A Foodie’s Guide for Big Island Explorers
When visiting the Big Island, discovering the island’s unique flavors is one of the most exciting parts of your adventure. If you’re staying at Volcano Village Estates, you can start your mornings on the right foot, enjoying your coffee and breakfast surrounded by luxury and nature. But what about when it’s time to venture out for lunch or dinner? While Volcano has its choice of restaurants, oftentimes you want something a little different, especially if you are staying more than a few days in the area.
Hilo, about, 30 minutes away, is a culinary treasure chest waiting to be explored. From cozy mom-and-pop eateries to elevated dining experiences, the restaurants in Hilo, Hawaii, offer something for every palate.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best Hilo restaurants, share a few tips for navigating the local food scene, and, hopefully, leave your mouth watering enough to plan your next meal there.
Start with Local Favorite Restaurants in Hilo
Hilo is home to a mix of cuisines that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, authentic Hawaiian dishes, or a perfect cup of coffee, this town has it all. Locals know best, so let’s begin with their go-to spots.
Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine
This vibrant, open-air eatery in downtown Hilo, known for its locally sourced ingredients, is as inviting as it is delicious. Pineapples offers fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and signature cocktails. Everything on the menu is great but we can’t get enough of the Poke Tower or Kalua Pork Sandwich. Plus, the live music creates a laid-back vibe perfect for enjoying a sunny Big Island afternoon.
Suisan Fish Market
If you’re a seafood lover, Suisan Fish Market is a must-visit. This casual spot offers some of the freshest poke bowls on the island. With a mix-and-match poke bar, you can choose from a variety of flavors like spicy ahi, shoyu tuna, or garlic salmon. The best part? You’re dining right where the locals go, so you know it’s the real deal. Suisan Fish Market doesn’t have any indoor dining, but there are tables in the area next to the market with views of the bay.
Cafe Pesto
Looking for a more polished dining experience? Cafe Pesto has been a Hilo institution for years. Known for its creative Italian-Hawaiian fusion dishes they serve up delicious wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, this spot is ideal for a romantic dinner or a relaxed family meal.
Hidden Gems You Don’t Want to Miss
While Hilo has its share of well-known restaurants, there are plenty of hidden gems that might not make the typical tourist guide but are absolutely worth checking out.
Moon and Turtle
This small, intimate restaurant punches way above its weight when it comes to flavor. The menu changes frequently based on what’s fresh and in season, but you can expect innovative dishes with an Asian-Pacific flair. Their Smoked Fish Dip and Kalbi Short Ribs are a great introduction to the creative cuisine here. Reservations are recommended since the space fills up quickly!
Two Ladies Kitchen
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make a beeline for Two Ladies Kitchen. This little mochi shop has built a cult following thanks to its soft, chewy treats stuffed with fresh fruit, azuki beans, or chocolate. The Strawberry Mochi is the standout here, featuring a whole, juicy strawberry wrapped in sweet mochi. It’s the perfect snack to fuel your Big Island adventures.
Paul’s Place
For a breakfast or brunch that feels like a personal invitation into someone’s home, visit Paul’s Place. This tiny spot serves an intimate menu of gourmet plates like Eggs Benedict with Lobster or Stuffed French Toast. Every dish is artfully prepared and bursting with flavor. Just be sure to call ahead, as seating is limited, and this is a one-man show!
Farm-to-Table Delights in Hilo
The Big Island’s fertile land and sustainable farming practices make it a haven for farm-to-table dining. In Hilo, you’ll find chefs who are deeply committed to showcasing the island’s freshest ingredients.
The Hawaiian Style Cafe
If you’re looking for fine dining, this isn’t it but it’s beloved for its massive portions and homestyle cooking. Think fluffy pancakes bigger than your plate, juicy loco moco, and classic Hawaiian plate lunches. If you want a taste of traditional Hawaiian comfort food, this is the place.
The Hilo Bay Cafe
Overlooking Hilo Bay, this upscale restaurant combines stunning views with a refined menu. Dishes like Seared Scallops with Pineapple Beurre Blanc and Hawaiian Ranchers Ribeye highlight local ingredients and culinary artistry. Pair your meal with a handcrafted cocktail or a glass of wine, and soak in the view—it’s the kind of dining experience you’ll remember long after you leave. A great choice if you are celebrating a special occasion.
Dining Tips for Hilo Explorers
- Embrace Island Time: Service in Hilo, like much of Hawaii, tends to be relaxed and unhurried. So, take a deep breath, enjoy the ambiance, and remember—you’re here to unwind.
- Check the Hours: Many Hilo restaurants close early or take breaks between lunch and dinner service. It’s always a good idea to double-check their hours before heading out.
- Try Something New: Whether it’s taro pancakes, fresh poke, or lilikoi desserts, don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone. Hilo’s food scene is all about bold, unique flavors.
Why Stay in Volcano?
After a day spent exploring the best restaurants in Hilo, coming back to a tranquil retreat makes the experience even sweeter. At Volcano Village Estates, you’re just a short drive from Hilo’s vibrant dining scene and even closer to the wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Whether you’ve spent the day tasting poke by the bay or indulging in farm-to-table fare, your cozy bungalow or rainforest cottage is the perfect place to unwind.
Our Big Island bed and breakfast offers the kind of personalized experience that complements your culinary adventures. From electric blankets, heated floors in the bungalows, to private hot tubs and lush rainforest surroundings, we provide an escape like no other.
Ready to Savor the Flavors of Hilo?
Hilo’s restaurant scene is as diverse and vibrant as the island itself, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a poke bowl by the water or a romantic dinner overlooking the bay, the town’s many eateries add an unforgettable layer to your Big Island experience.
As you plan your visit, remember to reserve your stay at Volcano Village Estates. We’ll be here to welcome you after your foodie adventures, ready to help you relax, recharge, and prepare for whatever the Big Island has in store next.
Until then, happy eating!