A friendly and warm beachside establishment, Lava Lava Beach Club keeps it consistent and tasty no matter the time of day.
Discover Local Dining Favorites On the Big Island
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.
What Makes Kona Coffee so Special
Aloha Mix Food Truck in Naalehu
For those seeking authentic Hawaiian cuisine in the southern end of the Big Island, Aloha Mix Food Truck is a must-visit.
Holuakoa Coffee Shack
An excellent option for a relaxing coffee break, the Holuakoa Coffee Shack serves up delicious food and drinks in a serene garden setting.
Tin Shack Bakery
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.
Finding Delicious Malasadas on the Big Island
These deep-fried balls of delight are a perfect answer to a nagging sweet tooth.
Moon and Turtle Restaurant
A locally-sourced Pacific Fusion restaurant with incredible, attentive preparation standards, Moon and Turtle is food the way it should be.
Village Burger
Laid-back and delicious, Village Burger serves up gourmet burgers and fries with fresh island ingredients.
Naung Mai Thai Kitchen
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.
Our Favorite Fish Tacos Around Kona
Quick bites like fish tacos are always favorites on the Big Island, but these three establishments will satisfy even the pickiest fish taco fan.
808 Grindz Cafe
Local and proud of it it, 808 Grindz Cafe offers excellent Hawaiian dishes in a casual and laid back setting.
Kona Coffee And Tea
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.
Uncle’s Awa Club and Hoolaulea Farmers Market
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.
Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill
The flagship establishment for this small local chain, Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill offers fantastic seafood and American cuisine at an affordable rate.
Umekes Fishmarket Bar and Grill in Kona
Whether you’re craving local seafood, poke or simply a delicious fish taco, Umeke’s is the ideal local style dining destination in Kona.
Rebel Kitchen
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.
What Makes Kona Coffee so Special
Praised throughout the world for its full-bodied, pleasing flavor and distinct aroma, genuine Kona Coffee is truly special.
Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse in Kona
One of Kailua-Kona’s favorite hangouts, Humpy’s Big Island Alehouse offers tasty grub and cold brews.
Kona Brewing Company
Internationally recognized, Kona Brewing Company’s flagship brewery is right in Kailua-Kona and is a must-visit.
What is Kava? and Where To Try It?
A ceremonial, traditional beverage in Polynesian culture, drinking kava is a unique experience that can be tried at a variety of Big Island Kava bars.
Hawaiian Food Questions Answered
To help guide you through some of the local offerings on the Big Island, we’ve assembled this guide of the most popular dishes.
Big Island Macadamia Nuts
Among the Big Island’s most prized assets is the booming macadamia nut industry, so be sure to try some of the delicious dishes featuring these local treats.
Discover Hawaiian Sweet Bread
With the popularity of this baked delicacy, a trip to a local Big Island bakery is a must-do for foodies of every stripe.
Shave Ice: the Perfect Treat for a Hot Day
When the heat gets the best of you reach for a shave ice and experience one of Hawaii’s most iconic treats.
The Coffee Shack
The Coffee Shack is a casual, cozy road side restaurant with sweeping views of the Kona coast.
Merriman’s
Likely the best regarded restaurant in Hawaii, Merriman’s has earned its reputation for organic ingredients and fine presentation.
Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine
A memorable dining experience along the Big Island’s eastern side, Pineapples provides excellent seafood and American cuisine in a spectacular setting.
Manuela Malasada Company Food Trucks
Waimea is known for its incredible food scene, but no Big Island vacation is complete without a stop at one of Manuela Malasada Company food trucks.
Hawaiian Style Cafe
Classic and new Hawaiian cuisine meets affordability in the unique Hawaiian Style Cafe, a favorite of the Waimea casual dining scene.
Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill Hilo
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.
Saucy Dogs
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!
Gypsea Gelato
A Big Island favorite, Gypsea Gelato offers the tastiest desserts and treats anywhere on the island.
Big Island Brewhaus
One of the finest and most interesting breweries in Hawaii, Big Island Brewhaus offers incredible beer and great food.
Kaaloa’s Super J’s
Modest and authentic, Ka’aloa’s Super J’s offers unique Hawaiian favorites in a laid-back setting.
Island Ono Loa Grill
An affordable and delicious dining option on the Big Island’s western coast, the Island Ono Loa Grill is perfect for families.
Ola Brew
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.
Bamboo Restaurant
A longtime favorite of the Kohala dining scene, Bamboo Restaurant remains a progressive and delicious Pacific Rim restaurant.
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