Restaurants in Kailua-Kona
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Best Restaurants
“Clean tables, friendly staff, roomy and THE BEST WAFFLE WE EVER HAD!!!! Gotta do the CHANTILLY WAFFLE ! We loved the Big Island Grill so much, we went three times for breakfast during our vacay. Hubby LOVED the Loco Moco. I wish this restaurant existed in our town 💕 and seriously the chantilly waffle deserves an award ⭐️”
“Delicious food! Fast service! Astonishing portions! This is a must go to if you're in Kona!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“Holy cow this place is amazing! I stopped there yesterday with my wife and were floored at how good the food was. Friendly crew to boot! We both agree that there is zero chance that we are down way again and not stopping. Bravo folks!!”
Restaurants with Delivery
“We showed up around 12:45 on a Saturday in early May and they only had 1 kind of poke left (Hawaiian). And all their dessert parfaits were sold out. I will say that the quality of the ahi was 10/10, trimmed perfectly and truly melted in your mouth. I didn't care for the Rock salt in the Hawaiian style poke, it was too salty and I would not order it again. But the fish was fantastic and the rice was spot on. Next time we go back we will be sure to go before noon to have more options for ordering!”
“Clean tables, friendly staff, roomy and THE BEST WAFFLE WE EVER HAD!!!! Gotta do the CHANTILLY WAFFLE ! We loved the Big Island Grill so much, we went three times for breakfast during our vacay. Hubby LOVED the Loco Moco. I wish this restaurant existed in our town 💕 and seriously the chantilly waffle deserves an award ⭐️”
“We happened upon this place last week on vacation, and went back again the next day. Absolutely delicious Thai food, with a lot of vegetarian options. Friendly wait staff, and easy location with parking available. Highly recommend!”
“Love the food We are making this our favorite food spot. The BOYB was great”
Online Reservation Available
“We came over from the Four Seasons for dinner. The building is beautiful with high volume ceilings and incredible views, especially during sunset. The menu is small but food was well prepared. Don't miss the beef cheeks - something you don't often see on a menu. It was like a delicate slow braised short rib. Definitely make a reservation and stop in when in Kona.”
“Great menu and drink selections. The atmosphere is so relaxed and the ocean is just a few feet away. Samantha and Ryan are two of the best, and the rest of the crew are fantastic as well. You can sit outside or in, or bs with the bartenders. Love this place. 10 stars”
“My wife and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary on the Big Island and wanted to experience the best the island had to offer. Ulu Ocean Grille did not disappoint! Here is a summary of our dinner: We thoroughly enjoyed the Ebi Tempura roll - (it was good enough that we have encouraged several family members to join us at Ulu this evening for sushi and dinner) For our entrées we had the Mahi Mahi and the Spicy Crab Noodles. Both were perfectly prepared, very flavorful, and the presentation was perfect. For dessert, we couldn't decide between the chocolate or vanilla (the flavor of the evening) soufflé, so we got one of each (you only celebrate 20 years once!). Again, perfectly prepared and presented and was thoroughly enjoyed. And I can't overstate how excellent the service was. The staff went out of their way to make the experience memorable. It was the best dining experience I have ever had and I don't expect to top it soon, unless they outdo themselves when we return this evening. Ulu & Four Seasons Resort - well done!”
“We had a wonderful dining experience at Beach Tree Restaurant at the Four Seasons Kona.
The service was exceptional from start to finish. We made a special request to the manager for an ocean-view table, and they graciously accommodated us, which made the evening even more memorable.
The food was absolutely outstanding. The pizza, pasta, fish of the day, chicken, and salad were all exceptionally delicious and beautifully prepared. Every dish exceeded our expectations.
The only area for improvement would be the timing from the kitchen. For some reason, the food took longer than expected compared to normal restaurant service standards. However, the quality of the meal and the outstanding hospitality more than made up for the delay.
Overall, it was a spectacular experience, and I highly recommend Beach Tree to anyone visiting Kona. We will definitely be back!”
