11 Wildly Famous Big Island Restaurants That Are Totally Worth the Hype (Second Visits Are Inevitable)

I've called Oahu home for over three decades and spent countless weekends island-hopping across Hawaii. When mainland friends ask where to eat on the Big Island, I don't send them to tourist traps – I share my real local favorites that have stood the test of time.

After years of taste-testing (tough job, I know!), I've compiled the 11 restaurants visitors most frequently tell me they'd book another flight just to experience again. From hole-in-the-wall gems to splurge-worthy dining, these spots showcase the Big Island's incredible culinary diversity.

Jackie Rey's – The Local Fine Dining Champion

Tucked away on Kuakini Highway in Kailua-Kona, this island institution has earned its legendary status among locals and visitors alike. Ranked consistently among the top restaurants in Kona, Jackie Rey's sits away from the tourist hustle while delivering world-class cuisine that celebrates Big Island ingredients.

What sets Jackie Rey's apart is their commitment to sourcing within 50 miles of the restaurant. Their daily fish specials feature catches that were swimming in Hawaiian waters just hours before reaching your plate. The restaurant's open-air design captures those perfect Big Island trade winds while maintaining an elegant atmosphere that welcomes everyone from beach-goers to anniversary celebrants.

“This place never disappoints,” my Chicago friend Maria declared after her fourth visit in two years, savoring every bite of their signature Seafood Trio. I couldn't argue with her assessment.

What Makes It Special:

• Local sourcing: 90% of ingredients come from Big Island farms and fishermen
• Open-air design: Perfect trade wind dining with mountain and ocean views
• Consistent excellence: Same quality whether you're dressed up or coming from the beach

Must-try dishes:

• Kalua Pork Spring Rolls – Gourmet twist on traditional Hawaiian flavors with house-made sauces
• Seafood Trio – Fresh mahi-mahi, scallops, and Big Island prawns prepared with local ingredients
• Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish – Daily catch with locally harvested macadamia nuts

At-a-Glance: 💵 $150-200 for two | 📅 Book 48+ hours ahead | 🚗 Free parking available
Price range: $$$$ | Best for: Special occasions and date nights | Dress code: Resort casual

Location: 75-5995 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 | Phone: (808) 327-0209 | Website: jackiereyskona.com

Stay nearby: Royal Kona Resort (5-minute drive) offers oceanfront accommodations with private beach access just minutes from the restaurant.

Hawaiian Style Cafe – The Pancake Paradise Locals Guard

This local institution has been serving the Big Island community for decades with portions that define “Hawaiian-style” generosity. Hawaiian Style Cafe represents authentic local comfort food at its finest.

What makes Hawaiian Style Cafe legendary isn't just their massive pancakes – though the banana macadamia nut stacks are the stuff of dreams. Their dinner menu showcases how Hawaii's diverse cultural influences create unique flavors you won't find anywhere else. The Korean Chicken plate and Kalua Pork Hash demonstrate the beautiful fusion that makes Hawaiian cuisine so special.

“We drove two hours just for breakfast here,” my Seattle friend Tom admitted, trying to finish his Loco Moco. “Now I understand why locals line up every weekend.”

What Makes It Special:

• Massive portions: True Hawaiian-style servings that easily feed two people
• Local institution: Family-owned restaurant serving the community for generations
• All-day breakfast: Pancakes and local favorites available throughout operating hours

Must-try dishes:

• Loco Moco – House-made beef patty, organic local eggs, and scratch-made gravy over rice
• Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes – Three enormous pancakes with local nuts and fresh fruit
• Korean Chicken Plate – 24-hour marinated chicken showcasing Hawaii's cultural fusion

At-a-Glance: 💵 $40-60 for two | 📅 Walk-ins welcome, expect waits on weekends | 🚗 Free parking
Price range: $$ | Best for: Families and hearty breakfast lovers | Dress code: Casual

Location: 681 Manono Street #101, Hilo, HI 96720 | Phone: (808) 969-9265 | Website: hawaiianstylecafe.us

Stay nearby: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (3-minute drive) provides comfortable accommodations in downtown Hilo with easy access to local dining.

