The 36 best bars and drinks in Kailua-Kona

It would be easy for any restaurant to let service and quality slide when the amazing view would bring people in anyway, but On the Rocks doesn't. Instead, they go all in on creating a great experience. Great food, friendly service, quick turn-around on food and drink orders, and great food. And that's without mentioning the great Hawaiian music and hula dance performances they host, nor the perfection of the sunset view from every seat in the house.

We loved this place so much we came back twice during our week in Hawaii — and honestly, I’d go again in a heartbeat. The food was incredible (the poke nachos are a must — seriously, some of the best I’ve ever had). The first time we came was after a long day exploring Volcanoes National Park, and that meal hit the spot like nothing else. The atmosphere was perfect — ocean views, good vibes, and the friendliest service. Huge shoutout to Jhett, who was absolutely amazing — super chill, friendly, and easy to chat with. And to the girl working the front who somehow recognized us the second time we came back (even though I looked totally different — new outfit, different hair, no glasses!) — that totally made my day (so sorry I didn't grab her name). I also noticed how patient she was with older customers, even helping an older lady to the table and complimenting her bag. This place just radiates good energy — great food, great people, and great views. Easily one of our favorite spots in Hawaii!

Everything about this place was absolute perfection for our last night in Kona. The seafood chowder was made with an absolutely delicious seafood base. Believe it or not it’s hard to find seafood chowder without chicken stock in it. The sourdough bowl was fresh and decadent. My husband had the fish and chips and the flavor in the breading was so yummy! A lychee martini was the perfect addition for me and a local brew for my love. We sat at the bar. Excellent service. Awesome entertainment too! The views were spectacular even at night. 10/10 recommend!!

We had dinner at Huggo’s On The Rocks on a Tuesday night and it was such a fun experience! I had the fish sandwich and my husband had the blue cheese burger — both were delicious. We shared the macadamia nut ice cream mud pie for dessert, which was amazing. We lucked out with a perfect table right on the water for the live music — even when it started raining, we stayed completely dry while others nearby got caught in the downpour. Great food, friendly staff, lively atmosphere, and beautiful views. We’d definitely go back again!

The location is great, on the water with beautiful views. They have a few different restaurants with different names and menus on the island. Our server was preoccupied with other details and we felt unattended. The food was good, but not great. The cocktails were good and the bar is a nice size if you just wanted to grab a cocktail and watch the sunset while listening to some music.

Unbeatable price and mixture on the Happy Hour Mai-Tai’s. Victor was our server and we had a great experience, he reads sign language well from across the restaurant (as in…..thank you may I have another😁). We sat right at the seawall and watched many who were seated in the same area ask for tables in the shade minutes after being seated. The sun does get very warm and bright mid-afternoon (we visited in October), and if you can’t handle direct sunlight due to sensitivity or if you have already been in the sun too long during the day, you may ask for a shaded table right away. I got the fresh catch, and although it was tasty, adding the mango tartar was the best thing I did. My wife got the fish tacos and was as equally impressed. The key lime pie for dessert was perfect, a touch of sweet but not too much, and if you wanted tart the drizzle that is on the plate filled that niche perfectly.

A bit expensive but you're paying for the view. I got the fish tacos and my wife got the poke bowl. Both were delicious! The fish didn't have the thick deep fry crust which you often get with fish and chips which made the taco feel a bit more refreshing than your usual fish taco. For the price, I wish they gave me 3 tacos instead of 2. Volcano fries weren't anything more than fries with some spices sprinkled on them. That's not to say they weren't good - just basic. My wife loves her poke bowl and felt all the ingredients were fresh and simple. Service and staff were wonderful. Soap dispenser was out of soap in the bathroom. I would go here again for sure!

An iconic brewery that I was happy to visit on my trip to Hawaii. The decor was amazing and the atmosphere was great. The beer was crisp and refreshing as expected but their beer cheese nachos stole the show. Unique and tasty. So good.

Stopped into Kona Brewing during our cruise and it did not disappoint! I’ve always been a fan of their beers, but having one fresh at the source was amazing. The pizza and pizza rolls were delicious, and the staff was super friendly—top notch service all around. The whole vibe was relaxed and welcoming. Definitely a must-stop if you’re in the area, and I’ll be back for sure!

Large brewery and restaurant in a trendy new area in town. We had a Hanalei IPA brewed with POG that was refreshing but not too fruty and a Black Sand Porter. The porter was very good. We also tried the smash burger, which wasn't so much a smash burger as a pork/beef burger on an ube bun. The ube bun was interest - not the most appetizing color on the outside but super cool on the inside. The flavor of the patty, the aioli and the bun together was great. The kettle chips were good. The fish tacos with the mac salad needed a hot sauce but were tasty, if a bit small. Service here was good.

Stopped in on a Thursday afternoon with a group of 8 and seated right away. Very nice outdoor table area and cozy, tropical vibes inside (smelled amazing). Service was friendly and attentive. Enjoyed our food and cocktails! Decent prices. Daily weekday happy hour from 3-5 PM with $2 off select appetizers, cocktails, and pints. -Pepperoni Rolls (delicious!) -Captain Pizza (good) -Frozen Mai Tai (strong, good) Edamame (nice flavor) Overall, would recommend for a medium sized group to enjoy drinks and food.

We had a wonderful time enjoying lunch at Kona Brewing, a Kona icon! Our family enjoyed two pizzas, beers, and soft drinks. Our server recommended the avocado fries as a starter. It was our first time trying this dish, and it was delicious, along with the other dishes. The service from the staff was also excellent. We felt their aloha spirit, and it made our trip perfect! I regret not buying any merchandise. I definitely want to get a t-shirt on my next visit :)

We love Kona brewing. This is our 2nd visit (first in 2018). The staff are always so free, beer cold and delicious, and the food makes for happy bellies! The kalua pork nachos are the best we've had - get the large (we blew it on the size we ordered, lol).

Kona brewing has a lovely outdoor sitting area that is very large and welcoming. All the staff was very awesome and friendly. The nachos with the beer cheers were excellent. The pizza and the crust was very good and fresh. The seared ahi was also very good. The one downside was they were out of their top two beers which was disappointing but it was still a great experience.

Had a really nice lunch on the deck. Waitress was pleasant and answered questions without any issue. Drinks were great and watching the birds and the waves was so nice. Previously was Humpy's but now is Laverne's bid island alehouse but had the same great menu as 10 years ago! Waitress said the head chef is the same and it shows, great time!

We visit Kona sometimes twice a year and we have a favorite oceanside eatery but this trip we tried a new place and were very pleased. There are several restaurants along the waterfront in Kona and we chose to have dinner at Humpy's (now Laverne's) Big Island Ale House. They have a downstairs seating area but we elected upstairs (there's in and outside). We were seated quickly and the server was friendly (there's validated parking at Coconut Grove Marketplace- make sure you give your license plate to the staff). We sat right along the rail and looked out over Kailua Harbor. And started with delicious cocktails - I chose the Blue Hawaii and my wife their Pina Colada. Both were tasty and refreshing (my wife loved the drink so much we came back another night). It was a late night meal so we wanted something lighter - I chose the Blue Cheese Wedge Salad and my wife ordered the Hummus Plate. It wasn't long before our plates came out (but long enough to believe they were freshly prepared). The salad was tasty and had plenty of variety in the ingredients. My wife also really enjoyed the Hummus plate with pita wedges, hummus and vegetables. As I mentioned we came another night and I enjoyed the Kalua Pork Sliders (with Likikoi Cole Slaw) while my wife really enjoyed their Aloha Spinach Salad (with goat cheese, avocado, caramelized bacon, and Pineapple chunks). The service was prompt, food was delicious, and prices reasonable compared to Kona prices. We'll be back

I ordered the fish sandwich, blackened, with a side salad. I was told the fish was fresh caught which is good. But the blackening was sparse and the fish itself was a bit dry and dense. The fries were good and crispy. The side salad and house made dressing were okay. The coffee was standard fare, not bad, not great. The best thing about this restaurant is the view and location. The ocean breeze is phenomenal.

Nice place for food and drinks. Prices in line, good service and some live entertainment. Will definitely return!

Enjoyed a nice lunch here, just chose a bad time to visit (between 10:45a and 11:30a), as apparently it’s between breakfast and lunch and the menu is more limited. That being said, what we ordered was really good. The kahlua pork sub and the steak bomb sub were delicious. The service was top-notch and the view is hard to beat. I’m looking forward to getting there in time for breakfast one day.

The Loco Moco.... fantastic. Great national breakfast dish. The fish Benedict.... also fantastic. Everything was speedy and drinks were fantastic. Beautiful ocean view with dolphin pods swimming nearby.

Don't get me wrong. Love this place. It's a great atmosphere. Usually great service. But. this night, the service was subpar. If that. Our waiter seemed like he didn't want to be there. Never checked on us. Never smiled. Our drink glasses were dirty. And his band-aid was gross and loose. Could have worn a glove. But like I said. He just looked like he didn't want to be there. No Aloha. Other than his service, the night was fantastic. The food. Adult drinks. But the view of the bay and my companion stole the night. It was a hard night for service. But I'm sure he bounced back with a smile and Aloha. Love this place. Well be back🤙🏾

I so wish I lived here. If I did I’d hang out at Huggo,s every day and eat like a king. Just had a perfectly cooked swordfish in a wonderful sauce. Watched a beautiful sunset as I ate. Live guitar music pacing the time as the meal unfolded. Life is good!

The food is very good but it was a little over-salted and over-sauced for our tastes. My husband’s lamb shank was cooked perfectly. We had the Brussels sprouts appetizer (which they were very accommodating to make them veggie) but the skillet was too hot so they got overcooked/burned. The specialty cocktail was delicious and all the staff were amazing! Can’t beat the location on the water.

What a beautiful spot to over look the ocean and watch the sunset while having cocktails or supper. We only had drinks. I couldn’t taste the alcohol in mine ( mezcal) even with all the ice, but the server offered to add more. Perhaps for $15 or more a drink they could make sure the drinks are proper portions of alcohol. The gentleman that served us was great! Funny, kind and attentive. Lots of parking and with validation from the restaurant it’s free. The restaurant & washrooms were clean & the atmosphere was great.

Had an amazing dining experience! After a 10 hr flight, we were just looking for a light dinner with sunset views to cap off our day. Started with the Arugula salad. The strawberries tasted like they were just picked. So fresh! The bread basket was so good! Really loved the garlic hummus and asiago slices. We split the Shrimp Capellini. All the flavors were so fresh and delicious. The shrimp was perfectly cooked. Our server Ashley was wonderful and Brent our wine server was too! We didn't order dessert, however saw a few being served. All looked amazing. Of course, the view was beautiful. This is a "must do"when in Kailua Kona!

All I can say is wow! What a magical way to end our anniversary vacation by having our last dinner of the trip here. We made reservations a couple of weeks ahead for Wednesday @5:30pm in order to hopefully get a sunset. Not only did Mother Nature not disappoint but the Hawaiian spirits were smiling on us at the end of the meal…a majestic manta ray came to visit ❤️…Atmosphere = 10+ Food: 9. There’s a reason why the Teriyaki Steak has been on the menu since 1969. At medium rare, the meat was very tender and the sauce w/ a hint of sweetness matched well. The rice was fluffy and moist. Service: 10 (Thanks Marley!)

We ordered the Kanpachi o Kenai and the Sesame Crusted Ahi and it was incredible. The wait staff was very attentive and kind. All seats were on the water and have great views. There was a resident kitty who enjoyed some petting which was the best ending. Thank you again.

