By now, you might be familiar with the Hilo Hustle. It’s what we like to call the culinary crawl through this vibrant town, expertly planned for maximum flavor. We’ve already given you our best Big Island bites, and now we’re back with another round of essential eats.
Ebisuya Sushi
$ | (808) 961-6840 | WEBSITE
After all that exploring, you’re going to be hungry. Head over to Ebisuya Sushi, a local favorite serving fresh sushi that’s open for both lunch and dinner. Keep the momentum up with their popular Akebono and eel rolls, and nigiri options. The squid recommendation from the friendly staff is also killer.
The Seaside Restaurant and Aqua Farm
$$ | (808) 935-8825 | WEBSITE
Sure, maybe you made a reservation, but you’re still going to need a good meal when you get there. You’re just by the water at one of the best seafood spots around at Seaside. Already tried the poke? Get the fried Aholehole with butter noodles – it’s just as good.
Ellie Girl Poke
$ | (808) 333-3469 | WEBSITE
If you can’t catch your own fish, your next best option is to pretend like you did. And the best spot in Hilo to do just that is Ellie Girl Poke. We like to hit it in the late afternoon, when the light’s still good. Grab a spicy mayo bowl and some kimchi cucumber, ignore the airport traffic outside, and suddenly you’re on a private lanai somewhere along the Kona coast. Freshness is fun.
Hilo Siam Thai Restaurant
$ | (808) 238-5068 | WEBSITE
If you haven’t tried Hilo Siam Thai Restaurant yet, we’re putting an end to that oversight right now. Yes, the whole only six seats/be prepared to wait for a spot thing is really limiting. We hear you. But Hilo Siam Thai is as close as it gets to authentic Thai perfection, and is more than worth it. Especially if you have some produce shopping to do at the nearby market while you wait for that fateful table.
Yen’s Cafe
$ | (808) 933-2808 | WEBSITE
Like the idea of authentic Vietnamese food, but want something a little more exciting than the usual takeout? How about cold vermicelli with spring rolls and chicken… would that do it for you? Plan a delicious meal starting at Yen’s Cafe. On Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays only. The #35 grilled chicken and spring roll cold noodle plate comes with fresh, crispy vegetables and a tasty sauce for around $14. The Pho Tai has good spice for about $12.
With friendly staff, a convenient pickup window, and in-and-out parking, it’s perfect for a quick, flavorful bite. Don’t forget their strong Thai tea or iced coffee for $4.
Peggy’s Lounge
$ | (808) 935-7552 | WEBSITE
When you’re looking for a casual night out in Hilo, skip the tourist traps and head straight to Peggy’s Lounge. It’s just across the street from the main parking area, and the welcoming vibe will make you feel right at home. (We won’t judge if you grab some poke and Mac salad from the complimentary pupus while you wait for your friends to arrive.)
Short N Sweet Bakery & Cafe
$ | (808) 935-4446 | WEBSITE
After exploring Volcano National Park, make your way over to Short N Sweet Bakery & Cafe, a charming bakery shop that, on any given morning, is where you’ll find delicious pastries and breakfast items. Add in the welcoming staff and complimentary samples, and Short N Sweet has everything you need for a great start to your day, all in one charming spot.
Jamba
$ | (808) 959-2250 | WEBSITE
So head to Jamba early, put your name down, and then make the five minute (ok, seven – but you’re going to have plenty of time to wait anyway) minute walk to the nearby beach. This is one of our favorite casual lunch spots – the Luau Stew is great, and so are the smoothies, and so are the locally grown dishes, and so is the laid-back island atmosphere.
One important note: part of the challenge of Jamba is that service can be inconsistent – be prepared with some patience so that you’ll have your expectations managed when your food arrives.
Poke N Sides @ the Hilo Farmers Market
$ | (808) 238-0336 | WEBSITE
Haven’t been to the Hilo Farmers Market lately? There are plenty of new things happening in this vibrant spot, and it’s about time you did some exploring. Start off at Poke N Sides, a counter within the market serving the kind of poke bowls that you rarely come by in Hawaii. If you get excited about fresh seafood, you should be excited about Poke N Sides.
Fairway Grill
$ | (808) 731-4560 | WEBSITE
Our appreciation for excellent casual Hawaiian restaurants is well-documented. But Fairway Grill is a particularly good one to hit in the evening, when the relaxed atmosphere feels just right – and there’s plenty of family-friendly seating as well. Great for everything from family dinners to lunch outings, Fairway Grill is a place that’ll always make you go, “Oh yeah, that’s a good idea.”
Hilo Burger Joint
$ | (808) 935-8880 | WEBSITE
If you haven’t tried a burger on the Big Island, what are you doing with your Hawaii trip? Alright, we get it – not everyone loves the idea of waiting a bit during peak hours or sitting outside when the weather’s perfect. But it’s actually great – and Hilo Burger Joint is probably the best place in Hilo to do it. So tell your friends to not be lame and plan on catching the incredible big island burger, the delicious turkey burger, or the fresh catch Ono before your vacation’s over.
Chillville LLC
$ | (808) 430-7118 | WEBSITE
After exploring Hilo’s best spots, cool off from the tropical heat and head to Chillville LLC. Resist the urge to just grab a quick scoop and go straight inside, which will defy all your preconceived notions about boring ice cream shops. This one is actually awesome.