Cipriano&#x27;s Kitchen

Having eaten here many times for both lunch and dinner and having experienced the "ups" and the…read moredowns" in terms of consistent quality of food preparation and service, the trend is back to a downward spiral. Fresh Mahi was so overcooked, it was barely edible but nobody came by to check into well after we were trying to eat it - even asked for olive oil to try to make it more palatable. I asked for water twice before getting a refill, and while I could understand delays when it's busy - it was not - we were the only occupied table in that whole room. So unsatisfactory on all levels. Off my list until/unless they can pull it together.....

Consistently excellent every time! Love eating here when passing thru waimea or for special date…read morenight. Beautiful and cozy indoor decor, comfortable seating and very friendly staff. Highly recommend! I want to try every menu item!!

Garlic cheese bread and caprese salad

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Calzone

Pueo's Osteria

4.0(1.2k reviews)

8.3 mi

Located above the Waikoloa Resort area, about a 10-15 min. drive, in what looks like a newer built…read moreshopping center. We went for our anniversary dinner and were so glad we decided to celebrate here. Very nice relaxed atmosphere, there are tables inside and out side on like a large open air lanai area with festival lights strewn across the ceiling and arches to view the sunset. Our server was Courtney who was very friendly and attentive. She made great recommendations! We tried everything she recommended. We started with a the Brussel Sprouts that were served in a cast iron skillet, crispy and tender with a balsamic glaze and the Caesar's Salad which was so fresh and coated with the perfect amount of dressing. We ordered the garlic Focaccia with melted cheese served with the most delicious marinara sauce for dipping. Then we ordered the Vodka Pasta with Shrimp, 4 large shrimps in a creamy tomato vodka sauce and house made fresh pasta. For dessert we had the Cannoli, the best Cannoli I ever had! The shell was crispy the filling was light, sweet and just delicious! Courtney gifted us the Cannoli for our anniversary and the entire staff signed an anniversary card for us. They also have a full bar and my husband was pleased with the whiskey selections and their reasonable prices. What an amazing dinner that delighted all of our senses. We will definitely have this place on our must go to list whenever we visit Hawaii Island.

Went for nice dinner tonight all was going well until the check. 1) ordered eggplant pharm. food…read moredelivery I asked the person to bring Tabasco, our service person Darcy no I will bring her chili, no mentioned that there was $2.00 charge of half teaspoons of chili. As we get the check very surprised of the extra charge. I'm very unhappy that restaurant charges for any additional charge that I did NOT asked for, she Darcy failed to mention of the extra charge. We like coming for happy hour and dinner, but I'm very unhappy tonight. I believe that restaurant is out of control in adding unnecessary charges.

Pizza oven

Yummy cannoli , tiramisu, and an espresso martini

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Best Italian Take Out

James Angelo's Underground Pizza

4.4(290 reviews)

11.3 mi

I stumbled across this place because I was passing through the area on my way back to Kona and I…read morecould not be more thankful that I found this place! This is an old school pizza place with giant ovens, an open kitchen and staff that welcomes you like family! The pizza was genuinely incredible, perfectly cooked and made by James, the owner, an artist working his ass off and creating perfection. If you're passing through, a local or anyone in the mood for some delicious pizza, look no further!

We stopped at James Angelo's Underground Pizza while visiting the Big Island and had the pepperoni…read morepizza, garlic knots, and a salad. Everything was outstanding. The pepperoni pizza was excellent. The crust had a great texture with a light crisp on the outside and just the right amount of chew. The sauce was flavorful without overpowering the toppings, and the pepperoni was generous and cooked perfectly. It tasted fresh and homemade from the first bite to the last. The garlic knots were fantastic. Soft, warm, and loaded with garlic flavor, they were easily some of the best we've had. The salad was fresh, crisp, and a great complement to the meal. What really stood out was James himself. You can immediately tell that he loves what he does and takes pride in his restaurant. He was welcoming, friendly, and genuinely interested in making sure guests had a great experience. It is refreshing to visit a place where the owner is so invested in both the food and the people walking through the door. The atmosphere was comfortable and relaxed, and the entire experience felt personal rather than rushed. Places like this are becoming harder to find. One thing visitors should know is that the restaurant is cash only. That wasn't a problem for us, and there is an ATM available at a nearby gas station if needed. Just come prepared so you can focus on enjoying the food. This was one of our favorite meals during our time on the Big Island. Great food, great service, and a restaurant that clearly reflects the passion of its owner. We will definitely be back on a future visit.

