Cipriano's Kitchen - Kawaihae's Italian Treasure Cipriano's Kitchen is one of those rare restaurants that keeps you thinking about your meal long after you've left. Chef Gino is generous with both his talent and his portions. Every dish showcases fresh ingredients, expert preparation, and a genuine love of Italian cooking. The menu is seafood-forward, featuring fresh local catches, handmade pasta, and flavors that are both authentic and creative. This family-run restaurant is made even more special by Claudia, Chef Gino's wife and culinary partner. Claudia bakes fresh focaccia daily and prepares the restaurant's gnocchi and pasta from scratch. As hostess, she warmly welcomes every guest and effortlessly serves as the restaurant's "walking menu," describing each dish with passion and detail. The presentation is stunning. Lobster, octopus, shrimp, clams, scallops, and house-made pasta arrive beautifully plated and bursting with flavor. The fresh focaccia alone is worth the visit. Every meal feels thoughtfully prepared, from the first bite to the last. What keeps me coming back is that the food is genuinely craveable. I find myself dining here every couple of weeks for lunch, and more often than not, I leave with a takeout order for dinner because I know I'll be thinking about it later. Cipriano's Kitchen isn't just serving Italian food--it's creating an experience centered around family, hospitality, and exceptional cooking. Kawaihae is fortunate to have this gem, and anyone who appreciates fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and heartfelt hospitality should make it a destination. A true Big Island favorite. "Come hungry. Leave happy. Plan your next visit before you've even finished your meal." read more

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We had a reservation for three for dinner. We arrived 10 minutes early and we were explicitly told we were early and then we stood waiting until our reservation time when they seated us. Tables are mainly outside with loud street traffic noise. We were brought water fairly quickly and had our menus to review. We then waited for 13 to 15 minutes until a young waitress returned answered our questions and we ordered some focaccia bread and three glasses of Sangiovese. $19 a glass for a very poor red wine and then seven dollars for six small pieces of focaccia bread. The least expensive wine by the bottle was $79. Their corkage fee if you brought your own bottle was a mind-boggling $179. We got our wine and bread in a reasonable time and then had to wait another 10 minutes to place an order. We were in the mood to have salad, but the least expensive was a Caesar, $25 for a small plate. We ordered two pasta dishes And one ravioli dish, which came with three cheese ravioli. The dishes in price ranged from $48-$56 each. Our food came out, reasonably on time. We requested some Parmesan cheese and olive oil for the side. The pasta was handmade, fresh and delicious. We very much enjoyed the entrées taste and presentation. One of the pasta dishes was just lukewarm when served. Our bill for three adults was $250 before tax and tip. While the food was excellent, we felt that the service and location, along with the ambience was not worth that price. read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - Corkage fee on menu - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

BEST FOOD ON THE ISLAND. As a seasoned traveler, local transplant, and self-proclaimed foodie, I will be the first to admit that some of the food on the island is not what visitors would get excited about. However, I would make a reservation and drive 2 1/2 hours for this place, and I am not exaggerating when I say that I think they have the BEST food on the island - I have been searching this island for good restaurants for the last 3 years. I had their lobster ravioli, a side of focaccia bread, a matcha lemonade, and tiramisu. EVERYTHING is made fresh here and the attention to detail and flavors is evident in every plate. The ravioli was surprisingly filling and I savored every bite. The pasta was perfectly al dente. And, the flavors, juicy lobster and creamy sauce were balanced just right. The sauce was so tasty I wanted to lick the plate. I thought about ordering a second side of bread to clean it off, but was able to practice self-control (barely lol). I won't go into detail about the drinks or dessert only because I could write a full essay. But, I will say that everything I had here was well-worth my investment and I will absolutely be making the drive back out here again soon. Of all the places on the island, I would say you MUST try this place. And, shoutout to Claudia and the servers for exceptional service. We are so lucky to have you on this island. Much mahalos for the amazing food and experience here. My friends, I will say it again- Cipriano's has the BEST food on the island. Stop what you are doing right now and make a reservation. read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - Lobster ravioli was amazing. I savored every bite and it was surprisingly filling. The sauce was perfect for dipping the focaccia bread in. - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

Both the food and service were amazing ! Fresh pasta and Quality ingredients well prepared ! Husband and wife owned and run snd they are passionate about what they do We will definitely be back read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - short rib, Ragu homemade papardelle! so delicious! - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

My yelp account has a different name just for fun but this is Michelle, who went to have a beautiful lunch with my friend a couple days ago who's also attending a performing arts festival in Hawaii. I have to acknowledge that this is the best Italian food that I've ever had. It'e more of seafood pasta with handmade pasta and bread that had no eggs in it. I had so fun eating the yummy food. The food quality is worth every penny and according to the lady manager who's also the wife of the chef "it's to die for!" read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - Me and my friend - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

