Location: Hilo
Top Restaurants in Hilo
Top Things to do in Hilo
Hawaii, United States Food Guide: 10 American food Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Hilo
Discover Restaurants offering the best American food in Hilo, Hawaii, United States. The landscape of Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is diverse. Beaches of black, gray, brown and white sand give way to mountains and dramatic waterfalls. Hilo's Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo is the only U.S. zoo in a tropical rainforest. A day trip away are snow-capped Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, with observatories near 11,000 feet on both mountains, and Kilauea Caldera, an active volcano. Back in town are a farmer's market, restaurants, shopping and banyan trees planted by celebrities and politicians.
Things to do in Hilo
10. Ponds
Overall Ratings
4 based on 832 reviews
Reviewed By vegates
On our first night in Hilo we came hungry and ready to try a new restaurant. Wanting to avoid our hotel's offerings, we headed out for a walk to nearby Ponds restaurant. The glow of the lights at night over the water beckoned us in. It wasn't very busy being a weeknight, but everyone was welcoming and attentive. We were seated by the windows overlooking the koi pond; they gave us a little cup of food to feed them as waited.They had live music playing and a few tables with happy diners. The menu had a lot of options, but the specials sounded fantastic as well. We loved the freshness of the food, especially the produce and salads, a common theme for the weekend. The homemade bread and seasoned butter were amazing. My parents split the seafood pasta special, I went with the fish and chips; light and fluffy white fish on a bed of fries. Prices were a little high for the portions, but we were happy with the quality and taste. If you're staying in any of the major hotels outside of town, it's a quick walk over here and worth your time!
9. Ken's House of Pancakes
Overall Ratings
4 based on 2648 reviews
Reviewed By tabithatyq
We stopped by a month back on our honeymoon. I had the kalbi ribs with rice and my husband had the Portuguese sausage omelette with rice. We also shared a small pancake. Food was great, very hearty and filling which was needed after our early morning hike in the volcanoes national park. Service was warm but not overbearing. I would return!
8. Hana Hou Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4 based on 574 reviews
Since 1940, Hana Hou Restaurant has offered delicious homemade comfort food and dessert that you can't find anywhere else! Signature dishes such as the Loco Moco or Hogzilla Burrito are a must try. Stop by today!
Reviewed By Susieqa
6 of us stopped in for a light lunch. Everyone enjoyed their food. From Rueben sandwich to pork chops everything was very good. The slaw and Mac salad are best weâve found on the island. If back n the area, we all agreed it would be our go to place.
7. Makani's Magic Pineapple Shack
Overall Ratings
4 based on 92 reviews
Award winning unique drinks, acai bowls, sandwiches, gourmet local ice creams & house made soft serve!
Reviewed By dunadan
This was an awesome late-lunch stop on our visit to Hilo from Kona. Everything about this funky little eatery was exceptional, from the friendly, young staff, to the selections of food, smoothies, and ice cream, to the decor.I ordered a pork sandwich that was hot, delicious, and came with a side of purple taro chips--all delicious, and large--I was more than filled up with my sandwich. My wife got a turkey sandwich, and our daughter, not terribly hungry yet on vacation, convinced her parents to let her order an ice cream sundae for "lunch". Between the three of us we also shared a smoothie.So. Many. Good. Tastes. This hole-in-the-wall place, off the main business street in Hilo, is well-worth your time to seek it out and have some great island grub.
6. Hilo Burger Joint
Overall Ratings
4 based on 415 reviews
Reviewed By Frank M
Dropped by this place and it was a delight. We ordered a side of garlic fries for the table while considering the sizable menu. You can mix and match any combo of sides and toppings if you donât fancy any of the menu selections. Since I go bun-less, I ordered the blue cheese burger as a salad. It was delicious. They also carry NA beer (Becks) which is a bonus. The night we visited a nice Island singer was entertaining with pop/rock standards.
5. Hilo Bay Cafe
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1477 reviews
Contemporary restaurant with emphasis on innovative cuisine using fresh, local, and organic ingredients--a Hilo town favorite gathering place. Full food and beverage service with indoor and outdoor lanai seating and large room for special events. Much of
Reviewed By Rev Mark J
The food here is of excellent quality with unique local fish and chips and other delights. Even on a rainy day the view is romantic!
4. Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill Hilo
Overall Ratings
4 based on 338 reviews
Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill is a casual local's joint featuring fresh seafood, steaks, pasta and a variety of salads at affordable prices. The restaurant (named after our daughter) is the culmination of much hard work and the dedication of ourselves and our
Reviewed By CharlesR643
Enjoyed their take on Caesar Salad and Rack of Lamb although over cooked. The purple sweet potato side about stole the show. Service was very polite and sweet but ran slow... waited for drinks, appetizers, and main course... all waiting longer than considered normal. I asked for medium lamb but served well done... didnât send back because I was told I was lucky to get the last order. Thereâs parking across the street. Aloha CharlesR643--- I appreciate you taking the time to give us some feedback. Good or bad, it's super important to convey to the chefs and service team what our guests are thinking. I did pass your comments about the lamb to our Chef and pace of service my General Manager. I hope you join us again... I assure you, it will be better.Respectfully, Paul-- the owner
What to do and see in Hilo, United States: The Best Places and Tips
3. Hawaiian Style Cafe
Overall Ratings
4 based on 797 reviews
Reviewed By juliecI3215FY
This was place was fantastic! Huge portions, so split a meal between 2 people! Make sure to try the pork nachos, best nachos we ever had! Highly recommend this restaurant!
Hilo Food Guide: 10 Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Hilo
2. Pineapple's Island Fresh Cuisine
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1801 reviews
Reviewed By Bima77
A few years ago, I wrote a negative review for Pineapple's. Yesterday's visit changed my mind. A problem before was bad service, but the service this time was impeccable. Issues with a food order in the past also led to a negative experience, but the food on this occasion was absolutely exceptional. We both had the special, coconut-crusted ono on a grilled pineapple ring, served with garlic mashed potatoes, on a bed of sauteed summer squash. The quantity was beyond generous, with two large ono steaks as the star of the plate, and the combination of textures and flavors was perfect. In terms of value for money, this was a very good deal. The reason I give Pineapple's only 4 stars is the ambience. The restaurant is open on two sides to a busy street looking out toward the farmers' market, and traffic noise from one side colliding with a large and boisterous bar on the other means the room is not for everyone. On the other hand, having eaten in similar places in Fiji and the Philippines, I enjoyed the deja vu from those experiences, and the great food and beverages we enjoyed will definitely bring us back for more.
Where to eat Contemporary food in Hilo: The Best Restaurants and Bars
1. Paul's Place
Overall Ratings
5 based on 267 reviews
Reviewed By CharlesR643
They are only open for breakfast and lunch w three tables for two. Small little eatery that requires reservations. Was lucky to call around 10:30 and get a returned call at 11:30 for a spot that opened at lunch and we were only a block away at the Saturday farmers market. Limited menu for breakfast and lunch. My tuna bloom was very fresh tuna salad on a red tomato along w a fresh green salad and some toasted baguette slices. Enjoyed it as a light fresh lunch on a warm day.