James

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Merriman's

4.4(1.4k reviews)

9.9 mi

We had dinner at Merriman's in Waimea with our family of six, and it was one of the highlights of…read moreour trip to the Big Island. From the moment we arrived, the service was exceptional. Bianca and the entire staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. They made us feel relaxed and well taken care of throughout the evening without ever being intrusive. The food was outstanding. Our table enjoyed the day boat catch, macadamia nut-crusted fish, Caesar salad, beet salad with goat cheese, cucumber salad, smoked taro hummus, and desserts including sorbet and seasonal ice cream. Every dish was fresh, beautifully prepared, and full of flavor. The combination of incredible food, gracious service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere made for a memorable family dinner. A heartfelt thank you to Bianca and the entire Merriman's team for making our evening so special. We can't wait to return on our next visit to the Big Island.

First of all, WHAT?! How can everything we had be a 10/10? Not just the food, but the service as…read morewell. I am so happy that my husband & I got to experience this restaurant while in Hawai'i. For starters, we ordered their special lobster salad (with lobster, mango, avocado, and pickled hearts of palm) and their mushroom side dish. Both were absolutely packed with flavor, and the lobster salad especially included very new flavors for us both. The mushrooms were out of this WORLD! For entrees, we ordered the spicy lobster ravioli and their mushroom side curried macadamia nut fish (swordfish). Each bite was a little taste of fishy heaven for both dishes. We are so happy with our visit here, and cannot wait for the opportunity to come back and try more amazing, home-grown food. Thank you for this wonderful experience!

Restaurant

Tako escargot. The best item of all the great dishes.

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Lamb and chateau duo was superb

Waimea Butcher Shop

4.5(175 reviews)

11.0 mi

I found this place completely by accident after being invited to dinner by the manager's mother…read more Honestly, that's the kind of accident I hope keeps happening. They opened with beef tartare that ruined me for every other beef tartare I've ever had. The osso buco is legendary. Then came the double cheeseburger... and I need everyone to understand that I don't hand out compliments like ketchup packets. This is, without question, the best burger I've ever eaten. It's so good it makes you want a cigarette afterward--and I don't even smoke. I've come back many times just for that burger because nothing else I've tried on Hawaiʻi Island or Oʻahu comes close. Their tater tots have developed their own fan club, and the little bar with beer, wine, and cocktails makes it dangerously easy to linger. The staff is consistently warm and welcoming. After being away for six weeks because of a family emergency, one of my first stops after returning was this burger. It was still outstanding, but I did notice the beef patty seemed about a third to nearly half thinner than I remembered. At around $20, that's noticeable. I'm hoping it was just an off day because this place has earned enough goodwill for me to give it another shot. Don't overlook the butcher shop itself. The meat quality is miles beyond what you'll find in a grocery store. I bought their ground beef for a ragù alla Bolognese, and it was so spectacular that I went back specifically to buy more for homemade burgers. Bottom line: this is one of the hidden gems of the island. Come for the butcher shop, stay for the burger, and if you leave without wondering whether you should light an imaginary post-burger cigarette, we clearly ordered different meals.

Heard such great things about this butcher shop on social media so had check them out…read more It's a small hole-in-the-wall store in Waimea (Kamuela) butcher shop/restaurant l. Came to buy their well-known Laulau sausage and to try their burgers. Meal prices are a tad bit high, but as they say, "you get what you pay for." We decided to try two different items on their small menu; a pastrami and hamburger. Both were so fresh you could actually taste the difference. Nothing like fresh meat! Both were well-seasoned and TENDER, the bun on the burger was a brioche which was very moist. We also got their version of Mac salad which was quite good The laulau sausage was very good, just never had laulau in a sausage before. GPS gave us the incorrect directions, but we found it. It's across the Ace Hardware store. Open parking.

Interior, communal table.

Beef + Cheddar Sandwich Lunch Menu

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Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich Lunch Menu

Pau Pizza

4.0(337 reviews)

9.9 mi

This is THE pizza on the west side! They have perfected sourdough crust, soft and structured, with…read morea little tang. It's an order at the counter spot, sometimes there's a wait - for best pizza in town. You came here for a little slower pace than the mainland, chill out & wait for it, do some deep breathing or go check out Uila Records, next door. Sometimes they are jamming busy and focused - don't expect them to be sugar sweet - customer always right. Expect really good pizza with really good ingredients and work out your need for them to be really really nice to you in therapy ;)

The good - Really great pizza! The Bad, order was completely wrong. Tried to place on-line order…read morebut they had it turned off. Unfortunately, despite describing the order twice the pizza came topped complete wrong. Oh well, the Italian sandwich was the best!Have them repeat the order back to you to be sure.

