Best Restaurants for Local Ingredients in Waikoloa

We dined at Halani last night for Valentine’s Day and it was AMAZING. Our server was Ali(?) she’s y’all, blonde and has tattoos and she was INCREDIBLE. The bread balloon with the dip trio was out of this world, my kebabs were cooked perfectly and my husband’s flank wagyu steak was 10/10. I’ve been to this restaurant for the all you can eat breakfast brunch during the day but at night is a totally different vibe and just stunning. Everyone was kind and helpful from the valet to the servers and busters.

This kitchen prepares amazing and unique dishes. We have been diners here since Alan Wong was the chef and the current menu meet that standard.The lobster tempura is reminiscent of Allan, prepared slightly differently, but just as delicious. The radish salad is an absolute must. We also feel that the garlic fried rice is the perfect compliment, to your protein of choice. It is definitely hard to beat the setting and the entire staff is absolutely outstanding and they work perfectly in unison to provide amazing service. He will definitely feel the Aloha Spirit at the Canoe House.

Food was superb. Two of us had the macadamia nut crusted swordfish and it was delicious, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. Just the right amount. The other person had the meatloaf and it too was delicious. Service was excellent, friendly and attentive. I had the chocolate souffle for dessert and it was well worth the wait. The others had the s’mores cheesecake and declared it delicious. Thanks for an extraordinary evening.

We were staying across the street at the Westin Hapuna and we’re looking for an authentic Japanese restaurant. Less to choose from in the Kohala area than we thought. Engawa is located across the street a short, five minute walk very convenient. The couple that manages and runs the Omakase experience is very enjoyable very authentic really a lot of fun . They are the ONLY sake Brewery in Hawaii. Thanks small craft beer, sucking style. Omakase menu was delightful with a broad array of flavors and taste all for quality We added the sake pairings. Try it!

Beautiful open aired covered and uncovered dining areas with beautiful ocean and sunset views. My sweet curry shrimp appetizer and macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi were excellent. Service was courteous and attentive. Live entertainment (piano and saxaphone) was very nice background music. Expensive--$190 for one person.