The finest option for authentic Mediterranean dining with the freshest ingredients purchased locally or flown in from Japan. Incredible hand made pasta; authentic and a treat for the palate. Yes; you will pay for this exquisite experience. A Foodies delight and yes...a memory will be made. Slow food experience with knowledgeable owners who work hard to create a memory for the mind, body and spirit! Molto bene! Enjoy! read more

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On our last night on the island we were looking for dinner for our family of 7. They were so accommodating to get us beautiful food for take out. The lobster di Brontë was amazing, flavorful and not over cooked. The gnocchi was pillow soft with perfectly cooked shrimp. The salad and focaccia were fabulous. Beautiful presentation, and great food! We did take out but the restaurant was cozy and looked so inviting. Would definitely come back next time we are here. read more

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Truly the best food on the island. I had an excellent experience throughout the meal. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting the area. A bit pricy but if you want top quality ingredients, drinks, desserts and service this place will not disappoint. Top of my list for the next time I visit the island. read more

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My wife and I changed our lunch plans on a whim when we saw Cipriano's Kitchen open during a drive by. We'd heard great things about their homemade pastas, but what we experienced was so much more. Cipriano's is best described as a torrid love affair between Italy and Peru, with unbelievably delicious results. Co-owner Claudia greeted and seated us as if we were old friends, and her husband Gino - who is also the chef - checked in during our meal with genuine warmth and curiosity. The hospitality alone was exceptional. We started with the lobster and fresh catch ceviche (Kona Kanpachi that day), which instantly became a new favorite. Claudia shared that the secret is "zero minutes" - citrus added only at the last moment - allowing the sushi-grade fish to transform right on the plate. It arrived perfectly garnished with microgreens, gourmet chips, avocado, and something akin to a grown-up corn nut. Delectable doesn't begin to cover it. After I joked about licking the plate, we learned that the leftover citrus juice is called Leche de Tigre - meant to be sipped by spoon. Bright, tart, and refreshing, it worked like a palate cleanser for what came next. Claudia then offered us a special off-menu item: ube gnocchi. Marcie ordered it immediately, and I went for the lobster ravioli. The sauces were divine. The ube gnocchi started firm and then melted away like a dream, while the lobster ravioli left me feeling fully satisfied - though of course I cleaned the plate. We finished with a scoop of lilikoi gelato and sat for a moment, stunned that we'd finally found the kind of family-run, soulfully-crafted restaurant we've been searching for on the Big Island. Run, don't walk ... and don't skip the ceviche. read more

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Everything from the moment we arrived was top-tier!! Just do yourself a favor: get whatever Claudia tells you! She will Not be Wrong! So delicious!!!! read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - What's not in here is what you should be asking?!? It's everything you want and then some...all the best of the best seafood around! - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

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Gourmet, inspired Italian food with emphasis on seafood. Absolutely FRESH everything, including interesting custom cocktails. Not a fancy location, outdoor view is industrial. Quite pricey but food was certainly as good as the more-famous Merriman's. Limited but well-chosen wine list of Italian bottles; don't bring your own, corkage is $179 (not a typo). We will likely return once on each trip to the Big Island. Of particular note: Imported fresh scallops, squid ink housemade pasta. read more

We came here in May and will rebook next month. The food is amazing and so is the family. It is expensive but worth it. We were lucky to grab a dinner reservation. My husband still talks about the pasta with lobster and lemon. I will update photos next month. read more

This place has amazing seafood! The owners were so helpful and friendly. A little pricey but worth it!

Great place! Family run; menu varies. All good. We enjoyed fresh scallops and pasta...fantastic. Fresh salad with local items and light dressing...fantastic. Cake dessert...great. Look forward to returning. read more

This place is incredible. Authentic and delicious Italian food. Everything we tried was full of flavor and we couldn't help but ask for more. The service is genuine and Claudia was a great host, who knew everything about the food/menu and was very personable. Finally, the ambience was peaceful, unique, and had a great feel to it. We LOVED this place. What was a spur of the moment, "let's grab a quick bite", turned into an ultimate favorite restaurant, "We NEED to go back and try more!" read more

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Hands down the best food on the island (indulging better than Merriman's that so many love) and one of the best meals I've ever eaten in my life! This place is the epitome of "don't judge a book by its cover" given the location. The food is simply to die for and the hospitality like being welcomed as family. Be sure to make a reservation and don't pass it up!! read more

Terrible service. They refused to seat us at the table we requested and showed passive-aggressive behavior behind fake smiles. The seating was by the road with a view of a construction site and the place smell gross. read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - The view - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

