArii DriveIt's a popular Poké restaurant located along the street.
Made with fresh fishPoke BowlIt's also a great idea to get it to go and eat it by the beach.
If you're a Pokémon fan,An absolute must-seeIt's a store!
◆Directions: About a 25-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: 10:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (Mondays), 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (Tuesdays–Fridays)
◆Closed: Saturdays and Sundays
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Umeke's Fish Market Bar & Grill
(Umekesu)
Umekes is a popular spot in KonaFish MarketThis is the attached grill.
Poke Bowls and Plate LunchesWe offer a wide variety of hearty dishes, and more!
It's popular with locals, so it can get crowded at lunchtime.
◆Directions: About a 15-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
◆Holidays: None
Island Ono Loa Grill
(Island Ono Roa Grill)
Island Ono Roa Grill is located in Kailua-Kona'sArii DriveIt's a popular spot along the street known for its burgers and lunch platters.
Beef patties made from beef from the Island of HawaiiLava RockTheir signature dish is the burger cooked on the grill!
Since they're closed on Wednesdays, be sure to check before deciding when to visit.
◆Directions: About a 20-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: 11:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
*Open until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays only
◆Closed: Wednesdays
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Café 100
Cafe 100 is located in Hilo, on the east side of the Island of Hawaii,Famous Loco Moco restaurantIt is a cafeteria known as .
There are so many variations of loco moco that it's hard to decide which one to choose.
Since it's a bit far from Kona,Hiro TourismLet's visit there too!
◆Directions: About 1 hour and 40 minutes by car from Kona International Airport; about 10 minutes by car from Hilo International Airport
◆Business Hours: Monday–Thursday 7:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
◆Closed: Fridays and Saturdays
Ken's House of Pancakes
(Ken's House of Pancakes)
Ken's House of Pancakes has been a longtime favorite in Hilo.A Long-Established DinerIt is.
Not just pancakes, but also Hawaii'sLocal MenuWe also have a wide selection of [...].
For breakfast, tooIt's a reliable spot that's perfect for meals, too!
◆Directions: About 1 hour and 35 minutes by car from Kona International Airport; about 12 minutes by car from Hilo International Airport
◆Business Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
◆Holidays: None
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Popular Lunch Spots and Cafes in Kona
The west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii is full of great places to stop by for lunch or coffee.
Taking a break between sightseeing stopsIt's also perfect for that. Here are three popular spots!
Recommended Lunch Spots on the Big Island of Hawaii
▼Click here for more details▼
Kona Pub
Kona Pub is one of the most iconic spots on the Big Island of HawaiiCraft BeerThis is a pub attached to the brewery of Kona Brewing, the manufacturer of [product name].
HandmadePizzaWith a menu featuring fish tacos, salads, and more, this restaurant is perfect for both lunch and dinner!
Beer LoverWhether you're a local or just looking to enjoy a leisurely meal between sightseeing stops, please feel free to stop by.
◆Directions: About an 18-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
◆Holidays: None
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Island Lava Java
(Island Lava Java)
Island Lava Java is located along Alii Drive,The ocean is right in front of meIt's a café and restaurant.
Along with Kona coffee,Breakfast and brunchYou can enjoy the
I highly recommend this for anyone who wants to relax while taking in the view!
◆Directions: About a 20-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Business Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
◆Holidays: None
Lava Lava Beach Club
(Labalaba Beach Club)
The Labalaba Beach Club is,At the tables lined up on the sandy beachThis open-air restaurant offers breathtaking views where you can enjoy your meal while listening to the sound of the waves.
At dusk, it's breathtakingly beautifulsunsetYou can take in the entire view.
Tropical cocktails and island-style cuisineEnjoy with All Five SensesIt's the ultimate resort destination!
◆Directions: About a 30-minute drive from Kona International Airport
◆Business hours
・Lunch: 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
・Weekend Brunch (Sat & Sun): 11:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
・Happy Hour: 2:00 PM–4:00 PM (daily)
・Dinner: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
*Live music on the beach: Starts at 5:30 p.m. every day*
◆Holidays: None
You can make a request☆
▼Click here for our recommended exclusive private tours▼
Can be enjoyed before or after a meal
Featured Tours
On the Island of Hawaii, combining sightseeing around Kona with meals before and after your meals will make your tripSatisfaction has skyrocketedIt's going up.
Here, we’ll introduce two tours: a fully private, custom-designed tour with transportation included, and a sunset viewing and stargazing tour at the base of Mauna Kea.
Whether it's your first time in Hawaii or not, combine it with a culinary tourEasy to enjoySo be sure to check it out!
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Includes a convenient pick-up and drop-off service☆
Fully chartered tailor-made tours
This private charter tour is recommended for first-time visitors to Hawaii.
A short stroll around Kailua-Kona orTour Around the Island of HawaiiYou can customize your destination and length of stay however you like!
Even if you are a first time visitor to Hawaii, you can consult with a guide.All to MyselfYou can create your own custom tour!☆
◆A Stroll Through the Town of Kona
◆Craft Beer and Food at Kona Brewing Co.
◆ Waiʻpo Valley (viewing only)
◆A Stroll Through the Town of Honokaka
◆Pororu Valley (viewing only)
◆Via Kohala Mountain Road to the town of Waimea
*On the day of the event,With Japanese-speaking guideSo you can rest easy!
Recommended Exclusive Rentals
▼Click here for custom tours▼
Sunset Viewing &
Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour
Sunset viewing at a secluded beach followed by stargazing at the base of Mauna KeaPrivate tours limited to one couple per dayIt is.
First, after procuring dinner, depart for a hole-in-the-wall beach recommended by the local guide! Enjoy your meal while watching the sunset on the horizon.
You can enjoy both a beautiful sunset and a starry sky in a single day—it’s sure to be a memory you’ll cherish for a lifetime.No doubt about itIt's a tour!
Recommended Sunset &
▼Click here for stargazing tours▼
About Dining on the Island of Hawaii
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The classics are poke bowls, loco moco, and authentic Kona coffee.
We also recommend trying local foods unique to the Big Island, such as beef, konakanpachi, kalua pig, and laulau.
It can get crowded around sunset and during dinner, so it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance.
Business hours and days off are subject to change, so be sure to check the official website or other sources for the latest information before visiting.
Kona and Hilo are on opposite sides of the island, and it takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes by car from Kona International Airport to Hilo.
Rather than trying to see both in a single day, we recommend visiting them on separate days, combining them with sightseeing in Hiro.
If you're unsure about driving, you'll feel more at ease if you take advantage of a private tour that includes transportation.
summary
On the Island of Hawaii, you'll find everything from classic dishes like poke bowls, loco moco, and Kona coffee, toA Luxury Restaurant with Stunning ViewsIt's full of charm right up to the very end.
High-end restaurants for dinner, and affordable, delicious places for lunch, and so onUse them appropriatelyAnd that opens up more possibilities for both your travel budget and how you enjoy your trip.
Be sure to find your favorite restaurant and enjoy the culinary delights of the Big Island.To the fullestHave fun!
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