Very welcoming and fun atmosphere the moment we walked in the door. The hostess was very warm and kind. We enjoyed our table by the oceanfront and our waitress was knowledgeable and nice as well. Be ready to spend some $$$ because it is not cheap so would not recommend for a casual eat out unless got the lower items on the menu and no drinks. More of a place you clean up real nice after a day at the beach to have luxury food. A reservation is a must. Both of us got fish or catch of the day - me Opa and him Swordfish. Both were great but we both liked the Opa best! We both got out fish with the Kahakai.

The food was phenomenal! If only the service was too. We arrived about 15 minutes before happy hour and sat at the bar. After placing our order, a cocktail and 2 appetizers, we overheard the bartender asking the woman next to us if she would like another cocktail. She declined and wanted to wait 10 more minutes so she could get the happy hour price. He shrugged it off and said, "I'll put it in as happy hour." Looking out for your patrons should be a service standard. Happy hour was not even mentioned when we sat down. Support locals, shade the tourists. Aloha.

Awesome place ! Great food, atmosphere and service! First time ever menu that had a you choose 4 flavors “flight” of poke appetizer! I had it for my meal and it was so generous that I took half of it home! Hubby’s teriyaki beef short ribs were delicious! Their fish marketplace had poke flavors for takeout! I highly recommend it!

The poke was awesome. We got the Poke Nachos and the old boy. The chef flavor of the day, hottie and sweet. Everything had great flavor. Our server gave great suggestions. We even had the coconut ice cream and fried ice cream with coconut and taro. We loved everything and we will be back. The portions are generous.

The best, and I am not kidding, the best fish tacos on the island. We came for lunch and my husband ordered the tacos while I ordered the seafood pasta. The pasta was not great (pretty bland) but the tacos were so good that they eclipsed that and make this restaurant still deserving of five stars. Get the Cajun seasoning on the fish and you will thank yourself. They were so good we came back for our final meal prior to our flight a few days later and ordered - yes - fish tacos (both of us this time). Their cocktails and calamari appetizer were also good! But I am still dreaming about the tacos.

Nothing like fresh poke as a first on-island meal. We chose 1 fish and 2 sides with brown rice. Service was nice and efficient. Good selection of poke.

Omg the best poke I’ve ever had - we had the poke nachos and the tuna on it was absolutely mind blowing. We also got Korean chicken which was so so good. I got a coolada and it was delicious. Favorite place we’ve been to in Kona! Our waiter was also so so helpful and had the best energy. Shout out to Isaiah for being amazing!!

05/10/2025 (Sat) We chose Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill for the final dinner of our trip, as it’s said to be a popular local spot known for its fresh seafood. When we arrived around 7:00 PM, the restaurant was packed, and we were told there would be a 40–50 minute wait. Thankfully, we were seated in under 40 minutes. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a bar area. On that evening, the indoor seating was already full, and the outdoor area was lively despite the rainy weather. A tent covered the terrace, but rain from earlier had blown in from the sides, leaving some tables and the ground damp. Since we had already had a heavy meal earlier in the day, we weren’t very hungry. So we decided to share the Big Boy Plate ($32) and Poke Nachos ($24), along with two iced teas ($4.50 each). Despite the crowd, our food came out in about 20 minutes, which felt fairly quick. The staff were polite and friendly, though it was a bit difficult to get their attention when we wanted a refill on our drinks — understandably, as they were very busy. As for the food, everything seemed fresh, but we felt that the different scoops of marinated tuna on the Big Boy Plate, while seasoned individually, lacked distinct flavors and came across a bit too similar to each other. The natural quality and freshness of the tuna didn’t quite shine through as we had hoped. The poke nachos were decent, though the chips were slightly soggy. One of the highlights of the evening was the live band playing outside — they had a great sound and really lifted the atmosphere. They even extended their set, which made for an extra enjoyable vibe. By the time we left, the rain had cleared, and overall, it was a fun and memorable way to wrap up our trip.😊✨

The best place I ate while on the Big Island for one week!! I am gluten and dairy intolerant and my server was so knowledgeable and was able to help me identify what I could eat. I got the fresh catch which was Ono and so delicious! And the zucchini was prepared to absolute perfection. They have lots of gluten free options that are also marked on their menus. Great vibe and has ocean views 🌊

Foster’s Kitchen Kona – A Culinary Gem on the Big Island! 🌺 Hands down, one of my favorite restaurants as a vegetarian in all of Big Island. I visited this place thrice in 1 week. Foster’s Kitchen Kona sets the bar with its commitment to fresh, organic ingredients and a menu that blends island flavor with gourmet finesse. Every bite was a burst of freshness—elevating even simple dishes to something unforgettable. The atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant, perfect for soaking in the Kona vibe. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or settling in for dinner with a view, the staff’s warmth makes the experience feel personal and welcoming.

Food, service and ambience were great! Views of the sea and the street adds to the experience. The cajun fish tacos were spot-on. We ordered fresh catch of the day, which was Ono and tasted delicious. After the fish arrived, we saw it wasn’t fully cooked in the center, which they agreed, took back and brought fully cooked and it tasted better than before. The cajun fries were delicious! Overall, it was a good experience and we had a good time. Would recommend this place!

I had to wait 30 minutes to get a table just for myself but I can honestly say it was worth the wait. I had the Chicken pesto pasta and it was delicious. The Mai Tai was insanely good as well. My server was super friendly and nice my only minor critique is that she didn't ask me if I wanted another Mai Tai before handing me my check. Otherwise this place was great I can't imagine how good the rest of the food must be.

Food was really good and fresh! Me and my husband loved the atmosphere, the vibez was really nice. Ribs was falling off the bone, pasta was well seasoned!

If you’re in Kona, do yourself a favor and visit Foster's Kitchen – it’s a hidden gem! 🌺 The food here is absolutely amazing, and what makes it even better is that everything is made from scratch. You can really taste the freshness in every dish, from their delicious seafood to their unique island-inspired specials. The fish tacos are a must-try – they’re perfectly seasoned, fresh, and packed with flavor! 🌮 The views from the restaurant are also incredible! 🌊 With the ocean right there, you can enjoy your meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The atmosphere is so relaxed and welcoming, and the staff is super friendly – they make you feel like you're at home. Can't wait until my next meal there!

I had an exceptional dining experience at this beach-facing restaurant. The mushroom appetizer was a delightful start, bursting with rich flavors and perfectly cooked. The shrimp & grit main course was a symphony of tastes, with succulent shrimp complementing the creamy grits flawlessly. Another main course Ahi tuna served with rice and veggies was a highlight, impeccably seared and served with precision. The stunning view added to the overall ambiance, making it a must try five-star experience

We went here last night! We had so much 😊 FUN! Great for kareoke! Small audience! No books. Dollar per song. You have to know the song you want to sing. Atmosphere was definitely lively😸. Drinks were good. You have to go up to the bar to order. No waiters/waitresses. Parking: make sure to secure vehicles. Don't leave valuables in your car. 🤗👍💗💗💗💗

We came there specifically for karaoke. I'm only giving 2 stars because the drinks were really good. As someone who attends & hosts karaoke frequently, I love trying new spots when I travel. This is the WORST karaoke experience I've ever encountered. First, we have to pay-per-song. That is a really sneaky way to force tips for the KJ (Karaoke DJ). Second, he was SO lazy that if someone were to sign up for 5-10 songs in a row, they could sing every single one in a row. A true KJ makes sure a singer doesn't sing two songs in a row if there is a long list with multiple singers. It takes attention & common sense. It doesn't seem as if he incorporates either. Third, even when we spoke to one of the people with 5 songs in a row in the queue and she said we could jump our song before one of hers because someone was leaving early & we had to drop them off at the airport, he STILL didn't move my song up. All in all, the customers were fun & energetic, but the KJ was lazy, rude, unprofessional, & unaccommodating, even when all the other parties involved already agreed before approaching him. We ended up taking our money back & leaving early. KJ's are some of the kindest & most professional people I've had the pleasure of meeting no matter where I am in the world. This was an extremely jarring & unpleasant experience. I won't be going back for the rest of my trip. I'll try to find a more welcoming karaoke bar.

Delicious drinks! Wonderful bartenders and validated parking.

Great 49er Game!!! No Food!

Hubbies stumbled on this incredible gem looking for a bar while us girls shopped and were not disappointed! Not only is the environment lively and energetic but friendly too. The owner Bailei (sorry if I spelled it wrong) has energy I want to bottle and take home with me. Evening bartender Dani was quick and observant ;-). Both are master of the art of conversation. The locals love this place and I loved learning all about being "rich, fun, & young." Andy you were a lifesaver. If you are in downtown Kona, definitely hit this bar and get a feeling of being home. 💜💜

D'MARIE was a wonderful bar tender and treated us amazingly. Drinks were great and reasonably priced. This is more of a locals bar but that's my favorite kind of bar.

Not a spot for the timid or those looking for the family-friendly tourist bars, this is the true locals' joint with beer swilling and karaoke. More of a respectable dive than what one may consider a "cocktail bar" but they still will make the mai tais and whatever basic else. Expect everyone to know each other so make friends and share a pint haha in this dark and close quarters space.

We enjoyed our meal here! We sat right by the water which was great. I DEFINITELY recommend the sushi bombs!! So yummy and fresh! I ordered the street tacos, which were great with the sauces. My husband ordered the burger, which he was disappointed with. We sent it back and he got fish and chips instead, which he enjoyed a lot more!! The staff was great about making sure we were satisfied!

Our flights were cancelled and we were put up at the hotel for the night. We ended up hanging out at the restaurant for several hours, waiting on our next flight. Lacey took care of us for breakfast and lunch. She was amazing and chatted with us and kept us entertained. We loved her vibe. The food was great and the Mai Tai's were delicious. Thanks to Lacey for spending the day with us and not making us feel like stranded travelers just camping in her section.

Stopped in for a bite while staying near the Royal Kona and was so pleasantly surprised by how good the food was! I had the poke bowl, twice, which was absolutely delicious — super fresh and packed with all the good stuff: avocado, kimchi, sushi rice, pickled ginger, radish, and a generous drizzle of sriracha aioli (I even asked for extra because it’s sooo good). The view is incredible since it’s right on the water, making it the perfect place to relax, grab a drink, and enjoy some amazing food. The service was friendly and fast, and the whole vibe just felt easy and welcoming. Definitely a spot I’d come back to again!

Loved, loved, loved. The drinks (especially the Three Dots And A Dash) were on par, and the food was excellent. Our server was hustling, but offered all the options. The prices were fair, and the view is stunning.

Stopped here before our flight out for happy hour. Discounted drinks and apps from 4 to 6 PM! Great views of the ocean and delicious mai tai! Lots of Kona beers on tap. We enjoyed the tuna bombs. We sat at the bar. At some point, the sun was shining in our face as it was starting to set - so bring sun glasses! Fun place to stop and relax for a drink with great views.

I was reading reviews about good prime rib and dons kept coming up. The prime rib was decent but I've had better, plus I think it's one of the only places in Kona you can get prime rib any night. The atmosphere and views are amazing I'd probably eat here again.

Amazing views and live music, but the food and service here is terrible. I didn’t order a drink, but I suspect your best option is to come for a sunset drink and maybe an appetizer, but don’t get the poke nachos. They’re practically inedible with chewy fish that’s obviously not fresh, stale wonton chips that aren’t light or flaky at all, and a disgusting overly salted sauce. The chicken wings were dry and the fries were limp, almost like they were reheated in a microwave multiple times. The guava bbq on the sliders had a good flavor and the coconut cream sauce was tasty, but still too salty overall. The staff seemed disgruntled with fake smiles and eye rolls and our food took forever to come out.

