Experience Big Island Dining

Cheryl Lee • August 29, 2025

Whether you prefer sit-down with a view or a quick bite, we offer choices based on cuisine, ambiance and location.

Waimea / Kohala / Kona  


Foster’s Kitchen

Committed to the art of cuisine made from scratch and works with local farmers to showcase their efforts widely throughout their diverse menu. Two convenient locations, one on Alii drive and one in Waikoloa Kings shops. fosterskitchen.com 


Meridia Restaurant

You’ll say wow! when served the Mediterranean-inspired cuisine created with locally sourced food and carefully curated imported ingredients. Al fresco seating at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast, MeridiaRestaurant.net 


Lava Lava Beach Club

Dine with your toes in the sand or in the open-air, seaside restaurant offering island-style pupus, entrees and desserts with a party vibe. At Anaeho‘omalu Bay, Waikoloa Beach Resort, LavaLavaBeachClub.com


The Fish Hopper Seafood & Steaks

Famous for clam chowder served in a crusty bread bowl, fresh fish, steaks and ribs. This open-air restaurant sits on Ali‘i Drive across from bustling Kailua Pier. In Kailua-Kona, FishHopperKona.com

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Hamakua / Hilo / Volcano / Na‘alehu  


Cafe Pesto

Boasting a stylish and historic location in downtown Hilo, Cafe pesto serves world class pizzas, specialty seafood dishes plus breakfast and brunch. The menu also includes locally inspired cocktails plus local beer and espresso. cafepesto.com 


Pineapple’s Island Fresh

Fresh fish, local specialties like BBQ Kalua Pork Sandwich, burgers, pasta and vegan options fill the bill at Downtown Hilo’s only open-air restaurant, PineapplesHilo.net


Hilo Bay Café

Innovative menu with offerings like Duck Duck Demi, Buttermilk Fried Chicken and jicama-passionfruit slaw plus plenty sushi choices. Dine inside or out; enjoy sweeping views of Hilo Bay, Mauna Kea and Downtown Hilo,  HiloBayCafe.com


Thai Thai Bistro & Bar

Choose from traditional Thai or Western entrees, but the Thai offerings are authentic and varied— like www.lavalodge.com/thai-thai-bistro.html


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