Love these painting and Take Out/Ready to Drink fridge! Hee

Take out dishes for home hee

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Look how cute it is

Meridia

4.0(332 reviews)

2.9 mi

We ate here twice, once on the first night and then again on our last night. The service, staff,…read moreand food was great. If you can, sit in Toni's section. She's a great server and has great energy. The entire staff was were warm and friendly. We met the chef on both occasions and he remembered us from our visit night. The restaurant is huge and has many different seating areas. You can sit at the bar, behind the bar, on a patio overlooking the beach/ocean, or inside. It's even a fun place to just meet friends for a drink. When you walk, take a minute to appreciate the large, round space, and lighting structures. Funny enough, even though we came twice, most of us ordered the same dishes from the first night. Between our two visits, we got the fresh catch crudo, oyster crudo for appetizers. Both were great. I loved the oysters because of the unique flavors. For mains we got lamb chops, paella, filet, and beef ragout. The lamb chops were so good, I ordered them during both visits. I loved the smattering of cannellini beans. They had a fresh citrus flavor to them. It brightened up the dish. The olives and mint chutney were great accompaniments too. The filet was another dish that was ordered on both visits. The truffle gratin potatoes were delicious and came served in its own cast iron dish to stay hot. The vegetables added a nice balance to the dish too. The beef ragout was nicely presented atop a bed of thick ribbons of pasta. It was a nice twist, rather than a traditional bolognese. The paella came with a variety of mixed seafoods and saffron rice. It was served in its own skillet. Desserts were also great. We got the Spanish cheesecake and the warm chocolate torta. Both were really good.

Located at the Westin Hapuna Beach, Meridia is a fish-forward Mediterranean place with pastas and…read moresome Italian mixed in. They serve really fresh complimentary sour dough and focaccia bread. Their kanpachi crudo was super fresh and all their dishes were tasty. Their branzino was really good but served whole with the bones so it takes bit of a skill to eat. They also offer separate kids menu which is a nice touch.

Inside

Seared Scallops

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Dining on the lanai.

Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Marlin Bar

4.2(1.3k reviews)

6.9 mi

Hands Down amazing restaurant!…read more Our waiter Garratt was outstanding--friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome from the moment we sat down. He was knowledgeable about the menu, checked on us throughout the meal, and made the entire experience even better. I ordered the special Macadamia Nut Snapper, and it was absolutely amazing. The fish was perfectly cooked, incredibly fresh, and the macadamia nut crust added the perfect flavor and texture. My wife ordered the ribeye, and it was very tender, juicy, and flavorful Between the incredible food, relaxing atmosphere, and exceptional service from Garratt, this was easily one of the best dining experiences we had during our trip to Hawaii. We will definitely be back the next time we're on the island. Thanks again Garratt! Sea Bass and the fellas all the way

The space was big clean and aesthetic! The service was good and the server was attentive. We had a…read moregroup of 12 people so it was a big group. I ordered this seafood dish that had lobster, small scallops and shrimp with this type of fried rice. It was really good! On the spicier side but very flavorful! For dessert we had crème brûlée which was served in a pineapple. Pretty good!

Mango Nada

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Cucumber Smash

Napua at Mauna Lani Beach Club

4.2(624 reviews)

7.2 mi

Service was excellent. Super friendly and accommodating staff!…read more Food was okay. Overpriced. Not many options on the menu. Wouldn't make the drive to dine here unless you're already in the area or staying nearby.

Cute spot right by the beach, making it easy to leave your things and stop in for a bite or a…read moredrink. The service was great, and we enjoyed the food. During the day, the restaurant can feel a bit messy with sand, water, and a few flies, which is expected given its beachfront location. We also walked by later that evening, and it had a completely different vibe, tablecloths, candlelight, and a much more upscale atmosphere.

Outside dining

This Ono was the best cooked fish I had this trip

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Lychee Vodka Martini

CanoeHouse

4.1(841 reviews)

6.8 mi

•$$$$

Beautiful setting, everyone's meal was pretty much spectacular. Honestly one of the best…read morepreparation of mahi mahi I've ever had. The beef & foie gras dumplings were huge and very unique and delicious. Our waits person Dion was also kind of a highlight of the evening. She had the girls at the end of the our table crying with laughter the whole time. The boys end of the table had a relaxing time with fine wine and great whiskey cocktails. All in all, best meal and evening we've had on the Big Island in years! Mahalo Canoe House - awesome job!

My friend and I ate here on our last night at the Mauna Lani. We'd heard great things about this…read morerestaurant due to its executive chef being a Top Chef winner. We ordered the following: Shokupan Pull-apart Bread: 5/5 Delicious, light and fluffy. The butter was also great. I didn't realize how large this was going to be. It's definitely a great shareable for 4-5 people. Shishito Peppers: 5/5 Beef + Foie Gras Gyoza: 2/5 I had high expectations for this dish but ended up not loving it. The gyoza skin was chewy and cold, and the filling was just mushy and I didn't get a great foie gras flavor. 24 Oz Bone-in Dry Aged Ribeye: 3/5 The meat quality was decent but had quite a bit of fat that we skipped over. It was cooked how we wanted it (medium), but was overly salty. Garlic Fried Rice: 4/5 We loved this fried rice but it was also extremely salty. Service was great and overall, we enjoyed our meal. The saltiness was just hard to deal with and made it hard to finish the steak and rice.

