Whenever I visit the Big Island of Hawaii, I always look forward to trying new plant-based meals. Whether I’m exploring Kona or spending time in Hilo, I find that the vegan food scene offers a lot of choices for anyone who wants to eat well.
I know how helpful it is to find the best vegan restaurants on the Big Island that offer fresh, tasty, and satisfying meals. Welcoming spots are all over the island, making it easy to enjoy plant-based dining while soaking in the beauty of Hawaii.
Journey Cafe Big Island
I stepped into Journey Cafe Big Island and instantly felt at ease in their cozy, welcoming space. The atmosphere is casual but warm, making it easy to relax and enjoy some downtime.
The staff greeted me with genuine smiles and helpful recommendations. The menu is all plant-based with lots of fresh, local ingredients from Big Island farms.
I tried the Gratitude Pita, which was packed with colorful veggies and tasty house-made spreads. My friend ordered the jackfruit tacos, and they stood out with smoky, flavorful filling and a hint of spice.
They offer gluten-free options and unique elixirs and tonics. My favorite drink was a refreshing, herbal tonic that felt nourishing.
They bake their bread from scratch using wild-caught sourdough culture, making it easy to digest and delicious. Ordering was quick and simple, whether I wanted something to-go or to dine in.
I saw several people popping in for pickup, and the online ordering system made it even easier. The menu, from breakfast to dinner, left me feeling good.
Rating: 4.8 (1016 reviews)
Location: 75-5729 Ali‘i Dr C-106, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 731-7194
Website: Visit Website
Vegan Shop
I stopped by Vegan Shop in Hilo and liked how cozy and welcoming it felt. The staff greeted me with a smile and quickly explained the menu when I had questions.
The food tasted fresh and delicious. I tried one of their daily specials, and it arrived quickly.
Everything was nicely seasoned and the ingredients tasted like they were picked that day. It was easy to find parking out front, and the shop is close to other places in downtown Hilo.
Other customers enjoyed meals and chatted, which made the place feel lively and friendly. They also have a small selection of vegan groceries, which is handy if you want to pick up something extra before you go.
I appreciated grabbing a snack for later as well.
Rating: 4.9 (212 reviews)
Location: 516 Kinoole St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 464-4260
Café Ono & Catering
When I walked into Café Ono, I saw lush gardens and sculptures. The patio felt calm and peaceful.
It’s a place where I could sit back, enjoy nature, and have a quiet meal. The menu changes with the seasons and is fully plant-based.
Many choices are vegan and gluten-free. I tried the homemade soup and an organic salad, and both tasted fresh and full of flavor.
I liked that the ingredients were locally sourced. They also serve hearty sandwiches and warm entrees.
I enjoyed a strong cup of locally grown coffee while sitting on the terrace. The staff was friendly and made the experience relaxed.
Café Ono offers catering and hosts private events like birthday parties. There’s a unique, artistic feel to the whole place.
Rating: 4.8 (411 reviews)
Location: 19-3834 Old Volcano Rd, Volcano, HI 96785
Contact: (808) 985-8979
Website: Visit Website
Sweet Cane Cafe
When I walked into Sweet Cane Cafe in Hilo, I noticed the bright and welcoming space. The cafe feels cozy, and I enjoyed seeing the open kitchen where staff prepare everything fresh.
The menu is completely vegan and made with local, organic ingredients. I tried a veggie burger with a taro patty and fresh house-made bun.
The vegetables piled high, and everything tasted clean and flavorful. Their smoothies and cane juice drinks are refreshing, especially with Hawaii’s warm weather.
I also tried some of their baked goods, like gluten-free pastries, which were soft and just sweet enough. They offer a variety of foods, including sandwiches, salads, soups, and hot sauce made in-house.
They make almost everything from scratch, and you can taste the difference. Ordering was simple, and the staff was friendly and quick to help.
Seating is open and bright, and there’s plenty of space to relax. Even the takeout items in the fridge—like pickles and coconut yogurt—caught my eye for a snack later.
Rating: 4.5 (731 reviews)
Location: 48 Kamana St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 934-0002
Website: Visit Website
Herbivores
When I stopped by Herbivores in Kailua-Kona, I liked the relaxed, open-air vibe. The staff made me feel right at home when I ordered at the walk-up window.
The menu has plenty of plant-based options. I tried the burrito and a pizza, both packed with flavor and fresh ingredients.
There are vegan burgers, salads, and smoothies, so there’s something for anyone wanting a tasty vegan meal. Ordering was easy and quick, especially since they offer both drive-through and walk-up pickup.
It’s a great place if you want a casual meal or need something on the go while exploring the island.
Rating: 4.6 (1251 reviews)
Location: 75-5722 Hanama Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 331-4372
Website: Visit Website
TA’AMEYA & BALADI (Egyptian-style Falafels)
I found TA’AMEYA & BALADI while visiting the Kamuela Farmers’ Market. Their food stand is easy to spot at the Pukalani Stables.
The staff welcomed me and offered a simple but impressive menu. I ordered the Egyptian-style falafels, which they made fresh.
The ta’ameya, made from fava beans, was soft inside but crispy on the outside. Everything I ate was vegan and made with care.
I liked the small touches, like the fresh herbs and homemade sauces. The prices felt fair for the quality and portion size.
They focus on serving real, tasty food at the market and it’s clear local customers enjoy it.
