The Coffee Shack is a casual, cozy road side restaurant with sweeping views of the Kona coast.
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.
The Coffee Shack is a casual, cozy road side restaurant with sweeping views of the Kona coast.
Waimea Coffee Company is one of the town’s best places to recharge and prepare for the next stage of your Big Island adventure.
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!
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.
One of Hawaii’s newest and finest breweries, Ola Brew offers incredible, unique Hawaiian-inspired beers in both Kona and Hilo.
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.
Internationally recognized, Kona Brewing Company’s flagship brewery is right in Kailua-Kona and is a must-visit.
Delicious and authentic, Ka’aloa’s Super J’s offers unique Hawaiian favorites in a laid-back setting.
Jackie Rey’s is a local favorite for fresh seafood, premium steaks, handcrafted cocktails, and unforgettable island hospitality.
Classic and new Hawaiian cuisine meets affordability in the unique Hawaiian Style Cafe, a favorite of the casual dining scene.
Local and proud of it it, 808 Grindz Cafe offers excellent Hawaiian dishes in a casual and laid back setting.
One of the finest and most interesting breweries in Hawaii, Big Island Brewhaus offers incredible beer and great food.
A unique Hilo dining destination, Cafe 100 offers delicious and filling portions of Hawaiian cuisine at an affordable rate.
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.
A Big Island favorite, Gypsea Gelato offers the tastiest desserts and treats anywhere on the island.
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.
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.
Praised throughout the world for its full-bodied, pleasing flavor and distinct aroma, genuine Kona Coffee is truly special.
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.
To help guide you through some of the local offerings on the Big Island, we’ve assembled this guide of the most popular dishes.
An affordable and delicious dining option on the Big Island’s western coast, the Island Ono Loa Grill is perfect for families.
Redefining international soul food with a Hawaiian twist, Rebel Kitchen is one of the best places on the Big Island to explore cuisine with southern flare.
A longtime favorite of the Kohala dining scene, Bamboo Restaurant remains a progressive and delicious Pacific Rim restaurant.
For those seeking a delicious meal while 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.
Whether you’re craving local seafood, poke or simply a delicious fish taco, Umeke’s is the ideal local dining destination in Kona.
For a relaxing meal and cup of coffee before an adventure in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Volcano’s Lava Rock Cafe is the perfect destination.
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.
Likely the best regarded restaurant in Hawaii, Merriman’s has earned its reputation for organic ingredients and fine presentation.
Laid-back and delicious, Village Burger serves up gourmet burgers and fries with fresh island ingredients.
A Big Island institution for years, Tex Drive In is a must-visit for first-timers and locals alike for good reason.
A friendly and warm beachside establishment, Lava Lava Beach Club keeps it consistent and tasty no matter the time of day.
A memorable dining experience along the Big Island’s eastern side, Pineapples provides excellent seafood and American cuisine in a spectacular setting.
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.
With the popularity of this baked delicacy, a trip to a local Big Island bakery is a must-do for foodies of every stripe.