Aloha Theatre Café

79-7384 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kainaliu, HI 96750 808-322-3383

Description: KAINALIU. Although breakfast is the most important meal of the day, sometimes it can be a chore to find a decent breakfast that you actually want to eat. While you're on the Big Island, that's not a problem. One of the best places for omelets, waffles, breakfast sandwiches, and pancakes is Aloha Angel, which began life as a snack bar and is part of the Aloha Theatre. It has evolved into a much-loved café, and it serves breakfast until 1:30pm (so there's no excuse to skip it). The lunch menu features sandwiches, salads, wraps, and burgers; dinner consists of fresh fish dishes, Tex-Mex favorites, and steaks. Small wine list, or bring your own ­ corkage is $7 per bottle.
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Bay Terrace

68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, Kamuela, HI 96743 808-881-7911

Description: KAMUELA. A lovely garden setting, unobtrusive service, and a veritable banquet of choices make Bay Terrace a popular morning destination. Breakfast buffets overflow with scrumptious goodies, from pastries and local fruit to banana-stuffed French toast and eggs Florentine ­ the variety and quantity will keep you full all day.
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Big Island Grill

75-5702 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740-1717 808-326-1153

Description: KONA COAST. This local favorite is almost always packed, a testament to its fantastic American comfort food, which sparkles with Hawaiian touches. The catch of the day is always a sure bet, and you don't want to miss the salad of mixed local greens topped with coconut shrimp. The restaurant also does something magical to mashed potatoes ­ you may find yourself actually swooning. A drive-through window lets you grab lunch on the run, and service is friendly and family-oriented. Plus, the total bill won't empty your wallet.
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Hawaiian Style Cafe

64 Kawaihae Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743 808-885-4295

Description: KAMUELA. On first glance, this place may not look like much, but as everybody knows, you can't judge a book by its cover. Big Islanders are fond of homestyle cooking, and it's done especially well at out-of-the-way places like Hawaiian Style Café. At breakfast, just try to finish their massive yet tender pancakes, especially if you've also ordered eggs or sausage. Lunch is similar, thanks to big portions of ribs, steaks, burgers and fries, macaroni salad, and rice ­ all at a refreshingly affordable price.
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Island Lava Java

75-5799 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 808-327-2161

Description: KONA COAST. Coffee fans love the Big Island for many reasons, and this place is one of them. You'll find freshly brewed, 100% Kona coffee here, along with an assortment of sweets and sandwiches. A great place to people-watch, it's situated directly across from the beach, where human activity is non-stop.
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Java on the Rock

75-5828 Kahakai Rd, across the street from Hard Rock Cafe, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 808-329-9262

Description: KAILUA-KONA. A handful of tables overlooking gorgeous Kailua Bay and some of the best Kona coffee on the Big Island are keys to Java on the Rock's success. Stop by in the morning for a lovingly-brewed cup of their popular Three Stone brand and a hearty omelet or a bagel with lox and a side of papaya. Experienced baristas will guide you through the menu, whether you opt for a simple cuppa joe or a more involved espresso drink. Grab a seat and let the coffee and the view work their magic!
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Kailua Candy Company

74-5563 Kaiwi St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 808-329-2522

Description: KONA COAST. You'll almost certainly have a difficult time choosing which candies to sample here. Among the temptations are hand-dipped, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, chocolate-covered coconut, chocolate-covered nut brittle, coffee toffee, chocolate-covered crystallized ginger, and guava rum truffles ­ oh my! Perhaps the best option is to get some of each and take them home for further testing. Good luck!
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Kona Beach Restaurant

75-5660 Palani Rd, King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 808-329-2911

Description: KONA COAST. No matter which table you're given, you'll be granted a view of the ocean and plenty of wonderful food. American standards and Hawaiian favorites grace the menus, and the champagne brunch buffet is chock full of seafood, pancakes, meats, and fresh tropical fruits. Other themed dinner buffets are scheduled throughout the week and include a seafood buffet, Hawaiian buffet, and prime rib buffet. Fun and family-friendly.
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Orchid Court

1 N Kaniku Dr, Fairmont Orchid, Kohala Coast, HI 96743 808-885-2000

Description: KOHALA COAST. Overlooking the Fairmont Orchid's enchanting gardens, the Court offers a lovely setting ideal for those wanting to relax, enjoy a bite, sip some Kona coffee, and peruse the morning news. Whether your morning appetite tends toward the light or the hearty, you are sure to enjoy the buffet options. Choose from an array of tempting fresh tropical fruits, a freshly made omelette, fish and sausages, and an inviting assortment of breads, muffins and pastries.
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Pahu i'a

100 Kaupulehu Dr, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kaupulehu-Kona, HI 96704 808-325-8333

Description: KONA COAST. Stained koa wood walls, potted palms, an enchanting tropical aquarium, and magnificent sunset vistas set the stage for romance at this Kona Coast charmer. The Pacific-themed menu continues where the decor leaves off, dazzling patrons with contemporary takes on traditional island dishes. House specialties like tempura-style shrimp with asparagus, steamed opakapaka with shiitake mushrooms, jasmine tea-smoked walu, and wok-roasted Keahole lobster with saffron risotto and Manila clams are sure to titillate even the most discerning of taste buds. Guests wishing to dine al fresco enjoy romantically appointed tables that offer sweeping views of the dramatic Hawaiian coastline.
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Teshima's Restaurant

79-7251 Mamalahoa Hwy, Honalo, HI 96750 808-322-9140

Description: KONA COAST. Traditional tempura and sashimi are specialties at this friendly joint, tucked away in the Honalo community. A family affair that's been around since the 1920s, Teshima's also earns high marks for terrific miso soup and sukiyaki. If you're savvy enough, a teishoku platter (an entree served with fresh vegetable sides, a bowl of rice, miso soup, and house salad) will certainly do the trick. Meanwhile, early risers can stop in and enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast of soup, rice, and fish before hitting nearby sites and beaches. Dinner reservations are accepted and are suggested for large parties.
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