Last updated: 2025-04-07
From the laid-back charm of Cafe Pesto to the local favorite Cafe 100, Hilo’s brunch scene captures the essence of Big Island hospitality. These beloved spots serve up everything from traditional loco moco to fresh island-inspired breakfast fare.
Whether craving Miyo’s signature morning dishes or Puka Puka Kitchen’s local-style breakfast plates, each restaurant offers a unique taste of Hilo’s diverse culinary heritage. These eateries blend Hawaiian traditions with modern breakfast innovations.
Discover Big Island’s best breakfast spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in Hilo
- Jackie Rey's
- Cafe Pesto
- Hilo Bay Cafe
- Lehua Restaurant
- Moon and Turtle
- Ponds
- Puka Puka Kitchen
- Miyo's
- Cafe 100
Cafe 100
What to Expect
Original creators of the iconic Loco Mocoâ„¢
Description
Hilo's legendary home of the Loco Mocoâ„¢, Cafe 100 serves up classic Hawaiian plate lunch specialties with over 30 Loco Moco variations. This local institution offers generous portions of comfort food that capture the authentic Big Island dining experience, blending traditional Hawaiian flavors with hearty, satisfying meals that have delighted locals and visitors since 1946.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Cafe 100
Cafe Pesto
What to Expect
Island-inspired fusion cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients
Description
Cafe Pesto delivers a Hawaiian-inspired brunch experience showcasing local ingredients with creative island-influenced cuisine. Known for innovative comfort foods that reflect Hawaii's ethnic diversity, this Hilo restaurant blends international flavors with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their menu features unique dishes that celebrate the island's culinary heritage, offering diners an authentic taste of Hawaiian fusion cooking.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Cafe Pesto
Hilo Bay Cafe
What to Expect
Panoramic ocean and mountain views from dining space
Description
Contemporary Hawaiian cafe nestled on Hilo Bay, offering fresh, locally-sourced cuisine with breathtaking ocean and Mauna Kea views. Specializes in innovative lunch and dinner menus that showcase Big Island ingredients. Diners can enjoy meals in the elegant dining room or scenic lanai, with convenient takeaway options for those seeking a quick, high-quality meal.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Hilo Bay Cafe
Jackie Rey's
What to Expect
Local seafood-focused Hawaiian fusion cuisine
Description
Jackie Rey's brings Hawaiian-inspired cuisine to Hilo's dining scene with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Specializing in fresh local seafood and island-influenced dishes, the restaurant offers an eclectic menu featuring signature items like fresh poke, locally caught fish preparations, and creative Pacific Rim-style entrees. Their commitment to local ingredients and casual dining experience makes it a standout destination for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Hawaiian flavors.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Jackie Rey's
Lehua Restaurant
What to Expect
Locally sourced Hawaiian fusion cuisine with sustainable ingredient focus
Description
Lehua Restaurant offers an innovative Hawaiian dining experience in Hilo, featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative fusion cuisine. Specializing in dishes like furikake katsu calamari and braised short ribs with a 6-minute egg, the restaurant showcases sustainable Hawaiian flavors. Their menu highlights local ingredients, including taro sourced from a nearby co-op, and offers an eclectic mix of appetizers, main courses, and craft cocktails.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Lehua Restaurant
Miyo's
What to Expect
Local Japanese cuisine featuring Big Island seafood
Description
Miyo's offers a vibrant Japanese dining experience in Hilo, featuring homestyle cuisine crafted from local Big Island seafood and produce. While not specifically a brunch destination, this family-owned restaurant delivers authentic Japanese flavors through carefully prepared dishes. Known for its izakaya-style small plates and warm, casual atmosphere, Miyo's provides a culinary journey highlighting local ingredients and traditional Japanese cooking techniques.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Miyo's
Moon and Turtle
What to Expect
Chef-driven local ingredient-focused Hawaiian cuisine
Description
Moon and Turtle is an intimate Hilo restaurant showcasing Big Island's culinary excellence. Featuring farm-fresh ingredients sourced from local dairy, cattle, pork, produce farms, and seafood markets, the restaurant offers chef-inspired creations with exceptional cocktails crafted from hand-squeezed Hawaiian produce. The cozy 40-seat venue provides a professional dining experience with the owner-chef personally engaging with guests.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Moon and Turtle
Ponds
What to Expect
Ocean-to-table seafood dining with Hawaiian culinary influences
Description
Ponds Hilo offers a diverse culinary experience showcasing fresh local seafood and innovative Hawaiian-inspired dishes. The restaurant features an expertly curated wine selection and artfully presented plates that celebrate ocean-sourced ingredients. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the menu's commitment to local flavors and creative culinary techniques.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Ponds
Puka Puka Kitchen
What to Expect
Local Hawaiian fusion cuisine with extensive seafood and protein plate selections
Description
Hilo's Puka Puka Kitchen offers a diverse Hawaiian-fusion menu featuring locally-inspired dishes like Ahi Katsu, Miso Garlic Ahi, and Chicken Katsu. Their lunch service showcases fresh seafood and creative protein plates with choice of garlic or white rice and side options. A casual dining experience highlighting local ingredients and Hawaiian culinary traditions.
Where: Hilo | More Info: Puka Puka Kitchen
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