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Lobby area

KONA KANPACHI with yuzu kosho, dashi, lime, mitsuba, ali'i mushroom

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CanoeHouse

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29 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Delilah M.

3 years ago

The Cipriano family has truly turned their restaurant into a remarkable haven where food becomes a love language, and every visit feels like coming home to family. Their culinary knowledge knows no bounds, and it's evident that their passion for food is woven into the very fabric of this exceptional establishment. From breakfast to dinner, this place is a culinary oasis on the island. Their incredible coffee sets the stage for a day filled with delightful flavors. The goat cheese and date ravioli is nothing short of a masterpiece, a perfect blend of sweet and savory that dances on your taste buds. But it doesn't stop there. The carbonara is a mind-blowing experience, leaving you in awe of its rich and creamy perfection. And the burrata? It's not just cheese; it's a life-changing revelation, a creamy indulgence that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. Occasionally, they treat patrons to dinners that are nothing short of epic journeys. These multicourse feasts are a testament to their culinary artistry. The octopus is a revelation, tender and full of flavor, while the lobster is a scrumptious delight that elevates every bite. Surprisingly, even their kale salad has the power to convert non-salad lovers into enthusiasts. It's a testament to the magic that happens in their kitchen--a simple salad turned into an irresistible treat. But what truly sets this place apart is the warmth and hospitality of the Cipriano family. They don't just serve food; they share their love and passion with every dish. Over time, they've become more than friends; they're family, and their restaurant is a reflection of their genuine love for their craft and their patrons. In a world where dining experiences often come and go, this restaurant stands as a shining example of what happens when food becomes a love language. It's a place where every meal is a journey, and every bite is a testament to the Cipriano family's unwavering commitment to culinary excellence and genuine hospitality. This is not just a restaurant; it's an island treasure and a truly delicious gem. read more

Curtis P.

4 months ago

Once again, wonderful meals at Cipriano's. We "discovered" Cipriano's last year on a trip to the Big Island, and thought it was amazing. This year, we were planning another trip to the Big Island and discovered some friends of ours were going to be stopping there on a cruise at the same time we would be there. We quickly arranged with Claudia, one of the owners, for a table for eight and had our friends join us there. We were all delighted with the service, Claudia's company, and utterly fantastic food. Our friends couldn't stop talking about it, even days later. Everything is fresh - no frozen fish ever and focaccia bread and pasta made from scratch every day. Because there were so many good things to try, we ended up approaching the meal "family style," allowing us to sample many things. That included the fresh and flavorful made-to-order kampachi ceviche, to which we added scallops and lobster, a fantastic twist on a kale salad (I'm no fan of kale but this was delicious), panzanela (a tomato salad), Kona lobster puttanesca, Kona lobster pistachio di bronte, cioppino, a special cream pasta with mortadella and truffles, scallops, a trio of raviolis (cheese, lobster, and short rib), and of course focaccia. I'd pick a favorite, but how can I when everything was fantastic! Deserts included a top shelf Tiramisu, lilikoi mousse, and a very special crème brûlée. We enjoyed it so much that the two of us came back again for lunch a few days later (when a perfect gnocchi was a special of the day). We're already making plans for next year! read more

Kevin L.

911

2 years ago

Cipriano's Kitchen is a hidden gem in the Waimea area that you absolutely cannot miss. This Italian-Peruvian fusion restaurant delivers on every level, from the warm hospitality to the mind-blowing food. Claudia, one of the owners, served as our waitress and instantly made us feel at home. She described the food as "insane," and she wasn't exaggerating. We started with the lobster tagliatelle, which was an explosion of savory and citrusy flavors. The lobster was cooked to perfection, and the texture of the tagliatelle was spot on. The capers added a delightful burst of flavor that elevated the dish even further. Next, we indulged in the short rib ravioli, which was just as impressive. The pasta had the perfect bite, and the short rib filling was tender and flavorful. The crispy garnish added a satisfying crunch that rounded out the dish beautifully. Claudia recommended we try the focaccia bread, and I'm so glad we did. It was the perfect companion to soak up every bit of the rich pasta sauces. We finished our meal with the lillikoi dessert paired with a cannoli--both packed with vibrant flavors that were the perfect ending to an incredible meal. Gino, the chef, even came by our table to check on us, which added a personal touch to the experience. The quality of the food and the attention to detail make Cipriano's Kitchen a must-visit. You truly pay for the culinary excellence here, and it's worth every penny. If you find yourself in the Waimea area, make sure you visit Cipriano's Kitchen. ** Seating is usually outdoors read more

Julie C.

