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Best Places to Eat on Big Island
Best Breakfast Sandwhich
5 Spice
I couldn’t not let you guys know about my favorite breakfast sandwich in Hilo. Five Spice offers a breakfast sandwich like no other. It’s served on a slightly sweet bread with egg, your choice of sausage or bacon, American cheese, and a signature sauce that I still haven’t been able to figure out, but it absolutely makes the sandwich.
Beyond breakfast, Five Spice also has a surprisingly large menu for such a small shop, with Asian-inspired plate lunches, bentos, burgers, and sandwiches, making it a great stop for either breakfast or lunch. It’s a tiny mom-and-pop spot with very limited seating, so most people grab their food to go, but that’s part of its local, no-frills charm.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the crack seed snacks and dried treats, they’re classic Hawaiian goodies and a fun way to try something local. If you’re looking for a solid, low-key food stop in Hilo, this place is absolutely worth it.
Willies Hot Chicken
Located in Kailua-Kona, Willie’s Hot Chicken is easily some of the best fried chicken on the Big Island. Every time I’m in Kona, I make a point to stop here…it’s that good. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, the portion sizes are generous (especially for the price), and the flavor delivers every single time. If you’re ordering for the first time, my top recommendation is the chicken tenders with the Hawaiian rub, paired with sweet potato fries and dipped in their house sauce. It’s a combination that’s hard to beat.
Willie’s Hot Chicken is also known for its fun, casual vibe, with live music on select nights, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. Located right in the heart of Kona, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, adding to its appeal. If you’re looking for a must-try food stop in Kona, Willie’s Hot Chicken is absolutely worth adding to your Big Island eats list.
Kens Pancake House
. Ken’s House of Pancakes is a longtime Hilo favorite, serving classic diner comfort food since 1971. While they’re famous for their macadamia nut and tropical pancakes, the menu goes far beyond breakfast, with options like omelettes, loco moco, saimin, burgers, and plate lunches.
My personal go-to is the “Keiki on da Run” or one of their hearty omelets, but the pancakes are definitely delicious and worth trying. Portions are generous, and the casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great choice any time of day.
Located just minutes from the ocean, Ken’s is also a perfect stop before or after heading to the beach, making it one of the most convenient and reliable places to eat in Hilo.
Hawaiian Style Cafe
If you’re looking for a true Hilo staple, Hawaiian Style Cafe is one of those places you have to experience at least once. It’s a longtime local favorite and definitely feels like a gathering place for the community. The portions here are honestly legendary, and the atmosphere has that warm, welcoming aloha spirit the island is known for.
Located right in the heart of Hilo, Hawaiian Style Cafe serves up generous plates of classic Hawaiian comfort food that are simple, filling, and full of flavor. The menu includes all the local staples including Spam and Portuguese sausage breakfasts, loco moco, pancakes, omelets, and hearty plate lunches. Everything is served in big portions, so come hungry.
What I like most about this spot is that it doesn’t try to be trendy or fancy. It’s just good, satisfying island food done right. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Big Island and want a true taste of Hilo, this is one of those places that delivers every time.
Waipio Fruit Shack
If you’re heading to the Waipiʻo Valley Overlook, you have to stop at Waipio Fruit Shack. It’s one of those little roadside spots that just makes the day better. Bright, colorful, and super laid-back, it feels more like a tropical hangout than just a fruit stand.
Me and my friends stopped here after visiting the Waipiʻo Valley Overlook, and it ended up being the perfect midday break from driving. We ordered a giant bowl of fresh pineapple and were able to sit and enjoy it with an ocean view, which honestly made it taste even better. They serve up fresh tropical fruit and ice-cold coconuts, and it really hits after being out in the sun. You can drink the coconut water straight from the shell, and they’ll cut it open so you can scoop out the fresh coconut meat after. They also offer large seasonal fruit bowls that are great for sharing.
There are picnic tables, hammocks, and even animals hanging around, which adds to the relaxed island vibe. A couple things to know before you go: bring cash, and don’t rely on cell service since it can be spotty in the area.
Thank you so much for reading and exploring my favorite places to eat on the Big Island. Food is such a huge part of experiencing Hawaiʻi, and I love sharing the spots that are truly worth your time (and your appetite). I hope this guide helps you plan your next meal, and if you want more island recommendations and updates, you can find all my links below.
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