How to Eat Cheap in Kona on the Big Island
Everything seems so expensive on the Big Island lately especially here on the Kona side where cafes and restaurants are starting to really hit the pocketbook. But if you are on a tight budget and exploring the area, don’t worries there’s still some decent choices out there for you to eat good local food.
Here’s how we can help with showing you some of the local dives, mom and pop shops and typical ways that locals save when they are in the mood to eat or just take out without breaking the bank.
Here’s are top of the list in no particular order.
Eat and shop at Costco
If you’re aiming to eat on a budget, Costco is your best bet for affordable dining in Maui. You can enjoy a meal for two for around $10, which is a rare find on the island in 2024. Head over to their takeout spot for a slice of pizza, a jumbo hot dog, or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a full meal, drinks included. If you’re craving a whole 18-inch pizza, it’s just $10!
While shopping for provisions inside, you can also stock up on bulk snacks, breakfast items, and pre-made meals that are easy to heat up or eat as is. Don’t miss out on their amazing $5 rotisserie chicken, which is a great deal!
And while you’re shopping, be sure to sample the free bites scattered around the store—enough to hold you over between meals.
The Costco takeout area is conveniently located near the store entrance, so if you’re hungry, head there for some budget-friendly eats. Just remember, you’ll need to show your Costco membership to purchase anything from the food court.
Cheap eats or take outs at Foodland / Sack and Save
Foodland is Hawaii’s answer to Safeway, offering a wide range of choices and weekly specials. This local grocery chain has all the essentials, plus a bakery, hot bar, deli, and a poke bar. You can also grab bento boxes, sushi, spam musubi, and pre-made salads.
If you’re looking for affordable meals, Foodland is a great option. A 14 oz sub or a premium poke bowl will each cost you about $10. If you’re planning to stay in Hawaii for more than a few days, it’s worth signing up for Foodland’s “Maikaʻi Card” for discounts on snacks, drinks, and other groceries.
To find locations and see the latest specials, check out Foodland’s website.
Eat at those food trucks
If you’re looking to explore diverse food options across the islands, be sure to check out the food trucks. You’ll find them clustered together in central spots, drawing crowds with their variety.
These trucks serve everything from simple eats to more gourmet-style dishes, usually at lower prices than restaurants. Just keep in mind that dining is casual, or you can grab your food to go and enjoy it at a nearby beach or your favorite scenic spot.
Check out the food trucks around Kona here for more information and menus.
Quickie cheap meals at Minit stop
Minit Stop is a locally owned gas station and convenience store chain found throughout the islands, known for its fried chicken, potato wedges, and award-winning spam musubi.
For a cheap meal, you can get a three-piece chicken and wedge box for under $10 or a musubi for just under $3. If you’re after something more filling, they also offer budget-friendly options like chicken katsu plates, bentos, and chili. For a more indulgent meal, a large plate lunch will set you back around $15.
While the food might not be the healthiest (it is a gas station, after all), it’s definitely budget-friendly.
Kona happy hour
If you’re in the mood to still hang out a nice place with an ocean view and find some better prices, try happy hour in Kona. Most bars and restaurants offer better priced drinks and pupu (appetizer) deals between 3 to 6 pm from basic to more elaborate meals with good drinking options.
Check out this post here on Kona’s Happy hour spots here for more details and what you’ll find.
Dining coupons and discounts
When visiting Kona on the Big Island, be sure to browse the local newspapers or free Big Island travel magazines for advertised specials and restaurant coupons. You can often score great deals at some of Kona’s top dining spots, like free desserts, two-for-one offers, or early dining discounts.
Kona farmers markets
Most farmers markets feature small food stalls or trucks offering affordable meals or takeout options. With a variety of choices, you can enjoy what’s available while shopping for seasonal local produce, homemade specialty foods, and other tasty treats. It’s a great place to sample local snacks or homemade items from vendors, often at a bargain.
Check out all the Big Island farmers markets here for a list of active markets you can visit now on the island.
Mom and pop / take out spots
This is where you can try local food for a better price than a cafe or restaurant. This is where locals go for their saimin bowls, bento boxes and other delicious local grindz (good food). Check out all these popular and local places to eat around Kona below.
Here are some top local mom-and-pop eateries around Kailua-Kona:
- Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill – Known for its fresh poke bowls and traditional Hawaiian dishes, Umekes is a local favorite for authentic island flavors.
- Brothers Burritos – This small, family-run spot offers delicious, fresh-made burritos, tacos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes, with a Hawaiian twist.
- Big Island Grill – A no-frills local diner serving up hearty portions of Hawaiian comfort food, including loco moco, kalua pork, and fresh fish.
- Kona Coffee & Tea – A great place for a relaxing breakfast or lunch, serving locally roasted coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and salads in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere.
- Kona Inn Restaurant – A historic spot with ocean views, offering a mix of Hawaiian and American dishes. It’s a great place for seafood and classic island fare.
- Laulima Food Patch – A small, locally owned eatery known for its health-conscious, farm-to-table meals. They focus on fresh, local ingredients and offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Killer Tacos – A casual, family-run taco joint known for its huge, flavorful tacos and burritos, offering a satisfying and affordable meal.
- Ola Brew Co. – While primarily a brewery, they also offer a great selection of locally sourced small bites and meals that pair perfectly with their craft beers and ciders.
- Da Poke Shack – A popular spot known for fresh and flavorful poke bowls at reasonable prices. They offer a variety of poke options and sides.
- Kona Grill House – This is a great spot for affordable and fresh poke. They offer poke by the pound, so you can get just the amount you want.
These spots offer a taste of local flavors and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making them must-visits when in Kailua-Kona.
Check out these other cool things to do and see around the Kona area
Kona Farmers markets Big Island
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Harbor House is a great spot for dinner. Very close to the Kona airport.