Kona Coffee Guide & Tasting Tours
World-renowned for the quality and consistency of its beans, Kona Coffee alone is worth a trip to the Big Island.
Straight from a Big Island foodie, here are some dining experiences to look forward to on your Hawaii vacation. From local favorites available at roadside stops to high-end luxury dining found throughout the Kona Coast’s expansive resorts, there are incredible dining options for every taste across the Big Island.
Poi Dog Deli
75-1022 Henry St
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Mon-Sat 10:30am-6pm
This excellent eatery makes some of the best deli sandwiches on the Big Island. The vibe is laid back and casual with friendly staff dishing up sandwiches, salads and wraps alongside craft beer and wine. They also serve fresh made popcorn and a home made pickle with your sandwich. I also love that they support shelter dogs and when you place you order your “number” is a photo and bio of an adoptable dog.
Highlights:
Their Notorious P.I.G. sandwich is delicious with hickory smoked ham, melted pepper jack cheese, local pineapple and fresh sliced jalapeños, all grilled, on buttery sourdough bread.
The Spicy Puna Cheese Steak boasts piles of juicy roast beef topped with grilled bell peppers and sweet onions, freshly grilled jalapeños, melted pepper jack cheese and spicy goat cheese from our local district of Puna, all on a toasted hoagie roll.
Miller & Lux
Four Seasons Hualalai Resort
72-100 Kaupulehu Dr
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Located within the Four Seasons Resort is Miller & Lux, an American Steakhouse with a respectful nod toward local culinary traditions. Positioned just off the 19th hole at the Hualalai Golf Course, it’s the perfect spot to grab a cocktail and some dinner after a day on the links or for a romantic outing for two.
Highlights:
Try the signature Caesar Salad prepared table-side with hand-harvested Hirabara lettuce, Spanish anchovy, gluten-free Meyer Lemon breadcrumb.
Any of their Demkota dry-aged Prime Black Angus steaks, or their table-side French Dover Sole are sure to please.
NOIO Omakase Counter
Four Seasons Hualalai Resort
72-100 Kaupulehu Dr
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
The intimate 12-seat omakase counter with an ocean view is the highlight of NOIO, where the sushi chef presents a six-course culinary journey comprised of carefully crafted seasonal items along with Wagashi, Japanese confections prepared by the Resort’s pastry team. This unique, curated meal will be one you will not soon forget.
Da Poke Shack
76-6246 Ali’i Dr
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
With a casual laid back atmosphere, Da Poke Shack is known throughout the Big Island for its incredibly delicious and super fresh poke. What truly makes this restaurant a cut above the rest is that all of the fish served here has been caught fresh daily in Hawaiian waters. There aren’t many tables, so grab your meal to go and have lunch at the beach!
Highlights:
Some favorites include the Pele’s Kiss spicy poke and the traditional Hawaiian poke.
For those who don’t eat fish, the traditional lau lau and kalua pulled pork hot plates are popular.
All bowls and plates are served with locally inspired side dishes and rice. Some of the sides include kim chee, seaweed salad, garlic sesame soy beans and quinoa salad.
Merriman’s
65-1227B Opelo Road Kamuela
Waimea, HI 96743
A culinary institution of Hawaii for a quarter century, Chef Peter Merriman’s various ventures across the islands are of particular note thanks to the fresh, locally-grown ingredients and commitment to presenting high-end interpretations of classic Hawaiian staples. Nominee of several James Beard Awards and winner of a Hale ‘Aina Award, Merriman’s continues to be an acclaimed restaurant and a must-visit for those with sophisticated tastes. Every dish is prepared to perfection and the service is knowledgeable and attentive. Merriman’s is popular, so reservations are a must.
Highlights:
The Mai Tai cocktail with delicate lilikoi foam is excellent. You can’t go wrong with either the Tako “Escargot” or the Poke Mix Plate appetizer.
Their catch of the day is typically a delight, or go with the Wok Charred Ahi for a tried and true favorite.
The Roasted Chateaubriand is delectable, using Hawai’i Island beef and served with taro whipped potato, Waimea grown vegetables, and a savory chasseur sauce.