We had a fantastic Monday night dinner at Oceans Sports Bar and Grill in downtown Kona, right next to the volleyball courts. It was fish and chips night, and the meal did not disappoint—the fish was fresh and perfectly cooked, the fries were crispy, and everything was served hot. Service was friendly and attentive, (thank you Michelle V) and since Mondays are a bit quieter, we got to pick any table we wanted. The $6 Mai Tais were a nice bonus and added to the laid-back island vibe. If you're looking for great food at a great value in a relaxed atmosphere, this spot is a must-visit!

Stopped in Kona on our way around the island for a quick 24hr experience on Hawaii’s big island. It was 8:40p by the time we made it to Oceans Sports Bar. We chose it because it serves food so late - which is so difficult to find in Hawaii. Everything closes or stops food service at 8:30-9p. By 9P it held more of a club scene with DJ, dancing, young adults, and a full bar. We got seated right away, had fantastic service by our waitress and were satisfied with the food options, taste and draft beers. It made for a fun and entertaining experience to the end of the night.

Stopped in for a snack received great service and the food was delicious. Prices were friendly also .

Great place, people there are friendly and so cool. Will definitely go again specially since they have 2 pool tables

Friendly service…. Fast and attentive. The food was average for even bar food! We got fries and mozzarella sticks. The marinara had a weird taste and consistency. The mai tai is $5.00 all day everyday, but I would not recommend them.

This is a legitimate bar, with two pool tables. The food isn’t anything stellar, which is why it only gets 4 stars. Seems like the food is frozen and not exactly fresh. This bar is located right next to several other restaurants, so it’s not “off the beaten path”, it’s right in the middle of your face if you’re looking around. Come here if you don’t want to spend forever waiting in line at a restaurant next door. Drinks and service are good.

Just gonna say wow. I've enjoyed this location as a bar. Fun friendly service. With a good selection. Today I ordered the Fish n Chips. It was so yummy. Light and crunchy without being greasy. Weird for me to review tartar sauce, but it was light and briny. So good.

I hate speaking ill of a restaurant, I truly do. I couldn't justify giving this place a 5, it wasn't horrible but left a lot to be desired. We went about 3pm so not much a crowd and it was not our 1st choice, actually 2nd because I didn't want to wait for a table across the way at On the Rocks. Needless to say, I probably should have waited for that table. We got a much better view and service as well as drinks at a hole in the wall bar right after this. Drinks were eh to be honest, service was not spectacular ant the food was not something I could get elsewhere or from the grocery store besides the house made pickles. I don't know you be the judge from the pictures. I used to come here when it was Lulu's and that place was awesome! I miss it!

We definitely wouldn't be back at this place if we were in Hawaii again. Had SOME tables but was not nearly as busy as other places and just pretty dead. A sign. Was going for a specialty pizza and was all set when, nope, pizza making ends at a certain time. Pizza becomes to hard to make after 9 p.m.... So went with a quick choice while dude stands there and get bland sliders. Will remember to skip this place next time that's for sure. My own reviews often help me down the road.. Not friendly at all here either.

Best breakfast I've had in Kona town. Great view too. Food was fast and my omelet was cooked perfectly. My girlfriend loved her blueberry pancakes and we shared a 1 piece Benedict—hollandaise was delicious. $8 bloodys and lilikoi mimosas. Good coffee but no espresso, however i did see someone bring in there own from the shop next-door. The Hours are INCORRECT on Google. Breakfast from 7:30-10:30 every morning. Lunch menu starts at 10:45am and they serve food till late night too.

Chicken Caesar salad was incredibly delicious and filling! Service was great and they have a broad menu that will please everyone. Seating up on the second floor provides great views of Kona, especially at night for the best vibes. I recommend!

Google doesn't have the correct hours - Laverne's is open for breakfast every day from 7:30-10:30. We loved the breakfast here! I got the Hawaiian French toast but asked them to add the sliced bananas and macadamia nuts to kick it up a notch. That plus coconut syrup and maple syrup and it was the BEST! My husband had the eggs, Portuguese sausage and toast, with potatoes. Everything was great, and our server/bartender Matt was very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!

We tried the nachos and fried pickles. I was disappointed with both. Not a lot of flavor. Presentation was decent and from the ingredients, youd expect them to taste so good but quite flavorless. As for the fried pickles, I was excited they were in spears but the batter they used to fry just left them simple and also unsatisfying. Our bartender/waitress was awesome and fun to talk to. Lived her easy going way and was happy to have a conversation.

Very average nothing to write home about a solid 3 stars !!! Beer was cold and food was hot but very basic. Bartender did his job but not friendly never said hi or anything other you want another one. If you’re looking for just basic food and flat service come here you will never have to tip over 20 percent because there is nothing they do that’s worth a larger tip!!

This place is lovely. Right on the ocean. Very "touristy", but a really great view. I had the chef's special pasta with vodka sauce, and it was delicious. They have a kids menu, and an extensive drink menu. They may have been light on staff, as our server was VERY busy and had a lot of tables to cover. He was good though, his name is Gabriel. The atmosphere alone at this place was great. Highly recommend.

I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great dining experience paired with stunning views. The service was exceptional, the staff was attentive and welcoming and the food was absolutely delicious. We had a wonderful time and are already looking forward to our next visit!

Our first time in Hawaii, and this was the first place we ate lunch at. I ordered a poke nacho dish that was super fresh and the crunchy wonton chips held up their crisp until the very last bite. My fiance ordered the Guava BBQ bacon cheeseburger that he crushed. Our server Derrick made delicious mocktails for my aunt and I. He also gave us wonderful suggestions for island activities, per our request. My aunt ordered the pork BBQ sandwich amd her bf ordered the teriyaki burger. All were delicious. And the VIEW off the patio was just breath taking. We all highly recommend this restaurant. (The prices were reasonable!)

Great spot overlooking the water. Felt like an old time Hawaiian restaurant, nothing fancy. The food was excellent. We had the fish sandwich and 2 different types of hamburgers… all delicious. We also ordered the avocado fries which were so good. The Mai Tais and piña coladas were also excellent.

We loved this place so much that we came three days in a row during our trip. The food is absolutely delicious, but the real star is their homemade peanut butter cheesecake — it’s unforgettable. If I could give this place more than 5 stars, I would. We also got lucky to have the same server, Bri, each time. She remembered us, knew exactly what I was coming back for (the cheesecake!), and made us feel so welcome. She truly goes above and beyond and absolutely deserves all the tips you can give her! A must-visit restaurant — don’t leave without trying the cheesecake!

Great food and atmosphere! We visited twice..once for brunch and once for lunch and loved both experiences. We sat right by the ocean, which made the meal even more memorable. If you’re going on a holiday, definitely call ahead to book a table. The ube lemonade and spicy dynamite shrimp were my absolute favorites!

In February, I went to Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar with my mom and dad, and we had a wonderful dining experience. The oceanfront setting was beautiful, especially with the breeze and views of the water. We enjoyed the island-inspired dishes and fresh flavors, and the service was friendly and attentive. The atmosphere felt lively yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal together as a family. Watching the sunset from our table made the experience even more special. 🌅🍹🌺

Loved this spot for a couple of sunset drinks. We tried four and all were good. The ones with vanilla cream are super sweet. The mai tai was great. Get it for the cherry for the geckos! The guys that worked here were super nice and attentive. A great couple hours people (and gecko) watching at sunset.

Our favorite place! This was the second summer we have been able to visit Big Island and we went to Da Shark Shack almost every night both times we visited. Between the view, the drinks, the geckos, and the ono bites you can’t find a better place! We only wish we tried the ono bites sooner(we didn’t have them during our first trip.) Can’t wait to come back!

This adorable lively place had the BEST ono I had the whole time I was in Kona. The slaw under the fish was equally delicious. This unassuming place was the perfect afternoon bite. Fantastic service. Great views. Perfection.

Looking for a bar with eats and a ocean view? One bites were awesome and we are coming back for the burgers. Seating is limited but definitely worth a try. It also has Hawaiian local brews as well.

The best place for people watching right across from the sea wall. Ono bites are very tasty and the Mai Tais are delicious!

Love this little bar and grill. Chill and grab an amazing burger and some oni bites, or just sip on a Pina Colada or cold beer. The burgers are actually some of the best we've had on the island - no joke. Great service and chill atmosphere. We make it a stop whenever we're on this side of the island.

This bar is the perfect mix of laid-back charm and quality. The drinks are excellent—well-made, flavorful, and served just right. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with great ocean view that adds to the overall experience without feeling over the top. The staff are friendly and attentive, making you feel genuinely welcome, and the food is surprisingly good for a place that focuses on drinks. It’s the kind of spot where you can unwind, enjoy good company, and have a great time without any pretension.

VERY POOR SERVICE!! Walked in, bartender was rude and dismissive asked for my drink to be made right and he ignored me and helped another person. Bar was dead so there was no reason for the bad service. Wanted to support the local gay bar but left dissatisfied.

Like Maui, the gay bar scene here is weak. Hell, there's not even one bar on Maui, so the Big Island is one up on us! ATMOSPHERE: The bar is oddly located in the middle of a strip mall amongst other businesses, though the majority of them were closed at night. It's a small room with a u-shaped central bar, high tops off to the sides, a pool table, and a TV for karaoke. There's a disco ball hanging but no dance floor. We moseyed on in around 11pm on a Saturday night, and the place was dead, meaning about 9 others were there. SERVICE: Matt, the sole bartender on duty came over, introduced himself, and got us settled in, and took our orders. What a friendly guy. We were happy to hear that they had a late night happy hour on domestic bottles, which were a mere $3. Yes! OVERALL: Cute little neighborhood hole in the wall kinda place to grab a few drinks and talk story. Friendly service, great prices, lots of parking.

What a dump, my partner, his best friend went in there on. Wednesday night; mind you I Am from nyc, capital of rude; this place does even add up. The bartender did not even acknowledge us. Please , please don’t go. My second time and the second time was even worst than the first time. Don’t set foot there. You want a place that’s accommodating go to the My Bar. Amazing service. You lost my business, my friends who will be coming to Hawaii we will not be going to the mask.

Most uninviting gay bar I've ever been in. Steer clear if you're a tourist. They dont want your patronage.🤙

I was just learning my self the area. So decided to check out the Gay Bar. The bar man was so friendly. The atmosphere too is unexplainable. Amazing place to unwind, relax over a beautiful mellow music. Of course sipping and ice cold beer

Fun local bar. Bartender was super nice and intro’ed us to trivia. Free candy for everyone. There were stockings up too. Felt like a nice local joint for anyone to come and be themselves.

My girlfriend and I visited here on a Saturday night. It’s a local spot with friendly welcoming vibes. We played trivia, played songs on the jukebox and had inspiring conversations with other patrons both local and visiting. Can’t wait to come back again! Shout out to Mickey Lee 💖 and the bartender Bartender Brian.

We love poke and this place did not let us down. Very easy to understand the ordering and they had streamlined, fast service. Definitely would go back! Only suggested upgrade is more seating. We sat down the road at another vendor’s food/shaved ice truck near the ocean.

