10 Best Restaurants in Big Island, Hawaii

One of the most romantic settings on the Kohala Coast, this landmark, oceanfront restaurant showcases traditional Hawaiian flavors, artful presentations, and locally grown or raised products. The progressive menu spotlights standout entrées such as roasted beef tenderloin, dry-rubbed New York Steak, Keahole lobster, fish caught locally, shellfish, island-fresh greens, and local goat cheese. Choose a fine wine from a roster of premium varietals to complement your meal. 

Perched on the edge of a bluff overlooking the sparkling waters of Kaunaoa Beach, the resort's flagship restaurant is a compelling spot for a romantic meal at sunset, especially at one of the outside tables. The culinary team's take on Hawaii Regional Cuisine highlights locally sourced, sustainable fish, chicken, and beef. The grilled chicken, for example, comes from the Kau district of the Big Island, while the Kona kampachi is raised on the coast. The Kona abalone is also specially farmed at the Keahole Point NELHA deep cold seawater facility.

This open-air restaurant at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort has high ceilings and a lanai that overlooks the pool and the sandy-white shores of gorgeous Hapuna Beach. The focus is on the freshest seafood, and the small-plate appetizers and main course options also showcase a bounty of Big Island ingredients infused with Mediterranean influences. Try the seared scallops with garden ulu gnocchi. Other highlights are a charcuterie and crudo bar and an artisan bread nook. Arrive early for the best table—lines begin forming before the 5:30 pm seating time.

Casual elegance takes center stage at the resort's flagship oceanfront restaurant, one of the most upscale restaurants on the Big Island. Diverse menu choices include roasted beet salad, flame-grilled prime New York steak, Kona lobster, shrimp pad Thai, and more. At least 75% of the food served here is locally sourced. There's also a full sushi menu. The impressive wine program includes boutique wines and world-class imports. Breakfast is offered à la carte or buffet.

Sitting right on the resort's sandy Pauoa Bay, the Fairmont's signature restaurant Brown's Beach House offers beautiful sunset dining and innovative cuisine. Attention to detail is evident in the sophisticated menu, which may include crab-crusted Kona kampachi or other dishes with fresh fish, roasted duck breast, or Kona coffee–crusted venison, as well as local produce and ingredients. The live Hawaiian music soloists are perfect for the open-air setting under the stars. 

Their name stands for "Farmer, Ocean, Rancher, Cook" but this little gem is a great example of the magic that happens when a famous resort chef creates his own vibe and brand. Chef Allen Hess blends the unique nuances of Hawaii Regional Cuisine with flavors from the ocean and land and throws in a dash of comfort food. The plates are inventive: the goat tacos feature Korean braised goat, daikon apple salsa, and mu shu pancake, while the herb-braised lamb leg is cooked in Vinho Verde and simmered with basil, garlic, and shiso. The ube lemon drop martini is a local favorite. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, but the plates will make you believe you are dining at one of the resorts. Special seasonal menus and private chef tables are a specialty. 

The only full-service restaurant at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott offers a farm-to-table, island-inspired menu. Photos of surf breaks from around the world adorn the walls of this casual, spacious open-air restaurant, which has plenty of patio seating with sunset views. The circular bar is a good spot to enjoy a cocktail while watching the tiki torches light up the gardens.

The breezy lanai has the most spectacular view of the leeward coast of any restaurant on the Big Island, and it's the perfect accompaniment to the elegant yet down-to-earth Hawaii Regional Cuisine and specialty cocktails. Entrées are on the pricey side, but the Chinese-style mahi mahi with mung bean, jade pesto, and ginger scallion sizzle is a winner, and the broiled Keahole lobster does not disappoint. Dessert is a real treat here. You can also enjoy a drink on the firepit lanai. Get here by 5:30 if you want to score a seat for the sunset.

A nondescript office building, just to the south of town, is home to this quiet, country-style bistro with dark wood walls and private booths. This popular, longtime local favorite offers such classics as escargots, frogs legs, filet mignon with a Cabernet Sauvignon sauce, and slow-roasted lavender rabbit with a Chardonnay sauce. It's a very nice splurge for a special occasion. The prix-fixe menu includes three courses full of choices and three wine pairings. Call well in advance for reservations.

The signature restaurant of Peter Merriman, one of the pioneers of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, is the home of the original wok-charred ahi: it's seared on the outside, leaving sashimi on the inside. Although lunch prices are reasonable, dinner is "resort pricey," so prepare to splurge; there's also a reasonable prix fixe option. They are a great choice for brunch—try the classic eggs Benedict or the herb-grilled eggplant sandwich. The interior is plain and boxy, but that's not what shines here. Many locals choose it for special occasions. The extensive wine list is impressive and includes many selections poured by the glass.