I can't say enough good things about Cipriano's! I've been here multiple times now--sometimes just to grab a coffee, other times for breakfast or lunch--and every single visit has been fantastic. The quality of the food is outstanding: everything feels fresh, from the house-made pasta and bread to the produce and seafood. You can really taste the care that goes into every dish. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the service is consistently excellent--friendly, attentive, and professional without ever feeling overbearing. It's the kind of place where you feel like a valued guest every time you walk in. I haven't had the chance to try dinner yet (since I work the nights they're open), but based on my experiences so far, I have no doubt it's just as exceptional. Cipriano's is truly a gem and one of my favorite spots on the island. read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

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Incredible meal! We went with our kids and my parents and it was a thumbs up from everyone. Our youngest (one year old) who has been slow to love food absolutely loved the gnocchi. Our 3,7, and 9 year old loved the fresh pasta and meatballs as well as the focaccia. There were gluten free options that were delicious. And my parents loved the scallops. Everyone working there is so knowledgeable and friendly. Also there were accommodations for our larger group! Will be returning soon!! read more

Absolutely loved Cipriano's -- a true hidden gem on the Big Island! The Kanpachi ceviche, ravioli three ways, and Kauai shrimp puttanesca were all delicious and a standout from our trip. Also run by a husband and wife made the experience homey with a great story. Definitely a must-visit when visiting! read more

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It's overrated. I can say that the food is okay, but a $70 per plate meal isn't worth it. I spent 400 dollars on dinner for two people. read more

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I am a food critic from Sicily. In a word, I would say that this restaurant is... Overpriced. For the quality and service of what the diner receives is not equivalent to the prices that are charged. There is also a 4% surcharge for using a credit card. Most places will charge 3% or nothing at all. Also, when paying the bill they start the tip at 18% and go up. The waitress, as pretty as she is with a beautiful smile... Is overstressed making the patrons feel uncomfortable. This is unheard of in a high-quality Italian restaurant. We ordered simple pasta with homemade meatballs. The marinara (sugu)was very good. However, the pasta was served al dente. Al dente pasta is generally bitable, but this was undercooked by at least 90 seconds. Also, the dish was served moderately cool. Fresh pasta with marinara and meatballs should be served hot! Steaming! Meatballs, that are homemade generally are not served as patties. It reminded me of the hamburger patties we just purchased at Costco. They then added garlic salt and a little basil. I highly do not recommend going to this inauthentic restaurant. For the same price, you could buy a plane ticket and have good pasta in Palermo and still save some money. read more

Let me start by saying that we are a family of five with varying palates. Not quite sure what to expect, but based on my research, I had read we would experience a culinary haven. Well, we found it! Breakfast was a delight in every sense of the word. We enjoyed Italian coffee, fresh squeezed oj , and nicely chilled water for the table. Claudia and Gino went above and beyond with their explanation of the menu and made the experience personable. We started with their freshly homemade blueberry muffin and croissant. Amazing!!!!! Breakfast was full of flavor and the eggs were unforgettable! We enjoyed the avocado toast, bruschetta, breakfast burritos, and croissant with ham and cheese. The off the menu Italian breakfast burrito was phenomenal Every bite was delicious and the presentation was inviting from Start to finish. Looking forward to returning for pasta lunch! We will be back! read more

This is THE BEST Italian restaurant I've ever been to. We came a couple years ago when we visited the island. I'm visiting again and had to go see them. I stayed 1 month and I went 4 times. Gino and Claudia are the nicest people and their staff is amazing. The food is prepared fresh. IT is incredible. They definitely know what they're doing. I've enjoyed several of their dishes and they were all perfect. Hard to pick a favorite. Trust in their food. Today, I had Claudia pick for me and was not disappointed. Their cocktails are amazing. Everything is perfect. I'd give a million stars if I could. Thank you Gino and Claudia! I'll see you again when I return. read more

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The food was amazing and the service was tremendous. Such a lovely experience and we can't wait to go back. Happy Birthday Tami! read more

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This place is so good it brings tears to your eyes. Nowhere outside of Italy will you taste food like this. 10/10

We have been all over the world, and eaten at top restaurants in France, Italy, Japan, Vietnam., and in our own home of California and around the US and Cipriano's is one of our top 3 restaurants in the world. Claudia and Gino have opened a restaurant that combines their respective backgrounds, Italian and Peruvian, and the attention to detail on everything from preparation to execution as well as their superb plating is nothing short of perfection. The lobster tagliatelle pasta I ordered on our first visit was outstanding; my younger daughter ordered the meatball panini and older daughter ordered the yellowtail ceviche, both said they respectively were the best meals they ever had. My older daughter cooks from the French Laundry and is a tough critic herself! We were also very impressed with their ravioli trio my wife ordered, I was floored with how amazing the short ribs tasted . Second time at Cipriano's we ordered several specials and I ordered the cioppino, my favorite dish to make as well as eat and it was truly the best I have ever had (although my own is my second favorite!) You must dine here for a culinary experience you will never forget. Claudia provides such great insight into their approach and it is clear how much Claudia and Gino enjoy what they do and engaging with their loyal customers around the world, of which I am sure there are many! read more