05/01/2025 (Thu) We’ve tried poke from many places across the Big Island because we absolutely love it, but Da Poke Shack stands out as the best we’ve had so far! 🌺🐟 We went a little after 10 a.m., and it wasn’t too crowded. We were able to grab a seat at one of the outdoor picnic tables, which was perfect for enjoying our meal right away. We had a poke plate and tried several flavors — sesame, spicy garlic, shoyu, and creamy scallop — and they were all incredibly delicious.🤤 Although their posted business hours are until 4:00 PM, they operate on a "sold-out, close-up" system. That means once they sell out of poke, they close for the day — even if it’s still within business hours. So it’s best to get there early to avoid disappointment!🏃=3 The shop itself is quite small, and there’s no indoor seating. However, there are two long picnic tables outside the entrance where you can enjoy your meal. The location is tucked underneath a residential building, and while there is some parking available, it’s unclear whether it's reserved for residents or open to customers — so just be mindful.🚙 If you're looking for fresh, flavorful poke, this spot is definitely worth the visit. Just remember: come early, and come hungry!🐟

Poke was good but I loved side dishes like octopus and kimchi mussels. Didn’t love the spicy clams which was not even tint spicy. Other than that everything was super yummy!!!! Will be back if I visit big island.

Very fresh poke. The sesame tuna and little octopus were especially good. Price was good too. Not very much parking.

Best Ahi freshness due to daily fishing catch so I was told. Quality is just superb. Catch of the day without any freezing process . Fish line to table. I had the ahi with seaweed shown garlic ginger and etc.. very good quality. Guy open M-F if you’re lucky. May need to postpone. As always, post wherever you see I we don’t have to.

I have to say this place is a insane spot for lunch and you have to go if you are looking for fresh fish and poke. They catch the fish fresh every morning and the fact that it gets sold out almost everyday before 1pm says something about how good it is. I have a shellfish allergy and made sure to ask about all the different options and the staff was super kind to make sure that there were no issues with what I chose. Make sure to get it for an early lunch so that you have the most options. I would also reccomend either walking to get here since parking is so limited.

We chose this restaurant because it had a high rating with many people reviewing the restaurant. The shrimp and tuna were very fresh, but the taste was way below my expectations. The staff was very informative, friendly, and efficient. The price is standard Hawaiian food, expensive :)

Quinn’s was a good place to stop in and check out the vibe and food here. Atmosphere is very cool, lots of space and chill spot. My burger was fantastic, cooked perfectly and absolutely loved the Quinn’s brand on top. Wife and daughter shared the fish order and found it to be a tad overcooked but still tasty. Restroom is a shared one which was a bit to Pub like and a little less tidy. Service from the time we entered to the end was fantastic and top notch. Flowers all around made it feel cozy and inviting. I would still highly recommend making this place a stop, their menu has a lot to offer.

The location, atmosphere, and service were good. Everything looked appealing, but the food missed the mark for me. The soup was overly thick, and the fish and shrimp tasted more like pre-battered, fried items than fresh seafood.

Quinn’s Almost by the Sea is such a gem! The bar food is great — fresh, flavorful, and exactly what you want in a casual spot. The bartender was attentive and friendly, keeping the drinks flowing and the atmosphere upbeat. It has this wonderfully laid-back vibe, almost like a dive bar you’ve been going to for years. Easygoing, welcoming, and always a good time — definitely one of my favorite relaxed spots in Kona.

What a great, friendly place for a meal. Had some of the best fish and chips I've ever had. I had the Mahi Mahi and wifey had ONO, both were just amazing. Perfectly cooked. Great service.

This a low key classic restaurant. Good prices. The food was good. I had the Mahi Mahi fish and chips. Huge portions. The fish was tasty and the fries were very good. I had a Mai tai which was expected. Service was fine. It was raining hard out side and we sat out side which was nice but the floors had a lot of water on it which we had to be careful of. Not a big deal but we could have slipped. There was a slippery floor sign there. My daughters had the chicken tacos and they loved them.

Love this place!! Amazing fish and chips (We got the Ono fish) and the BEST fish tacos! The pineapple Cole slaw is also something that is worth trying! The portions are big and the meals were decently priced. My husband and I were in Kona for the evening and stumbled across this place and we're so glad we stopped by here! We were here the same weekend of the Iron man and were afraid it'd take a bit since it was a busier day but we got seated super quick along with our waitress who got our food and drinks order in and out! Besides the delicious food, we really enjoyed our meal and experience overall because of the amazing service there. Our awesome waitress Janessa was super friendly, attentive and very sweet. She was just very helpful and gave us her recommendations on the meals we were choosing between. We will definitely be back here the next time we're visiting :)

We stopped here after our Manta Ray dive for dinner and it did not disappoint. We walked in and to our surprise we were in a home away from home Packer bar (we are from WI). It truly felt like we were back in WI from the food, atmosphere, and service. Will be back then next time we are on the island:)

What an Awesome Dining Experience. The open air design allowed for Beautiful Views of the Ocean Waves Crashing upon the Beach. It had a Feeling of Elegance. The Food was Delicious and Fairly Priced for this type of Venue. Our Sever was Very Polite and Professional. A Very Enjoyable Meal.

During my experience, the food and service does not align with the price. To begin, as we walked in two servers approach the hostess and asked to pass us to someone else (Family of 5, 3 are kids). All the food is a la carte, and sides are additional. ***I’m ok with this if the service meets the price. Server seemed overwhelmed and the restaurant was not busy. The stuff ono was dry, the scallops were flavorless, and calamari was all breading. My eldest did enjoy his fish tacos, but his brothers ordered from the keiki menu and received one ladle of Mac and cheese no sides. One plus from this was the view of the beach.

After reading some reviews we decided to give this place a try. We were able to get seating quick on a weeknight for a late dinner. Entrance was nice and inviting and views with nice ocean breeze was great. That said, the food was just average, and the overall interior felt a bit dated. I wasn’t a fan of the old furniture and dark carpets—removing those could really freshen up the space.

I came to the Kona Inn Restaurant twice while visiting Kona, and both experiences were absolutely spectacular. The service both times was phenomenal — friendly, attentive, and welcoming. Would definitelyyyyy recommend the Tuna Stack … our server recommended it to me and she was right, it’s incredible. The calamari is also a great appetizer to share with your table and absolutely worth ordering. On top of the great food and service, this is hands-down one of the best places in Kona to watch the sunset. Perfect atmosphere, amazing views, and an overall fantastic dining experience. Can’t wait to come back next time I’m on the island!

I'll add this to the maybe 5 or 6 reviews I've already posted. I love this place. If you would like to love this place too, go there! You most likely will not be disappointed. However I'm pretty sure there are people that no matter where they go, will always be disappointed! Be happy! Aloha

Totally amazing. The food was top notch, the venue was top notch. A beautiful place to have dinner. I 100% recommend the filet mignon and scallops

This was our third visit to the Kona Inn over a 22 year period, and while the unbeatable oceanfront setting still delivers that classic Big Island charm, we couldn’t help but notice a little decline in overall quality this time around. Let’s start with the positives: the atmosphere is still one of the best you can find in Kona. Sitting out on the open-air lanai, watching the waves roll in with a mai tai (or my go to- a Diet Coke) in hand—it’s hard to ask for a better view. The historic feel of the building, the tropical landscaping, and the relaxed pace all contribute to that old-school Hawaiian vibe that’s becoming harder to find…. Especially now as it seems as more and more storefronts are vacant. That said, while still good, the food and service didn’t quite live up to our previous experiences. Dishes that once felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared now felt a bit more harried and inconsistent. It’s not that it was a bad meal—it just wasn’t up to the standard that made us want to return a third time. We left wishing the experience had matched the beauty of the setting. We’re hopeful this was just an off night, and we’d love to see Kona Inn return to the high quality and warm hospitality that made it a favorite of ours. Here’s hoping it finds its groove again, because that view is still worth coming back for. We love this spot! When you go, we recommend trying the stuffed Ono! That dish is rich and delicious!

It was just okay. Seems like this place is only popular because it is popular. Food is pretty coming out, ambience is nice (but only partial ocean view at an angle), and staff are attentive. But the “famous” fried fish was very dry (see pictures) and low on flavor. My mom liked the November special though - a chicken sandwich with sweet butternut squash soup. Again, this was just okay. I would not write home about it or recommend it except for the sheer convenience, which isn’t special either - there are a lot of other options nearby.

The best food in Kona! Really, I ate there my 6 days on the island. Great service with a smile. Portions are big and oh so tasty. Try the chicken enchilada omelet its Fantastic

The first thing my wife complain is that it is not handicap friendly. Those of you can't climb stairs, forget about this place. Like everyone else comments, the servers are friendly. I give it a four stars given the location, food, service and ambience. Food wise: BBQ Ribs and Chicken The BBQ ribs are quite tender and fall off the bones easily which I like. I have to admit the BBQ sauce is a bit too overwhelming and sweet for me and the chicken a bit too dry and tough. I gave up eating the chicken after chewing and chewing each bite. Those who have weak teeth, beware! Grilled Chicken: My wife said, "It is okay. Don't trust the reviews you read when it said five stars, it is not true." Each person have their own personal preference. I took a piece of her chicken, I find it a bit bland and not to my taste. Her piece of chicken is slightly more tender. White Chocolate Lilikoi Cheesecake with Macadamia Nut Crust: Pleasing to the eyes and taste quite delicious. The combination of chocolate, macadamia nuts and cheese cake is pretty good. It is good with coffee.

A really nice restaurant, with friendly staff and a good happy hour menu. The burgers are huge and priced very well. At this restaurant, keep it to traditional bar food and you won't be disappointed. There are separate breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, so I cannot speak to them all. It is in central Kona and has pretty good views of the water.

We went for breakfast, and the food was great! We got seated quickly, and our server was pretty nice and stopped by often to ask if we needed anything. They give you a lot of food as well, and it comes rather quickly.

Two words. Calamari strips. So tender. So delicious. Friendly staff. Nice location. Good beers. Fish was great and crab cakes actually contain crab (you know how many do not.. ). They SHOULD warm guests about the parking. They have free parking and if their lot is full there's an arrangement with the hotel for overflow. We got stuck paying the next lot over a fortune. Avoid that. About 10$ an hour. Ugh. Will go back :-)

Great food and a beautiful open view of the ocean! They have some refreshing flavoured teas as well! Fresh fish and quick service! They also have a 10 percent off coupon if you register on their website

Off the beaten path, brew pub. It’s has a large dining area. Place your order at the bar and then pick your seat. The staff is friendly, they take time to talk with you and socialize. By the time you sit and get comfortable your food is delivered. They were fast with their service. Burgers are juicy and flavorful. We enjoyed our lunch

We experienced both the Hilo and Kona locations - loved them both! We enjoyed lunch and beers in Hilo, the service was great! We were running errands stopped in the Kona location - industrial park, and service was great again! Locals or not - treated the same! Mahalo!

Great beer - we especially loved the porter. This place has a ton of outside space but we were here when it rained so this inside was crowded, hot and loud. There are some cool counter seats where you can see the tanks. The beer is great, definitely give it a try.

Great beer and their lau lau pork dish was the best thing I ate on the island in my entire visit and we went to several higher end spots, this simple dish blew everything out of the water in terms of taste. So much flavor!

Great brews and friendly service Watch sports on several TVs and different streaming services Street parking Inside seating at tables and bar Also Patio but it seems you need to come inside to order No happy hour

We love Ola. Atmosphere is great with perfect mix of locals and tourists. Bartenders are nice and friendly. We drink mostly beer and all our excellent, but they also have a lot of seltzers and hard juices on tap (will be back to try those!). Food was yummy-especially wings and pizzas!

