Hawaiian cuisine reflects this Pacific region’s diverse, vibrant, and tropical culture. On your vacation, you don’t want to miss out on the best places to eat on the Big Island. Try everything from colorful poke bowls and gourmet sushi rolls to buckets of homemade cookies and Hawaiian-style loco moco. If you’re looking for a healthy acai bowl or a delicious vegan cuisine restaurant, you can get a little of everything on the Big Island.
The unique flavors of the food capture the essence of the diverse ecology and landscapes on the Islands. Whether on the Big Island or checking out the best restaurants on Oahu, many of these will likely become your favorite!
For more ideas on where to eat, what to see, and where to go, look at our Vacation Guide! We’ve packed it full of our favorite restaurants, things to do, attractions, and many other recommendations to help you plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Download your copy today and start planning!
11 of the Best Places to Eat on the Big Island
Local Favorites in Hilo
1. Suisan Fish Market
Celebrate the Hawaiian fishing tradition and community along with Suisan Fish Market, where you can find some of the freshest seafood and the tastiest poke bowls on the Island. It’s a unique experience because it is an actual fish market, not just a restaurant for take-out.
2. Donna’s Cookies
Treat yourself to the best cookies on the Big Island at Donna’s Cookies! The homemade sweets make a great snack between adventuring around the Island, and many people will bring an assorted tub back for their friends and family to try at home. Choose from:
- Shortbread
- Chocolate chip
- Macadamia Nut
- Peanut Butter
- Candied Sprinkles
- Chinese Almond
- Oatmeal Raisin
- Corn Flake
- Coconut
3. Ken’s House of Pancakes is the Best All Day Breakfast Places to Eat on the Big Island
Open 24/7, 365 days a year, Ken’s House of Pancakes serves “local-style” breakfast items. Try macadamia nut, fresh banana, and “kokonut” pancakes and top them with “kokonut,” passion, or guava syrup. Order a heaping plate of eggs, rice, and spam if you want something savory.
4. Ponds
Peer out the windows of this historic dining establishment and admire the scenic Koi ponds surrounding the property. Ponds in Hilo uses only the freshest ingredients from local farmers. Enjoy prime rib, lobster tail, entrees, salads, pasta, sandwiches, wraps, and delicious desserts and appetizers! They feature live music almost every night!
Kailua-Kona Dining Guide
5. Broke da Mouth Grindz
Dine like a local and eat some of the best Polynesian cuisine in Hawaii. At Broke da Mouth Grindz, hungry guests can indulge in garlic furikake chicken, “KimChee” fried rice, and award-winning braised beef short ribs. You can’t go wrong with anything you order at this restaurant.
6. Basik Acai
Nothing pairs with a tropical vacation better than a light, refreshing smoothie or acai bowl from Basik Acai. Choose between various plant-based toppings and fruit fillings for the tastiest, sweet treat that will leave you feeling energized and ready to go!
7. kai eats & drinks
This seaside restaurant offers a wide selection of international dishes and drinks. From pizza and fries to coconut shrimp to burgers and tacos, there is something for everyone at kai’s.
Additionally, they also have selections for specific dietary needs like gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian. Mai Tais, Kai Tais, and Dawn Patrol are some of the many drinks you could enjoy out on the patio under tiki torches.
8. Sushi Shiono
Roll over to Sushi Shiono and explore the vibrant flavors of fresh local fish in the form of sushi. Whether you prefer nigiri and sashimi or specialty sushi rolls, you’re in for a treat. To top it off, complement your meal with a premium sake sampler for the ultimate experience.
Places to Eat in Waimea
9. Merriman’s in Waimea
Award-winning chef Peter Merriman pioneered Merriman’s Restaurant. This establishment boasts a farm-to-table philosophy and tops many acclaimed lists of “best Big Island restaurants.” Furthermore, it boasts a fine wine selection and gourmet cuisine, making it the perfect option for a romantic date night.
10. Under the Bodhi Tree
While a lot of restaurants have vegan options, this restaurant is vegan/vegetarian only.
If you need vegetarian and vegan-friendly options or want something light for breakfast or lunch, stop by Under the Bodhi Tree!
From tofu scrambles and French toast to Thai-inspired salads and noodles, you’ll love the options at this unique restaurant!
11. Hawaiian Style Cafe
If you’ve never had loco moco, it is a must-try dish while you’re in Hawaii. You can order the Hawaiian-style loco moco at the Hawaiian Style Cafe, served on a bed of white rice with two hamburger patties, grilled onions, egg, and brown gravy.
Also, they have many other delicious dishes like Hawaiian Sweet Bread, French Toast, Corned Beef Hash and Eggs, Chicken Fried Steak, and much more!
Stay with Private Homes Hawaii
After dining at the best restaurants on the Big Island and exploring all there is to see and do, return home to your Private Homes Hawaii vacation rentals. Stay in the finest accommodations and admire sweeping views of the Pacific from your back door.
Our Hualalai Resort Palm Villa residence embodies elegance and class. Enjoy the ocean scenery from a gorgeous lanai over a manicured lawn. We look forward to hosting you!