Located on the west of Hawaii Island, also popularly known as the Big Island, is Kailua-Kona, a gorgeous town famous for its deep-sea fishing and an amazing variety of distinct coffee flavors.
This sunny seaside town is often referred to as ‘Kona’ by the locals residing in the Kona district. From beautiful sandy beaches to a lively farmers market to rich culture and history, Kona has so many amazing things to offer to its visitors and guests. But, above all that, one has to talk about the incredible variety of food that this part of the Big Island has in store for you.
You will find some of the best fine dining restaurants in Kona, each of which has something unique to bring to the table in terms of their menus, dishes, flavors, and ambiance. After all, if there’s one thing found in abundance in the Big Island, it’s an impressive variety of dining options.
So, if you ever plan a trip to the Big Island, you must explore the following top five fine-dining restaurants in Kona for an exotic culinary experience.
1. ‘ULU Ocean Grill And Sushi Lounge
There are no surprises as to why ‘ULU Ocean Grill and Sushi Lounge is our top pick for fine dining restaurants in Kona, especially considering the fact that the Big Island is most famous for its abundant fresh seafood.
This restaurant is located within the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai and is considered to be the epitome of the fine dining experience. As the name suggests, it offers an ideal blend of a fine Hawaiian grill and a sushi lounge.
If you want to make the most of your dining affair at ‘ULU Ocean Grill and Sushi Lounge, you must go for the oceanside open-air seating that is made absolutely specular by Hawaiian torches that are lit every evening. Some of the restaurant’s signature dishes include Hawaiian Ahi Poke with ogu, sesame oil, white shoyu, and Maui onions, Black Pepper Prime NY Steak with Kiawe smoked potatoes, edamame, and fennel creamed Kerala Swiss chard, and local snapper, which is served according to your individual preference!
2. Huggo’s
This is considered to be a mainstay of downtown Kailua-Kona given its ideal seaside location, delicious fresh seafood dishes, and a mesmerizing to-die-for cocktail selection!
Huggo’s welcomed all the foodies out thereby opening its doors back in 1969, and over time, it managed to earn its reputation as one of the top fine dining restaurants in Kona. It’s a Kona classic thanks owing to its just-caught seafood, unique elegance, and stunning sunsets.
Some of its winning dishes include Kailua Bay Cioppino with red shrimp, clams, tomatoes, saffron, local fish, and fennel.
With a sophisticated oceanfront ambiance, delicious food, and colorful cocktails, this premier restaurant in Kona will truly leave you craving for more.