“This is a nice family owned business with convenient hours and location. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I'm a vegetarian, so I tried the Vegetable Fried Rice. It was decent. The portion was extremely large. I was able to get two meals out of it. Based on this experience, I would be willing to return and try other menu items. Service was very polite and the atmosphere was comfortable. I love the way they use their windows to display their menu!”
“I was genuinely surprised by the amount and quality of food I got here. I ordered a lunch platter with teriyaki chicken, white rice, and salad. $11 plus tax. There was a really nice generous portion of chicken, and it was tender and well cooked. I'm not saying it was gourmet, but cheap Chinese food this close to the ocean in Hawaii, it was a great deal.”
“Still our favorite restaurant at the Four Seasons Hualalai!
You cany beat the setting... right on the beach with amazing views of the pristine coast. The staff is attentive and not overbearing. The food is upscale but approachable, especially for lunch. Great comfort menu items made with the highest quality.
I especially recommend their Mexican seafood entrees.”
“Absolutely, the best dining experience I've ever had, coming from being born and raised here.
Tim, our server, is exceptional with service, very apt to answer any questions we had, and was a stellar professional.
Jason and Simon are awesome as well.
10/10 will be back.”
“Yama Sushi just earned its place as my favorite restaurant in Kona! BY FAR, the BEST food and service in the area. I dropped in to place an order for takeout, and a sweet young lady immediately met me at the door, seated me, and presented me with menus and a tumbler of ice water. The menu was exciting with a great variety of Asian specialties and beautiful looking desserts. The vibe was casual, yet classy. My order was ready in under 15 minutes and the young lady even held the door for me on the way out. I got the Spicy Garlic Shrimp lunch special. This was the tastiest shrimp dish I've ever eaten! Shrimps were fluffy and moist. They were seared in a spicy, tangy, sweet sauce that made the flavor and texture perfect. It came with a finely shredded cabbage salad that had a delightfully sweet dressing. The miso soup was very authentic with deep, rich flavors. Even the white rice had me wondering how they cooked it so perfectly! Mahalo, Yama Sushi for serving me a meal that deserves way more than five stars and for treating me like a VIP. I will definitely be back soon!”
Takeout Restaurants
“WOW! These are the best donuts I have ever had. We came here with our young family of 6 and started out with 6 donuts and ended up licking the box clean and got another 6. They are perfected, delicious but not too sweet so you can eat and eat! also they are not your regular donut so ask about the flavors!!”
“This was not only the best latte I had in Kona, but honestly the best latte I’ve ever had.
The details matter and this spot knows it.
From the chocolate covered coffee bean on the top of the cup, to the actual shot of espresso. It was so delicious. Extra points for being a shop that’s open early.
The chocolate macadamia nut cookie was also delicious.
This place packs a punch for being a coffee truck.”
“They make proper espresso coffee here. We're from Australia so have to navigate that in US they put a lot more milk in than we do. Anyway the barista was great and we had 8oz size, 2 shot latte. All v tasty. They had great bagels to go which we got for our trip over the Saddle Road. For those with little kids, they had a lovely set up for kids to play in like a mini cafe with fake food etc, plus kids books etc. A lovely place.”
“New favorite breakfast / cafe spot in Kona. Everything exceeded our expectations from the food to the service to even the fun table markers they put on the table when you order. Probably one of the best açaí bowls I’ve had in all of Hawaii (don’t forget to add peanut butter) and something about the way they cook their eggs in the jet lag wrap is drool worthy. Have not been able to enjoy their coffees but they have so many fun options. Will definitely be back…. All the time.”
“WOW! These are the best donuts I have ever had. We came here with our young family of 6 and started out with 6 donuts and ended up licking the box clean and got another 6. They are perfected, delicious but not too sweet so you can eat and eat! also they are not your regular donut so ask about the flavors!!”