Huggo's Restaurant – The Oceanfront Icon That Still Delivers

Huggo's represents old-school Hawaii dining at its absolute finest. This oceanfront institution has been serving visitors and locals since 1969, somehow maintaining exceptional quality despite their prime waterfront location. Huggo's proves that tourist-friendly doesn't mean tourist trap.

The restaurant sits literally on the rocks above Kailua Bay, offering one of the most spectacular dining settings in all of Hawaii. But here's what separates Huggo's from other view restaurants – they've never compromised their food quality for their stunning location. Their relationships with local fishermen mean they get first pick of daily catches.

“The teriyaki steak recipe hasn't changed in 50 years,” our server proudly explained during my anniversary dinner last year. “Why mess with perfection?”

What Makes It Special:

• Oceanfront location: Literally built on the rocks with waves crashing below
• 50-year legacy: Teriyaki steak recipe unchanged since opening in 1969
• Local fishing connections: First pick of daily catches from Kona fishermen

Must-try dishes:

• Huggo's Signature Teriyaki Steak – Parker Ranch beef with 50-year-old family recipe
• Island Fresh Catch – Daily fish selection with preparations that change seasonally
• Big Island Lime Pie – House-made dessert that's become a local legend

At-a-Glance: 💵 $120-180 for two | 📅 Reservations recommended for dinner | 🚗 Valet available
Price range: $$$ | Best for: Sunset dining and special occasions | Dress code: Resort casual

Location: 75-5828 Kahakai Road, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 | Phone: (808) 329-1493 | Website: huggos.com

Stay nearby: Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel (2-minute walk) offers beachfront luxury steps from Huggo's oceanfront dining.

Merriman's Waimea – The Pioneer of Hawaii Regional Cuisine

Peter Merriman didn't just open a restaurant – he started a culinary revolution. As one of the founding fathers of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Merriman changed how the world thinks about Hawaiian food. This flagship location represents farm-to-table dining at its absolute finest.

What makes Merriman's exceptional isn't just the food – it's the philosophy. The restaurant sources 90% of its ingredients from within 50 miles, creating relationships with local farmers that span decades. When you taste their Wok-Charred Ahi, you're experiencing fish that was swimming in Hawaiian waters just hours before.

What Makes It Special:

• Hawaii Regional Cuisine pioneer: Peter Merriman helped create this celebrated cooking style
• 90% local sourcing: Ingredients from within 50 miles of the restaurant
• Award-winning wine list: Wine Spectator Award of Excellence recipient

Must-try dishes:

• Wok-Charred Ahi – Signature preparation that helped define Hawaii Regional Cuisine
• Kalua Pig & Sweet Onion Quesadilla – Traditional flavors with contemporary presentation
• Local Goat Cheese with Pineapple-Tomato Li Hing Mui Jam – Showcases Big Island dairy and produce

At-a-Glance: 💵 $180-250 for two | 📅 Reservations essential | 🚗 Mall parking provided
Price range: $$$$ | Best for: Fine dining and culinary enthusiasts | Dress code: Smart casual

Location: 65-1227 Opelo Road, Kamuela, HI 96743 | Phone: (808) 885-6822 | Website: merrimanshawaii.com

Stay nearby: Waimea Country Lodge (3-minute drive) provides upcountry charm in the heart of paniolo country, walking distance to Waimea's best dining.

Lava Lava Beach Club – Toes in the Sand Fine Dining

Lava Lava Beach Club offers something truly unique – a restaurant where you can literally dine with your feet in the sand while waves lap just yards away. But don't let the casual beachside atmosphere fool you – the food here rivals any upscale restaurant on the island. This beachfront gem consistently ranks among the top dining experiences on the Kohala Coast.

