Raves & Reviews
What people say
Recognized by local and national publications for the setting, the seafood, and the sunsets.
Media raves
One of the nation's top neighborhood restaurants. “…the food is as good as the view, and the view is terrific.”
“Downtown Kona's premier oceanfront restaurant where the chef delights guests with guava-braised baby back ribs and grilled mahi mahi.”
At the main Huggo's dining room, fresh seafood remains the signature, as does the coral-strewn beach with tide pools just beyond the wooden deck. The tables are so close to the water, you can see the entire curve of Kailua Bay.
“This open-air restaurant features a thatched roof bar, nautical-style rope along the deck, plenty of wave-breaking rocks below, and front row seats for showy sunsets… making eating here at cocktail-sunset hour a must.”
Strike up a conversation here and you'll find yourself swapping stories with locals. This is the place to grab a brew and watch the dolphins jump offshore.
Rachael Ray visits Huggo's for oceanfront views in Kailua-Kona on Food Network's $40 a Day.
“Huggo's, a local favorite since 1969, has a sunset dinner spot that won't disappoint. Huggo's features great views of Kona harbor.”
Open windows extend out over the rocks at the ocean's edge, and at night you can almost touch the manta rays drawn to the spotlights. Relax with a cocktail for two and feast on fresh local seafood; the catch changes daily, and the nightly chef's special is always a good bet.
“For regional cuisine showcasing local products from Big Island farms, fishermen and ranchers, dine at Huggo's. As soon as diners walk through the front entrance, they are surrounded by the ocean and tantalizing sights and aromas emanating from the exhibition kitchen.”
“When you're on the Big Island, treat yourself to a meal at Huggo's. The food, especially their wonderfully fresh fish dishes, will make this one of your most memorable in an oceanside setting that can't be beat.”
Huggo's chef is strongly dedicated to serving only the best locally caught fish and seafood with fresh produce that highlights his nightly dinner specials — from Big Island Kumamoto oysters and ahi poke to the fresh catch-of-the-day.
“The sun is nearing the water again, which means it's time for a giant beer and a guava-barbecue pork sandwich in the sand. A band breaks out into some island standards while the tide rolls in….”
Reviews
“Scenic, sumptuous and seaside — legendary dining at Huggo's on the Big Island. This is exactly what a Hawaiian seaside restaurant should be — the fare as good as the views.”
“Great location, great views and a long family tradition are parts of what makes a great restaurant, but it really comes down to the food and the service. Huggo's offers both excellent service and superb food with their ever-evolving menu.”
“Huggo's specializes in Pacific Rim seafood and locally grown produce in a way that's simply brilliant.”
“For superb seafood in an incomparable setting, take the family to Huggo's.”
“On the Big Island of Hawaii I am quick to recommend Huggo's when asked about local restaurants. The food is excellent, and the fresh seafood is presented with a Hawaiian twist.”
“The Cajun Seared Ahi is great with a glass of Sonoma Pinot Noir. And what a way to end the day: as the sun sets over the water, I have a dessert of luscious Macadamia Nut Pie à la mode.”
“Diners feel as if they're sitting on the waves as the tide rises. Majestic mantas come out at night, attracted by the restaurant's lights. The fresh fish and teriyaki steak have made this eatery a favorite with visitors and kamaʻāina for many years.”
Best meal I ate was fresh catch of the day. Bonus: the view is exceptional. Must-order item: furikake fries.