
Tin Shack Bakery is a fun and funky cafe with beach shack decor and high quality coffee and baked goods that make it a must-visit.
There are many local dishes and island flavors that you will want to give a try while on the Big Island and we have done our best to find great places to do just that. A little insider’s assistance can go a long way – especially when it comes to finding great local food. In addition to detailing great local food, we’ve asked Big Islanders for their favorite eating destinations and nightlife spots. From nook and cranny eateries, favorite coffee shops, quick bites and full-fledged dinner options here are some local favorite dining spots. Mixed in are some of our personal favorites.
Tin Shack Bakery is a fun and funky cafe with beach shack decor and high quality coffee and baked goods that make it a must-visit.
These deep-fried balls of delight are a perfect answer to a nagging sweet tooth.
A locally-sourced Pacific Fusion restaurant with incredible, attentive preparation standards, Moon and Turtle is food the way it should be.
Among the Big Island’s best culinary outputs is Thai food and Naung Mai Thai Kitchen is a stand out option in the entire Thai scene.
Quick bites like fish tacos are always favorites on the Big Island, but these three establishments will satisfy even the pickiest fish taco fan.
Local and proud of it it, 808 Grindz Cafe offers excellent Hawaiian dishes in a casual and laid back setting.
One of the finest places to buy and enjoy the world-famous Kona Coffee, Kona Coffee and Tea is a perfect cafe for a relaxing cup of joe.
Puna is the perfect place to explore off the beaten path and experience a nice flavor of local life at the Ho’olaule’a Farmers Market.
The flagship establishment for this small local chain, Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill offers fantastic seafood and American cuisine at an affordable rate.
A locally-owned cafe and kava bar, the Sea Dandelion Cafe and Awa Bar offers fresh vegetarian cuisine and Polynesian beverages.
A fresh seafood restaurant and market, Pahoa Fresh Fish lives up to its name with delicious fresh-caught seafood in a casual setting.
Whether you’re craving local seafood, poke or simply a delicious fish taco, Umeke’s is the ideal local style dining destination in Kona.
Cajun Paradise Farms was a culinary delight, with down home, honest-to-goodness cajun food until the 2018 Kilauea eruption devastated the property.
Redefining international soul food with a Hawaiian twist, Rebel Kitchen is one of the best places on the Big Island to explore southern mainland cuisine.
The perfect spot for dinner after a long day of exploring the gorgeous Waipio Valley, Waipio Cookhouse is a local favorite among Big Island foodies.
Praised throughout the world for its full-bodied, pleasing flavor and distinct aroma, genuine Kona Coffee is truly special.
One of Kailua-Kona’s favorite hangouts, Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse offers tasty grub and cold brews.
Internationally recognized, Kona Brewing Company’s flagship brewery is right in Kailua-Kona and is a must-visit.
Serving up delicious French cuisine, Frenchman’s Cafe offers incredible crepes, omelettes, and sandwiches in a fun sidewalk cafe atmosphere.
Gertrude’s Jazz Bar is one of the best jazz clubs in all of Hawaii and they earn their reputation with amazing music, delicious food, and great cocktails.
Classic and new Hawaiian cuisine meets affordability in the unique Hawaiian Style Cafe, a favorite of the Waimea casual dining scene.
One of the very best places to enjoy a delicious burger on the Big Island, Hilo Burger Joint is perfect for a quick, tasty meal on the go.
Laid-back and affordable, Village Burger maintains the area’s reputation for quality cuisine without the price tag.
A Big Island institution for decades, Jackie Rey’s in Hilo provides the same delicious menu options and attentive service for the Big Island’s eastern side.
This tiny eatery serves up some of the best and most creative hot dogs on the Big Island, stop by for a quick and delicious meal and enjoy a Saucy Dog!
A Big Island favorite, Gypsea Gelato offers the tastiest desserts and treats anywhere on the island.
One of the finest and most interesting breweries in Hawaii, Big Island Brewhaus offers incredible beer and great food.
Modest and authentic, Ka’aloa’s Super J’s offers unique Hawaiian favorites in a laid-back setting.
An affordable and delicious dining option on the Big Island’s western coast, the Island Ono Loa Grill is perfect for families.
One of Hawaii’s newest and finest breweries, Ola Brew offers incredible, unique Hawaiian-inspired beers along the western Kona Coast of the Big Island.
The Big Island isn’t known for its Mexican cuisine, but it should be! Lucy’s Taqueria embodies the very best of Mexican food with an island twist.
A longtime favorite of the Kohala dining scene, Bamboo Restaurant remains a progressive and delicious Pacific Rim restaurant.
For those seeking authentic Hawaiian cuisine in the southern end of the Big Island, Aloha Mix Food Truck is a must-visit.
Quaint, delicious, and well-loved throughout the Big Island, Cafe Pesto is one of the best places to enjoy Italian cuisine in all of Hawaii.
Known as the best and friendliest sports bar and hamburger joint on the Big Island’s eastern side, Cronie’s is the ideal spot to watch the game.
A Big Island institution for years, Tex Drive In is a must-visit for first-timers and locals alike for good reason.