Looking for the best places to eat on the Big Island? You’re in luck!
This amazing island offers more than just beautiful beaches and sunny weather; it’s also packed with unique culinary delights.
As the largest island in the archipelago, the Big Island has tons of great dining spots where you can enjoy local specialties. Whether you’re into Hawaiian or Japanese cuisine, there’s something for everyone here.
Check out the 14 best places to eat on the Big Island that are sure to make your taste buds dance. I’ve personally tried each one and highly recommend them. Ready for a delicious culinary adventure? Let’s dive in!
The Must-Try Restaurants Map of Big Island
The Best Places to Eat on the Big Island in Kona
1. Pa’akai Poke, Kona: One of the Best Places to Eat on the Big Island
Price range: $10 – $29.95
No trip to Hawaii is complete without trying the traditional dish, poke. This dish features diced fresh raw fish (usually ahi tuna) and can be enjoyed as both an appetizer and a main course.
For the best poke in Kona, head to Pa’akai Poke. Trust me, you won’t find better poke anywhere else!
What sets this place apart is its wide selection, affordable prices, and friendly service. You can get poke in different sizes and varieties, making it super convenient.
Be sure to try the Ave-lemon Ahi fish and the Kimchee Cucumber salad. You’re in for a treat!
Practical Information
Pa’akai Poke is open every day, except Tuesdays, from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
2. Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill, Kona
Price range: $12 – $80
For a top-notch dining experience, head to Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill in Kona, hailed as one of the best places to eat on the Big Island.
This spot is renowned for having the best poke in Hawaii.
They’re famous for serving traditional Hawaiian dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. The menu also features tasty options like Hawaiian wings, fish tacos, and Loco Moco.
The Loco Moco is a classic Hawaiian dish with white rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown sauce.
Don’t miss their fantastic cocktails. I highly recommend the chef’s poke and the Hottie poke for a real flavor explosion!
Practical Information
Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill is open every day from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
3. Izakaya Shiono, Kona
Price range: $3.50 – $85
Discover the fusion of Hawaiian and Japanese flavors at Izakaya Shiono in Kona, a top spot to eat on the Big Island.
Hawaiian cuisine, known for its diverse flavors and rich history, has beautifully embraced Japanese influences from early immigrants.
On the Big Island, Izakaya Shiono is famous for its exceptional sushi. The menu features a variety of options, including ramen soup, dim sum dumplings, and more.
Be sure to try the Volcano Roll with spicy tuna and avocado or the Mauna Kea Roll with eel, cream cheese, and avocado.
Practical Information
Izakaya Shiono is open every day, except Sundays, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM and from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
4. Herbivores, Kona
Price range: $9 – $30
In Kona, Herbivores is a must-visit, famous for its amazing vegan takes on Mexican and American dishes.
Check out their diverse menu with unique options like the Loco Moco featuring vegan “beef” and the Hawaiian Taro Burger with delicious fries.
Enjoy great prices and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. For breakfast, don’t miss the Southwest Breakfast Burrito—it’s incredibly tasty.
Start your day right with their locally-served kombucha for a refreshing boost every time.
Practical Information
Herbivores is open every day from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
5. Scandinavian Shave Ice, Kona
Price range: from $7
Treat yourself to a classic Hawaiian favorite at Scandinavian Shave Ice in Kona. Our shave ice is a vibrant mix of crushed ice and flavored syrups, loved by locals all year round.
Inspired by Japanese traditions like sushi, this cool dessert was originally made to refresh hardworking plantation workers.
While shave ice is everywhere on the Big Island, ours is special with its choice of ice cream or frozen yogurt in the middle and a whopping 65 unique flavors.
Get ready for a fun challenge picking your favorite!
Practical Information
Scandinavian Shave Ice is open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
The Best Places to Eat on the Big Island in Hilo
6. Poke Market, Hilo: Among the Best Places to Eat on the Big Island
Price range: $13.95 – $125
Charming Hilo on the eastern coast of the island boasts top-notch restaurants that rival those in Kona for quality, making it one of the best places to eat on the Big Island.
During your visit, don’t miss Poke Market, renowned for its exceptional poke. It’s a must-visit for poke enthusiasts, especially given the local acclaim of its Shiitake Salmon Poke as one of Hawaii’s best dishes.
Featuring salmon, sushi rice, crab salad, and truffle sauce, this dish is a true palate pleaser. I also recommend trying The All Star Bowl, served with spicy ahi. Rest assured, whatever you choose from the menu, satisfaction awaits!
Practical Information
Poke Market is open every day, except Sundays, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
7. Suisan Fish Market, Hilo
Price range: $9 – $28
Another fantastic spot for enjoying delicious and fresh poke in Hilo is Suisan Fish Market. With an impressive 115-year tradition, this renowned establishment is conveniently located by the water.
The market offers consistently delightful poke, featuring classic Hawaiian-style options like ahi, onion, soy sauce, shallots, and macadamia nuts.
For a unique twist, try the Kimchee Tako with octopus—a flavorful alternative.
Visitors can also purchase fresh fish by the kilogram to make their own poke at home. It’s truly a great culinary experience!
Practical Information
Suisan Fish Market is open every day, except Sundays, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
8. Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine, Hilo
Price range: $7 – $40
Nestled in the heart of Hilo, Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine stands out as a top dining spot.
Just mentioning this restaurant brings a smile, thanks to its unique experience of enjoying exceptional cocktails served in pineapples, all while listening to live music.
