4 Best Restaurants in Kailua-Kona, Big Island

Tiny and locally owned, this sushi shack in the heart of town has gained an incredible following and specializes in "reverse" (rice on the outside, nori on the inside) rolls, filled with three or four ingredients of your choice. It's super popular and gets crazy crowded, so expect a long wait—but it's worth it. (Wait times can exceed an hour or more, but they let you know how long before you order.)  The restaurant also makes fantastic party platters that you can order in advance.

With black lacquer tables and lipstick-red banquettes, Kenichi offers a more sophisticated dining atmosphere than normally found in Kona shopping centers. This is the place residents go when they feel like splurging on top-notch sushi, sashimi, steak, and Asian-fusion cuisine. The signature rolls are creative, especially the always-popular Dynamite Shrimp. To save a buck or two, go early for happy hour in the bar (4:40 to 6:30 pm Tuesday through Sunday), when sushi rolls are half price, or hang out in the cocktail lounge, where menu items average $6.

A tiny hidden gem in the heart of downtown, this authentic little place offers excellent sushi at affordable prices. The Japanese-born chefs serve such offerings as six-piece rolls for under $6. If you want to share, the sushi combo for two includes 30 pieces. The Red Hot Lava roll is a sure bet, and they also specialize in udon noodle and poke bowls.

Its modest exterior and interior belie the fantastic South Kona experience Teshima's brings; it has been a kamaaina (local) favorite since 1929 for a reason. Locals gather at this small landmark restaurant whenever they're in the mood for fresh sashimi, puffy shrimp tempura, or hekka (beef and vegetables cooked in an iron pot). Try teishoku (tray) No. 3, featuring sashimi, tempura, sukiyaki beef, rice, miso soup, and sunomono (cucumber salad). The restaurant has been family owned and operated by five generations of Teshimas, and if you come in more than a couple times, they will start calling you by name.