Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Lighthouse Delicatessen
DELI $
(
889-5757; 55-3419 Akoni Pule Hwy; sandwiches $10-15; 10am-10pm Sun-Thu, to midnight
Fri-Sat)
This ambitious eatery began as a deli known for its tasty sandwiches and gener-
ous portions. It now offers breakfast on weekends, Sunday brunch (7am-2pm) and has
recently added a bar offering craft beers and occasional live entertainment, making it
Hawi's top (and only) nightspot. The shaded tables outside are the perfect place for that
Reuben sandwich.
Kohala Coffee Mill
CAFE $
(
889-5577; 55-3412 Akoni Pule Hwy; snacks $3-5; 6am-6pm Mon-Fri, kava bar 4:30am-9pm)
A comfy place to hang out and treat yourself to muffins, fresh-brewed Kona coffee and
heavenly Tropical Dreams ice cream. Also check out the shave ice and fudge at adjoining
Upstairs at the Mill
(
889-5015; 11am-5pm;
), where you can also find internet ac-
cess ($5 per 30 minutes) and art displays. In the evenings, the space becomes a
kava bar
,
serving flavored versions of
'awa
plant juice.
Sushi Rock
SUSHI $$$
(
889-5900;
www.sushirockrestaurant.net
;
55-3435 Akoni Pule Hwy; nigiri per piece $6, sushi
rolls $6-20, mains $15-28; noon-3pm & 5:30am-8pm Sun-Tue & Thu, to 9pm Fri & Sat)
This
ever-popular, veggie-friendly sushi bar is renowned for having reinvented the genre
through its exotic flavor combos, a philosophy now extending to sandwiches, fish cakes
and other entrees. Take the Pololu salad: organic greens, Gorgonzola cheese, Fuji apples
and candied macadamia nuts tossed in papaya pomegranate dressing.
The owner claims the key to his success is pouring love into the food. Whether or not
such transfers are possible, guests are certainly treated with great care by the hospitable
staff. Arrive early.
Bamboo
HAWAII REGIONAL $$$
(
889-5555; Akoni Pule Hwy, Kohala Trade Center; lunch $11-16, dinner $25-35;
11:30am-2:30pm & 6-8pm Tue-Sat, 11:30am-2:30pm Sun;
) Credited with jump-starting
Hawi's revival as a tourism destination, always-packed Bamboo offers interesting takes
on old stand-bys, such as mahimahi on focaccia with shredded papaya. Some elements,
like the eclectic decor, are inspired by the owner's international travels.
Located in a historic building, it shares space with a gallery and gift shop (worth a
look), making you feel like you're eating in a general store - which you are. Pitch-per-
fect for Hawi.