3 years ago

We stumbled upon this hidden gem, a small family-owned restaurant nestled amidst Kawaihae Harbor, that is nothing short of a gastronomic revelation. From the warm welcome to the last bite, every moment at this place was a celebration of local goodness. The commitment to sourcing ingredients locally is evident in each dish. The menu reads like a love letter to the Italian and Peruvian influences that dance on your palate and ingredients that tell a story of the nearby farms and producers. The cozy ambiance, adorned with personal touches, makes you feel like an honored guest in their home. Gino and Claudia's passion for their craft is contagious, and their recommendations are as genuine as the smiles on their faces. I can't help but appreciate the effort put into every detail, from the farm-fresh kale salad, fresh baked focaccia and croissants, to the locally inspired entrees - the scrambled eggs are the best I've ever had. It's clear that this family pours their heart into their business, creating not just a meal, but an experience. If you're in search of a place that combines culinary excellence with a commitment to community, look no further. This restaurant is a testament to the magic that happens when a family shares their love for local flavors with their guests. read more

Tabitha M.

2 years ago

I've been to Italy three times, and the shrimp bucatini from Cipriano's is quite possibly my favorite pasta I've ever had. If you're coming to the Big Island, Cipriano's is a must-visit! We came here five times during our visit to the Big Island. I highly recommend getting a reservation beforehand; they are normally very busy, so if you just show up, you might have to wait. Prices: The prices are on par with mainland American pricing for quality food. Additionally, the prices are on par with normal Hawaiian pricing, which is usually $27 - $45 for a nice meal. The prices are definitely worth it. Food: The food is fresh and delicious. I recommend the panzanella, focaccia, shrimp bucatini, and the lilikoi cannoli! Throughout our visits, we tried a variety of their ravioli specials, drinks, and desserts. The portion sizes were perfect and plentiful. The ravioli specials come with 3-4 ravioli, which again, is typical for upper-end Italian restaurants. People: Locally owned and operated! Each visit, the staff were welcoming, kind, and friendly. Overall, I give Cipriano's Kitchen Kawaihae a 10/10 recommendation! read more

Ryan K.

6 months ago

We had an absolutely incredible experience at Ciprianos. We were a group of nine, and from start to finish, everything we ordered was outstanding -- the cioppino was rich and flavorful with perfectly cooked seafood, the pasta was fresh and beautifully balanced, and the pizza had that ideal crispy-yet-chewy crust that's hard to find. Even the coffee was exceptional, the perfect way to end the meal. And we couldn't leave without dessert -- which was just as amazing as everything else. It was the perfect sweet finish to an already unforgettable experience. What truly made the experience special was Claudia. As both waitress and owner, she brings the dishes to life with her passion and warmth. Even with a larger group like ours, she made everything feel seamless and personal. You can tell how much she cares -- not just about the food, but about the entire experience. She doesn't just serve a meal; she creates a moment. The food is vibrant, comforting, and genuinely a great time. If you're on the Big Island and want a meal you'll be talking about long after you leave, Ciprianos is a must. read more

Madison P.

1 year ago

Absolutely unforgettable! Cipriano's Kitchen in Hawaii is one of those rare gems you stumble upon and never forget. The ceviche? Next level--bright, fresh, and packed with bold, citrusy flavor that I crave long after I leave the island. I come back for it every single time without fail. The ube gnocchi is a personal favorite--soft, vibrant, and completely unique. And don't even get me started on the panzanella. Incredible. My husband loves their paninis--crispy, melty perfection with every bite. You can truly taste the quality in every ingredient they use. Breakfast and lunch are consistently amazing, but here's the real insider tip: make a reservation for Saturday dinner ahead of time. It's a can't-miss experience that takes everything you thought you knew about local Hawaiian dining to the next level. Cipriano's is the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. The family is welcoming and friendly. Go once, and you'll already be planning your return. read more

Tami M.

Elite 23

187

282

1242

6 months ago

Just had an incredible dining experience at Ciprianos -- easily the best meal I've had since returning home to the Big Island! The owner, Claudia, was warm, welcoming, and took time to explain the menu. Their seafood is truly sea-to-table and never frozen, which you can absolutely taste in every dish. We started with a cucumber jalapeño lemonade and a coconut lilikoi lemonade -- both fresh, tropical, and perfectly refreshing. The food was outstanding. The Kona lobster Brontë in lemon butter caper sauce was phenomenal, and the handmade pastas had the perfect al dente bite. The frutti di mare -- loaded with lobster, squid, shrimp, and added tako -- served over tagliatelle was rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. The jumbo Hokkaido scallops were seared beautifully and absolutely delicious. And the tiramisu... one of the best I've ever had. An unforgettable meal from start to finish! read more

Paula A.

