Unveiling The Best Restaurants on The Big Island of Hawaii

When visiting Hawaii, one of the most delightful experiences is exploring the local cuisine. The Big Island, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, offers a surplus of unique and delicious foods that reflect its history and natural bounty. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to fusion cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Here’s a guide to some must-try local Hawaiian foods and the best restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii, including some fabulous luaus where you can plunge yourself into Hawaiian culture and culinary traditions.

Savoring Hawaii: Local Ingredients and Modern Twists on Classics

When people think of Hawaiian cuisine, dishes like poke, kalua pig, and lau lau often come to mind. While these traditional foods are delicious and worth trying, Hawaii’s culinary scene offers so much more. The rich, volcanic soil, favorable climate, and surrounding ocean provide an abundance of fresh ingredients that inspire chefs to create innovative dishes. Even if you’re not indulging in traditional local cuisine, eating in Hawaii is fantastic because of the incredible local ingredients and modern twists on classics.

Let’s explore why Hawaii is a food lover’s paradise and highlight some great restaurants where you can

experience these culinary delights.

Fresh Local Ingredients: The Heart of Hawaiian Cuisine

Hawaii’s unique geography and climate make it an impeccable place for growing a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other produce. The islands are known for their fresh fish, tropical fruits, and lush greens, all of which play a noteworthy role in the local culinary landscape. Here are some key ingredients that differentiate the best local restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii:

• Fresh Fish

The Pacific Ocean surrounding Hawaii provides an abundant supply of fresh fish. Ahi (tuna), mahi-mahi, and ono are just a few of the varieties you’ll find on menus across the islands. These fish are often caught daily and served in a variety of ways, from raw in poke bowls to grilled or baked.

• Tropical Fruits

Mangoes, papayas, pineapples, and lychees are just a few examples of the tropical fruits that thrive in Hawaii. These fruits add vibrant colors and flavors to both sweet and savory dishes. They’re often used in salads, desserts, and as garnishes for cocktails.

• Locally Grown Vegetables

The volcanic soil of Hawaii is rich in nutrients, making it ideal for increasing a wide range of vegetables. Sweet potatoes, taro, and a variety of greens are commonly used in local dishes. Farmers’ markets across the islands offer a bounty of fresh, organic produce.

• Coffee and Cacao

Hawaii is the only state in the United States that grows coffee and cacao. Kona coffee is world-renowned for its rich flavor, and locally-made chocolate is a treat not to be missed. Both coffee and cacao are used in various culinary creations, from desserts to savory dishes.

Best Local Restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii

• Da Poke Shack

If you’re a poke lover, Da Poke Shack in Kailua-Kona is a must-visit. Don’t let the casual-new fool you as this is one of the best local restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii. It serves up some of the freshest and most flavorful poke bowls on the island. With a variety of fish and toppings to opt from, you can customize your poke bowl to your liking.

• Big Island Grill

Located in Kailua-Kona, Big Island Grill offers a mix of traditional Hawaiian dishes and local favorites. Their loco moco and kalua pig are highly recommended. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is friendly and laid-back.

• Hawaiian Style Cafe

With locations in Hilo and Waimea, Hawaiian Style Cafe is known for its hearty portions and delicious local fare. Their lau lau and loco moco are crowd favorites. It’s a great place to experience authentic Hawaiian comfort food.

• Kaaloa’s Super J’s Authentic Hawaiian

Located in Captain Cook, Super J’s is a small, family-run restaurant that serves some of the best laulau on the island. Being one of the best local restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii, they offer friendly service and home-cooked flavors. This makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience traditional Hawaiian food.

Experiencing a Luau on the Big Island

Wanting to try the best local restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii but also looking for something a little more unique? A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast that includes entertainment such as hula dancing, fire dancing, and live music. It’s a fantastic way to experience Hawaiian culture and cuisine. Here are some of the best luaus on the Big Island where you can enjoy a feast and a show:

• Island Breeze Luau

Held at the Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, the Island Breeze Luau offers a beautiful oceanfront setting. Guests are treated to a traditional Hawaiian buffet that includes kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon, poke, and haupia. The entertainment features hula dancing, fire knife dancing, and traditional Hawaiian music.

• Mauna Kea Luau

Located at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, this luau provides an elegant setting with stunning views. The feast includes a wide variety of traditional Hawaiian dishes, and the entertainment showcases the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii through dance and music.

• Legends of Hawaii Luau

Hosted at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Legends of Hawaii Luau offers a grand experience with an extensive buffet and spectacular performances. The luau tells the stories of Hawaii’s legendary gods and goddesses through music and dance, providing a captivating experience for all ages.

Modern Twists on Classic Dishes

Many chefs in Hawaii take inspiration from traditional dishes and local ingredients to create modern, innovative cuisine. These modern twists on classics allow visitors to experience familiar flavors in new and exciting ways. Here are some examples of how traditional ingredients are reimagined in contemporary Hawaiian cuisine by the best restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii:

• Poke Bowls with a Twist

While traditional poke is made with raw fish, soy sauce, and sesame oil, modern poke bowls often include a variety of toppings and sauces. You might find poke bowls with avocado, edamame, spicy mayo, or even truffle oil, offering a fusion of flavors that delight the palate.

• Farm-to-Table Dining

The farm-to-table movement is strong in Hawaii; many of the best restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii focus on locally sourced ingredients. Chefs create seasonal menus that highlight the freshest produce, fish, and meats available. This method not only supports local farmers but also ensures that diners enjoy the highest quality ingredients.

• Fusion Cuisine

Hawaii’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its cuisine. Many chefs blend traditional Hawaiian ingredients with flavors from other cultures, such as Japanese, Filipino, and Portuguese, creating unique fusion dishes. Think miso butterfish, kimchi fried rice, or pork adobo tacos.

The Best Restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii for Modern Hawaiian Cuisine

• Merriman’s Waimea

Located in Waimea, Merriman’s is known for its commitment to local ingredients and sustainable practices. Chef Peter Merriman creates dishes that showcase the best of Hawaii’s produce and seafood, often with a modern twist. Try their ahi poke with avocado and ginger or their macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi.

• The Fish and The Hog

Situated in Waimea, The Fish, and The Hog offers a delightful mix of traditional & contemporary dishes. Their smoked meats and fresh fish dishes are a must-try. Enjoy a BBQ plate with a side of lilikoi (passion fruit) BBQ sauce or fish tacos with a tropical twist.

• Foster’s Kitchen

With locations in Kona and Waikoloa, Foster’s Kitchen focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their farm-to-table approach is evident in dishes like the Big Island beet salad and their signature macadamia nut pesto pasta.

• Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill

One of the best local restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii, this popular restaurant in Kona offers a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian ingredients with modern flair. Try their poke nachos or their Kona coffee-rubbed ribeye for a taste of innovative island cuisine.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits at the Best Restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii

Hawaii’s culinary scene is a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. Even if you’re not indulging in traditional Hawaiian dishes, the fresh local ingredients and modern twists on classics make eating in Hawaii an unforgettable experience. From farm-to-table dining to fusion cuisine, the Big Island offers a wealth of delicious options. So, whether you’re savoring a poke bowl with a twist or enjoying a luxurious meal at one of the best restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii, you’re sure to find something that delights your taste buds!