The restaurant's beachfront location at Waikoloa Beach creates an unmatched dining atmosphere. Their outdoor games area featuring volleyball and giant Jenga turns potential wait times into part of the experience. You'll find yourself hoping for a longer wait just to enjoy more beach time with your cocktails.

What Makes It Special:

• Beachfront dining: Only restaurant where you can eat with feet in the sand
• Games and activities: Beach volleyball, giant Jenga, and cornhole while you wait
• Sunset views: Unobstructed western exposure for perfect sunset dining

Must-try dishes:

• Fresh Fish Tacos – Locally caught mahi-mahi with house-made tortillas and tropical salsa
• Coconut Crusted Chicken – Big Island coconut with Asian-inspired preparation
• Lava Flow Dessert – Signature chocolate creation inspired by volcanic activity

At-a-Glance: 💵 $100-150 for two | 📅 First-come, first-served seating | 🚗 Resort parking fees apply
Price range: $$$ | Best for: Beach lovers and sunset dining | Dress code: Beach casual

Location: 69-1081 Ku'uali'i Place, Waikoloa, HI 96738 | Phone: (808) 769-5282 | Website: lavalavabeachclub.com

Stay nearby: Hilton Waikoloa Village (5-minute walk) offers resort amenities and easy beach access to Lava Lava's beachfront dining.

Cafe Pesto – Italian Meets Island Style Perfection

Cafe Pesto has been quietly revolutionizing Italian-Hawaiian fusion for over three decades. Their wood-fired pizzas aren't just good for Hawaii – they'd be standouts in New York or Chicago. This downtown Hilo institution proves that great Italian food starts with great ingredients, and the Big Island provides some of the world's best.

What sets Cafe Pesto apart is their understanding that Italian cuisine is about respecting ingredients, not following rigid traditions. Their Seafood Risotto features locally caught seafood in risotto made with Big Island-grown rice. Yes, rice is grown here, and it's exceptional.ebookers+4

What Makes It Special:

• 30+ year legacy: Italian-Hawaiian fusion before it was trendy
• Wood-fired pizzas: Authentic techniques with local Hawaiian ingredients
• Historic location: Downtown Hilo building with character and charm

Must-try dishes:

• Seafood Risotto – Local shrimp and scallops with Big Island rice
• Coconut Crusted Calamari – Fresh-caught squid with lilikoi dipping sauce
• Margherita Pizza – Simple perfection with house-made mozzarella

At-a-Glance: 💵 $70-100 for two | 📅 Reservations recommended for dinner | 🚗 Street parking available
Price range: $$$ | Best for: Italian food lovers and date nights | Dress code: Casual

Location: 308 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720 | Phone: (808) 969-6640 | Website: cafepesto.com

Stay nearby: Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo (5-minute walk) offers oceanfront elegance in downtown Hilo with golf course access.

Quinn's Almost by the Sea – The Honest Neighborhood Gem

Quinn's Almost by the Sea might have the most honest name of any restaurant in Hawaii. It's almost by the sea – close enough to smell the salt air but not so close that you're paying oceanfront prices. This is where locals go when they want great food without the tourist markup, and it shows in every aspect of the experience.

The restaurant's sports bar atmosphere might seem casual, but don't be deceived. Their kitchen turns out food that would make much fancier restaurants jealous. The walls covered with local memorabilia tell the story of a place that's authentically Hawaiian, not trying to be.

What Makes It Special:

• Local authenticity: Real neighborhood spot, not manufactured Hawaiian atmosphere
• Sports bar setting: Comfortable, unpretentious environment with great food
• Honest pricing: Quality food without the oceanfront location markup

Must-try dishes:

• Fish and Chips with Ono – Hawaiian wahoo instead of standard fish, perfectly crispy
• Kalbi Short Ribs – 48-hour marinated with local honey and volcanic salt
• Seafood Chowder – Loaded with local catches in creamy, rich broth

At-a-Glance: 💵 $50-80 for two | 📅 Walk-ins welcome | 🚗 Free parking lot
Price range: $$ | Best for: Casual dining and local atmosphere | Dress code: Very casual

Location: 75-5655A Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 | Phone: (808) 329-3822 | Website: quinnsalmostbythesea.com

Stay nearby: Kona Tiki Hotel (10-minute walk) provides budget-friendly accommodations with oceanfront pool access near local dining favorites.