Chris had the MA'A Lager. I had the A'A IPA. Very nice. The Ola Burger was one of Best I've ever had. Chris ordered the Cobb. We shared. Dessert was the delicious Kiawe Vanilla Porter. Service was great. Mahalo!

Drinks were great love the atmosphere. My kind of place

Eddie and another woman (Romanian) bartenders were insanely kind and personable during my solo trip. This is the place to talk to locals and just hang out. Drinks were outstanding and decor is great! Went multiple times and would go back again if I could!

very fairly priced bar in this shopping center. mostly locals some tourists but all friendly. a lot of tvs if you want to watch sports. will return!

Great place to watch football. I think on Monday night football they have great tacos Alec is great. He knows my drink and makes it perfect every time. Max is great but I don't go that early!

We love looking for taverns or hole in the wall places when we travel. Dolphin spit hit the spot. We were greeted by Otis, the coolest dog ever. Watched a little football and chatted with the bartender(s). Very friendly!

Cool atmosphere with good heavy drinks. The views are not bad either. You can sense that this is a bar for locals and it makes it even better. Totally would come

great locals and wonderful service!!! 10 of 10 would recommend

Oh my goodness! This needs to be added to your places to stop and eat. I got the steak, potatoes, and broccolini, with a strawberry lava flow, and the street corn appetizer. Look at what dish the street corn came in! The food was amazing. The service was kind and so charismatic. We did walk up stairs to sit so if that is a barrier for you I would check if they have first floor seating. Every single one of my group members got the steak except my father in law. He got the fish special and said it was also amazing. I ordered my steak well done and it was cooked exactly how I like it. The pesto butter on the steak was SO GOOD! My husband didnt like it but he just scraped it to the side and still loved his steak. They serve water to everyone then you can get another drink if you wish. Highly recommend!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely Loved This Place! We had an amazing experience at this restaurant from start to finish! The food was outstanding—fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. Every dish we tried was delicious, and you could tell the ingredients were high quality. The service was top-notch—friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The staff made us feel right at home without being overbearing. It's clear they care about both the food and the people. And the view? Breathtaking. Whether you're here for a sunset dinner or a sunny lunch, the setting adds something truly special to the meal. Perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery. Also worth noting: it’s a very family-friendly spot! There were thoughtful kid options, plenty of space, and a comfortable, relaxed vibe that worked great for everyone in our group—from toddlers to grandparents. Highly recommend this place whether you're visiting or local. We'll definitely be coming back! #GreatEats #FamilyFriendlyDining #5StarView #ExcellentService #HiddenGem

All things considered, this is the best tiki bar in the state. The food is incredible, the drinks are true quality liquors and fresh juices made the original recipe way. The view is absolutely amazing as well. We watched the spinner dolphins jumping in the harbor while he had lunch. I highly recommend the corn dog bites, zombie, and 3 dots and a dash cocktails. They even serve all the drinks in a mug.

Very good food, well prepared. Service ok. Drinks memorable as is the view. I like the reggae they play. There are steps everyplace and the floor is uneven but feels sturdy enough.

Food was ok, portions are filling. Nice view of the ocean bay. A lot of cool stuff in the restaurant to look at. The staff was friendly. Resteraunt and restrooms were clean.

Cheeky Tiki is a cute spot with covered outdoor dining and a fun atmosphere. I ordered the fish tacos with French fries and a piña colada lava drink—everything was delicious. My friend tried the shrimp and rice but wasn’t impressed. Overall, I really enjoyed the food, service, and the view.

Very welcoming and friendly service. Cool interior and beautiful seaview. Delicious drinks… 🍹 I tried a Happy Buddha and a Missionarys Downfall. Had delicious blackened Ahi (tuna) there. I am coming back for sure. 😋

Cute little store. Nice selection of chocolate and souvenirs. The frozen hot chocolate was okay. I think a chocolate milkshake would have been better. The alcoholic drinks looked amazing but not something I wanted at 1pm. The store is pretty small and seating is not the greatest but there is some seating outside.

Had a great experience on their chocolate tour - tour guide was kind, interesting and informative. The setting is beautiful and really shows the unique aspects of the region. Chocolate was incredible and better than any American chocolate I’ve had, coffee was great, staff was kind and helpful in the shop. Afterward got the frozen hot chocolate and was also delicious. Would recommend and hope to come back again soon! Thank you for a wonderful experience and really tasty treats.

Fantastic cocktails, I had the Birds and the Bees and my husband had the Turtle. Good ambiance and fun chocolate!

This chocolate shop is a delightful surprise, especially with its hidden bar tucked away in the back. The drinks are creative and expertly made. The staff are fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic, which makes the experience even more enjoyable. It’s an awesome spot that combines indulgent treats with a fun, unexpected twist.

Hot chocolate was good, though lukewarm, and the sample of their berry wine chocolate was great. We bought two bars of other varieties but haven’t tried them yet. The low rating was because the iced latte (my usual order anywhere) was undrinkable, even my very non picky husband made a face and wouldn’t touch it after one sip. The drinking chocolate which is usually meant to be served with steamed milk and melted chocolate, was served with cold milk and a powder. Again, neither my husband nor I could drink it because it was like drinking cold powder. I tried to pour it into my latte, but neither drink was improved with that move 😂 I have a hard time asking for drinks to be remade, but we sat at the bar for thirty minutes and didn’t touch our drinks, and when we left we asked if there was a trash can, holding the trash and the clearly full latte, and they said to just leave it on the counter, so we did. At that point I felt like someone should have maybe asked after the drink. None of the employees were super friendly, which didn’t help my anxiety over asking about remakes. All in all, good hot chocolate if you don’t expect it to be hot, which my husband actually prefers so it was perfect for him but a bummer for me. And the chocolate bars I think will be great.

I frequent the Puna Chocolate Company in Hilo. I found myself some extra time in Kona and thought I’d drop by the Kona location for a libation. I ordered a trusty Mai Tai. It was pretty good. On the Pineapple forward side. It hit the spot. Of course I’m spoiled by the AMAZING Mai Tais of the Hidden Nene but this Mai Tai was good. The Good. : Cute cozy back bar. Chocolate forward drink menu. But you can order most anything. The Bad: Again… parking can be a challenge. Chances I’ll Be Back: If I find myself with some extra time on my next visit to Kona, I’ll stop by.

DAY 6 of Vacation - We decided to explore the area after grabbing coffee from Hico Coffee. As we walked around, we stumbled upon this cute spot. They also serve coffee, but the chocolate and merchandise is what really drew us in. We got to sample some of their chocolate. The chocolate was delicious. They have a medium sized space, and it seemed like they had two stories but we stayed in the front. We shopped around looking for more souvenirs. They have sell all types of products from coffee beans to homemade chocolate to dog merchandise. My MIL bought their dog a Hawaii floral outfit. It was the cutest thing ever.

After searching for "gay bars" in Kona, I was surprised that two businesses popped up. On Maui, we have Z E R O. So lame! After having one drink at Mask-Querade, which was a nice place to have a conversation but got a little boring after a while, we decided to check out My Bar, which was close by. ATMOSPHERE: My Bar is located in a small metal warehouse-looking building in an industrial park. Inside, it sports a good sized bar, high tops, dance floor, two pool tables, and a small outdoor lanai with a few seats. The DJ played a mix of mostly house/trance with a wee bit of dance. The dance floor lighting was pretty cool, and you were allowed to bring your drink on the dance floor, a big no-no in Beaumont, TX-like Maui (did you get the Footloose movie pun?) The Saturday night crowd was a mix of gay and straight, and everyone had a nice time. The bartenders were friendly and delivered quick service. And best of all, the bottled beer (Bud) was cheap. OVERALL: Great for dancing not for conversing, cheap beer, not overly crowded.

We had our after wedding dance party here and had so much fun!! We came strolling in with a group of 30 people on a Tuesday and were met with the best service and hospitality. Rocco was an amazing help and our bartender (was it Ashley, I'm sorry, I'm terrible with names) was FABULOUS!!! Thank you both for making our after wedding dance party an incredible evening to remember!

Last night was off the hook! From the awesome gentleman upfront to the fabulous bartenders, you guys rock! Thanks for making out-of-towners feel welcome!! To all of the staff and everybody who pulled off last nights “Bass Night”, I thank you!! Update***- I was lucky enough to come back to the special place and enjoy another fabulous evening!! Thank you My Bar staff, y’all rock!!

This bar is so much more than a place to grab a drink – it’s a safe, welcoming space where everyone feels celebrated. 🌈 The staff are incredibly kind, the cocktails are top-notch, and the vibe strikes the perfect balance between fun and laid-back. What really sets it apart is its heart. From drag shows to pride events and community fundraisers, they don’t just support the LGBTQ community – they champion it. If you’re looking for a spot that’s inclusive, vibrant, and full of love, this is the place to be. 🥂✨

Growing up in Kona, I did not have access to many queer spaces. Because of that, I didn't really except my sexuality or gender fluidity for quite some time. I moved to the mainland when I was 19, but if I had stayed in Kona and started going here after turning 21, I would have felt immediately accepted and loved and seen. Wonderful atmosphere, incredibly cool vibes.

Went to My Bar for the first time last week. Was excited to finally go to a gay bar on big island after living in Hilo for a few years. Went with a group of 5 on a Friday night. It was pretty quiet at 8pm, staff was nice and drinks were good. We played some pool at the pool table but had to stop due to a creepy straight guy sitting by us eyeing the two girls in our group, we moved outside but were followed by more straight guys who immediately sat by us and we're nonchalantly touching the girls. We told them to leave us alone and went back to the bar to close our tabs and order a cab. Straight guys kept bothering the girls while we were at the bar until me and my other male friend had to get in their face and tell them not to touch her. Then as we waited out front another dude pulled up and was revving his engine super loudly while staring at us creepily. Kept staring us down until we got in Uber and drove away?? Really disappointed, the straight guys here were worse than any of the regular bars in Hilo. I'll probably be back next time they have an event here, though I wish they had bouncers here to keep creepy straight men in check.

Im a straight man who went to this bar for karaoke. On this night, they didnt have it, my misunderstanding. On the way out, someone waived and said goodbye to me and my family. I thought that was pretty rude. For having On the door, if you dont accept all these groups of people, youre not welcomed. From the sounds of it, straight people aren't allowed in the LGBTQ bar. Pretty ironic. I guess you want support and love but dont show it yourself.

Great tour for Kona Chocolate, Coffee, and Soap. Greg was a great tour guide, very knowledgeable on all the subjects. He was enthusiastic and even a “snob” about Kona Coffee and Chocolate! The soap was a later addition to the business but now could be called the highlight of the tour since all is done onsite. Great prices on shipping from the online store. Highly recommended!

Fantastic tour with delicious coffee and chocolate. Lovely time hearing about the history of the farm and all the owners are doing to foster biodiversity on the land. Beautifully fragrant soaps, too!

Passed by this shop and their award winning chocolate and premium estate grown coffee caught our eye! Met the lovely owner Greg, very friendly and warm, who patiently introduced their coffee beans, soap, and chocolate to us. Delightful to chat with, any one of his soaps are delightful to smell, coffee beans smelled wonderful as well. If we were here for longer we’d definitely want to attend their coffee farm tour. Highly recommend this spot for picking up local, Kona made gifts and coffee. Lovely to have met Greg!

