The best restaurants in Hawaii County

Hawaii BBQ Deli is that weeknight hero when you’re after serious plate-lunch vibes, with the BBQ Mixed Plate stacked just right, Kalbi Short Ribs with Garlic Shrimp, crispy Crab Cheese Wraps, plus Spam Musubi and Korean Chicken Wings bringing big umami and crunch.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 18, 2026

Seiji's Sushi is pure Big Island know-how, with Seiji bringing 40+ years behind the counter and fish that basically shook off seawater minutes ago, from ahi and ono to kampachi and snapper, plus crisp local veggies. Treat yourself to an omakase this week and let the chef steer.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 21, 2026

Slide into Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar for brunch or dinner by the sea, panoramic Oneo Bay views, a breezy wrap-around lanai, locally inspired plates, handcrafted cocktails, locally brewed beers, curated wines, and live music that sets the mood. It’s the midweek reset your Kona brain deserves.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 19, 2026

Miyazaki Sushi & Izakaya nails the local-meets-Japan vibe with pristine sushi, teppanyaki, and izakaya favorites made with premium ingredients like toro and uni plus fresh island produce. Settle in with their curated premium sake selection or Japanese beer, and keep them in mind for private parties or catering.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 11, 2026

Locally owned since 1979, Quinn's Almost By The Sea is that no-fuss Kailua-Kona hang where the plates are hearty, the cocktails come cold, and the vibe is pure neighbor energy. Oh, and it’s the southernmost official Packers bar, so bring your best side-eye for rival jerseys.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 3, 2026

From the Crazy Mango Roll layered with mango and tobiko, to yakisoba loaded with shrimp and sausage, Yama Sushi & Grill keeps things fun and flavorful... and that lunch pork stuffed eggplant is the kind of savory curveball your week needs right now.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 1, 2026

Poke bowls & other Hawaiian favorites served in a spacious, laid-back setting with a full bar.

Whether you’re craving delicate rolls, sashimi, or a comforting ramen bowl, Sakura | Sushi • Japanese keeps it fresh with a modern touch. Quick online ordering for busy weeknights, plus catering and group-friendly menus when your ohana gets hungry all at once.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 8, 2026

Kona Crust slings 16 to 18 inch pies plus thin and Sicilian slices and legit garlic knots, then doubles as a low-key comic hub with weekly releases, local art by Shane Molina, and table space for D&D or card nights. Basically, dinner and nerd-out time in one.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 30, 2026

Pine Tree Cafe is the kind of Kona-side spot you hit when you want a proper plate lunch, hearty breakfast, or a straight-up good burger, served in a casual, unfussy style. Big portions, plenty of local favorites, and catering if the whole crew suddenly shows up.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 21, 2026

When a poke bowl won't cut it, Taka (Sushi,Grill and Chinese Cuisine) hits the spot with fresh local fish, macadamia nut touches and fresh seaweed, plus craveable stir-fries like Mongolian beef and orange chicken. Friendly vibes, big flavor, perfect for weeknights you want easy wins.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 28, 2026

Sushi Cocoro & Udon Noodle keeps it classic with authentic Japanese sushi, premium chirashi, udon that might ruin instant noodles for good, and poke that tastes like it jumped straight off a Kona boat. They buy 100% direct from local fishermen, so it’s your friendly neighborhood spot when you want quality without fuss.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 2, 2026

Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.

Moana is the move when you want a Kona morning that actually delivers, with lavish spreads locals brag about; come evening, it shifts to Pacific Rim-to-table plates spotlighting sustainably sourced catch and produce in a cheerful setting that nods to the historic fishing village. Put it on this week's list.

From the Big Island newsletter, August 24, 2026

Tenkatori Kona turns Japanese fried chicken into a minor obsession... 70 years of craft, no MSG, gluten free, and cuts you rarely see here like boneless thigh, gizzard, wings, even cartilage. Grab it straight or over rice and curries when you need a craveable weekday fix.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 10, 2026

When you just need something solid and tasty, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in Lanihau delivers classic Hawaiian barbecue with no fuss, plus that trusty spam musubi for on-the-go fuel. Perfect for post-surf appetites, between-errand pit stops, or nights when cooking sounds like a terrible plan.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 22, 2026

For an easy pau hana win, Sunset Kai Lanai brings a 230-degree bluff view, fire pits, and fun cocktails while the sky shows off. Go for poke nachos, sesame-crusted ahi, or Kona beer battered ono, then finish with the key lime pie with a macadamia nut graham cracker crust.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 30, 2026

Craving something cold then spicy this week? Snow Island is slinging creamy Korean bingsu in flavors like matcha, black sesame, and Kona coffee, plus fresh mochi donuts and malasadas, legit bulgogi bowls, crispy wings, and tteokbokki, with ube-cream Kona cold brew or Kyoto matcha to finish.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 24, 2026

Delivery, carryout & dine-in chain offering a wide range of pizzas, plus a variety of other dishes & sides.

