Hilo Restaurants

More than 100 Hilo restaurants offer a vast array of international cuisine. Whatever you desire, there are restaurants in Hilo to satisfy the most discriminating taste, as well as Big Island restaurants that will fill your belly for not a lot of money.

When you dine on the east side of the Big Island, what restaurants do you seek out? Is it something local you crave, or perhaps a more refined dining experience? Do you have a favorite entrée, or a recommended spot to enjoy the view of the bay? Share a review of your latest restaurant experience.

Café Pesto

One of the best Hilo restaurants, we are big fans of Café Pesto, with their classic decor, high ceilings and casual, friendly atmosphere. You will enjoy exceptionally attentive service and very good food at a reasonable price. Fresh, local ingredients - the fresh baked bread melts in your mouth. We love the wood-fired brick oven pizzas and calzones, and the fresh catch (very fresh) salad with sesame vinaigrette. Also 100% Big Island beef, plus a delectable selection of deserts.

Ken’s House of Pancakes

We simply must stop here when in Hilo at breakfast time! You can enjoy Ken's anytime (open 24-hours). Great pancakes and so much more. Basic and efficient.

Hilo Bay Café

On Hilo Bay next to Queen Liliuokalani Gardens. Many sushi offerings plus great salads, fish & chips and other seafood options, as well as standard fare like burgers, ribs and pot pie. Made with largely local and organic ingredients.

Ocean Sushi

Arrive early and plan on waiting, as this popular local sushi joint seems to always be busy. The décor is very dated (bit of a cafeteria look) but they have a large selection of pretty decent sushi and other Japanese selections for very cheap.

Café 100

Quick food at budget prices, their claim to fame is their famous Loco Moco (rice, fried eggs and Spam all smothered in brown gravy!). They also serve burgers and sandwiches, fried chicken, daily specials like meat loaf, and a few breakfast items. Might think twice if you are trying to mind your waist! Local, homestyle comfort food on the cheap that is a long-time Hilo tradition.

Hilo Burger Joint

Nearly two dozen different gourmet burger creations like the spicy Lava Burger and the Italian Caprese Burger. At $8 for the most basic hamburger with lettuce and tomato (fries are extra), they’re pricey. But the food is good and the service is friendly. 21 beers on tap and a free burger on your birthday. Like any quality Big Island burger joint, they use local, grass-fed, hormone-free beef.

Sombat’s Fresh Thai Cuisine

Sombat’s is as authentic as they come. Best Thai food and among the best restaurants in Hilo. Sombat herself uses fresh ingredients from her own garden and what’s available locally. Excellent Thai salads, curries, stir fry, soups, spring rolls, noodle and rice dishes at reasonable prices. Try the Somtum (green papaya salad).

More Hilo Restaurants!

There are obviously far more restaurants in Hilo than we have included in this list. Some we left out on purpose, others we simply haven't had a chance to review. Help us out! If you have a favorite Big Island restaurant, please share it with our readers.

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