One of the best experiences we’ve had in Hawaii Love the regenerative farming philosophy All their products are very high quality Love the owner Greg and his team Go see them - you will have a unforgettable visit

So I will be hot danged... and I will preface this with this is my honest opinion and I usually don't go out of my way to write a review..... but, we booked a coffee tour when we were in Kona. Had no idea what I was in for and that soap and chocolate were involed as well.... But evidently I hit the ball out of the park because wife is super into getting all the toxins and additives out of the house. So we really like the soap. The chocolate was fantastic... but I think it's overpriced, but evidently that's a thing as the prices are comparable to other really popular expensive chocolates. But let's talk about what I really liked which was the coffee. So the coffee was fantastic, and I am big on finding the best coffee and am willing to spend a little more for that coffee as we have our own espresso machine in the house. Well, we got coffee, both medium and dark roats. Both were great and I have to say there is a slight hint of a taste... I can't explain it, but it's awesome and it's what really separates it from other coffees. Well, after experiencing this awesome coffee I went on a quest. I thoguht maybe this is a Kona coffee thing, so I wanted to compare and I got Blue Horse, Royal Kona, and a couple others including peaberry.... well, the assessment is in and Kokoleka Lani farms is king. I love this stuff. Gonna order more. Soap is really good too. If you like all natural stuff... great option.

This was a delightful tour! Greg is great at keeping his information interesting and his audience engaged. We brought our son and daughter in law and 2 grandsons, ages 9 and 11. The kids were very engaged the entire time. We really appreciate this company's integrity to fair trade ingredients...and we loved their products! Soap, chocolate and coffee. I am so happy that we found this tour.

Some of the best chocolate on the planet!!! I also got a horrible dermatitis breakout on my face during my vacation, Marty and Greg helped so much with their essential oils and natural soap!!! Go see them!

Good experience for breakfast and early dinner at island Lava Java. Only issue at breakfast ordering a waffle with bacon was that their waffle maker was broken!!! Anyway, their pancakes were available. Early dinner was also good and we had a table with a great ocean view. My one complaint is parking as is no longer free and quite expensive per hour even with 50% discount with validation.

Had a 💯 experience! Service was absolutely wonderful, friendly, prompt, real ohana vibes. Staff treated each other and guests kindly. Our server was super down to earth and kind and the food was delicious. I got fish tacos, the portions are great even the kids meals were quality and good portions, sat outside with a perfect view of the ocean. Id come here everytime I am in Kona. Fair prices on food. I had a local IPA, delicious too.

We went here the morning after we arrived on the big island and had brunch and it was EXCELLENT! We each ordered a cocktail (hibiscus something, and a bloody mary) with our food, and they were perfectly crafted and beautiful. The scenery is overlooking the ocean but under shade of a beautiful tree. Our food was incredible. The eggs Benedict was top notch. Our server was also friendly and helpful. Overall, one of the best meals we had our whole trip. 10/10

We ate here 5 days out of the 6 that we were here. And one day twice. Cuz it was that delicious. Their coffee, flavorful, what it needs to be. Their fish tacos, bomb. Fries, bomb, Benedict bomb, was done with a croissant. Crunchy and buttery. Omelettes so good. Banana strawberry smoothie, delicious. Ok everything on their menu is delicious, pancakes delicious. Drinks delicious. And they validate parking.

We went to check out a place that was recommended by our Wasabi tour guide Felix and we were not disappointed! Food was great, portions were huge and service was very good! We wanted to try cocktails and they were well made - exactly as they should be! Bloody Mary was spicy, perfect for brunch! Hana Hou was on the sweeter, more refreshing side (could be dangerous). Burger was tasty and fries were pretty crispy and well seasoned. Island benedict is a must for the start of a good day! And we got an amazing upside down pineapple French toast as a dessert. Definitely worth checking out!

We stopped at Lava Java for dinner and absolutely loved it! I had the beet salad with grilled shrimp added — it was huge, beautifully fresh, and honestly more than I could finish. My husband had the smash burger with fries and said it was spot-on. We also shared the coconut shrimp appetizer — so delicious and perfectly cooked. We had a great seat with a spectacular view of the water — such a perfect Hawaii evening spot! Our waitress deserves serious praise; I wish I remembered her name because she was amazing. She managed several tables effortlessly, never missed a beat, and still made us feel so well taken care of. True Superwoman energy — friendly, fast, and clearly loves what she does. Highly recommend Lava Java if you’re in Kona — great food, stunning views, and top-notch service. 🌺

Great views and service was excellent. Food was good. Pizza was our favorite of what we ordered. They have a good variety of options here and food comes out fast.

Gorgeous location. Sensational view of the ocean and of Kona. Warm waters and sandy shoreline. Great area foe snorkeling or marveling at the aquatic life in the Lava-flow ponds. Mild waves in this gulf. While we were there, we saw 2 sea turtles, one of which popped up just a couple feet from us.

First, hot so bring your hydration of choice. And bring some back up H2O just in case.. It’s a seriously understated National park in my opinion. Very sacred space please keep that in mind when looking at how undisturbed the vast terrain appears. Staying on the path you can spot some subtle natural pools coming up from an underground network of water. Nothing h you can drink. But interesting to hear from the teacher that the early days when locals were in need of fresh water, this was the place to drink. The fishing has was “huge” with one of the largest fish pond I hear.

Great location to visit not too many tourists and the beach is nice. The hike is not the easiest on unimproved path with a lot of lava rocks and it very exposed to the sun. Need to bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Came during the gov shut down so the parking lot, visitor center, and restrooms were all closed but at the turn around you can fit ~10 cars along the shoulder.

Beautiful beach and park with a great chance of seeing turtles and other wildlife. THIS IS A HIKE FIRST and a beach second. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes and clothes. Bring beach stuff with you to change into if you want to swim and get your feet wet.

Historical, so nothing like the Volcanos or big park. We had the tripark pass so it was included but I won’t pay 30$ just because I’m not that into even it was beautiful to see. You can’t swim but there is a public beach next to it. The ranger let us keep the car in the parking when we went to the public beach. That was the sun was very hot, not too much shade places. Also not recommend with a stroller.

What a hidden gem. I was just killing time before my flight home and on a whim stopped at the park. I cheated when I saw there was parking closer to the beach, so I moved my car to the marina and walked to the beach from there. The morning time is breakfast for sea turtles. I must have seen 15-20. This was a happy little accident to have this be my last stop before returning home.

Visitor center is well maintained. There’s a small gift shop, information about the area and restrooms to use before your hike to the beach. It is a hot, sunny walk. The fish pond and beach area is beautiful. Restroom facilities near beach, as well.

Food: Coffee taste wonderful! It’s our first Lona coffee on the Big Island and it’s impressive! The bagel is also very nicely done. All of their coffee comes in double shots so it’s very strong already. Service: the staff is warm and welcoming. They have interesting merch as well. Ambiance: casual and good for takeout or just stand for a quick grab.

Had hot tea since I felt under the weather. It did not disappoint. I had Ginger lime it was amazing. They have honey you can put yourself as well. Also the price wasn't bad eithe

Probably one of the best coffee spots in Kona that we have tried . And trust me there a few good spots here . Seems popular as there are always an influx of people coming in . Love that they open early on the weekends - smart ! We were up early and driving around for some coffee ☕️ when we found out this place was open . We ordered a pour over dark roast - oh my gosh - so good ! It didn’t need cream or sugar . It was smooth and delicious . We went back for two more coffees- a flat white and a honey latte . It was all so good we had to end it with a parfait since we saw so many people ordering it ! Great spot - do come by!!

I had the Kona Bullet here and—wow—it was amazing! The coffee was made with fresh, flavorful Kona beans, and the combination of grass-fed butter and coconut oil made it incredibly smooth and satisfying. If you’ve never tried a bullet-style coffee before, this is the place to do it. It’s rich, creamy, and gives you a great energy boost without the jitters. I honestly don’t know how to describe it fully—it was just that good. I’ll definitely try to recreate it at home, but this version will be hard to beat! Also, don’t miss their macadamia nuts—so fresh and flavorful! They’re the perfect snack to go with your coffee. As a coffee lover, I can say this spot is a must-visit in Kona. Thanks Kona Coffee & Tea ❤️

What I tried: Kona vog (English breakfast tea latte). A large was $8, which is a lil crazy considering its water tea and milk but it was ok - wouldnt get it again tho. Pros: Seating: there's plenty of seating both in side and outside of the cafe Vibe: very chill vibe, would love to come back to chill here Cons: Timing: I was the only one waiting for my order and there were 5 staff members behind the counter yet it still took 8min to get the latte.

We ordered Mac nut chocolate chip cookie, which was very unique and delicious and Mauna Kea freeze which was also good but nothing extraordinary. Went back the second time and ordered Nutcracker (honey latte with pistachio cream) and didn’t like it that much!

Great coffee, the smell hits you as soon as you walk in their spacious cafe space. Small gift shop inside with cute souvenirs and ofc lots of their coffee in various sizes so you can gift friends and family or just take some home to enjoy yourself. They grind the beans to your liking if you ask them. Tried their espresso, latte, and cold brew. Latte was uh interesting, a lot milkier/foamier than you’d normally expect, could barely taste the coffee in that one. Limited indoor seating but nice seating and tables all around the outside of their cafe. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. 100% Kona coffee. Oh they also have some beer and wine offerings if you’re into that. Ran into some cute gecko friends while seated outside, they’re harmless and maybe they can save you 15% or more on your next cup of Kona coffee?

$25 for 6 frozen shrimp in each plate, along with minimal veggies Tom Yum looked like it was eaten by someone else given the ring of oil around the bowl and the level of the soup

We have been in Kona for 48 hours eating at several restaurants. Friday night at 7pm, 2 out of the 3 of us ordered dishes both with chicken. Pad Thai and Pineapple rice. Come midnight both we're very sick. Lasted through Saturday. I called the restaurant to report it and spoke to a nice employee that said she'd have the manager, Flower call me. Sunday someone called me with lots of questions and then hung up. I called back and spoke to the same employee who said Flower was not there and said sorry don't know who called you. She said I still have my note for her to call you. Monday night still no return call. There are at least a half dozen Thai restaurants in town. I will not go back and recommend to all those I provide my 30 years recommendations to, to not go here. Why can they not reach out and provide some human kindness? I called the Health department on Sunday too. Very disappointed. Don't recommend.

Table for two, we were near the window and the AC was blocked by a wall so it was warmish. We ordered lunch specials veggie with chicken, pad thai with tofu and panang curry with beef. All had rice and salad. We requested mild. It was pretty good. The mango dessert with sticky rice was market rate $15 so we didn't get it. The Thai tea with choice of half and half or coconut milk didn't really taste differently. We just paid cash to avoid 3% credit card fee when we were approached again to pay by another waitress, communication error.

Nice place to have a meal. Dong yum soup with rice noodles is so good. Mango sticky rice was sold out this time:( will definitely try it next time.

Absolutely loved this place. Perfect taste portion and spice level! Couldn’t recommend more. Every dish we ordered was delicious. One of the best Thai food we had in Kona. If possible we would want to come again. We went during late lunch hours but they were happy to accommodate. Since we were running late we placed order on the phone and by the time we reached there lunch was almost ready . Staff was friendly. The fresh rolls were huge. Biggest we had till date. Wings can be cooked better. But still they were nice. Panang curry and fried rice were the best of best. Must try place ! Thanks to the chef !