The menu features a variety of delectable dishes inspired by Hawaiian cuisine, including mouthwatering burgers, delightful fish and chips, succulent steaks, flavorful pasta, and more.
I highly recommend trying the sandwich with freshly caught fish and the luscious lilikoi cake.
You’ll leave not only with a satisfied appetite but also in high spirits, making it an unforgettable dining experience!
Practical Information
Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine is open every day except Monday. They are open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, and from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM on Friday and Saturday.
9. Ken’s House of Pancakes, Hilo
Price range: $4.95 – $31.95
When thinking about breakfast in Hilo, don’t miss Ken’s House of Pancakes. This iconic spot, with its charming retro decor from the ’70s, attracts both locals and tourists.
With inviting red booths and comfortable bar stools, the atmosphere takes you back in time. Enjoy a varied breakfast menu available almost all day.
Treat yourself to classic pancakes, as well as waffles, omelets, French toasts, and many other delicious options. Burger and milkshake lovers will be satisfied too, but be prepared for truly generous portions!
Practical Information
Ken’s House of Pancakes is open every day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
10. Papa’a Palaoa Bakery, Hilo
Price range: $1.25 – $38
If you suddenly crave something sweet in Hilo, head straight to Papa’a Palaoa Bakery.
Despite its small size, this charming bakery not only captivates with its charm but also delivers top-notch baked goods.
Renowned for offering the finest bread in all of Hilo, the menu includes traditional sourdough, French baguettes, fluffy rolls, and a variety of delectable treats.
The bakery’s reputation also extends to delightful sweets, from classic scones to aromatic cardamom muffins.
Be sure to try the local cinnamon rolls—they’re perfect with your morning coffee and are sure to enchant your taste buds. It’s an investment well worth it!
Practical Information
Papa’a Palaoa Bakery is open every day, except Sundays, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The Best Places to Eat on the Big Island in Hawi
11. Gill’s Lanai, Kapaau
Price range: $13.95 – $19.95
Numerous Hawai’i island restaurants offer fish tacos, but none match the exceptional quality found at Gill’s Lanai, making it one of the best places to eat on the Big Island.
Enjoy perfectly cooked, freshly caught fish that melts in your mouth, paired with tortillas topped with a variety of exquisite ingredients.
The tacos are elevated further with delicious sauces and crispy nachos.
In addition to this standout dish, the menu includes tempting options like fish and chips, poke, and hot dogs.
Conveniently located off the main road and near Pololu Valley, Gill’s Lanai is a must-visit after your day’s adventures. Your stomach will definitely thank you!
Practical Information
Gill’s Lanai is open every day, except Mondays and Sundays, from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
12. Kohala Coffee Mill, Hawi
Price range: from a few to several dollars
Coffee aficionados should head straight to Kohala Coffee Mill.
Located in the charming town of Hawi in the north of the island, this coffee shop offers a diverse selection of aromatic drinks.
You can enjoy everything from intense espresso to creamy cappuccino and refreshing iced coffee. But it’s not just the outstanding coffee that attracts visitors.
The real highlight here is the locally crafted Tropical Dreams ice cream, a Hawaiian tradition for 25 years. With unique flavors like macadamia, peach, and lychee, it’s a true taste bud paradise!
Kohala Coffee Mill also serves up other delightful desserts and delicious breakfasts. This spot definitely deserves your attention!
Practical Information
Kohala Coffee Mill is open every day from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Fridays and Saturdays, when it is open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Additional Best Places to Eat on the Big Island
13. Ama’s Kitchen, Naalehu
Price range: $6 – $22
While heading to the southernmost point of the island, South Point, be sure to stop for lunch at Ama’s Kitchen. It’s a food truck, not a traditional restaurant, but it doesn’t skimp on quality.
The food is simple yet packed with flavor, made with top-notch local ingredients. Don’t miss the fish and chips or the fish tacos.
The menu also includes tasty options like burritos, quesadillas, and burgers, all featuring fresh ahi tuna or chicken.
Ama’s Kitchen is a great spot for vegetarians too. Even a straightforward meal here becomes an unforgettable culinary experience!
Practical information:
Ama’s Kitchen is open every day except Fridays and Saturdays. You can catch them from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Thursdays and Tuesdays, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays.
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14. Punalu’u Bake Shop, Naalehu, Wyspa Hawai’i
Price range: from $1.9
For sweet enthusiasts, a must-visit is Punalu’u Bake Shop near the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.
It serves up some of the best malasadas on the island—a delicious treat brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants.
Today’s malasadas at Punalu’u Bake Shop mix various culinary influences from the locals.
These tasty donuts come in all sorts of flavors and fillings. Besides malasadas, the shop also offers a range of unique baked goods.
Don’t miss out on trying malasadas with guava, taro, or mango. Trust me, one won’t be enough!
Practical Information
Punalu’u Bake Shop is open every day from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Summary
Hawaii is a paradise for food lovers looking for amazing eats.
Whether you’re craving poke bowls, sushi, or malasadas, the Big Island offers a tasty mix of flavors that’ll wow your taste buds and fuel your love for Hawaiian food.
Don’t wait—start your culinary adventure on the Big Island today!
I trust my guide to the best places to eat on the Big Island was helpful. If so, please share it with your friends.
If you’ve explored the island, I’d love to hear your restaurant suggestions! Drop your comments below—they’re super valuable to me!
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