Great Dining Options in Hilo Worth the Trip

Big Island Guide Travel Guide
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While sunny Kailua-Kona may garner more visitors, many locals claim that Hilo is where the pulse of the Big Island beats hardest. With amazing cultural and historical roots, incredible natural playgrounds, and a great local dining scene, a journey to Hilo is well-worth the trip! Some of the finest chefs in Hawaii call Hilo home and the number of delicious eating establishments are many, so we’ve narrowed down a few of our favorites that are a perfect cherry-on-top to a day spent on the Hilo side.

dining area at Hilo Bay Cafe

Hilo Bay Cafe
123 Lihiwai St
Hilo, HI 96720

Regarded as one of the best dining establishments on the east side of the Big Island, Hilo Bay Cafe’s specialties are varied and many; fresh seafood dishes, traditional Japanese cuisine, plump, juicy burgers, and even spectacular sushi options are just a few of the dinner choices available to hungry patrons with an incredible view of the bay as well.

Pineapples
332 Keawe St
Hilo, HI 96720

Family-owned and operated, Pineapples is a staple of the Hilo dining scene, and has certainly made its mark. With an upbeat and exciting atmosphere set against a historic, open-air building in downtown Hilo, Pineapples’ commitment to their community shows in their choice of ingredients, vendors, and live entertainment – but let’s talk about the food! Hawaiian traditions new and old come together with expertly-prepared comfort foods and generous pupus to leave the whole table happy.

Ponds Hilo
135 Kalanianaole Ave
Hilo, HI 96720

Named for the small body of water it overlooks, Ponds Hilo offers a unique natural setting, but the food will also attract your attention. Hand-made and prepared from local ingredients, each dish at Ponds is an adventure in Hawaiian cuisine. From Big Island steaks, pork, and lamb to fresh-caught seafood, there’s tremendous variety here for foodies and comfort food lovers alike.

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