Great Thai spot. Really liked the Lard Nar, a very unique dish in a delicious gravy. The pad thai was very good, though not too vegetable-heavy. The Panang Curry was also good, though so rich and heavy. Huge portions for decent prices. Good ambience and service. Visited a few times during our trip for the clearly labeled vegan options and solid value. A solid choice for Thai food!

was in Hawaii visiting some friends and ate here like six times. The wonton soup goes absolutely crazy. It's so good I wish I could eat it every day. And the blackened noodles and the cream cheese wonton.

The place was very spacious for a dessert cafe/shop and there are various choices for a shaved ice. The lady was very gracious and she offered other choices apart from what is already on the menu. I have tried the shaved ice before from a Korean restaurant and it was divine. The shaved iced on this one was also good but not as good as to the Korean shaved ice. Overall I am happy with my shaved ice experience in Hawaii, it was refreshingly good.

Ono shave ice with house-made organic syrups made from fresh local fruits! Cash and Venmo only. Awesome local owners. I've been going to One Aloha since they started out in Kamehameha Square. Super nice and friendly owners. Their homemade organic syrups are so tasty and not overly sweet. My favorite fruit flavors are guava, Lilikoi, strawberry whip, and coconut. Around Easter and Halloween sometimes they make black licorice which is bomb if you like that kind of thing. Also, I really appreciate that they serve the shave ice in reusable wooden bowls and metal spoons for less waste and a fancier eating experience! Ample parking including one accessible parking stall right next to the entrance. Clean restrooms available. Lots of indoor and outdoor seating options. Cute tiny tables and chairs for the keiki.

I keep doing reviews and saying I found my favorite shave ice in Hawaii and then finding another amazing place. Let's just say I have 3-4 favorites and this place is definitely one. Find a shave ice place that shaves the ice very finely, makes all their own syrups and purees, and gives you enough syrup. That is the recipe I found for great shave ice. This place checks all of those boxes. We got a small with strawberry whip and marshmallow (topped with a snow cap, add lychee ice cream). Lychee ice cream isn't something I've seen elsewhere. Everything was great. I love that the strawberry had pureed fruit in it. If you're in Kona, come support this place.

This is my favorite shave ice place, not just on the Big Island, but out of all the Hawaiian islands. There is so much I love about this place - let me count the ways: 1) The flavors are made with real fruit and organic sugar, and they all taste amazing. So intense, fruity, refreshing, and delicious! Try any and every flavor - you truly can’t go wrong. 2) They use reusable wooden bowls and metal spoons!!! A rarity in the shave ice world where it usually comes in a disposable bowl with plastic spoons that’ll spend an eternity in a landfill. 3) The staff are so friendly and wonderful, and they always have delightful holiday decorations. There isn’t a single shave ice place in Kona that even comes close to One Aloha. I wish I could eat here every day!

I LOVE THIS PLACE! Best shaved ice EVER! I’m a health and fitness person so if I’m going to treat myself I typically go for healthy. As far as shaved ice goes this is the place! They do a great job of making their own flavors and using the freshest ingredients. The flavors taste so real and clean. I also love that they are a pretty waste free buisness. They don’t use disposable cups for water or shaved ice. Maybe if you ask for it to go but why would you do that? Sit down and embrace the Hawaiian time. I’ve been a fan of One Aloha for years! Do yourself a favor and try this place out. Compare it to another shaved ice place if you like. I guarantee One Aloha will be your favorite.

Delicious, organic flavors, helpful and friendly service. What more do you need? We each had the regular size (medium; there’s also keiki and large). You choose 3 flavors of syrup- the husband had raspberry, blueberry, and lemon (he’s a tangy guy). I had coconut, strawberry, and Lilikoi with a coconut milk snow cap. The cap is lightly drizzled and freezes on the ice. They were both wonderful! Plenty of seating and keiki-sized tables and chairs, too.

Amazing shaved ice!! They use actual fruit purees and they have haupia condensed milk (coconut). Big portions and fair prices. The owners are so sweet! Loved the strawberry coconut, and guava were heavenly. Best shaved ice on the island

Food was really great. One issue - server was very confused on spicey tuna roll. I don't recall if they simply do not have a spicey tuna roll on the menu or what, but we did not get a spicey tuna roll. We received a regular tuna roll with extra sauces that she told us to put on the roll. LOL. Very frustrating. Luckily the food was excellent except the tempura sweet potato was bland.

Yummy teriyaki bowl and tempura. Our favorite sushi was the dragonfly roll was light and I liked the flavor. Tempura was perfectly battered and fried. Different veggies I’m not used to since they are local but good portion on the teriyaki chicken. Chicken was tender and moist and good teriyaki flavors. Small place a little run down seating, but worth a try. Waitress was very friendly, cordial and inviting. It is a bit sketchy not going to lie but our food overall was pretty good, and fantastic service! Parking might be a little tough if it was busy we were the only ones there during 4pm hour on a Tuesday.

Shiso Ichi roll was a scam. There is so little fish or rice that justifying even $17 for that is difficult. Considering freshness as a factor, almost every sushi or poke restaurant must uphold a certain degree of freshness. This restaurant is no different. The service was okay it took a while before they came over to us despite having little to no customers. The biggest factor for me was that the meal posted in total would run your pocket $62. The interior is simplistic it is fine but considering the price point I expected more. All in all, it was disappointing and I do not recommend eating there unless you don't care about high pricing for less.

We were seated quickly and received food in about 15 minutes for 5 people. Sashimi and rolls were delicious. I took pictures of mine and my husband's food: Scallop roll Sweet Escape Roll Shimizu Roll Hawaiian Tuna Nigiri(2pc) Unagi BBQ Eel All of the fish tasted fresh and clean and the rolls were perfect.

This place deserves 6 stars! It was super reasonably priced, the food was delicious, the service was quick, the people were friendly. I wasn’t sure about it when I saw the single $ for a sushi place, but it’s perfect!

Got here early at 3:55pm(opens at 4) was able to do a walk in service, the host/server/busser was awesome very friendly and Jerry the sushi bar sushi chef was very friendly too! Talked story small kine. Ordered a chirashi bowl and a 26 piece platter, finished all but 4 pieces of cali and 4 pieces of spicy ahi rolls, i was stuffed!🤣 Paid $99 with tax, had to tip the 20% cause braddah man was a damn good waiter and knew the menu well. Will definitely be coming back for sure!

Went Saturday night at 7pm - Long wait to get a table and long wait to get food! I was expecting great food based on all the glowing reviews. The tempura was ok, nothing special. The sushi and rolls are average and not like wow. Not sure why there are so many great reviews.

Excellent small menu with highly-authentic local dishes using local ingredients, but they are best known for their cava, served in a coconut shell!

Great little corner with amazing kava and tasty local plates. We tried the lau lau, kalua pork, kalo and the freshest poi we've had on the islands! Everything was delicious. It's a must try if you're on Kona side!

If I went there for the kava alone, I would have given 3 stars. The "potent" kava was not so potent and barely did anything to relax any of us. We bought one bowl and shared it between 4 people. I don't mind the taste, but keep in mind it that it tastes like dirt water. The kalua pig was good and cooked just right. The garlic bread didn't have much flavor.

We went with the locally grown Hawaiian kava, and it was amazing. The food was top tier and the kimchi specifically was some of the best we’ve eaten.

03.17.3024 celebrated our St Patty's anniversary with the idea of eating traditional Hawaiian food. The hostess was very nice and knowledgeable. We ordered and love the Pupu with a side order of Jasmine rice with furikake and drinks of gingerade for me and kava for my hubby. The Pupu came in a beautiful dish and enough for two to share. The gentleman who delivered our food was great as he patiently explained each dish. The open outdoor eating area was wonderful. Will definitely be back to try other dishes.

The bowl I had wZlas delicious. Kava itself is a fun, uplifting, and a unique kind of intoxicating experience. The atmosphere of the bar feel traditional Hawaiian and laid back

Stopped by on my last day to get some kava. Loved the atmosphere and the people.Felt welcomed and taken care of. Was truly a great place to be and immerse yourself into the cultural aspects of Hawai’i through kava. Mahalo Nui.

Great burgers with gluten free buns! Beautiful ocean views and great location. Pizza looked and smelled amazing since we sat right next to them making it, though we didn't get any (no GF crust). They have a separate GF menu and are good about cross contact. Sweet potato fryer is dedicated, but everything is cooked in soybean oil. Ugh. Don't pay for parking in the garage downstairs. They pay it for you if you give them your license plate number upon check-in.

So you might wonder how we can rate 5 stars on three categories but then give 4-stars overall .. Well, it’s because while the food, service, and ocean front atmosphere were really great, the Italian menu items were WAY over priced for the absolutely small portion sizes served. Note to Huggos (owners of Kai): Please increase portion sizes of all Italian menu items at Kai .. Especially the pizzas and pasta .. nobody is happy having just a few small bites of great tasting pizza .. And pasta noodles aren’t that expensive. .. Please add more food to the great tastes you’re serving guests .. and increase the size of your pizzas to at least 6” .. 3”-4” pizzas are not making families happy 😑 And what’s a bit funny is that the dessert portions are large and tastes were great .. so i guess if you’re still hungry, the desserts might fill you up 🙃 We’ll go again once we hear portion sizes have been addressed By the way, for folks that love great beer selection, i believe Kai has 48 (!!) taps to choose from 🍺

This is absolutely our GO-TO Restaurant in Kona. It too, is a open-air restaurant. Its' Menu has an excellent variety that includes pizza, fish, burgers and more. Their Menu is priced well. They provide "ice-cold" water quickly upon seating which I always find very refreshing. Seating feels and is prectically like you are at waters edge better than any other place. Kai also has on-site brewing but I have not tried there beer. Parking is Validated and located in the Parking Garage right next door.

To whom it may concern we love the Thai restaurant. We love the atmosphere of food and the service mostly the people who run the place and work the place on Thursday for dinner. We had a poor experience. It took 20 minutes to get a glass of water another 20 minutes to get my lemon and cherry another 20 minutes to get a glass of wine. Meanwhile, the water got warm. I ordered a Bradford, which is a longboard with bloody Mary mix. I ordered a shot of bloody Mary mix and a longboard. The wage just brought me the wrong beer and she brought me a whole glass of tomato juice that was wrong. We finally got to order our appetizer which we ordered Garlic bread. The bread was horrible. It was stale and cold. The garlic dip was amazing. We sent it back. They brought us a half order so I ordered the rest of the half order to complete the order so we got our moneys worth that was a problem. I ordered the lobster with the vegetables. The lobster was perfect. The vegetables were cold, but they tasted good. That was a problem. My Girl ordered the I guess Seabass it was horrible. It was cold and the sauce was so hot you couldn’t even come near it. I love hot food and I couldn’t even touch it. It was so hot. The fish was cold. The vegetables were cold. That was a problem. My Girl ordered a martini slightly dirty. The bartender made it very dirty more vermouth then vodka it tasted horrible so Steve made it himself. It was perfect. He always does a good job. That’s why I was surprised you brought out the half of a garlic bread. The only good thing about the whole evening was the lobster that’s it. I paid over $100 for a lobster dinner. It was not worth it. We will give the other restaurants a chance we love them all, but we won’t be back to Kai until Steve calls me and says everything‘s fixed. I would like to get my money back or have them give me a free dinner at another restaurant that the owner ownsjust so I can break even I spend several hundred dollars a day to feed My Girl and I breakfast lunch and dinner and we go out for breakfast lunch and dinner so far our favorite restaurant is the Royal Kona never has had a bad meal. Never had a problem with the SERVICE flawless every time when we go in there, they know exactly what we’re gonna order. I know exactly what we’re gonna drink. I know exactly what we’re thinking we like that and we’re willing to pay top dollar for that so lots to ramble on, but I hope they fix things cause we’re gonna miss Steve Brad Dylan Vavid And other staff members Mahalo for everything aloha ciao Continuation of my post place this review a few days ago still haven’t heard from Steve or Teagan on what they’re gonna do about it. I’ve seen both in the restaurant and they won’t look me in the eye. Fortunately, I have dozens of other places to go to the only thing I’ll ever go there for is water And maybe a Bradford I’m gonna miss Brad and Dylan. You’re the only ones who care in that restaurant, I’m very disappointed with Steve. I was really surprised he was willing to lose $1000 a week from one person. I hope that doesn’t happen to their whole Customer base. I really hate to say negative things about businesses or people but when you pay a lot of money for a great service and you don’t get the great service or the great food. You just move on and that’s what I’m doing Kai. Please don’t waste your time getting a hold of me. Respond to my review. Just continue to conduct business the way you’re doing . Mahalo. Aloha.