Sunset Kai Lanai – The View That Steals Every Show

Perched high above the Kona Coast, Sunset Kai Lanai offers perhaps the most spectacular dining views on the Big Island. The restaurant sits on a bluff with 230-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, making every table a window seat. But here's what separates this place from other view restaurants – they've never let the scenery become an excuse for mediocre food.

The restaurant's elevation provides not just views but also cooler temperatures and gentle breezes that make dining comfortable year-round. Their timing recommendations aren't just about sunset viewing – they're about creating a complete sensory experience.

What Makes It Special:

• 230-degree ocean views: Every table offers spectacular Pacific vistas
• Elevated location: Cooler temperatures and consistent trade winds
• Sunset timing expertise: Staff helps you time your meal perfectly with golden hour

Must-try dishes:

• Sesame Crusted Ahi – Prepared with same care as restaurants charging twice the price
• Macadamia Nut Chicken – Local nuts with Asian-inspired preparation
• Key Lime Pie – Made with Big Island limes and macadamia nut crust

At-a-Glance: 💵 $90-130 for two | 📅 Sunset reservations essential | 🚗 Free parking available
Price range: $$$ | Best for: Sunset dining and romantic occasions | Dress code: Resort casual

Location: 78-261 Manukai Street, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 | Phone: (808) 333-3434 | Website: sunsetkailanai.com

Stay nearby: Mauna Lani Bay Hotel (15-minute drive) offers luxury resort amenities with championship golf and spa services.

Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine – Downtown Hilo's Best Kept Secret

Hidden in downtown Hilo, Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine represents everything great about Big Island dining – local ingredients, creative preparation, and prices that won't bankrupt your vacation budget. This historic building restaurant takes advantage of Hilo's perfect trade winds while showcasing Big Island ingredients in unexpected ways.

Their Hilo Local Plate is like a greatest hits album of Hawaiian flavors – Korean-style kalbi ribs, slow-cooked kalua pork, jasmine rice, and mango chili slaw all topped with teriyaki glaze and crispy onions. It's fusion done right, respecting each tradition while creating something entirely new.

What Makes It Special:

• Historic downtown location: Beautiful building with character and natural ventilation
• Live music program: Tuesday-Sunday evenings featuring Grammy-nominated local artists
• Creative fusion: Big Island ingredients with diverse cultural influences

Must-try dishes:

• Hilo Local Plate – Kalbi ribs, kalua pork, rice, and mango slaw in perfect harmony
• Fresh Fish Preparation – Changes daily based on local catches and seasonal ingredients
• Tropical Fruit Desserts – Made with fruits grown within miles of the restaurant

At-a-Glance: 💵 $60-90 for two | 📅 Walk-ins welcome | 🚗 Street parking available
Price range: $$ | Best for: Live music lovers and local cuisine | Dress code: Casual

Location: 332 Keawe Street, Hilo, HI 96720 | Phone: (808) 238-5324 | Website: pineapples-fresh-cuisine.com

Stay nearby: Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (5-minute walk) provides convenient downtown Hilo accommodations near local dining and attractions.

Ken's House of Pancakes – The 24-Hour Local Institution

Ken's House of Pancakes has been serving the Big Island community since 1971, and there's a reason it's survived and thrived for over 50 years. This isn't just a pancake house – it's a cultural institution that represents the best of local Hawaii dining. Their 24-hour schedule makes them a gathering place for everyone from late-night workers to early-morning fishermen.

