Back in 2018, we shared some of Hawaii Island's best restaurants in or near Hilo, on the windward or east side of Hawaii Island. But the restaurant scene has changed since then. Here’s an update to some of those island favorites and a few of Hilo's newest and best eateries for takeout and/or dine-in service.
Photo courtesy of Hilo Burger Joint
Hawaiian Style Café
Still one of the most popular restaurants since opening their doors at this location a few years ago! Come early and expect a short wait for a table to enjoy some of the best Hawaiian food and Hawaiian-style portions Hilo has to offer! First-come, first-served, this restaurant does not take reservations and requires that your whole party be present before they’ll seat you. Take-out is also available.
Hawaiian Style Cafe, 681 Manono Street, Hilo, HI 96720
Sunday - Saturday: 7 am – 2 pm
Tuesday - Thursday: 5 pm – 8:30 pm
Friday - Saturday: 5 pm – 9 pm
Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill
Considered one of Hilo’s finest steakhouses, family-owned Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill offers exquisite steaks and “damn good food” using locally-sourced ingredients, including organic produce, locally-caught seafood, pasta dishes, and more. Come early and enjoy happy hour from 4 to 5 pm. They also have a location in Kona for those staying on the Kona side of Hawaii Island. Reservations required due to limited seating. Take-out is also available.
Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill, 64 Keawe St, Hilo, HI 96720
7 days a week: 4 pm - 8 pm
Photo courtesy of Hilo Burger Joint
Pineapple’s – Island Fresh Cuisine
This incredible eatery is quickly becoming legendary, with daily specials, a great happy hour and bar, and some of the most creative and delicious food you’ll ever enjoy. Locally-sourced, organic produce, Big Island beef, locally-caught seafood, pasta dishes, and more. Live music. Limited seating. Take-out is also available.
Pineapple’s Hilo, 332 Keawe St, Hilo, HI 96720
Tuesday - Sunday: 11 am – Pau
Tonkotsu Ramen - Tetsumen Hawaii
Originating in Tokyo, Hilo’s newest noodle hotspot, Tonkotsu Ramen Tetsumen has EVERYTHING on their extensive ramen and noodle menu. Choose your favorite, then choose your spice level and even add extras to your bowl. Now featuring bentos, as well. Limited seating. Take-out is also available.
Tonkotsu Ramen - Tetsumen Hawaii, 697 Manono St, Ste 103, Hilo, HI 96720
Monday - Sunday: 7 am – 9 pm
Photo courtesy of Hilo Burger Joint
Hilo Burger Joint
Hilo’s version of Cheers, but so much better! Hilo Burger Joint has a huge bar featuring tons of beers on tap, TV screens to watch your favorite game, live music, and a great happy hour. Their burger menu will knock your socks off and features over 30 Kulana beef burgers, a mouth-watering Wagyu burger, non-beef burger selections, wings, fries, and more. Limited seating. Take-out is also available.
Hilo Burger Joint, 776 Kilauea Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Monday - Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm, Closed Sundays