“This is an absolute must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic, fresh poke. The quality of the fish is outstanding, and it's clear that they prioritize sourcing the best ingredients possible. The casual, beachside vibe makes it the perfect place to grab a healthy, delicious meal after a day in the sun, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit to try more of their unique flavor combinations.”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“This was the culinary highlight of our trip to the big island! Sam and Jennifer are super kind in explaining the business-all local ingredients! Premium ingredients (local chocolate, Kona hinted brownies-Mac nut base ice cream)-wowza! Serious stuff! Come support this incredible shop. Yum!”
“This is an absolute must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic, fresh poke. The quality of the fish is outstanding, and it's clear that they prioritize sourcing the best ingredients possible. The casual, beachside vibe makes it the perfect place to grab a healthy, delicious meal after a day in the sun, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit to try more of their unique flavor combinations.”
“This place is special. Awesome crew , killer food and amazing live music! Only a few years old and already a Kona landmark! Do yourself a flavor and get ya some Willies!!🤙🏽”
“best view in kona. Great atmosphere. loving the family owned vibe. food was amazing and good price point. happy hour at 8p. ladies night on Thursdays $4 selected drinks. can't beat a place like this. live music on weekends.”
Cheap Eats
“The Ono fish and chips.....onolicious. The quality of the ono fish is outstanding. I haven't found anything remotely this good where I live. I believe you definitely get your money's worth! If you haven't tried Pine Tree Cafe, you don't know what you're missing. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. The service was outstanding and the people were very nice and friendly! So what are you waiting for? Get over there and check this place out!
Call ahead if you are pressed for time. Pine tree Cafe is the best!!!”
“I am so in love with this place!!! I feel peaceful, happy, safe, accepted as I am!!! Met lots of super nice people here as well! It started when my friends invited me to meet them 10/23/2021, at the Mask at 1pm- I stayed till closing- they have karaoke songs, I love music! Then asked the owner if I could have my birthday party there. He surprised me by saying “yes” long story short- the rest is history. I look forward to going there, the bartenders are ohana (family) to me, so are the patrons, I feel a connection to others. Comfy, cozy, casual or dressed up, it doesn’t matter!!! Everything they have there I enjoy, trivia, darts, pool table, karaoke, drinks, sells lau lau (a local favorite, pork/salt butterfish in taro leaves-steamed to perfection, so ono -delicious) I am just a regular person, authentic and honest - like the people who are there. It’s a everybody type of place from all walks of life!!! Mahalo for reading my recommendation and hope to see you here! A hui Hou (until we meet again) if you read any bad comments-it’s the person, not the place. Aloha my friends!!! Xoxo 😘 me Ke Aloha pumehana ❤️”
“Sushi Sam was outstanding and easily one of the better sushi meals I’ve had in a long time.
What stood out right away was the quality of the fish. Everything looked pristine the moment it hit the table, and that first impression carried through the entire meal. The nigiri was beautifully cut, clean, delicate and incredibly fresh. This is the kind of place where the ingredients do the heavy lifting because they are that good, and the kitchen is smart enough not to overcomplicate things.
We had a range of nigiri, hand rolls and small plates, and everything felt thoughtful and well executed. The fish had real texture and flavor, the rice was right, and the balance in each bite was exactly what you want. A few dishes had a little more flair in presentation, but nothing felt forced or gimmicky. It all still came back to freshness, restraint and quality.
I also appreciated that Sushi Sam does not try to be trendy for the sake of it. It is not one of those places leaning on atmosphere or social media appeal to make up for average food. This place actually delivers where it matters. The menu is strong, the execution is consistent, and there is a quiet confidence to the whole experience.
The service was another big plus. Warm, easy, attentive and professional without being stiff. Everything moved smoothly, dishes came out well paced, and the meal felt relaxed in the best way.
There are plenty of sushi places that are flashy, expensive, or trying hard to be the next big thing. Sushi Sam felt more grounded than that. Just really good sushi, very fresh fish, careful preparation and a restaurant that clearly takes pride in what it serves.
I would absolutely go back and would recommend it without hesitation.”
“We came over from the Four Seasons for dinner. The building is beautiful with high volume ceilings and incredible views, especially during sunset. The menu is small but food was well prepared. Don't miss the beef cheeks - something you don't often see on a menu. It was like a delicate slow braised short rib. Definitely make a reservation and stop in when in Kona.”
