Best Southern American Restaurants in Kawaihae

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Hawaii / Big Island

Neighborhoods

Kailua-KonaKamuelaKaupulehuKeauhouKohala CoastWaikoloa

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

27 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Copper Bar at Mauna Kea restaurant

1. Copper Bar at Mauna Kea

4.5

Awesome(888)

$$$$

• Southern american • Kohala Coast

Booked 27 times today

Copper Bar at Mauna Kea is a standout destination for sushi enthusiasts on the Kohala Coast in Kamuela. This beloved dining spot masterfully blends tradition with innovation, crafting sushi that is both authentic and imaginative. Diners rave about the "outstanding sushi," praising its freshness and exquisite flavors. The restaurant's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients elevates each dish, ensuring a dining experience that is as genuine as it is delicious. Coupled with breathtaking ocean views and live Hawaiian music, Copper Bar offers an unforgettable setting that beautifully complements its exceptional sushi offerings. This is an experience not to be missed!

A photo of Hau Tree at Mauna Kea restaurant

2. Hau Tree at Mauna Kea

4.3

Awesome(350)

$$$$

• Southern american • Kohala Coast

Booked 9 times today

Just steps from the beach and ocean with your toes practically in the sand, Hau Tree is a casual open-air option for relaxed lunches and dinners on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. It’s complete with a gazebo-style bar perfectly situated for meeting friends old and new while enjoying cocktails, local brews and awaiting a glimpse of the sunset’s elusive green flash. Hau Tree’s menu includes sandwiches, fish tacos, salads, ice cream, and Mauna Kea’s famous Ovaltine Froth.

A photo of Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Mauna Lani, Big Island restaurant

3. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Mauna Lani, Big Island

4.7

Exceptional(6372)

$$$$

• Southern american • Kamuela

Booked 89 times today

Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Mauna Lani, Big Island, is a testament to true American cuisine, offering an authentic and delightful dining experience. Nestled in Kamuela, this restaurant promises to "never disappoint," with dishes like the "Mac crusted Mahi Mahi" and "world-famous coconut shrimp" consistently earning rave reviews. Guests appreciate the oversized portions and excellent service that make every visit memorable. The vibrant American menu, paired with a serene and inviting atmosphere, creates a "must-do" vacation experience. Diners are welcomed by attentive staff and a manager who "always comes around to check on meals," ensuring a genuinely hospitable setting.

A photo of Merriman's – Waimea – Big Island restaurant

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4. Merriman's – Waimea – Big Island

4.9

Exceptional(11145)

$$$$

• Southern american • Kamuela

Booked 56 times today

Nestled in Kamuela, Merriman's Waimea stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, masterfully blending local Hawaiian ingredients with innovative flair. As one of the founders of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Chef Peter Merriman showcases dishes that highlight the island's freshest produce, fish, and beef, achieving a "farm-to-table" experience that diners rave about. The glowing reviews echo sentiments of "unbelievable experience" and "best meal ever," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. With an award-winning wine list and an attentive staff that elevates each visit, Merriman's promises a dining experience that's both memorable and exceptional.

A photo of Lava Lava Beach Club restaurant

5. Lava Lava Beach Club

4.5

Awesome(1726)

$$$$

• Southern american • Waikoloa

Booked 88 times today

The restaurant features several hundred seats in an open-air setting, with many tables directly on the beach. Surrounded by swaying coconut trees, stunning sunsets, tropical trade winds, and nightly live entertainment, guests can enjoy “relaxed island cuisine” with a varied menu offering everything from fresh fish tacos and burgers to the Chef’s creative preparations of steak, Hawaiian seafood, and other upscale options.We always keep space available for walk-ins, so even if reservations appear full, please feel free to come by — we’d love to welcome you!

6. Halani

4.6

Exceptional(1442)

$$$$

• Southern american • Kamuela

Booked 38 times today

Halani, nestled in the beautiful Kamuela, offers a stunning fusion of American and Mediterranean-inspired dishes that captivate the taste buds. This delightful eatery is a standout for its "consistently great service" and vibrant atmosphere. Diners rave about the "outstanding" service and the quality of the locally-sourced ingredients, which bring a fresh, authentic touch to every dish. The menu boasts a range of tantalizing options, from herb-marinated chicken club sandwiches to signature grilled seafood dishes. The breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and live music enhance the dining experience, making Halani a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an exceptional taste of American cuisine.

A photo of Foster's Kitchen - Waikoloa restaurant

7. Foster's Kitchen - Waikoloa

4.1

Excellent(383)

$$$$

• Southern american • Kailua-Kona

Booked 18 times today

Foster's Kitchen is a culinary destination that brings farm-to-table dining to life. We pride ourselves on offering a menu that features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, prepared with creativity and care. Our commitment to quality extends beyond our food, with an emphasis on exceptional service and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether it's a casual lunch, a special dinner, or a memorable event, Foster's Kitchen provides a dining experience that delights all the senses. We aim to be a cornerstone of the community, providing a place where friends and family can come together to enjoy great food and even better company.

A photo of Mauka Bar and Grill restaurant

8. Mauka Bar and Grill

4.5

Awesome(241)

$$$$

• Southern american • Waikoloa

Booked 10 times today

Mauka Bar and Grill in Waikoloa, Waimea, delivers an exceptional American dining experience that stands out for its authenticity and quality. Known for its "amazing steaks, probably the best I have ever had," diners rave about the expertly prepared dishes by highly experienced chefs. Whether you visit for brunch or indulge in the steakhouse offerings by night, the restaurant consistently impresses with its generous portions and exquisite flavors. Guests delight in the "beautiful golf course views" and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere enriched with live music. A visit to Mauka guarantees a memorable taste of classic American cuisine, making it a must-try destination.

A photo of A-Bay's Island Grill restaurant

9. A-Bay's Island Grill

4.1

Excellent(453)

$$$$

• Southern american • Waikoloa

Booked 6 times today

A-Bay’s Island Grill is a family friendly restaurant serving local favorites, seafood, and Pacific Rim cuisine. We are situated in the Waikoloa Beach Resort at the King’s Shops. We offer an indoor conditioned bar and dining area as well as open air umbrella covered dining area. We keep the budget oriented in mind as well as those wanting that special dinner prepared by a 5-star Chef. Come enjoy great food and cocktails, unbeatable service and a taste of the Islands!

10. 'Ulu

4.9

Exceptional(2099)

$$$$

• Southern american • Kaupulehu

Booked 43 times today

If you're seeking an extraordinary Cocktail Bar experience, look no further than 'Ulu at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Hawaii. This oceanfront gem not only boasts breathtaking views but also delivers "top-notch" service and a curated selection of exquisitely crafted cocktails. Diners rave about the "elegant service" and "fresh and flavorsome" drinks that perfectly complement the restaurant's vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding after a long day, 'Ulu’s Cocktail Bar offers an unforgettable experience that merges the island's natural beauty with expertly mixed libations, making it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Southern american Cuisine

Kawaihae

Maalaea
Kahuku
Kaanapali
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Haiku
Upcountry
Waikiki
Koloa
Aiea
Kaupulehu
Paia
Pearl City
Kamuela
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Kailua
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Kailua-Kona
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