2 years ago

Cipriano's is an absolute delight! From the moment we walked in, the warm and welcoming atmosphere made us feel like treasured guests. The service was nothing short of outstanding--Claudia and her daughter went above and beyond to ensure our experience was perfect. Their attentiveness and genuine hospitality added a special touch that made our visit unforgettable. And the food? Simply divine! Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor, expertly prepared, and beautifully presented. It's clear that Cipriano's takes great pride in their culinary offerings, and it shows in every bite. This is truly a hidden gem that we were thrilled to discover. Cipriano's will undoubtedly be a special place for us to return to on future visits. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in Hawaii! read more

Monica T.

2 years ago

I had the pleasure of dining at Cipriano's for the first time, and it was an unforgettable experience that deserves a glowing 5/5 review! From the moment I stepped in, the welcoming owner made me feel right at home. Their passion for Italian cuisine shines through not only in their warm hospitality but also in the incredible food they serve. The highlight was undoubtedly the homemade pasta. Each dish was a masterpiece, bursting with flavor and crafted with care. And let's not forget the ceviche--it was beautifully prepared and presented, showcasing fresh ingredients that made it a standout appetizer. I left with a full belly and a happy heart, already planning my next visit. If you're looking for amazing food and a friendly atmosphere, Cipriano's is a must-visit! Highly recommend! read more

Jihee A.

Elite 25

152

2 years ago

Cipriano's in Kawaihae is an absolute gem! Claudia and Gino made us feel right at home with their warm and personable service. The gnocchi with Japanese yam was a standout, and the octopus was perfectly salted and charred. Also, don't miss the Kona lobster--it's a real treat! The cocktails were spot-on (with all-natural ingredients), and the pasta dishes (prepared that morning), especially the ravioli, were top-notch. The ceviche was fresh and perfectly cooked with the acidity (they know what they are doing), and the cappuccino was the perfect ending to our meal. If you're in the area, definitely make a reservation for a memorable dining experience! read more

Kona Foodie B.

109

141

3 years ago

Instagram: @Konafoodie We recently had a breakfast at Cipriano's Kitchen Kawaihae. Tucked beside the Seafood Bar Restaurant, this small eatery is owned by a lovely couple. One owner hails from Taormina, Italy, while the other is from Lima, Peru. This unique blend brings together flavors from both Italian and Peruvian cuisines. During our visit, we tried their tasty lobster burrito, which was such a treat. It's worth noting that the prices are on the higher side, so keep that in mind. Additionally, they were short-staffed during our visit, resulting in a slower service. Nevertheless, the food was fresh, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. read more

Andy F.

8 months ago

Incredibly delicious homemade food made with fresh local produce. it's difficult to say which of the 3 dishes we ate was the best (gnocchi, scallops, meatballs), it's difficult to say whether I preferred the home made pasta or home made focaccia bread better, but it's EASY to say how much I appreciated Claudia's attention and recommendations. if the food wasn't so amazingly good, I'd say she was the highlight. 200% recommend this place to anyone who wants a memorable meal on the Big Island. skip the resorts and come here. Andy read more

Vivian L.

3 years ago

Food and service were wonderful. Everything made from scratch and fresh. Fresh seafood options were incredible for this out of the way place. House salad was amazing. The only reason for four stars and not five is we would have preferred to eat inside and were told we could only sit outside although they appeared to have a nice dining room and it was much cooler inside. read more

Jennifer M.

4 years ago

This is truly a chef driven restaurant. They take care to build layers of flavors and textures. The food was exquisite. The only issue is the cost. $85 for a bowl of chiopino and $17 for a 6 oz cocktail is excessive. The value is dependent on your priorities. I am a foodie, but it cost more than $200 for 2 people lunch. read more

Wayne H.

4 years ago

Simply amazing! My wife went sure that she did not like ceviche, lobster and octopus! Her opinion was changed and she got a paradigm shift! The unique taste is amazing and the personal service was very friendly. When you meet some one as passionate about food as Claudia is, you will enjoy your time and the food! read more

Jennifer D.

4 years ago

This place is a hidden gem! The food is out of this world delicious. The owners and their family are so welcoming and clever. We loved it so much we had to go back the next day. A truly special place that just gets it! Selfishly I want to keep it to myself but it is just too good! thank you so much! read more

Isaiah N.

3 years ago

it was a amazing experience great service great conversations the food tasted so fresh the plating was amazing very good prices for the quality of food your getting i would 100% recommend this to anyone that loves fine dining a good conversation and delicious food read more

Tehani S.

3 years ago

My first time and it was amazing! The salad, I could eat that everyday. The bucatini with the Kauai shrimp was so tasty and not heavy. I did not get a chance to try their desserts, next time! read more

Melvin B.