“We got the seafood pasta!! Throughly enjoyed!!! Would recommend. Our steak was also cooked perfectly! Good portions and the food was nice and hot!”
“We have been coming here for years. The pizza rolls are a must-have. I do wish they served fries instead of potato chips, but the pizza and sandwiches are great.”
“Great menu and drink selections. The atmosphere is so relaxed and the ocean is just a few feet away. Samantha and Ryan are two of the best, and the rest of the crew are fantastic as well. You can sit outside or in, or bs with the bartenders. Love this place. 10 stars”
“Honestly this place was very good and very fair priced.. the food came out so fast and was packaged well for our to go order. A great meal to bring back to the Airbnb when we needed something quick and other places were closed.”
“My wife and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary on the Big Island and wanted to experience the best the island had to offer. Ulu Ocean Grille did not disappoint! Here is a summary of our dinner: We thoroughly enjoyed the Ebi Tempura roll - (it was good enough that we have encouraged several family members to join us at Ulu this evening for sushi and dinner) For our entrées we had the Mahi Mahi and the Spicy Crab Noodles. Both were perfectly prepared, very flavorful, and the presentation was perfect. For dessert, we couldn't decide between the chocolate or vanilla (the flavor of the evening) soufflé, so we got one of each (you only celebrate 20 years once!). Again, perfectly prepared and presented and was thoroughly enjoyed. And I can't overstate how excellent the service was. The staff went out of their way to make the experience memorable. It was the best dining experience I have ever had and I don't expect to top it soon, unless they outdo themselves when we return this evening. Ulu & Four Seasons Resort - well done!”
“I cannot say enough about the quality of the food and quantity. I had the pot roast, and oxtail soup. They cut their own ox tails. I must have had 12 oxtail in my soup Chinese style. Excellent service and great Aloha !!! I will be back for the Loco Moco yum. Thank you again 😁🤙🏾”
Latest Reviews
“We were very impressed with the quality of these coffee beans. I wanted to bring home to Michigan authentic Kona Coffee. I paid a high price, however, it was worth it! This coffee is freshly grown in Kailua-Kona. The Peaberry Med Roast is a smooth cup of coffee! We loved it!”
“I cannot say enough about the quality of the food and quantity. I had the pot roast, and oxtail soup. They cut their own ox tails. I must have had 12 oxtail in my soup Chinese style. Excellent service and great Aloha !!! I will be back for the Loco Moco yum. Thank you again 😁🤙🏾”
“I recently stopped in to get lunch and they started serving the kalua pork again (My Favorite) this bowl with all the yummy veggies plus the brown rice, extra sweet potato, edamame and miso good dressing was the BOMB! The service here is outstanding, super friendly and nice staff. Definitely recommend stopping here for a healthy and great lunch!”
“My wife and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary on the Big Island and wanted to experience the best the island had to offer. Ulu Ocean Grille did not disappoint! Here is a summary of our dinner: We thoroughly enjoyed the Ebi Tempura roll - (it was good enough that we have encouraged several family members to join us at Ulu this evening for sushi and dinner) For our entrées we had the Mahi Mahi and the Spicy Crab Noodles. Both were perfectly prepared, very flavorful, and the presentation was perfect. For dessert, we couldn't decide between the chocolate or vanilla (the flavor of the evening) soufflé, so we got one of each (you only celebrate 20 years once!). Again, perfectly prepared and presented and was thoroughly enjoyed. And I can't overstate how excellent the service was. The staff went out of their way to make the experience memorable. It was the best dining experience I have ever had and I don't expect to top it soon, unless they outdo themselves when we return this evening. Ulu & Four Seasons Resort - well done!”
“I ate there twice in March, and twice in April, not brisk service, Hawaiian leisure!, but incredible food! The coconut shrimp, with either sauce (although I loved the sweet chili), both panko and beer battered fish and chips were delicious, and I never expected to find THE tastiest BLT sandwich I have ever eaten!”