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This was such a fantastic find. You would easily miss this if you did not know to look for it. The pasta was amazing and we are going back again tomorrow. This is incredibly authentic. It is as good or better than what we have had in Italy. You can taste the love and care that went into each dish. Also for those of you that are gluten free, they are very accommodating. Kim read more

The food was beyond delicious! The service was so good. This restaurant goes above & beyond. Food was so delicious and fresh. All scratch made read more

Excellent food. An accidental find but everything from the hostess to the food was great. She made some great recommendations and turned out fantastic. A definite revisit for this place read more

During our trip to the Big Island, my boyfriend (who's half Italian) and I discovered the most charming family-owned restaurant serving authentic Italian and Peruvian cuisine. We only tried the Italian dishes, but they were so incredible that we went back the very next day! As a vegan, I was thrilled when they made me the best vegan pasta I've had since visiting Italy--it was fresh, flavorful, and absolutely perfect. My boyfriend was equally impressed with his dishes. We were so blown away by the quality and authenticity that we found ourselves returning the very next day to try more. It's rare to find a place where every bite feels like a celebration, but this restaurant nailed it. If you're visiting the Big Island and love Italian food, do yourself a favor and make this a must-visit. We can't wait to return on our next trip! read more

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Claudia and her team were incredible. one of our group of 8 said it was the best meal they had ever had. all agreed it was incredible. if you come to kona this is a dont miss spot. read more

Food is excellent, great flavor and fresh; service is friendly and attentive, while you feel you are visiting your aunt. Recommend to call in before to make sure they can sit you. read more

I loved my experience at Cipriano's Kitchen. Claudia and her staff treated us like family, and the food was absolutely delicious! The ceviche was one of the best I've ever eaten, and I will definitely be going back soon! read more

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Cipriano's Kitchen blew us away. From the moment we sat down, Claudia provided absolutely stellar service--warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the menu. The vibe is effortlessly chill, yet the experience feels like fine dining in the best way. Cocktails--next level. Every sip was balanced, creative, and just plain delicious. And the food? I had the squid ink tagliatelle, and I'm not exaggerating when I say it was the best I've ever had--yes, even compared to spots in Italy. Rich, briny, perfectly cooked--it was a standout dish. What made it even more fun was hearing other diners rave about it while we were waiting. The hype was real, and it totally delivered. Pro tip: don't skip dessert. It's not an afterthought here--each one is crafted with just as much care and creativity as the rest of the menu. Worth saving room for, we had the chocolate cake and passionfruit mousse with cannolis. If you're anywhere near Kawaihae, make this a priority (our family of 6 visiting from LA stopped for lunch after going to Hapuna Beach). Absolute standout on the Big Island. read more

Amazing EVERYTHING! It started with meeting the owner Claudia and her husband Gino. Great authentic people, so welcoming. Hard to decide what to what to eat. My wife and I shared the Cesar Salad and fluffy Focaccia, hit the spot! Great Lilikoi Pisco Sour cocktail too. My wife had the Shrimp Bucatini pasta, I had the Squid ink Pasta with Lobster, shrimp and Calamari. Probably the best pasta dish I have ever had. Pasta was amazing and the sauce was to die for! We finished with the Tiramisu. Hands down best meal so far. Do yourself a favor and go! Anyone who gives this place a bad review is just a horrible person. read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - Squid ink Pasta. - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

This was hands down the most amazing and delicious food ever! All the food was from scratch and the presentation was awesome! read more

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Imagine an exquisite Sicilian eatery in Taormina with pastas rich with the flavors of the sea: local lobster, prawns, squid and octopus. Incomparable gnocchi and ravioli. Yes they even have Cioppino Add some Peruvian flair with fresh sliced ceviches with lime. Yet here you are on the Big Island of Hawaii. Chef Piero and his wife Claudio have brought this dining experience to the Kawaihae Harbor. A Panzanella salad that defines what this salad should be. And aren't we lucky to have this place! read more

One of the best meals we have every had - pasta and focaccia made from scratch, fresh local ingredient, and amazing flavors and aromas. Absolutely a culinary treat! This week's focus were scallops - we had them with puttanesca AND Pesto. sauces were amazing - we will be back next week. read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - Italian Near Me - Waimea, Hawaii

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First and foremost, the OWNER treated us horribly. She had a terrible attitude the minute we sat down. Passive-aggressive, eye rolling, we couldn't believe it. The food was good, but her terrible customer service and treatment of us ruined it for us. When the bill arrived, we were shocked to see just a total. Nothing was itemized, and it was wayyyyy more than it should have been for 4 shared entrees and 2 appetizers. We would have said something but our friends picked the restaurant and they were already embarrassed. Won't be back here again. read more