2 years ago

Great food and service. I stumbled upon this restaurant for dinner. The food was so good, I returned for breakfast within 48 hrs. Hidden gem amongst locals and tourists. I highly recommend. read more

Cipriano's Kitchen - italian - Updated September 2026

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Miller & Lux

4.3

(63 reviews)

•$$$$

Fantastic food and service here! Made a reservation on Open Table…read more Had a nice table on the balcony to see the sunset. Bring sunglasses as the sun gets pretty intense sometimes. Vanh and Kara are super nice! We would come back here again just for their great, friendly service. Food was delicious. NY steak cooked perfectly. Truffle risotto was also tasty. They have the best Truffle crunch fries!! The portions are decent size. Actually, there was so much food, we were too full to eat dessert. We need to order dessert next time.

We tried the table side Caesar, burger, wagyu 16oz special ($325). Great food and service. The…read moreburger was a bit fancier cheese wise than my preference but the flavors blended well together. MILLER & LUX CAESAR Hand-Harvested Hirabara Lettuce, Spanish Anchovy, Gluten-Free Meyer Lemon Breadcrumb, Prepared Table-Side M&L BURGER Dry-Aged Blend, Mt. Tam Triple Cream, Bacon Jam, Onion Ring, Watercress, Parmesan-Truffle Fries

Patina

4.5

(35 reviews)

The food & personal service by the co-owner bartender was outstanding! Small bar & restaurant was a…read morereally nice find in Waikoloa.

One of the best meals I've had while visiting the Big Island. Located in Queens Marketplace, I…read morebelieve they've only been open 4-5 months. Upon walking in, dark woods, open kitchen, bar seating, and a few tables. Definitely a more upscale vibe compared to its surrounding area. Started off with a cocktail ( Hibiscus Tea-Ni) which was very tasty. Then I got the Beef Tartare to start off and that was so good!! I love the bread that they pair it with. Usually I'm used to beef tartare being served with something thin but I liked how Patina pairs their beef tartare with an actual bread that was soft and pillowy when biting but also had a crunch to it. Followed that up with the flat iron steak with tallow fries and that was another perfect pairing. Steak was perfectly cooked to my medium rare desire and I loved smearing the steak with the sauce that it was cooked with. The tallow fries came with a special ketchup and that was so good as well! Definitely be back whenever I'm visiting.

Number 3 Restaurant

4.1

(27 reviews)

We walked up to the counter to place a to-go order for a burger. We simply asked them to exclude…read morethe onions and greens. The worker immediately made a snarky face, laughed, and used disrespectful attitude towards us. She laughed and said "just tell me what you want in it" and i repeated back "no lettuce and no onions" she again laughed and said, "so just tomato then?" i responded with "no, theres also aioli and cheese which id like to keep." She scoffed and shook her head at us, and at this point I gave attitude back by saying "Were excluding lettuce and onion, its not that complicated." She rolled her eyes and shook her head. Their customer service is shit.

Back in CA, one of my favorite seafood dishes to eat was Crab Louis. Especially in the SF bay, this…read morewas a stellar dish to order and was never the same in other areas...until now. The day before we left the big island we finally made it to Number 3 for lunch. Im so sad it took us this long to find it, because it was by far the best lunch we had, and maybe even the best meal we had. We sat in the main dining room and were the only ones there for some time. I put in my order for the Crab Louis and hubby ordered the Fish and Chips, and we ordered a beer to go with it. Before the food arrived, they brought us rosemary popovers with raw salt butter which thrilled and delighted me. This was one of the best savory popovers I've had in years. After that, our entrees arrived. Hubby loved his lightly fried fish and the lemony tartar was super delicious and the fries were crisp and not soggy. My entree though was phenomenal, with lightly dressed greens topped with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, fresh crab and shrimp. I am still salivating over the flavor combinations and textures of this dish. I'd travel back to the big island just for this meal! Not to miss- solid 5 stars.

Cafe il Mondo

4.3

(216 reviews)

Still love this place. Not the same since Sergio departed (the drop from 5-stars), but still a…read moregreat experience and definitely the best made from scratch pizza and calzones in Honokaa (maybe the island) Apparently it's now owned by another family, but still same staff including the chef. He does a great job. The food is solid. It's just not as lively as it once was. The stage is now storage as is the beautiful bar. There is SO much potential for this place to be hopping with business (live music, karaoke night, bingo night, etc..), but currently it's just good food in a beautiful restaurant. Nothing wrong with that. It's worked for them, but I'll always miss the days when Sergio brought passion and vitality to not just the food, but also the environment.

What an absolute Gem of a restaurant! In the heart of Honokaa…read more Glad we found this wonderful Italian restaurant! We were walking and decided to try it out. We got a 12" pepperoni pizza and a special pastrami sandwich. The pepperoni pizza was so delicious. It has so much flavor in every bite! The crust tastes garlic, the cheese tasted so good! Definitely try it! Oh my goodness! The pastrami sandwich is one of the best sandwich I've ever eaten! The pastrami was crunchy on the sides and so much flavor. You can tell the sandwiches bread is fresh! The lettuce and tomatoes are so fresh too.