Ultimate Burger is all about organic, grass-fed Big Island beef in every patty. When the burger craving hits midweek, this Kona spot brings the juicy, straightforward comfort you want while keeping it local. Consider this your reminder to treat yourself to a proper grind.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 23, 2026

Island Ono Loa Grill fires up hand-formed patties char-grilled over lava rocks, with Kuahiwi Ranch grass-fed beef if you want to keep it Big Island. Burgers come with seasoned fries, veggie salad, or mac salad, and local plate cravings are covered with loco moco and kalua pork, plus char-grilled fish tacos.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 14, 2026

Whether you’re craving a classic Chicago dog or feeling adventurous with their Luau Hot Dog piled with pulled pork, pineapple jalapeño chutney and teriyaki aioli, Kona Cape Dogs keeps comfort food fun. They even riff with Korean-style kimchi and a Big Island Mac dog… perfect for a quick, satisfying grindz.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 12, 2026

KillerTacos goes big with always fresh tacos and hefty burritos that taste like someone really cares about lunch. Zero fuss, just bold flavor and that “roll you a fatty” energy locals swear by… perfect when your fridge is giving empty-stare vibes.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 4, 2026

From Kona, For Kona, Sushi Ku‘u | Japanese and Poke Takeout keeps it simple so the fish does the talking, serving premium chirashi, fresh island poke straight from local fishermen, and made to order udon when you need warm comfort. Local avocados and everyday value seal the midweek win.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 27, 2026

Pho Kim Anh keeps Big Island cozy with Vietnamese pho, vermicelli bowls, rice plates, and egg rolls that actually satisfy. Order online and pick Kona or Waimea, then slurp in peace between errands or after practice, because sometimes a clean, fragrant broth is all the pep you need.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 17, 2026

Calm and elegant without being stuffy, Walua Social plates classic Italian favorites made with local ingredients, pours proper cocktails, and does pizza and wine right, making it an easy yes for when you want something thoughtfully made that still feels like Big Island comfort.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 28, 2026

When the craving hits for crispy Nashville heat and a cold one, Willie's Hot Chicken has you covered with hot chicken that brings the burn, ice cold beer to cool it off, and live music to keep the vibe lively. Slide in this week and treat yourself.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 26, 2026

Big Island Pizza Napoletana keeps it old-school and local, hand-baking pies in a Mugnaini oven fired by wood or gas with 100% natural ingredients, roasted garlic, house-made Italian sausage, and pure olive oil. Perfect for a midweek upgrade when you want real Neapolitan flavor without leaving the neighborhood.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 25, 2026

Skip the fuss this week and let Sushi Sam handle dinner with traditional sushi, sashimi, and Japanese cuisine made with the highest grade rice and ingredients from Japan and locally sourced. Clean flavors, friendly vibe, and the kind of fresh that makes you quietly text your favorite eating buddy.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 29, 2026

Since 1969, Huggo's has been the Kona go-to for just-caught seafood, a signature teriyaki steak that actually lives up to the hype, and those sunset views that reset your whole week. If you need a low-stress dinner pick this week, their daily specials and waterfront vibes do the heavy lifting.

From the Big Island newsletter, August 30, 2026

Cheeky Tiki keeps it easygoing on the Kona coast with classic tropical cocktails, strong enough to make you grin, and plates built around fresh island ingredients. Grab a peacock chair, soak up the water views and sea breeze, and settle into that ohana vibe that turns “one drink” into two.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 9, 2026

The Temple Kitchen + Bar blends casual island vibes with fine-dining polish, pouring thoughtful cocktails and a curated beer and wine lineup alongside creative, locally sourced plates.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 14, 2026

Kona Brewing Co. keeps it neighborly with independent, island-made craft beers, crisp pizzas, and casual brewery tours. Grab a table on the tin-roofed lanai, catch Sunday live music, and let that liquid aloha turn a regular weeknight into a small victory.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 5, 2026

Kona Chinese BBQ turns weekday hunger into a win with Chinese comfort staples that feel like home. Think chow fun, crispy noodle, fried rice, hearty soup and noodle, musubi and even burgers, plus special mixed plates when you want a little bit of everything. Treat yourself this week.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 19, 2026

Big Island Grill keeps it simple in the best way, with a locally loved loco moco under rich house-made gravy, slurpable saimin, and kalua pork that tastes like a backyard potluck. Breakfast regulars swear by the mac-nut pancakes and the macaroni potato salad, because... priorities.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 16, 2026

Island-themed fast-food chain whose menu features traditional Hawaiian plate lunches.

Whether you’re craving a Lava Flow, a spicy margarita, or a cold Kona draft, Spinners Kailua Cantina backs it up with poke bowls, ceviche, quesadillas, empanadas, and sweet roll sliders. A breezy, oceanfront vibe that works for quick pau hana or an easy weekend hang with friends.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 7, 2026

Family-owned Island Lava Java mixes legit Kona coffee, fresh-baked treats, and locally sourced plates in an open-air lanai setting with ocean views. Great for a pre-work caffeine run, a laid-back lunch, or letting them cater the next pau hana gathering when you’d rather just talk story.

From the Big Island newsletter, September 2, 2026

From sashimi and traditional sushi to homemade ramen and other legit izakaya bites, Izakaya Shiono Kona nails the comfort-food-meets-craft vibe. Pull up for shareable plates, lots of sake, plus beer, wine, and cocktails, then linger while your friends debate who’s stealing the last bite.

From the Big Island newsletter, October 15, 2026