Most Popular Restaurants
“A great place to grab a bite to eat on the island, one of the best seafood places in Kona. Staff is helpful and friendly, and the building is well maintained and clean, if lacking much character. Excellent and varied menu full of food for every person, local and good!”
“We had a wonderful dining experience at Beach Tree Restaurant at the Four Seasons Kona.
The service was exceptional from start to finish. We made a special request to the manager for an ocean-view table, and they graciously accommodated us, which made the evening even more memorable.
The food was absolutely outstanding. The pizza, pasta, fish of the day, chicken, and salad were all exceptionally delicious and beautifully prepared. Every dish exceeded our expectations.
The only area for improvement would be the timing from the kitchen. For some reason, the food took longer than expected compared to normal restaurant service standards. However, the quality of the meal and the outstanding hospitality more than made up for the delay.
Overall, it was a spectacular experience, and I highly recommend Beach Tree to anyone visiting Kona. We will definitely be back!”
“The Ono fish and chips.....onolicious. The quality of the ono fish is outstanding. I haven't found anything remotely this good where I live. I believe you definitely get your money's worth! If you haven't tried Pine Tree Cafe, you don't know what you're missing. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. The service was outstanding and the people were very nice and friendly! So what are you waiting for? Get over there and check this place out!
Call ahead if you are pressed for time. Pine tree Cafe is the best!!!”
New Restaurants
“I was looking up ice cream spots near me during a stay this past week and saw all the glowing reviews and knew I had to try it. Went yesterday a few hours before my flight home and it did not disappoint. I had guava and passionfruit in sweet cream and it was fantastic! So so good. Owner was friendly and nice to chat with :) I only wish I could have tried more flavors but not a bad problem to have ;)”
“Yama Sushi just earned its place as my favorite restaurant in Kona! BY FAR, the BEST food and service in the area. I dropped in to place an order for takeout, and a sweet young lady immediately met me at the door, seated me, and presented me with menus and a tumbler of ice water. The menu was exciting with a great variety of Asian specialties and beautiful looking desserts. The vibe was casual, yet classy. My order was ready in under 15 minutes and the young lady even held the door for me on the way out. I got the Spicy Garlic Shrimp lunch special. This was the tastiest shrimp dish I've ever eaten! Shrimps were fluffy and moist. They were seared in a spicy, tangy, sweet sauce that made the flavor and texture perfect. It came with a finely shredded cabbage salad that had a delightfully sweet dressing. The miso soup was very authentic with deep, rich flavors. Even the white rice had me wondering how they cooked it so perfectly! Mahalo, Yama Sushi for serving me a meal that deserves way more than five stars and for treating me like a VIP. I will definitely be back soon!”
“An absolute diamond in the rough. Our family of four was visiting from Maui and had breakfast here and everything was yummy, wholesome, and not loaded down with butter/grease like so many other breakfast menus. Plenty of free parking and a very friendly staff. Definitely coming back the next time we’re in Kona.”
“The food is fabulous, so delish..highly recommend”
“The drinks are great, love the art on the menus, but I will say the Conrad Mai Tai which is a specialty at this bar feels overrated to me. It is a bit too alcoholic. The Moana Mai Tai at the restaurant next door is much better.
They have sushi nights sometimes, and the sushi is a solid average in NYC. Would eat, but not go out of way to get.”
“Ono service and food!!! Please go down!”
“Pedro was fantastic! Our entire family had a great time with different alcoholic and no-alcoholic drinks. But the best part was the amazing conversations we had with Pedro, he really helped us understand more about the Hawaiian culture and took the time to teach us more about the history of the Big Island.
I fully recommend anyone who wants to have a relaxing time to come to this bar!”
“Awesome counter-service coffee shop where you can get a coffee, tea, or sausage breakfast sandwich. You can eat it outside with views of the pier. Across the street is an ABC store where you can browse after. Inside Hamakua Coffee it is airy and spacious. This place is quite crowded since it's in the center of the tourist area.”
“It was delicious and great service!”