Rating: 5 (13 reviews)
Location: Stables, Waimea Midweek Market @ Pukalani Stables Kamuela Farmers’ Market @ Pukalani, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 747-0838
Kamana Kitchen
When I walked into Kamana Kitchen in Kailua-Kona, I noticed the friendly atmosphere and warm greeting. The décor is simple but inviting, and I felt comfortable right away.
The staff made me feel like I was a regular, even though it was my first time there. I tried a vegan curry and some Nepali momos, which are steamed dumplings filled with vegetables.
Both dishes were full of flavor and had just the right amount of spice. The food tasted fresh, and I could tell they use quality ingredients from the island.
The menu offers a wide range of vegan and vegetarian options. There was something for everyone, whether you like spicy dishes or mild flavors.
The portions were generous. The service stood out, too.
My server answered my questions about the menu and gave helpful suggestions. It’s easy to feel at home here.
Rating: 4.2 (985 reviews)
Location: 75-5770 Ali‘i Dr #2-3, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 326-7888
Website: Visit Website
Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine
When I walked into Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine in downtown Hilo, I noticed the open-air setup right away. The restaurant feels bright and inviting with its retractable walls.
Live music adds to the fun, and the place fills up quickly in the evening. Their menu includes a lot of local Hawaiian flavors.
Even as someone looking for vegan food, I found it easy to order. There were clear vegan and gluten-friendly options.
The staff was friendly and answered my questions about plant-based dishes. I appreciated the mix of local produce and fresh ingredients in the vegan food.
The happy hour specials on drinks were great, too. If you want a seat during dinner, I recommend calling ahead since this spot is popular and they don’t take reservations through voicemail or Google.
It’s right near the farmers’ market and easy to find.
Rating: 4.6 (5002 reviews)
Location: 332 Keawe St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 238-5324
Website: Visit Website)
Pele’s Kitchen
When I walked into Pele’s Kitchen, I noticed the bright, welcoming atmosphere right away. The staff greeted me with a smile.
The colorful local artwork on the walls made the space feel cheerful and relaxed. Their vegan options made it easy for me to find something tasty for breakfast.
I tried a tofu scramble full of fresh veggies. The dish came with tropical fruit on the side that tasted like it was picked that morning.
I liked how they use local and organic ingredients as much as possible. The flavors really stood out, and I could tell the food was made with care.
I saw a few other guests enjoying vegan pancakes and smoothies. Parking was simple, and I found the restaurant easily in the center of Pāhoa.
I appreciated the fast service. It made my visit even better.
Rating: 4.7 (915 reviews)
Location: 152923 Pahoa Village Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778
Contact: (808) 935-0550
Paul’s Place
When I walked into Paul’s Place in Hilo, it felt warm and inviting right away. The space is small but cozy.
I liked that it never felt crowded or noisy. Even though it’s a popular spot, it stayed comfortable.
The menu has a good mix of breakfast and lunch options. While not every dish is vegan, the staff helped me find a plant-based meal.
They use fresh, local ingredients. This made everything taste bright and full of flavor.
I tried a smoothie and a veggie-packed dish for breakfast. Both tasted good and kept me full.
They also serve good coffee. It’s a nice place to start the day or take a break in the afternoon.
Service felt friendly and personal. The staff made me feel like a regular, even though it was my first visit.
Rating: 4.7 (404 reviews)
Location: 132 Punahoa St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 280-8646
Dining Tips For Enjoying Vegan Cuisine On The Big Island
When I travel to the Big Island, I find vegan options easily when I know where to look and what to ask for. Local flavors, fresh produce, and an open mind help me enjoy every meal.
How To Find Vegan Menus And Specials
I start by searching online for restaurant reviews and current menus. Websites like Tripadvisor and vegan travel blogs list restaurants with vegan options.
If a menu doesn’t look vegan-friendly at first, I ask servers about plant-based options or daily specials. Many places swap out animal products or let me customize dishes.
Lunch cafes and smoothie bars usually offer at least one vegan choice. I also check social media for photos or posts about vegan specials.
Local Facebook groups and Instagram posts often share news about pop-up events or seasonal dishes not on the main menu. This helps me find new places to try.
Navigating Local Ingredients And Flavors
For vegan dining, I focus on local produce and unique Hawaiian flavors. The Big Island grows fresh fruits like papayas, mangoes, and bananas.
These fruits show up in smoothies, salads, and desserts. I see staple ingredients like taro, sweet potato, and breadfruit in both main courses and snacks.
These root veggies are filling and usually vegan. Many places use locally made tofu and tempeh as protein in their vegan dishes.
Hawaiian cuisine often includes salty or umami flavors from seaweed, macadamia nuts, and fermented foods. If I have allergies, I double-check how dishes are made since nuts and soy are common.
Sustainable And Ethical Dining Choices
When I eat at vegan restaurants on the Big Island, I care about where my food comes from and how it affects the land, workers, and community.
Supporting Local Farms And Producers
When I eat at vegan restaurants that use local ingredients, I help small farmers and the local economy.
Many vegan places on the Big Island feature menus with produce grown right here, such as taro, sweet potatoes, and tropical fruits.
Buying from local sources cuts down on food miles. This means less fuel is used for shipping.
I keep my meal’s carbon footprint smaller by choosing these options.
Restaurant owners build real relationships with farmers and producers.
Many owners share how they pick their suppliers and why they care about organic, non-GMO, or sustainable farming.
When I eat fresh papaya bowls or salads made with island-grown greens, I know I’m making a good choice for myself and the earth.
For a list of great spots that support these practices, I check out guides to plant-based eating on the Big Island.