While everyone talks about Ken's pancakes (and they are spectacular), their dinner menu is where the real gems lie. Their Oxtail Stew is legendary among locals, slow-cooked for hours until the meat falls off the bone. It's comfort food at its finest, served with genuine aloha.

What Makes It Special:

• 24-hour service: Always open, creating authentic local gathering atmosphere
• 50+ year legacy: Family-owned institution serving multiple generations
• Beyond breakfast: Excellent dinner menu that locals know but tourists often miss

Must-try dishes:

• Sumo Loco Moco – Four meats over rice with eggs and gravy (bring your appetite!)
• Oxtail Stew – Slow-cooked for hours, falls-off-the-bone tender
• Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes – Three massive pancakes with local ingredients

At-a-Glance: 💵 $30-50 for two | 📅 Walk-ins only, 24-hour service | 🚗 Free parking lot
Price range: $ | Best for: Families and hearty appetites | Dress code: Very casual

Location: 1730 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720 | Phone: (808) 935-8711 | Website: kenshouseofpancakes.com

Stay nearby: Hilo Seaside Hotel (5-minute drive) offers affordable accommodations with garden setting near local dining institutions.

Tommy Bahama Restaurant – Resort Dining Done Right

Tommy Bahama at Mauna Lani represents resort dining at its finest. While many resort restaurants coast on their location, Tommy Bahama has maintained consistently high standards that keep both locals and visitors coming back. Their commitment to using local ingredients while maintaining their signature style creates something special.

The restaurant's lanai offers stunning sunset views over the Kohala Coast, but unlike many view restaurants, Tommy Bahama doesn't let the scenery carry the experience. Their happy hour from 3-5 PM daily offers resort-quality food at reasonable prices – the Ahi Tuna Tacos cost less than appetizers at many other resort restaurants.

What Makes It Special:

• Resort location with local commitment: Prime Mauna Lani setting using Big Island ingredients
• Value-conscious pricing: Happy hour offers resort quality at accessible prices
• Sunset lanai dining: Perfect western exposure for golden hour dining

Must-try dishes:

• Macadamia Crusted Mahi-Mahi – Showcases local fish and nuts in perfect harmony
• Coconut Shrimp – Made with coconut from local trees, papaya-mango chutney
• Ahi Tuna Tacos – Happy hour special that rivals expensive resort appetizers

At-a-Glance: 💵 $100-140 for two | 📅 Reservations recommended for dinner | 🚗 Resort parking available
Price range: $$$ | Best for: Resort atmosphere with local flavors | Dress code: Resort casual

Location: 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Kohala Coast, HI 96743 | Phone: (808) 881-8686 | Website: tommybahama.com

Stay nearby: Mauna Lani Point (2-minute walk) provides luxury vacation rental accommodations within the Mauna Lani Resort with direct access to dining and golf.

The Local Food Culture That Makes It All Possible

What makes Big Island dining special isn't just individual restaurants – it's the food culture that supports them. The island's isolation has created a community where restaurants, farmers, fishermen, and ranchers work together in ways you don't see on the mainland.

Understanding Regional Differences helps you plan your culinary adventure. The Kona side (west) features more tourist-oriented restaurants but also spectacular oceanfront dining and world-famous coffee culture. The Hilo side (east) offers more authentic, affordable local-focused dining with stronger connections to traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Waimea (upcountry) showcases ranch country influences with exceptional beef and cowboy culture.

The concept of “ohana” extends beyond family to business relationships. When restaurants source ingredients locally, they're not just buying products – they're participating in networks of relationships that span generations. This interconnectedness shows up on every plate, creating flavors and experiences you can't find anywhere else.

Pro tip for your visit: Talk to locals, visit farmers markets, and don't judge food trucks by appearances. Some of the island's best food comes from casual operations that focus purely on flavor. The Big Island's culinary treasures represent more than just great food – they're expressions of a unique culture that values quality, community, and connection to the land and sea.

E komo mai – welcome to the Big Island's incredible dining scene. Your taste buds will never forget the adventure.