Here’s the deal: You’re in Waimea, craving something truly American—maybe after a long hike, or because your mainland friends insist on ‘authentic’ eats. Or you just want a damn good burger without overthinking it. What should you do? Hit these spots.
The Saddle Room
$$ | (808) 651-1460 | WEBSITE
Eat. Drink. Aloha. That’s the spirit we embrace, so we’ve got no problem with the fact The Saddle Room offers live Hawaiian music. Stick to some traditional favorites like the filet, or get a little adventurous because The Saddle Room is always serving excellent seafood dishes. The ambiance and drinks are always top notch, so you’re going to want some of that as well. Where to dine if you’re craving variety?
The Saddle Room understands island living, because they offer a delightful dining experience with a variety of delicious meals to choose from. The Wrangler Burgers are a must-try, along with the unique wedge salad with shrimp.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store
$$ | (808) 881-8686 | WEBSITE
Style wise, island paradise meets the modern American restaurant at Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store. But in reality, it’s more tropical-inspired cuisine meets classic favorites than it is strictly Hawaiian. The recently remodeled restaurant is an interesting mix of atmosphere and food, but you can always try and pop in for delicious seafood and rum-based cocktails. Looking for entertainment while you dine?
Grab a seat during the live music performances, or go for the consistently praised fish of the day special or Crab Cake Entree.
The Bistro at Waikoloa Luxury Cinemas
$$ | (808) 464-3009 | WEBSITE
Deep down all we really want is a burger and a movie, so head to The Bistro and you’ll wonder why you ever even make plans. The Waikoloa cinema restaurant doesn’t take reservations, which means you’ll be clamoring for a table just like everyone else. It’s the perfect spot for an adult dinner party before the show. Where to drink if there’s a wait: Odds are you can find yourself some space at the bar during happy hour while you wait.
If not, let your inner foodie fly at the outdoor seating area with live music.
Hālani
$$$ | (808) 885-6622 | WEBSITE
Rather than settling for one of the crowded chain restaurants along the coast, because they’re always packed, take the time to secure a table at Hālani instead. This is one of the few open-air spots in Waimea that we’d ever steer you toward. The Hawaiian-inspired menu is not surprisingly heavy on the seafood. If there’s a wait, head down to the beachfront nearby, which has plenty of space and a gorgeous view.
Naupaka Beach Grill
$$ | (808) 880-1111 | WEBSITE
What more can we say about Naupaka Beach Grill that hasn’t already been said? Anyone who tells you Naupaka is overrated hasn’t watched the sunset from that breakfast bar. There is legitimately always a renovation, but sometimes you need to get your pork ribs fix. Don’t forget the chocolate dipped ice cream. If there’s a wait, go enjoy the stellar views from the outdoor-like environment.
Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium
$$ | (808) 882-7771 | WEBSITE
You’re tired, you’re craving something fun, you’re not sure if you want to go out other than for music. It’s an all around dull evening. Answer – Blue Dragon Tavern & Cosmic Musiquarium. Hit up the Waimea spot that’s open-air dining meets cosmic musiquarium under the stars. Go heavy on the drinks and desserts. Where to enjoy if there’s a crowd? Outside, because that’s how you get the vibe. Realistically, we don’t think Blue Dragon will ever feel too packed.
The space is comfortable enough and things flow. Grab a drink from the bar while listening if you need.
Merriman’s Big Island
$$$$ | (808) 885-6822 | WEBSITE
The Big Island is dotted with more great dining spots than Waimea has palm trees, but Merriman’s is still holding it down as one of the true OGs. Despite everything else around it, Merriman’s is always buzzing, and still feels wonderfully accessible. That means there’s no such thing as a bad time to go if you have the appetite to commit. If you have to wait, settle into the lovely, classy-but-not-fussy atmosphere and soak it in.
Sip on a Mai Tai with lilikoi foam and snack on the Hillbilly cornbread if you get desperately hungry.
HALE KAI RESTAURANT
$$ | (808) 885-2000 | WEBSITE
You’re either Team Hale Kai or not and there’s usually no in-between. Of course, waits are brutal when the sun’s setting, but that doesn’t mean it’s still not worth taking a chance. Don’t sleep on Hale Kai during renovations either, because it’s worth popping into if you have no plans and are looking to hit the beach. When there’s a wait, try and snag some room at the bar.
If you can’t, there are plenty of options nearby including the Fairmont Orchid’s other dining spots and the resort’s lounge areas.
Kohala Burger & Taco
$ | (808) 880-1923 | WEBSITE
Kohala Burger & Taco is the best of both worlds – the burgers are hearty and the fish tacos are fantastic. If you’re looking for a quick bite to fuel your island adventures, this is a good place to start. The cozy dining area doesn’t take reservations, but luckily you can post up at one of the eight seats and soak in the surf-themed decor. Order their signature Original Double Cheeseburger, which will make all those other burgers you’ve had feel like a waste of time.
If there’s a wait, stay at Kohala Burger & Taco and find standing space near the counter while waiting for a seat to open up.
Copper Bar
$$$ | (808) 882-5707 | WEBSITE
There are two things you can count on at Copper Bar: beautiful views and a consistently relaxed atmosphere. Even if you’re not interested in patio dining, you should be interested in the KFC cauliflower at Copper Bar, which is a crispy, flavorful dish with just the right amount of spice. But this KFC cauliflower will make you feel all satisfied and content inside. If there’s a wait, nothing close by is worth popping into unless you’re looking at an hour-plus.
If that’s the case, head outside to watch the manta rays feed on plankton after dinner.