Big Island Food & Dining
Fresh flavors & local favorites
The Big Island's food scene is a delicious blend of Hawaiian traditions, Asian influences, and fresh local ingredients. From world-famous poke to humble plate lunches, here's where to find the best eats near Island Goodes.
Hilo Farmers Market
One of Hawaii's best farmers markets. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, over 200 vendors sell fresh tropical fruits, prepared foods, local crafts, and more. It's the heart of Hilo's food scene.
Where to Eat
Hilo Bay Cafe
Japanese-Hawaiian FusionUpscale waterfront dining with stunning Hilo Bay views. Features a sushi bar, craft cocktails, and locally-sourced ingredients. Perfect for a romantic dinner.
Moon & Turtle
Creative LocalIntimate restaurant in a restored building. Chef-driven menu changes frequently based on local availability. Highly rated - make reservations!
Ponds
Hawaiian/SeafoodHistoric local favorite with scenic koi ponds and live music. Known for having the best waiters in town and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hawaiian Style Cafe
Hawaiian Plate LunchLegendary for generous portions of authentic local Hawaiian food. Come hungry - takeaway recommended if you can't finish!
Cafe 100
Hawaiian Plate LunchThe birthplace of loco moco (they trademarked it!). This casual drive-in has been serving locals since 1946 with 30+ loco moco varieties.
Cafe Pesto
Italian-Hawaiian FusionWood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas in a beautiful historic building. Lunch offers better value than dinner.
Seaside Restaurant
SeafoodFamily-owned for generations. Unassuming exterior but incredible fresh fish. A true local gem that visitors often miss.
Miyo's
Japanese Home-StyleExcellent locally-sourced Japanese food in a relaxed atmosphere. A favorite among Hilo residents for authentic flavors.
Pi'ilani Kitchen
Hawaiian-LocalGreat spot for authentic local Hawaiian food in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Jackie Ray's
Pacific RimUpscale dining with creative Pacific Rim cuisine. A go-to for special occasions and excellent service.
What's Shakin'
Healthy/SmoothiesFamous for fresh fruit smoothies and healthy eats on the scenic Onomea Bay. Perfect stop on the way to Akaka Falls.
Naung Mai Thai Kitchen
Authentic ThaiExcellent authentic Thai food in Hilo. Fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes at great prices.
Burger Joint
AmericanLocal favorite for quality burgers made with fresh ingredients. Great fries and milkshakes too.
Restaurant Kenichi
Japanese-Pacific FusionUpscale Japanese-Pacific fusion restaurant with excellent sushi and creative dishes. Intimate atmosphere.
Ola Brew
American/PubLocal craft brewery with a taproom serving their own beers alongside tasty pub fare. Great outdoor seating.
Ken's House of Pancakes
American/HawaiianA Hilo institution open 24 hours. Classic diner fare meets Hawaiian favorites. Perfect for late-night cravings.
Where to Get the Best Poke
Poke (POH-keh) is Hawaii's beloved raw fish dish. Here's where locals go for the freshest bowls.
Suisan Fish Market
Right on Hilo Bay, serving fresh poke since 1907. Unmatched variety - the real deal.
Poke Market
Gourmet hole-in-the-wall spot. Try the All-Star Bowl with spicy ahi and yuzu salmon.
Poke To Your Taste
Local secret for traditional Hawaiian poke at its finest. Opens 5:30am weekdays!
KTA Super Stores
Don't sleep on supermarket poke - surprisingly high quality and affordable. Many locals swear by it.
Food Trucks & Casual Eats
Litchon Food Truck
BBQ ribs, Filipino fusion, garlic shrimp plates with papaya salad
Island Style Grindz
Best fish on island - the owner often catches it himself!
Manuela Malasada
Fresh malasadas made to order
Highway 130 Corridor
Thai, poke, tacos, local grinds, burgers, lumpia - growing food truck scene
Note: Many food trucks have irregular hours. Check social media or ask locals for current schedules.
Local Specialties
Poke
Fresh raw fish (usually ahi tuna) marinated in soy sauce, sesame, and seasonings. A Hawaiian staple!
Where: Suisan Fish Market, Poke MarketLoco Moco
Rice topped with hamburger patty, fried egg, and brown gravy - invented right here in Hilo!
Where: Cafe 100 (birthplace), Hawaiian Style CafeMalasadas
Portuguese donuts rolled in sugar - get them fresh and warm! Fat Tuesday is Malasada Day in Hawaii.
Where: Tex Drive-In (Honoka'a), Punalu'u BakeshopShave Ice
Finely shaved (not shaved!) ice with tropical syrups. Add ice cream, azuki beans, or mochi.
Where: Kula Shave Ice (Hilo), various standsPlate Lunch
The Hawaiian workman's lunch: protein, two scoops rice, macaroni salad. Generous portions!
Where: Hawaiian Style Cafe, Cafe 100Mochi
Japanese rice cake dessert. Two Ladies Kitchen's strawberry mochi is legendary in Hilo.
Where: Two Ladies Kitchen (Hilo)Macadamia Nuts
Buttery, crunchy nuts - plain, chocolate-covered, or in cookies. Free tastings at farms!
Where: Hamakua Macadamia Nut CompanyLilikoi
Passionfruit used in desserts, drinks, and glazes. Tangy-sweet tropical flavor.
Where: Farmers marketsDining Tips from Your Hosts
- Lunch is king: Many of the best local spots are lunch-only. Plan your meals accordingly!
- Go early: Popular poke spots sell out. Hit Suisan by noon for the best selection.
- Stock up: Buy tropical fruits at the farmers market to enjoy on your lanai.
- Try everything: Don't be afraid of unfamiliar dishes - that's half the fun!
- Cash helps: Some small spots and market vendors are cash-only.
