Hawaii Dining Options: Where to Eat When Visiting the Big Island

Fresh Seafood in Hawaii

Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Big Island is a seafood lover’s paradise. Savor ultra-fresh poke bowls made with ahi or ono, indulge in grilled opakapaka (pink snapper), or try buttery seared scallops at one of the island’s many oceanfront restaurants. Local fish is often caught the same day it’s served, giving new meaning to the phrase “fresh catch.” Don’t miss out on island-style preparations like lomi-lomi salmon, or upscale takes on sushi and sashimi from Hawaii’s talented chefs.

Authentic Hawaiian Cuisine

Immerse yourself in Hawaii’s culture through its food. Traditional dishes like kalua pig, poi, lau lau, and squid luau offer a taste of the islands’ deep-rooted culinary heritage. Head to a local Hawaiian plate lunch spot or attend a luau for an unforgettable feast. Many restaurants on the Big Island blend cultural storytelling with their meals, giving you a flavorful introduction to Native Hawaiian history and traditions. 

Global Flavors and Fusion Cuisine

Hawaii’s diverse population brings flavors from across the globe to the table. From Korean BBQ to Japanese ramen, Thai curries, and Portuguese malasadas, the Big Island is a melting pot of international tastes. Many chefs embrace fusion cuisine, combining local ingredients with global influences to create exciting, one-of-a-kind dishes. Think kalbi tacos, miso-glazed fish with tropical fruit salsa, or loco moco with a gourmet twist.

Iconic Desserts and Sweet Treats

Satisfy your sweet tooth with island favorites like shave ice, malasadas, or a slice of creamy haupia pie. Try tropical ice cream flavors like lilikoi, mango, or coconut, or indulge in a macadamia nut tart at a local bakery. For something uniquely Hawaiian, grab a bag of li hing mui-covered treats or sample house-made mochi. Whether you're after a cold treat on a hot beach day or a decadent dessert to end your meal, the Big Island delivers.