The Real Taste of Kona
Forget the generic tourist traps. To truly taste Kona, you need to know where the locals go. The best food here is often found in the most unassuming places. This is my personal list of can't-miss spots.
Poke Perfection
Poke (diced raw fish salad) is our signature dish, and we take it seriously.
🐟 Da Poke Shack
This tiny spot on Aliʻi Drive is legendary for a reason. Their fish is always fresh, and the variety is incredible. My favorites are the "Pele's Kiss" (spicy aioli) and the "Wet Hawaiian" (savory kukui nut). A word of warning: they often sell out by the afternoon, so go early!
🍽️ Umekes Fishmarket Bar and Grill
If you want a fantastic sit-down poke bowl experience, this is the place. They have great classic preparations and some creative options like Poke Nachos.
Ono Grindz (Delicious Eats)
Plate Lunch Kings
The plate lunch—typically two scoops of rice, one scoop of mac salad, and an entrée—is a local staple.
Broke Da Mouth Grindz
A must-try for its incredible Hawaiian-Filipino food; the portions are huge and the flavors are even bigger.
Pine Tree Cafe
Near the airport, this is another local institution, famous for their spicy garlic chicken and fried rice with Portuguese sausage.
Authentic Hawaiian Food
🌺 Kaaloa's Super J's
For a true taste of traditional Hawaiian food, you have to drive south to Kaaloa's Super J's in Captain Cook. This small, family-run spot serves the best lau lau (pork and fish steamed in taro leaves) on the island. It's a true local gem.
Food Truck Finds
🌮 Shaka Tacoz
With locations in Captain Cook and Kailua-Kona, they serve up amazing fish tacos with a killer view of the coastline from their original spot.
🔥 Willie's Hot Chicken
Located in the "Brew Block" in Kailua-Kona, this place brings the heat with Nashville-style hot chicken that has become a huge local favorite.
Sunset Sips & Suppers
🌅 Huggo's on the Rocks
A classic Kona experience. You can't beat the toes-in-the-sand vibe and front-row seat for the sunset.
🏖️ Magic's Beach Grill
Located right across the street from Magic Sands beach, it's the perfect spot to grab a delicious meal after a day in the sun.
Continue Your Kona Journey
Ready to plan your perfect Kona trip? Discover curated itineraries for every type of traveler.
🍽️ Local Food Tips
- Best Poke Time: Morning
- Plate Lunch Size: Huge portions
- Payment: Cash preferred
- Local Style: Casual dress
📚 Hawaiian Food Terms
Diced raw fish salad
Pork wrapped in taro leaves
Local slang for food
Delicious
💰 Price Ranges
- Poke Bowl $12-18
- Plate Lunch $10-15
- Food Truck $8-14
- Sunset Dining $20-35
📖 Kona Guide Navigation
💡 Leilani's Tip
Many local spots are cash-only or give cash discounts. Always ask! Also, portions are huge - consider sharing a plate lunch between two people.
Shop Like a Local: Kona's Best Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are a part of life here. They're where we get our fresh produce, catch up with neighbors, and support our local artisans.
🏪 The Tourist-Friendly Hub: Kailua Village Farmers Market
Located right on Aliʻi Drive, this is the most convenient market for visitors. It's open Wednesday through Sunday and has a huge selection of produce, flowers, and crafts. Just be aware that not everything here is grown or made locally, so it's great for souvenirs but if you want to support 100% local, check out the next two options.
🌱 The True Kamaʻāina Markets
Keauhou Farmer's Market
Held on Saturday mornings in the Keauhou Shopping Center parking lot, this market is my go-to. It is strictly for products grown and made on the Big Island. You'll find amazing organic produce, grass-fed meats, fresh fish, 100% Kona coffee, and usually some wonderful live music.
Ho'oulu Community Farmers Market
This market, held on Wednesdays and Fridays on the lawn of the Outrigger Kona Resort, also prides itself on being 100% Big Island made and grown. It has a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere with shaded tables where you can sit and enjoy your food and listen to local musicians.
Kona Farmers Market Guide
| Market Name | Location | Days/Times | Leilani's Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kailua Village Farmers Market | Aliʻi Drive, Kailua-Kona | Wed - Sun, 7am - 4pm | Super convenient and great for souvenirs, but a mix of local and imported goods. |
| Keauhou Farmer's Market | Keauhou Shopping Center | Saturdays, 8am - 12pm | This is the real deal. 100% local. Go here for your produce for the week and to talk story with the farmers. |
| Ho'oulu Community Farmers Market | Outrigger Kona Resort | Wednesdays & Fridays, 9am - 2pm | A beautiful setting with live music and a guarantee that everything is from the Big Island. Great community feel. |
Supporting Local: When you shop at our farmers markets, you're not just getting the freshest produce—you're supporting local families and sustainable farming practices that help preserve our beautiful island home.