Kings Land Bistro & Lounge

3.7

(24 reviews)

For a luxurious Hilton Grand Vacation resort this only restaurant is underwhelming. Good service,…read morevery nice surroundings, but pedestrian food with the exception being the tuna melt with onion rings. The 4 cheese pizza was ok. We're staying at King's Land in building 2 so the same 8 minute walk to this bistro in the opposite direction gets you to the Mauka grill which has orders of magnitude better food as well as drink specials (only soft drinks here).

Popped in here while staying at the Hilton King's Land for an evening show of Hawaiian music, some…read morecocktails, and a bite. The show was nice, the cocktails were fine, but the food needed help. We got the nachos as an app, and based on that, we skipped getting more food. The nachos were below the level that your college buddy made in the dorm. On top of that, they were out of guac, and only mentioned it when I asked after I had dug through it and had not found it. If I come back, I would get another cocktail, but the food I would skip.

Island Fish & Chips

3.6

(438 reviews)

If you're looking for a fast, no nonsense meal while on vacation, this dish and chips spot hits the…read morespot! The service is quick, the ambiance is pleasant by the water, and the top tower area is a nice spot to overlook kings land. 2 item calamari and fish with fries: it's exactly what you think it tastes like. No frills, just business here!

This small food shack is in the back of the mall next to a beautiful pond. There is a great…read moreoutdoor eating area near the water. The service was ok but this is a very informal place. So it felt like auntie was cooking for me. The fish n chips were freshly made and perfectly crispy. They gave three pieces of tasty mahi mahi and fries. Portion was good for $17.99. Sitting in the outdoor area near the lake is nice.

Pine Tree Cafe

4.1

(1.4k reviews)

You want local food at great prices and you're staying on the Kona side? Then head on over here,…read morebrah. They have pretty much everything you're looking for right here in terms of island staples. And the pricepoint for their huge menu is more than reasonable. And yes, they serve the LEGENDARY Yoshino's Hamburger steak here. Luckily, they didn't run out when I arrived. As stated, there is so much going on with the menu that you will be sitting there thinking about what's good. They even have off-the-menu daily specials. Everything sounds good! So yeah, had to try the Yoshino plate that comes with two patties, rice, and mushroom gravy. Huge portion that filled me up quick. The patty is tender and just reminds me of a handcrafted burger from home, not some processed crap. You can tell that they use an old-school, bread-crumb based recipe. Comfort food at its finest. The dish came with a side of Mac salad. Their's is elite as well. They make it with tuna, and it works! It's like a meal in itself. Like I said, so many food options to choose from. There's no reason to miss out on this culinary gem if you're a fan of local food. Run, don't walk.

Pine Tree Cafe is proof that you don't need fancy tablecloths when you've got food this good. This…read moreplace has a menu so big that even the pickiest eater in your group will eventually surrender and say, "Yep, I'll have that!" The service is fast, friendly, and makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. The restaurant is spotless, the prices won't make your wallet cry, and they're some of the best you'll find anywhere on the island. Breakfast? Outstanding. Lunch plates? Absolute home runs. Whether you're fueling up for the beach or recovering from it, Pine Tree Cafe delivers every time. If you're in Kona and leave hungry, that's on you not Pine Tree Cafe. Highly recommended!

The Dizzy Pita

4.9

(20 reviews)

Super fresh veggies and fish in my mahi gyro--even tastier than I expected! The pita was soft, lots…read moreof crunchy veggies, loved the jalapeños for some spice, and several pieces of mahi fried to perfection. It was a perfect lunch portion for $15. There's a bit of a wait (~10 min) because they fry your food fresh, but thats worth the delicious outcome Will be back to try the plate next!

Convenient to go restaurant. Food is really great! We picked up lunch today. Service was perfect…read more We all really liked their Falafels! Yummy, unlike any I've had before. The veggies are fresh & crisp. Tzatziki sauce is good. Super tasty. Beef & Lamb gyro was huge & delicious. The star of the meal today seemed to be the fried fish. Both fried items we had were crisp, crunchy, perfect & not greasy at all. We four really enjoyed our lunch. Highly recommend!

Kawaihae Kitchen

4.4

(148 reviews)

•$

Katsu chicken & fries! Yes please. We also got cooked chicken sushi. Pretty, fresh & tasty! So glad…read morethey are next door to the best shaved ice place. Friendly owner at this small clean to go spot! Check it out!

Absolutely fabulous food!!! I had the spicy ahi rice bowl, hubby has Korean chicken and teriyaki…read morebeef rice bowl. So fresh. Was pretty quick but we'd wait an hour. Loved the wasabi ginger. The couple working was so friendly and helpful. Don't miss this place for a special lunch.

Orchid Court

3.1

(55 reviews)