The restaurant is a great vibe and amazing views. Only negative was the granola yogurt bowl, there’s virtually no yogurt that comes with it. Maybe like one spoonful. But my friend loved the breakfast burrito 4/5.

This is a fantastic spot to have a meal and drinks right on the water. The prices are good for the value. Makela made our experience special and ensured we had everything we needed throughout the meal for the best dining experience. Drinks were well made, and they have speciality Hawaiian cocktails and mocktails.

During our trip, we ate here three nights in a row because you can’t really go wrong with this place. Everything that we tried was really good. Our personal favorite was the barbecue chicken pizza and the nachos.

This would have been a 5 star review if it wasn't for our second visit here. We came by this week and loved it all! The food is excellent and very fresh. This is a "diamond in the rough" so to speak -- little hole in the wall where you actually have to serve yourself your own water. Our server was a kind Asian woman this first visit and she was great. We all ordered hot sake. I ordered the hot lava roll and the Kona sunset roll. Both were good but I definitely preferred the hot lava roll -- super Ono!! Others in my party also tried the chicken teriyaki, edamame, hamachi, and the special hamachi jalapeño. The hamachi was delicious and fresh -- the jalapeño special added some nice heat to it. We were disappointed in the amount of skin on the chicken, however. Naturally we come back for a second time a few days later (my dad LOVES sushi). This time our server is a gal named Jasmine. The place is pretty slow that day. We order basically the exact same items. Our server had a pretty severe attitude and I noticed it wasn't only towards us. There was a couple seated next to us that also seemed surprised and offended by the server (things like forgetting drinks and then slamming them down on the table, a complete indifference to what we asked for when we ordered, etc). It was all very strange and I felt also very confused -- I don't know if she was just having a bad day or what but it was very off putting. This place is in a tourist zone, so perhaps she was sick of the tourists but funny enough, our family is from Kona. Come for the sushi but I guess just expect poor service here if you get certain servers.

husband and I stumbled across this place being walking distance from our hotel, it was one of the few restrauts still open at 630, and WE LOVE IT. they have both "cream cheese" decorative mainland style rolls, and also fresh sashimi and nigiri for the advanced sushi lover. It not like mainland fancy rolls but rolls that makes u appreciate whatever fresh catch of the day! its hidden towards the back of other buildings but easily accessible. "Mom" style service, Japanese owned, you can really tell they care about their dishes.

I absolutely loved every single piece of food I got here. Everything was fresh and delicious and the prices were extremely reasonable. The staff was friendly and helped us make some decisions. I will absolutely be back!

Sushi Cocoro is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, you can tell the team here truly cares about what they do — everything feels warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully crafted. The sushi itself? Perfection. Every piece is fresh, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavor. You can really taste the quality of the fish, and the balance of rice, seasoning, and texture is spot on. The chef’s special rolls are creative without being over the top — each one feels like a little piece of art. Service is top-notch, too. The staff are friendly, attentive, and happy to make recommendations (which were all excellent, by the way). You never feel rushed — just relaxed and taken care of. Can’t wait to come back! Thank you for this amazing experience 🙏🥇

The Kitsune Udon absolutely blew my mind. The broth, the noodles, the tofu, all clearly prepared and put together with love and care every step of the way. The sushi and sashimi are Grade A without a doubt. Struggled to find a place to eat around this part of town that is not a tourist trap. All while still providing an authentically unique Island experience and more important meal. Staying in Kailua-Kona for 2 weeks, I've eating here 3-5 times a week and can confidently say it is on my short but growing list for absolutely must-return restaurants.

That was some of the freshest, most authentic sushi I have ever had outside of Japan. Also, incredibly cheap. The specialty rolls costed 20% less than the sushi in Minnesota. I will definitely be coming back here.

I’ve been eating at Sushi Cocoro for the past 6 years when they just started in Kona and it amazes me how the quality of the sushi just keeps going up! Great place. Feels like I’m in Japan but in Hawaii 🤙🏽🙏🏽

Going into dinner not our first choice. Tomorrow however it will be. Fried oysters were delicious. Not greasy but juicy and full of flavor. Sauce was surprisingly not salty. Really good. We got a bunch of sushi items all well presented and fresh as can be. Sushi order comes in two pieces that are on the smaller side, but top quality and masterfully made.

had a $100 gift card from Costco. called for a reservation but really wasn't needed plenty of tables on a tues night. ordered the chef's choice sashimi, miso buttered fish, salad, and eel rolls. loved the salad dressing. the chef's choice had toro, uni, hamagachi, shrimp. honestly, the fish portion size was a bit small for $50. the miso buttered fish was alright but for $28 it didn't even come with rice. overall the food was good, just thought the prices were a bit steep for the portion sizes. was still hungry afterwards.

Wife and I went twice during our week long Big Island exploring. We mainly stuck to the sushi options, all of which were very fresh and satisfying for the tropical evenings. Staff was very attentive and both outdoor as well as indoor seating options were nice.

Great place to eat up on local and Japanese cuisine. This place lives up to its Izakaya name. So many great small dishes and big plates. I am really impressed with their variety, quality, and the knowledge + friendliness of their staff. This is a must-stop place for us. I only managed to take one photo of our food because I was legitimately too busy enjoying my dinner instead of 'gramming it all.

Our family of five, plus a baby, had such a good dinner at Izakaya Shiono in Kona last night. The menu has plenty to choose from hot and cold dishes, lots of sushi, and a really big sake list too. We went for the hamachi jalapeño, tuna tataki, oysters, and shrimp tempura to start, and everything came out fresh and ono. We also shared a few rolls, like the spider roll and tiger roll, and they all hit the spot. I had the spicy ahi katsu curry for my main, and that one was definitely a winner. We also tried the flavored yuzu sake, and it was super refreshing perfect with the meal. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, the staff took great care of us, and the location is super convenient. With plenty of options, great service, and solid food all around, Izakaya Shiono is one of those spots in Kona you’ll want to come back to again and again.

The unagi rice bowl was very good and the fried oysters were okay. portion sizes are good. the food came in a random order and our appetizer came last.

Great service (Uilani was super friendly), excellent food, portions were wonderful, tastefully prepared, attention to detail.

Great place and such cute clothes, not just tourist attire. It was a great place and we got a little homemade crane and I brought it home as a gift to two people who loved them

The new store is amazing. Make sure to come visit when you’re in town, the new space is gorgeous!

My mom and I shopped yesterday and got the CUTEST baby stuff. The two gals working at the store were so kind and helpful. Easily my favorite shop in that area. So happy we stopped in!

Lovely little boutique with unique, made in Hawaii clothing and jewelry. I bought a dress for my daughter, Always A-line pants for myself and adorable onesie for a friend's baby. Great store for unique gifts and clothing. I'll definitely be back!

Great little shop. Good variety of items: jewelry, clothing, accessories and home decor. I bought a ring and I'm very pleased. The woman working in the shop was very helpful.

Customer service was embarrassingly rude. I really like this store that I came back and they were closed . I came back again and the hours were changed. Employee was outside stretching and had not yet close the doors. Told us to get out and that it’s closed. We explained that the hours changed and we came from out of town . She rudely told us “can you not ready the sign!” I really liked the items they sold there that they did not sell at the other store. Unfortunately I Will not be taking my business there anymore. This was POOR BUSINESS

This is a tiny shop across from the sea wall on Alii Drive in one of the little plazas tucked in behind Big Island Jewelers. Very sweet boutique with all local artists. You can find something unique here. The owner is very friendly and helpful.

LEFT HUNGRY after breakfast! We had a group of 5 and ordered the omelet which was the smallest omelet I'd ever seen - made with one egg....no wonder I left hungry! We also ordered the fruit plate and the pineapple was inedible so I took the fruit plate back to the counter and the cashier picked up the pineapple to examine it and just stared at me....really??? She miserably gave me a refund for the fruit plate. Nice view but the breakfast here was a WASTE OF MONEY!!! Go to SPLASHERS GRILL down the street!!!

Bagels, croissants, coffee, omelettes. That's it. Order as you walk in, pay the cashier, toast your bagel and pick a table on their "beach". Zone out until omelette arrives. Good low key place, lots of retired regulars plus tourist crowds.

Keep walking: Food is fast food quality at best. Coffee is good but no refills. No service, you have to prepare everything yourself.

Good breakfast place. According to locals one of the best coffee places on the island. Unfortunately long wait.

Super expensive and super small portions. The view is nice but the food is way overpriced. Definitely will not go there again

Went here for an early breakfast. Loved the bagel and coffee. Seating by the ocean was an amazing experience.

Beautiful experience for a long time fan! Thanks for making great coffee and continuing to make a great atmosphere for a Kona breakfast!!!

My friends and I loved it here! A bit on the pricey side, but the quality of the food and drinks were worth it. We had the sexy steak, mushroom scallops, Yukon potatoes, deep fried mushrooms with cold ginger topping, and milk and cookies. Everything was delicious! Our server was amazing. Attentive but not overbearing, and great personality.

This place was awesome. Food and service were on point, server was very helpful with the menu and drinks. Underrated little spot here. Check it out if you get a chance. Had charcuterie, fish slider potatoes, and lettuce wraps and two drinks and it was all very tasty. Biggest highlight for me was the dressing tossed with the lettuce wraps.

I love cheers! This place has so much character and amazing atmosphere. The staff treat you like family and customize your service to make you feel special. There’s nothing like it in Hawaii! A one of a kind place with one of a kind people. Special shout out to AP, Maddie, and Nana for their amazing service, great drinks, and even better food!

Food was amazing!!! Many little plates, big enough to share, very varied with something for everyone. This chef knows his stuff! We started off with the Billionaire Bacon. Juicy, salty and sweet. So good that all i could say was mmmmm. The Sexy Steak was melt in your mouth with a to-die-for demi. I dont know what made those Yukon Golds so good but i couldnt stop popping them in my mouth. Lots of variety with the drink menu, again, something for everyone. Cant wait to come back to try the dishes we missed!

So glad I heard about this hidden gem! Love the ambiance-blue velvet couches and chairs. Gorgeous crystal chandeliers. Dark wood. The drinks were delicious and unique. My only criticism is that it is wayyyy to bright!! They could stand to dim or even remove some lights. I will return to try the food!

Had a really rude and shocking encounter: we arrived 1 hour before closing time and the door was locked. We knocked on the door and we were met with a hostile response from a lady shouting “Go away!” in a very rude tone. Definitely do not recommend eating here unless you want to be treated poorly.

Awesome service. Excellent ambiance. High quality food and drink